Closing school was not an easy decision because I understand the impact our actions have on members of our GPISD family. Please know, just as we are committed to providing a safe and secure learning environment when school is in session, we are dedicated to protecting our students and staff in times of uncertainty. Based on all the information available to us, we felt it best to follow CDC guidance on social distancing to mitigate a possible impact of COVID-19 on the GPISD community. This closure is not a reaction but is done out of an abundance of caution.

Included in this letter, you will find important information as Galena Park I.S.D. moves forward.

All campuses, transportation services, and the Galena Park I.S.D Administration Building will be closed Monday, March 16 through Sunday, March 22. Only essential personnel who have been contacted will meet to prepare for the needs of our students during the school closure. I respectfully ask other staff members, students and parents not to report to any District facility during this time -- NO EXCEPTIONS. Any questions may be emailed to your campus principal or communications@galenaparkisd.com. Employees may email questions to their supervisor.

Please take a moment to review the information included regarding educational resources/learning opportunities for our students, as well as curbside meals that will be served beginning Tuesday, March 17th.

We will continue to monitor the situation daily and will make additional changes, if necessary, based on the evolving conditions. Rest assured we will continue to communicate with you immediately via the official Galena Park I.S.D. website, Facebook (@GPISD), Twitter (@GalenaParkISD), Blackboard ParentLink, or our local media partners as information becomes available, and as we receive additional guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Texas Education Agency.

This is an unprecedented situation, but I am confident our community will pull together to weather this storm, just as we have in the past. I ask for your patience as our team continues to work through the many concerns that must be addressed. Every decision we make is made with our students, staff, and families in mind, and we appreciate your continued support.

Sincerely,

Angi Williams, Ed.D.