Choice of School
Choice of School Overview Video
Changes Coming for Annual Choice of School
The Garland Independent School District is unique in many ways. One of the district’s more distinctive features is its open enrollment plan. Attendance zones determine where students will attend school in most districts. GISD employs a “Choice of School” program, allowing parents to select the campus they would like for their children to attend. The selection period takes place during the spring semester for the subsequent school year with almost 98 percent of students receiving their first school chosen.
For the past several years, various factors have played into the final outcome of matching students with campuses – overcrowding in schools, walk zones and transportation zones, sibling rules, and family preferences are some examples. Some of these factors are being adjusted for the 2008-09 school year. But all of the changes made are intended to make the process of choosing a school easier for GISD families.
Learn more at one of the
Choice of School
Town Hall Meetings
Choice of School Periods
for 2008 - 2009 School Year
Secondary Choice Period
(Grades 5-11)
January 29, 2008 – February 29, 2008
Elementary Choice Period
(Grades PreK-4)
February 28, 2008 – March 28, 2008
Message from the Superintendent
Longtime patrons of Garland ISD know that our district is one of a handful in the U.S. offering a form of “open enrollment” for students. Under our “Freedom of Choice” plan, parents have the opportunity to choose the school they want their children to attend.
Since the inception of our open enrollment program, GISD has grown to almost 60,000 students. Trying to accommodate the wishes of so many people has become extremely complex. With that in mind, we are adjusting the annual “Choice of School” process to provide better alternatives for our families.
We hope this overview will help parents navigate the choice process more easily and everyone will become aware of the variety of specialized programs available for satisfying the educational goals and needs of all students.
From the challenge of pursuing an International Baccalaureate diploma, to participating in some of the best fine arts programs in the nation, our schools provide a broad range of diverse opportunities that cater to the unique needs of all students. The learning environment created on our campuses will inspire students to utilize their skills and knowledge for success in today’s world.
It is with tremendous pride and enthusiasm that I invite you to visit our outstanding schools. Garland ISD has a program and an exceptional educational experience awaiting the special child in your life!
Dr. Curtis Culwell
Superintendent