News Archive

On May 1, 2025, Jacinto City Elementary School, home of the Tigers, celebrated a remarkable milestone—its 80th anniversary. Nestled in a community that once burgeoned with industrial growth, the school originally opened as Industrial Elementary School on Burman Street. It comprised a single-story building housing an office, a small kitchen, a cafeteria, and several classrooms. Over the decades, the school has evolved, nurturing generations of students and becoming a community cornerstone.

At the heart of this momentous celebration was the school's fifth principal, Dr. Becky Gardea. Under her leadership, the anniversary event was a vibrant and heartfelt tribute to the school's rich history and enduring legacy. The festivities were filled with nostalgia, community spirit, and pride, as students, alumni, and community members came together to honor the past and look forward to the future.

Students played a central role in the celebration, creating commemorative pieces that captured the essence of their beloved school. The celebration was also a reunion of sorts, as former students, teachers, and community members gathered to share stories and memories. Relics of the past, including yearbooks, one of the school's original bells, and memorabilia from former teachers, were on display, offering a glimpse into the school's storied history. These artifacts sparked conversations and reminiscing among attendees, highlighting the impact the school has had on countless lives.

The event was a fitting tribute to a school that began out of necessity in a rapidly growing area and has since become a pillar of the community. As Jacinto City Elementary School marks its 80th year, it is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of education. With the Tiger spirit at its core, the school looks forward to many more years of inspiring and educating future generations.

Here's to 80 years of excellence and to the bright future ahead for Jacinto City Elementary School! Go Tigers! 🐅🎉

This year, Galena Park ISD proudly celebrates a significant milestone—the 70th anniversary of Woodland Acres Elementary School. Home to over 400 students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade, Woodland Acres has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering education and growth for generations of Wildcats. The campus commemorated the occasion by hosting a memorable celebration, which included outstanding student performances and culminated with a tour of their state-of-the-art facilities.

Since its founding in 1955, Woodland Acres Elementary School has been dedicated to nurturing young minds and instilling a love for learning. The Wildcat mascot embodies the spirited and resilient nature of its students and staff. Over the decades, the school has embraced change and evolution while staying true to its vision of “creating a school that is highly regarded for its academic excellence and for its contribution to actively serving and improving the Woodland Acres community.” In August 2018, Woodland Acres Elementary School embarked on a new chapter by relocating to a state-of-the-art building at 12936 Sarah's Lane, Houston, TX 77015. The new building is a testament to the District's commitment to providing a top-tier educational experience for all its students.

As Woodland Acres Elementary School honors its past, it is excited about the future. With its academic programs and dedicated educators, the school is poised to continue its tradition of excellence, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. The Wildcats' legacy is one of resilience, curiosity, and commitment to learning—a legacy that will continue to thrive for generations to come.

Here's to 70 years of memories, achievements, and Wildcat pride! Go Wildcats! 🎉🎈

Galena Park Independent School District is excited to announce that the Board of Trustees has approved the schematic designs for two major projects—Cimarron Elementary School Replacement and Galena Park High School Phases 3-5. These projects are part of the 2024 Bond Package, approved by the community on May 4, 2024, and represent a significant step in enhancing educational resources in the district.

Led by Ed Martir and Madeline Chu, the Cimarron Elementary School design features a modern learning environment with innovative spaces, sustainable features, and advanced technology. This new facility aims to blend the school's rich legacy with a vision for future success.

Ed Martir and Manuel Torres also presented the Galena Park High School Phases 3-5 design, which includes upgraded classrooms, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. These enhancements reflect the district’s dedication to providing a comprehensive educational experience.

The approval of these designs highlights the community’s commitment to Galena Park ISD's future. The 2024 Bond Package, supported by parents, educators, and leaders, aims to create educational environments that foster innovation and growth. The District appreciates the community’s support and is eager to begin these transformative projects. As construction progresses, updates will be provided to keep the community informed.

The future is bright for Galena Park ISD, as these developments will create spaces where we will prepare students to become productive citizens and lifelong learners.

At the April 14, 2025, Galena Park ISD Board of Trustees Meeting, the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board was recognized for their leadership and dedicated service to their schools and community.

Members of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board include:

●     CTE Early College High School representatives - Alonso Castañeda, Rogelio Hinojosa, Frida Ortiz, Jose Padron Jr., Mia Peña, Melanie Perez, Priscilla Piña, and Jeshua Puente 

●     Galena Park High School representatives - Adam Alvarado, Mia Balderas, Lorenzo Delgadillo, Alizay Fuentes, Vania Munoz, Cairo Nieto, Kayla Ramirez, and Richey Vazquez

●     North Shore Senior High Ninth Grade Center representatives - Aniya Brown and Angel Gutierrez

●     North Shore Senior High 10^th Grade Center representatives - Joslynn Cisneros and Lynel Hunter III

●     North Shore Senior High School representatives - Dulce Bonilla, Kylah Eckford, Luke Melendez, and Jase Tapiz 

Students selected to serve on the advisory board meet with Dr. Moore and other district leaders throughout the year to provide feedback on important student, school, and community concerns. Superintendent Student Advisory Board members are respected campus, community, and peer leaders with valuable perspectives. They provide suggestions for continuous improvement of the services and programs the District offers to students and are required to participate in one community service project each year.

A medal and certificate were presented to each student on behalf of the Board of Trustees and Dr. John Moore, Superintendent of Schools.

Galena Park ISD recognized Alex Sauz, a Pyburn Elementary School 5^th grader, and Evelyn Gomez, a North Shore Middle School 8^th grader, for their inclusion in the 2025 Texas Art Education Association’s (TAEA) Youth Art Month Exhibition.

