The month of October brought a flurry of activities for Goose Creek CISD, with a groundbreaking ceremony for IMPACT Early College High School and dedication ceremonies for our new schools, Alamo Elementary, Dr. Antonio Bañuelos Elementary, and Dr. Johnny T. Clark, Jr. Elementary. All the events were well-attended, and we were especially proud to show off our new campuses to the community. Thanks to the faculty and staff members at the three elementary schools for hosting the dedications. Other school activities, such as athletic events, Parent Nights and Honors Choir performances, provided something for everyone throughout the district. We invite you to stay involved with your child’s education and to take the opportunity to attend school events.



Throughout the district in October all schools kicked off the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program (OBPP), a research-based program that involves all adults and students in the school community. The program is not just about bullying, as it also addresses character education and social skills so that our students may become responsible citizens. Schools participated in pep rallies and other activities to launch the program.

Toro, the mascot for the Houston Texans, visited several campuses, Horace Mann Junior School created a “blackout,” with participants wearing glowing headbands and necklaces, and Robert E. Lee High School created a video, “Words Can Hurt.” OBPP works with changing the climate and social norms so that bullying is not perceived as “cool” or acceptable.

As the holiday season approaches, I am reminded of how grateful I am for so many things in my life. I am thankful for this school district and for the many employees who do so much on a daily basis to make sure everything runs smoothly. In visiting campuses, I feel the friendly, inviting atmosphere in the front offices, reminding me that schools are always striving to be safe, nurturing places for students and staff. In classrooms, I see students with their hands held high, eager to answer their teachers’ questions, and I know that learning is important at every level. At all our schools, I see smiles and hear laughter in the classrooms, in the hallways and in the cafeterias, and I think of the importance of building relationships with students as well as each other.

We are blessed beyond measure as educators to serve this community in such a way that we come to work each day knowing that we are making a difference in the lives of our students and their families.

I thank you for all that you do for our students and for the success of this district. Have a wonderful, well-deserved Thanksgiving break!