After months of immersive learning and districtwide engagement, the inaugural Leadership Garland ISD cohort celebrated graduation, marking the completion of a program designed to connect community leaders with the people, processes, and priorities that shape student success.

Throughout the year, participants took part in sessions focused on key areas across the district, including campus life and instruction, safety and security, human resources, transportation, and instructional support services. Each session offered firsthand insight into how GISD campuses and departments work together to support students and families across the district.

Designed to build informed and engaged community advocates, the program gave participants a deeper understanding of public education systems while connecting them directly with district staff and leadership. They also strengthened relationships across the community and gained a clearer view of district initiatives from multiple perspectives.

The graduation ceremony included a reflection activity comparing participants’ perspectives before and after the program.

Participants shared how their understanding of the district evolved, often noting that their initial impressions were shaped by limited exposure or personal experience.

“I thought I knew a lot about the district before Leadership GISD, but what I knew was based on my own experience,” said Elise Bowers. “After the program, having access to information, data, and resources has given me the ability to better communicate with others and back up conversations with facts.”

Others said the program gave them a clearer picture of how district systems operate behind the scenes.

“Seeing how detailed and coordinated everything is, from transportation to safety and beyond, really changed my perspective,” said Moses Uvere. “It showed how many moving parts come together to support students every day.”

Several participants reflected on how the experience reshaped their understanding of the relationship between schools and the community.

“I came in thinking one thing, but this experience showed me how intentional the district is in bringing communities together,” said Karina Olivares. “There’s a level of care and coordination that you don’t fully see until you’re part of something like this.”

Those with long-standing ties to the district shared reflections on both change and continuity.

“I’ve been connected to Garland ISD for decades, and it’s been meaningful to see how the district has grown while maintaining strong traditions,” said Rene Granado. “There’s a clear commitment to students that continues across generations.”

One cohort member also emphasized the value of increased engagement and access to district information.

“This program gave me resources, contacts, and a much better understanding of how to support students and families,” said Heather Young. “It’s been incredibly helpful in my role in the community.”

In remarks during the ceremony, special guest speaker Dr. Ida Perales, Chief Leadership Officer, encouraged participants to recognize the lasting value of their experience and their continued role in supporting students and the community.

“Your ambassadorship is very important, and what you do is powerful,” said Dr. Perales. “Your completion of this program reflects our mission. The more we bring people together for the success of our students, the stronger we become.”

GISD Community Liaison and Leadership GISD Coordinator, Dr. Lakisha Culpepper, closed the ceremony with reflections, urging participants to carry their experiences forward and remain engaged across Garland ISD.

“It’s not the end of your journey. You are now ambassadors for the Garland Independent School District. I know you will continue, I believe you will continue, and I trust that you will continue. I am confident in the impact you will make. We need you to stay connected and support the students, teachers, staff, families, and communities of Garland ISD,” said Dr. Culpepper.

By the end of the program, participants left with stronger connections to GISD staff and stakeholders and a clearer understanding of how to support and advocate for students and district initiatives within their communities.

District leaders recognized the cohort’s diverse backgrounds, which included parents, alumni, educators, and community professionals. Together, participants brought a wide range of perspectives, all contributing to a shared goal of strengthening public education in Garland ISD.

As the first graduating class of Leadership GISD, this cohort helped establish a foundation for future participants, showing how shared learning and engagement can strengthen connections between the district and the community.

The Leadership GISD program will continue in future years, expanding opportunities for community members to gain insight into district operations, ask questions, and stay actively engaged in supporting students across Garland ISD.

Congratulations to Leadership GISD Class 1:

• Michele Bennett
• Elise Bowers
• Dorothy Brooks
• Alejandro Cardoso
• Stephen Causey
• Cassandra Cox
• George Ethel
• Rene Granado
• Sharonda Green
• Leslie Montena
• Elisa Morales
• Karina Olivares
• Jessie Pelts
• Robert Shepherd
• Jean Shortsleeve
• Moses Uvere
• Amanda Winstel
• Heather Young