Garland ISD news: April 4-8

Students at Herfurth Elementary School recently received a visit from some heroes. But not the kind that wear capes. The campus partnered with Junior Achievement (JA) of Dallas to bring in college crusaders armed with life skills.

“JA’s College Heroes program teaches students about jobs, city operations, finances, family roles, entrepreneurship and more,” said Principal Jessica Hicks. “Tailored to each grade level and offered in both English and Spanish, it is a memorable way for students to learn these skills needed for the future.”

Herfurth’s superhero subs spent the entire day with their classes, eating lunch, playing at recess and, of course, imparting important information.

“What does it take to start a business?” asked one mentor.

“An idea. A building,” answered Herfurth students.

“What about quality employees?” the mentor replied.

Junior Achievement hopes to visit more Garland ISD campuses. For more information, visit the organization’s website.

Singled out from more than 3,500 of their peers, 71 Garland ISD educators have been named 2015-16 Campus Teachers of the Year. The honor not only recognizes a job well done, but also someone who is a friend, motivator, advisor, mentor, cheerleader and support for both students and staff. Campuses choose their own winner, which makes the award even more special. All Campus Teachers of the Year will receive a gift and tickets to the June 8 Garland ISD Night at the Texas Rangers game, where they will be celebrated.

Want to join in? Discount tickets are available for GISD families by using the promo code “garland” at www.texasrangers.com/schools.

Many Campus Teachers of the Year are now competing for the districtwide title. A committee is reviewing applications and will name an Elementary and Secondary District Teacher of the Year in May.

Campus winners for 2015-16 include:

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Using their talents for charity, several Garland ISD students are preparing for the area’s largest car show for a cause: Wheels of Hope. This year’s event is scheduled from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 23 in Downtown Garland. Proceeds benefit the Hope Clinic, which offers free medical services to low income residents. Middle school art students, South Garland High School automotive students and GISD performance groups all have a part in the show.

Fresh off several first-place finishes at State SkillsUSA competition, SGHS students—plus instructors Craig Baughman and Mark Baty—will showcase their award-winning painted car hoods and motorcycle gas tanks. They will also debut and donate a hood designed especially for Wheels of Hope. Students will even accompany judges and award the first-ever Best Paint, Engine and Interior prizes.

“This is  a great opportunity for them to show what they are learning in class and to display their work to other car enthusiasts,” said Baughman. “To have a successful program, we need the help and support of our community, and we are happy that we can give back in a small way.”

Accompanying artistic masterpieces from South Garland, murals by GISD middle schoolers will be on display in the Downtown Garland Square as well. Students recently dedicated a Saturday to paint the classic car-themed pieces that will hang outside of the Plaza Theater. Groups performing during the show include the GISD Mariachi Estrellas, South Garland High School Step Team and North Garland High School Steel Drum Band.

Admission to the second-annual Wheels of Hope affair is free for spectators and $20 to enter a vehicle. In addition to Best in Class, Best in Show and Chairman’s awards, raffle prizes—like beautiful blooms from Ruibal’s—and a 50/50 drawing can also be won.

For more information and to register, visit the Wheels of Hope website.