TAEA sponsors several programs that celebrate student artwork, including a Spring Exhibition. TAEA’s Youth Art Month Spring Exhibition is held at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin, Texas. This exhibition showcases works of art from students across the state. Alex’s air-dry clay sculpture, The Loving Skeleton, and Evelyn’s oil pastel painting, Serenity, are proudly displayed.

A certificate and medal were presented to Alex Sauz and Evelyn Gomez on behalf of the Board of Trustees and Dr. John Moore, Superintendent of Schools.

Galena Park ISD recognized North Shore Senior High Ninth Grade Center student Jorge Guerra for being the first male swimmer to qualify for the University Interscholastic League Swim and Dive State Meet in 35 years.

Jorge placed second in the regional swim meet to qualify for the State Meet. Throughout the 2024-2025 swim season, Jorge's exceptional performance shattered five long-standing school records, some dating back to the late 1980s. This remarkable achievement showcases his incredible potential and dedication to the sport. With his eyes set on future competitions, Jorge's determination and skill inspire his teammates and coaches. Galena Park ISD is thrilled to support Jorge as he builds upon his outstanding freshman year and looks forward to witnessing his continued growth in the years to come.

A certificate and medal were presented to Jorge Guerra on behalf of the Board of Trustees and Dr. John Moore, Superintendent of Schools.

Galena Park ISD’s Dayne Robins has been named Dave Campbell’s Texas Football Community Leader! Now in its second year, Dave Campbell’s Texas Football Community Coffee celebrates educators and school administrators who impact student-athletes' lives–on the field and in the classroom. Mr. Robins, North Shore Senior High School’s (NSSHS) Deputy Principal, is one of ten leaders throughout the state who will be recognized this school year. With the honor of being recognized, Robins will receive a commemorative football and gift package and a $500 donation to NSSHS.

NSSHS’s Head Football Coach, Willie Gaston, noted, “Mr. Robins has a special attitude; he greets all faculty, staff, and students every morning with a smile. His energy is contagious to the point you feel challenged to match it. He prioritizes the students and their safety, but his energy makes him a true community leader.” Dane Robins is not only a recipient of Dave Campbell's Texas Football Community Leader Award, but he is forever a member of the GPISD community.

To learn more about the Community Leader of the Year Award, visit: https://www.texasfootball.com/community-coffee-leader-award

Pictured: Mr. Dayne Robins and Coach Willie Gaston

At the October 7^th Board of Trustees Meeting, Galena Park ISD (GPISD) recognized Woodland Acres Elementary School, Galena Park Middle School, North Shore Middle School, and CTE Early College High School for earning an ‘A’ rating for the 2023-2024 school year from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). While official ratings have not been received from TEA due to ongoing litigation, GPISD’s calculations, verified utilizing TEA’s Data Match Opportunity, indicate these campuses received an ‘A’ rating.

Receiving an ‘A’ rating reflects outstanding academic performance, excellent student progress, and high reading levels for post-secondary success. The TEA’s rigorous evaluation criteria ensure these campuses have demonstrated exceptional dedication to fostering a positive and effective learning environment. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of the entire GPISD community.

A certificate was presented to Woodland Acres Elementary School, Galena Park Middle School, North Shore Middle School, and CTE Early College High School on behalf of the Board of Trustees and Dr. John Moore, Superintendent of Schools.

In the photo: Board Trustee, Noe Esparza; Woodland Acres Elementary School Principal, Sandra Rodriguez; Galena Park Middle School Principal, Elizabeth Nava; North Shore Middle School Principal, Dr. Christopher Eckford; Early College High School Principal, Dr. Jeff Hutchinson; and GPISD Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John Moore

Galena Park ISD (GPISD) recognized the Student Nutrition Department at the October 7^th Board of Trustees Meeting. The Student Nutrition Department earned a Healthy Meals Incentive Recognition Award from the U. S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service and Action for Healthy Kids. The Healthy Meals Initiative celebrates school food authorities that have improved their school meals. The Student Nutrition Department worked together to educate GPISD families about sodium, added sugars, and whole grain content of school meals. The GPISD Board of Trustees thanks the team for consistently providing students with the education and nourishment they need to learn, grow, and play. 

A certificate was presented to the School Nutrition Department on behalf of the Board of Trustees and Dr. John Moore, Superintendent of Schools.

In the photo: Board Trustee, Noe Esparza; Director, Brian Aubin; Assistant Director for Menu Planning and Productions, Thao Vo; Compliance Coordinator, Sarina Castillo; Supervisor for Secondary, Elizabeth J Vasquez; Area Supervisor, Sonia Ledezma; Clerk and Bookkeeper, Vicky Leago; Manager Trainee, Yumika White; Manager for Elementary, Elena Pena; Supervisor for Secondary, Carolyn Eason; and GPISD Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John Moore

On Tuesday, October 8, 2024, the sun was a bit brighter at Shirley J. Williamson Elementary School as Galena Park ISD Board of Trustees; Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John Moore; Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, Dr. Mechelle Epps; Shirley J. Williamson Elementary School Principal, Kimberly Wells; and members of the North Channel Area Chamber of Commerce gathered for the Ribbon Cutting and Dedication Ceremony of the Galena Park ISD Adaptive Playground. GPISD is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all children can thrive. To that end, the playground is a place of joy and accessibility for all children, regardless of their abilities. By redefining the role of play in education and creating a space where children can learn through exploration and interaction, a love of learning can extend beyond the classroom. GPISD’s Superintendent of Schools stated, “We hope this playground will enhance a love for learning through play for every child who enters these gates.”