Superintendent's Newsletter
Harlandale Legacy,
We’re only a few weeks into the fall season, and already I can feel the excitement building across our campuses. It’s been wonderful to see our students, staff and community participating in all our fall activities and enjoying life at Harlandale ISD. The next few months hold a lot of promise for student success and, hopefully, some cooler weather!
San Antonio Sports All-Star Football Team
I would like to begin this week’s newsletter by congratulating two of our student-athletes who were selected to be a part of the San Antonio Sports All-Star Football Team. What an accomplishment! Jason Moreira of McCollum High School will be representing Team Black and Ignacio Ceja of Harlandale High School will be representing Team Gold. The students are now invited to play in the 2025 All-Star Football Game in the Alamodome this January. Way to represent!
Special Olympics Frontier Bowl
I’m excited to support our Harlandale Special Education Department during the second annual Special Olympics Frontier Bowl at our Harlandale Stadium on Monday, Nov. 4 at 10:00 AM. Students from McCollum and Harlandale High School will showcase their incredible skills and sportsmanship in a fun-filled day of friendly competition. This is a fantastic opportunity to come together as a community and cheer on these amazing athletes. Let’s pack the stands and show our support for all the participants!
HEF Golf Tournament
I could not be prouder to share that we had another excellent HEF Golf Tournament this year. Thanks to the incredible support from our sponsors and volunteers, this fundraiser raised $35,007.14 in net proceeds. We’re proud that every dollar raised goes straight back to our students in the form of scholarships. Harlandale ISD is the only school district in San Antonio that offers every graduating senior a scholarship, helping to pave the way for their post-secondary success. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our sponsors and participants for making this opportunity possible for our students.
Frontier Bowl
Our 61st Annual Frontier Bowl is right around the corner and we’re already feeling the excitement districtwide. We hope that you’ll join us at Harlandale Memorial Stadium on Friday, Nov. 8, to cheer on our teams and celebrate this beloved community tradition. The Frontier Bowl is more than just a game; it’s a chance to bring together students, families, alumni and the entire Harlandale Legacy to show off our pride. Don’t miss out on the pre-game festivities, halftime show, and, of course, the thrilling football action under the Friday Night Lights.
Veterans Day Ceremony
In honor of Veterans Day, we will be recognizing local and district veterans during our football game on Friday, November 1, at Harlandale Memorial Stadium. The special ceremony will begin at 6:30 PM on the home side track, where we will pay tribute to those who have served our country. If you or a loved one is a veteran and would like to participate in the ceremony, please submit this form by Thursday, October 24. Participants are kindly asked to arrive by 6:00 PM. We look forward to coming together as a community to honor our veterans.
United Way Campaign
Our United Way Campaign is officially underway! Those who donate to the campaign this year can enjoy the privilege of wearing jeans to work from Nov. 18 to Dec. 19. To participate and support this cause, please make your contribution before Nov. 13. Visit our District's United Way Campaign website for easy access and instructions on how to donate online. Every donation, no matter how big or small, makes a meaningful impact. When we come together, we have the power to create lasting, positive change.
Wrapping Up
As we wrap up this week's newsletter, I want to thank you all for your continued support and dedication to our District. I am grateful to have such a passionate team that works together to provide our students the best possible education. I’m proud of our students, parents and staff that continue to make Harlandale a special community. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and a happy start to November!
Sincerely,
Gerardo Soto
Harlandale ISD Superintendent of Schools