Dear Galena Park ISD Family and Friends,

The Spring 2023 semester is in full swing! In fact, February 7, 2023, will mark the 100^th day of school in Galena Park ISD. This day is celebrated in American schools worldwide as it commemorates an important milestone for students. Observing the 100th day of school provides an opportunity for students and teachers to reflect on all they have learned while looking forward to the educational journey ahead. For us, that equals 100 days of excellence and many more to come! 

February marks the beginning of Black History Month across the nation. Throughout Galena Park ISD, we will acknowledge the heritage, history, accomplishments, and contributions African Americans have made to our country and community. Please join us in this annual observance by paying tribute to African Americans while honoring their legacy throughout U.S. history.

February is also Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. In Galena Park ISD, we take great pride in providing career exploration options to students. Over 40 opportunities for industry certification and or licensure are available for our students to consider. Offering 144 CTE courses, and 78 advanced CTE courses, demonstrates our commitment to preparing our students for their desired field of work. This commitment has led to former GPISD students thriving as paramedics, architects, diesel mechanics, doctors, principals, and teachers, to name a few! 

National School Counseling Week is from February 6^th to February 10^th. The work of our school counselors is vital to the success of our students. School counselors bring unique contributions and support to our students so they are able to focus on being successful and achieving their goals. This year’s National School Counseling Week theme is “Helping Students Dream Big,” which is precisely what all GPISD school counselors do for our students. Please be sure to share your appreciation for school counselors as they work diligently to meet the needs of their students. 

This month’s character trait is responsibility. When we encourage and demonstrate responsibility for our lives, we show our students how powerful they are. In turn, “great power comes with great responsibility.” So let’s all be responsible while empowering our students to succeed!

Finally, our students will enjoy a long weekend from February 17^th through the 20^th. Staff will participate in professional development on Friday, February 17^th, and the district will observe Presidents Day on Monday, February 20^th. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 21^st, to continue the proud work of preparing students to become productive citizens and lifelong learners.

Sincerely,

John Moore, Ed.D. 
Superintendent of Schools