Message From The Superintendent

Message

Dear Gainesville ISD Community,

First, let me say thank you for a great 2021–2022 school year. This year has definitely been one to remember, but through it all, your undivided support helped provide strength and encouragement when needed most. I can’t say enough how PROUD I am of our faculty, staff and students.

As you read through this 4th publication of the GISD SPOTlight magazine, please take note of the many wonderful things that are taking place on our campuses. Although this was a year like none other, our kids shined both academically and athletically. You will also see advertisements from several of our business and community partners. I want to thank them for their support, which makes this magazine possible.

We are continuously planning for the future of GISD. As several housing developments are in progress and additional ones are being planned, we must once again look to address the long-term needs of our district due to the impending growth. Currently, each of our campuses are operating at or above 90% capacity, and this is concerning. We will assess learning conditions and barriers which our staff grapple with as they continue the work of making “magic” happen within the classroom. In addition, we will look to address campus safety and security. Faculty, staff, students, and the community will have opportunities to share in this process, so don’t miss this chance to be a part of change.

Collectively, the partnership between parents, educators, staff, and community sends a vital message to the nearly 3,100 students that we serve; that education is important. I truly believe that our core values of equity, excellence, diversity, innovation, partnership, and safe and comfortable environment are what distinguishes us as a district. I love GISD because of the people and their commitment and dedication to the kids that we have the privilege to serve every day.

This school year has taught us that resilience is a part of LEOPARD NATION. I have always said that together we will get to the finish line, and through our “all hands on deck” approach, we did just that. The late great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Our very survival depends on our ability to stay awake, to adjust to new ideas, to remain vigilant, and to face the challenge of change.” Our GISD community met the challenges presented to us and got better as a result.

It is my distinct pleasure and honor to lead this great district, one that I call home. I continue to share the fact that this is the best district and that is because of YOU – our students, our parents, our staff, and our community partners. GISD is a place where you MATTER and you BELONG. Leopard Nation is simply the best! IT’S A GREAT DAY TO BE A LEOPARD.

DesMontes Stewart, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools