Severe storms, flash flooding and gusty winds are common occurrences in Texas during the spring months. We’d like to take a few minutes to remind all of our families of our procedures regarding severe weather. The safety of students/staff are a top priority, and GISD will always respond first to the immediate emergency. After ensuring the safety of our students and staff, our next priority will be communicating with parents. Parents may not receive an immediate storm communication while the district manages the actual emergency. Once a response protocol is in place and announced for students and staff, parents will be notified through the ParentSquare communication system, and when possible, via the district’s social media accounts.

On school campuses, school officials regularly monitor The National Weather Service and weather apps and/or weather radios for any potential storm alerts or risks. When at all possible, communication with staff is done in advance of approaching storms and conditions are monitored regularly for potential threats to students on field trips and those out of the immediate area. School officials maintain open lines of communication with the local fire department and first responder recommendations for duck and cover (shelter-in-place) storm procedures, especially during arrival and dismissal times.

In the event severe weather is approaching, the district will account for students and staff in a secure location, ordering “Shelter” protocols in situations involving tornadic activity, flash floods or high winds. Keep in mind that a Tornado Watch means conditions are present for an emergency weather event including high winds or tornadic activity. A Tornado Warning means the doppler radar has picked up tornadic activity or a tornado has been spotted nearby or in the path of a school.

As an additional reminder to all school staff and bus drivers, do not attempt to drive through a high-water crossing. According to the National Weather Service’s “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” campaign, flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas.

GISD’s $30.8 million general operating budget is built on one clear priority: people. With 336 educators and support personnel, the majority of our budget—approximately 72%—goes directly to student-focused instructional expenses, including salaries and benefits. The remaining dollars fund day-to-day operations (13%), debt service (12%) and district administrative functions (3%).

Every dollar in GISD’s operating budget starts with a source—and most of it comes from beyond our local community. For the 2025–26 school year, GISD anticipates receiving nearly $18 million in state funding, which accounts for 60% of its total revenue. An additional $10.6 million (36%) is expected from local tax collections and other local sources. The remaining 4%—about $1.2 million—comes from federal funds, primarily tied to indirect costs and specific student support services like special education.

Total revenue for the 2025-26 year is budgeted at $29.8 million, leaving an approximate deficit of $1 million. GISD recently shifted its fiscal year to help close the gap on the budget deficit and potentially support staff compensation. The shift of a fiscal year helps districts experience one-time savings. For Graham ISD, that savings is estimated at about $3 million.

The district is continuing the year-round budgeting process by reviewing the district’s comprehensive budget line by line to ensure all sources of funding are being maximized. These sources of funding include local property taxes, funding from the state and federal funding through Title grants. Each funding source has many different components, some with very specific purposes. For example, Federal Title I funds are intended to help close the achievement gap for disadvantaged students whereas Title III funds are intended for the benefit of English Learners. The goal of this review is to ensure all funds are used for their intended purpose and identify ways to help reduce the current budget shortfall.

Superintendent Dr. Mary Johnston has been named the recipient of the Responsive Learning DNA (RLDNA) Award for Innovation, recognizing her leadership, collaboration, and commitment to expanding opportunities for educators—particularly principals and assistant principals.

The award, presented by Responsive Learning, honors individuals who exemplify the organization’s core values of connection, innovation, and service while driving meaningful impact across school systems. Dr. Johnston was selected for her strong partnership with Responsive Learning and her ongoing efforts to support professional learning that directly benefits campus leaders. Through her work, she has helped expand access to high-quality training and resources that equip principals and assistant principals to lead effectively, support teachers, and improve student outcomes.

“Dr. Johnston represents exactly what it means to lead with purpose,” said Tommy Tinajero, CEO of Responsive Learning. “She consistently brings people together, shares her expertise, and helps us think differently about how we support school leaders. Her leadership has helped us better serve principals and assistant principals across districts.”

"Meet Fred! Fred is the kind of student who makes our school a better place every day. He has a natural ability to see the good in everyone and consistently treats others with kindness and respect. Whether it’s offering support to a classmate or simply being a positive presence, Fred leads with compassion. What truly sets Fred apart is his courage to stand up for what’s right. He isn’t afraid to speak up when something doesn’t feel right, always doing so with integrity and thoughtfulness. We’re proud to have Fred as part of our school community, he represents the very best of who we strive to be!"

Kayleigh submitted a piece of poetry to the “Poetry Nation’s National Amateur Poetry Contest” and is a finalist. If selected, it will be published in a book called "Figments" by the Eber and Wein publishing company. Kayleigh should know the final results by the end of March.

“She is a great teacher. She always makes sure her students know the math lessons that she teaches us.”

July 4th is going to be a big celebration as America approaches its 250th birthday!

Stars and Stripes in Young County extends a special invitation to students, families, and school groups to participate in this year’s Fourth of July festivities.

School organizations, teams, clubs, and student groups are encouraged to get involved by entering the parade, representing their campuses, and showcasing their school spirit. This is a great opportunity for students to be part of a meaningful community tradition while celebrating our nation’s history.

This annual event has been shaped over the years by the leadership of Colonel Knox Bishop, whose dedication has helped bring the community together each Independence Day.

Organizers are working to expand this year’s celebration as we look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 and welcome broad community participation.

For more information or to sign up, visit: www.starsandstripesinyoungco.com