GISD Board calls for Nov. Prop A election
Dr. Ricardo López
Superintendent
Since January 2018, Dr. Ricardo López has served as the 10th superintendent in Garland ISD’s more than 100-year history. A passionate and visionary leader, Dr. López is committed to access, equity, and opportunity for all students. His leadership has transformed Garland ISD into a truly Unmatched district that offers innovative programs and unparalleled opportunities for student success.
Under Dr. López’s guidance, initiatives such as the Choice of School program, magnet and P-TECH academies, and groundbreaking Career and Technical Education pathways have flourished. His forward-thinking vision is also at the core of GISD’s College, Career, and Military Readiness efforts and the College for All initiative—ensuring every student is equipped to thrive beyond high school.
Dr. López has been a champion for all learners. He has expanded support for special education and dyslexia services, added critical resources, and ensured that students receive individualized support. His dedication to closing achievement gaps includes implementing innovative programs to improve outcomes at high-need campuses and increasing student support through data-driven strategies. Lopez has also led GISD to become one of the highest-rated school districts for College, Career, and Military readiness in the state of Texas.
A nationally recognized leader, Dr. López was named National Latino Superintendent of the Year and TABSE Superintendent of the Year. He also serves as President of the Texas School Alliance, advocating for policies that enhance educational quality in large and urban districts across the state.
His leadership style is rooted in collaboration and community engagement. Through initiatives like the GISD Change Agent sessions, he remains actively connected to staff, students, and families in all three GISD communities. His emphasis on teamwork, communication, and innovation continues to shape a culture of excellence across the district.
Dr. López began his career in education as a classroom teacher and rose through the ranks as a campus principal and district leader. Before joining Garland ISD, he served as superintendent of Mission Consolidated Independent School District. He holds a doctorate from the Cooperative Superintendency Program at The University of Texas at Austin and was also a Recruitment Fellowship recipient.
More than a leader, Dr. López is a proud member of the Garland ISD community. He and his wife have raised four daughters—the youngest two attending and graduating from Garland ISD schools—giving him a personal and profound connection to the students, staff, and families he serves daily.
Evaluation
Superintendent Employment Contract
Higher Education
Doctor of Education
University of Texas at Austin
Master of Arts
New Mexico State University
Bachelor of Arts
University of Texas at El Paso