Ganado ISD recognized for 125 years of service

Ganado ISD recognized for 125 years of service

Victoria Advocate

Lindsey Plotkin | May 11th,

GANADO — Ganado Independent School District celebrated its 125th anniversary last week with a districtwide event recognizing the school system’s history, achievements and future plans.

The celebration, held in the Ganado High School gymnasium, brought together students, staff members and district officials. During the event, U.S. Rep. Michael Cloud presented Superintendent Dr. Jonathon Syzmanski with a Congressional Record honoring the district’s milestone anniversary.

Syzmanski reflected on the district’s history dating back to its founding in 1900 and discussed future improvements planned after voters approved a nearly $50 million bond.

“(The bond passing) shows you that Ganado ISD will be here easily another 125 years,” Syzmanski said. “My message to the kids that day was ‘good always wins,’ and the bond passed, that’s the prime example that more good has been brought upon Ganado ISD.”

During his remarks, Syzmanski highlighted the district’s “Excellence Since 1900” slogan while recognizing academic and athletic accomplishments throughout the school system’s history.

Cloud’s presentation formally recognized the district in Congress through the Congressional Record, an honor Syzmanski said he was proud to accept alongside the district’s leadership team.

“It truly was an honor, and I didn’t want to accept it unless I had my leadership team beside me, because we work together closely, and I’m honored to have such fine people work with me,” Syzmanski said. “It truly takes a team and we have some good people. At the end of the day, I’m responsible, but I like to always hear their input, it makes me better, makes me a better leader.”

The event featured performances by the Arrowette Dance Team, cheerleaders and the school band, with the entire student body attending.

Syzmanski said the celebration was designed to focus on students and the district’s future.

“The spirit here is unparalleled, and it really shined on that day,” Syzmanski said. “It was a great feeling seeing the community come together, and to see the love that everyone has for the school system. I always joke with people that these are the best of times because we’re doing really well in everything, and it’s because we have high standards and excellent and superb people. I mean, our teachers and staff are second to none, and the kids can’t say enough good things about our kids.”

In the Congressional Record, Cloud recognized the district’s long-standing impact on the community.

“I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 125th anniversary of Ganado Independent School District, a proud pillar of education and community in South Texas,” Cloud said in his Congressional Record. “Established on June 8, 1900, Ganado ISD has upheld a long-standing commitment to excellence. For over 125 years, the district has shaped generations of students, guided by a passionate community that puts kids first…”

“Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Jonathon Syzmanski, the district continues to build upon its strong foundation while preparing students for the future,” Cloud continued. “As the community gathers to celebrate the Ganado Independent School District’s 125 years of excellence and wish them continued success in the years ahead.”

District officials said bond-funded projects will include new academic and athletic facilities, including softball and baseball stadiums, a new football locker room, an auditorium and a new agricultural education shop, along with other campus maintenance improvements.