GRCTC students are turning classroom learning into meaningful community impact. Through the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) IRS Tax Preparation program, students are providing free tax services to Garland ISD staff earning under $69,000 per year, helping families save money while gaining hands-on skills in a real-world learning environment.

The program is currently in its pilot phase, led by Melissa Alvarez, Business Management instructor. The goal is to serve small groups of Garland ISD employees as students gain practical experience. This service is available exclusively to GISD employees during this tax season.

“I launched a VITA program about 12 years ago when I was teaching at a previous high school, and it was a huge success,” said Alvarez. “This is my second year in Garland ISD. Last year I certified the students, and this year I decided to open a VITA site at GRCTC so they could apply their skills in a professional setting.”

Alvarez guided students through a six-week curriculum covering federal taxes, deductions, payroll, filing statuses, and tax law, preparing them to become IRS-certified preparers. Students earned both basic and advanced certifications in December, which are recognized by the Texas Education Agency and listed as industry-based certifications.

The certification gives students a skill they can use now and in the future. 

“Many students have already started helping their parents file taxes and advising them on the best way to maximize their refunds. It gives them a hands-on advantage once they graduate,” Alvarez explained.

During the program, students follow a professional workflow. Intake specialists first review taxpayer documentation, including IDs, Social Security cards, and tax forms. Students then prepare the returns in the Accounting lab, and Alvarez carefully reviews every return before it is submitted to the IRS. The site operates by appointment on Mondays through April 15 for GISD staff.

Junior Maria Olivas said preparing real tax returns has built her confidence.

“You don’t have to know everything on day one,” she said. “Ms. Alvarez is supportive, especially when English isn’t my first language. I feel comfortable asking questions in Spanish when I need to, and that helps me learn.”

That confidence carries over when working with district employees, where clear communication and professionalism matter. Olivas said providing a free service to staff feels meaningful.

“We’re helping people who might otherwise pay $300 for taxes. It feels good to contribute and make a difference.”

Learning to navigate real tax returns wasn’t easy, but junior Brenan Espino said the experience has been worth it. 

“When we first looked at the IRS 4012, it was honestly kind of overwhelming because there was so much to learn. But over time, I got the hang of it, and I see how valuable it is.” 

Espino went on to describe how understanding tax forms and tax laws benefits students by giving them practice and benefits taxpayers by saving them money. 

“It really helps us all as a community,” he said.

Students are also building professional confidence and leadership skills. 

Olivas said, “At GRCTC, they treat us like we’re working. We have breaks, we work respectfully with teammates, and it prepares us for the real world.”

The program allows students to explore career paths while serving their community, highlighting student leadership, workforce readiness, and the spirit of service across Garland ISD.

The program is supported by Foundation Communities of Dallas, which allows students to file taxes under IRS-approved authority for staff, students, and foreign residents.

Alvarez said the benefits are clear. “Students gain skills and volunteer hours, taxpayers save money, and the district strengthens its community connections.” 

Through the VITA pilot program, GRCTC students are putting those skills into practice, preparing for careers while serving their community.