HISD says goodbye to retiring CFO Melinda Garrett
HISD is paying tribute to Chief Financial Officer Melinda Garrett, who is set to retire at the end of the month after 30 years with the district. A video celebrating her career and legacy in HISD was shown at the monthly principals’ meeting in December.
On Garrett’s watch, the Houston Independent School District has maintained the highest possible bond rating and the lowest property tax rate of the two dozen school districts in Harris County. At the same time, HISD has gained a national reputation for excellence in public school financial accountability. In 2011, HISD became the first U.S. school district in three years to win the prestigious Award for Excellence in Financial Management from the Council of the Great City Schools. In 2010, Garrett won the Council’s Bill Wise Award for distinguished service to America’s urban public schools.
“No single person has contributed more than Melinda Garrett toward HISD’s national reputation as a model district when it comes to managing taxpayer money with a focus on doing what is best for children,” said Superintendent Terry Grier. “It is because of Melinda’s excellent long-term financial planning during these tight budget times that our students have the resources they need to continue outperforming their peers across the state and nation.”
HISD will be hosting a retirement party for departing for Garrett on Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, from 3:30 p.m. until 5 p.m. The event will take place in rooms 1E01 and 1E02 of the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center (4400 W. 18th Street, 77092), just before the regular monthly Board of Education meeting. Please take a moment to stop by and wish her well if you have the chance, or leave a comment below.
| Check back next Friday for more December Milestones – and if you know someone who should be featured in this space, let us know at info@houstonisd.org. |
I appreciate all that you have done for the students and employees in HISD. All the best.