The second six weeks has passed by quickly, and the holidays are fast approaching. As usual, Goose Creek CISD is alive with creative and rigorous instruction as well as fun activities as evidenced by my visits to campuses, which often include members of our Board of Trustees.

Veterans Day gave students and staff the opportunity to honor those who served the United States in all branches of the military. Many veterans visited our schools for Veterans Day programs and enjoyed interacting with our students. We at Goose Creek CISD thank all veterans for their service.

Another well-attended event was the recent IMPACT Early College High School Dedication Ceremony. Current students expressed their appreciation to the district and to the Board of Trustees for making their new school, which opened August 24th for the first day of this school year, possible. Laura Bernal, 2014 IMPACT graduate, thanked everyone responsible for allowing her to have the opportunity to attend IMPACT and to graduate with an associate degree from Lee College along with her high school diploma. Laura Reyes, IMPACT principal, dedicated the school to the community and thanked everyone involved in its completion, especially her staff for their hard work and positive attitudes. Also on hand for the festivities were Toby York, former superintendent, and Karen Smithson, the first IMPACT ECHS principal. The Baytown Masonic Lodge #1357 performed the leveling of the cornerstone for the new building. We look forward to sharing this facility with our community.

We are all proud that Robert E. Lee High School has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for making technology a major part of learning for students. Lee met the criteria for innovation, leadership and education excellence, demonstrating a vision of exemplary learning environments. The STEM Academy, also nationally acclaimed, is one of three academies in the district and is housed at Lee High School. Congratulations to our Lee faculty, staff and students and to our district technology support team!

At this time of year, I always reflect on the things I am thankful for, and I always find that they aren’t really “things.” Of course, I am grateful for my wonderful family and my new grandson. I am also thankful that we chose to live in Baytown, where my son, along with every student in the district, has the opportunity to experience a positive learning environment and caring educators who will help guide him to making important decisions about college and career choices. I appreciate the amazing community involvement, including parent volunteers, Partners In Education through the Baytown Chamber of Commerce, business and industry partnerships, and the Goose Creek CISD Education Foundation, our district receives.

I sincerely believe that Goose Creek schools are providing a premier education to the children of this wonderfully diverse community. I am thankful to serve in a public education role in a community that demonstrates such pride and support of its schools.

I hope that you will take time to reflect on what you are thankful for during the Thanksgiving holidays. Furthermore, I hope you will take the time and initiative to express that gratitude.