The Garland ISD Board of Trustees has been named a statewide finalist for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education School Board Award. The board includes Superintendent Ricardo Lopez and trustees Daphne Stanley, Robert Selders, Jr., Larry Glick, Linda Griffin, Wes Brown, Jamie Miller and Johnny Beach. Courtesy David Burton/GISD

Garland Independent School District and its Board of Trustees have been named finalists for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards, earning statewide recognition for district and board excellence.

Garland ISD is one of five large school districts in Texas selected as a finalist. The district serves the communities of Garland, Rowlett and Sachse and emphasizes student success through academic programs, career and technical education pathways, fine arts, athletics and comprehensive student supports. District officials cited the role of educators, families and community partnerships in supporting safe campuses and continuous improvement.

“Our district being named a finalist for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Award reflects the work happening every day across GISD,” Superintendent Ricardo López said. “This recognition is a win for our students, families, staff, and community, whose collaboration and commitment make Garland ISD an unmatched place for student learning and success.”

The Garland ISD Board of Trustees was also named one of five finalists statewide for school board excellence. The seven-member board is responsible for district governance and maintaining connections with the district’s tri-city communities. Board members include President Johnny Beach, Vice President Wes Johnson, Secretary Daphne Stanley, Assistant Secretary Jamie Miller, and trustees Larry H. Glick, Linda L. Griffin and Robert Selders Jr.

“This nomination recognizes the responsibility our board holds in serving our communities,” Beach said. “Our focus remains on setting clear direction, supporting our schools, and ensuring every student has access to the opportunities they need to succeed, while celebrating the work of our students, staff, and families.”

The H-E-B Excellence in Education Award for school districts recognizes a commitment to student achievement through innovative programs, parent and community involvement, and professional development for educators and administrators. The School Board Excellence Award honors boards that demonstrate leadership through academic progress, responsiveness to community needs and creative approaches to community engagement.

As finalists, Garland ISD and its Board of Trustees will each receive $5,000. Winners will be announced during the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards ceremony on Sunday, May 3. The district is eligible to receive up to $100,000, while the board may receive up to $25,000.

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