As options for Pre-K through 12 education grow and the competition for students increases, Garland ISD is pioneering a new approach to spreading its message. The district is employing the power of hip hop to share its opportunities and accomplishments. GISD is first in the nation to create this type of music video.
The district partnered with Flocabulary to produce the Garland ISD Proud video. A resource traditionally used in the classroom, Flocabulary helps students learn by pairing information with song.
“Music is one of the most powerful learning and communication tools we have,” says Flocabulary co-founder and CEO Alex Rappaport. “Bringing the curriculum to life and engaging students has always been Flocabulary’s mission. We’re thrilled to be able to help Garland ISD communicate its vision and engage its community.”
Research has shown that music helps form long-lasting relationships to academic content. According to Flocabulary, hip-hop is especially effective because of its popularity among students of all backgrounds. Garland ISD has partnered with Flocabulary this year to bring its engaging instructional resources to classrooms in all of its schools for the 2018-19 school year. The Garland ISD Proud video is an extension of this partnership to place engagement in learning as a core focus in the district.
GISD hopes to capitalize on Flocabulary’s demonstrated impact, helping viewers understand the district is the best option for education in Garland, Rowlett and Sachse. The district also hopes to connect with its families and community like never before.
Garland ISD Proud encompasses the district’s mission, vision and values, as well as the many benefits of being a student and staff member in GISD. This positive, engaging and memorable musical message is a part of the #ChooseGarlandISD districtwide campaign, showcasing the array of opportunities and advantages GISD offers to its families, staff members and the tri-city communities of Garland, Rowlett and Sachse.
The rap featured in the video was created and performed by Ike Ramos with Flocabulary. Mr. Ramos was formerly a Texas educator and principal who used rap and hip hop as a part of his classroom instruction. He is also a musician and has appeared with Lil Wayne, Ne-Yo, Method Man, and Rakim. Garland ISD Proud was engineered and mastered by Richard “Segal” Huredia who has worked with Dr. Dre, Eminem, and Snoop Dogg. The chorus was sung by the North Garland High School Express choir.
“I am proud of all our district does for those we serve, and this unique promotion embodies the sense of pride felt in our communities,” shared Garland ISD Superintendent Dr. Ricardo Lopez. “We strive to engage those within our communities and all who are interested in our mission of providing an exceptional education to all students. We invite everyone to be #GarlandISDProud and join us in our journey of doing outstanding work for children and for the future.”