Magnet questions for 2020-21
See below for frequently asked questions related to magnet programs and our reopening plans.
Frequently asked questions
General magnet program information
Yes. Students in magnet programs may select the remote learning option and still retain their magnet seats for 2020-2021 and continuation option for 2021-2022.
No. If you unenroll from GISD, you will lose your magnet seat for 2020-2021 and continuation option for 2021-2022.
Yes. However, there is a difference between gifted and magnets. Gifted services are available at ALL Garland ISD schools for qualified gifted students. Magnet programs are available at select schools and have district-defined criteria for enrollment. Each magnet may have specialized curriculum and programs for students who meet qualifications. Not all magnet students are gifted students, and not all gifted students are magnet students.
Schools will continue to call students off the waitlist through the first two weeks of school in August.
Yes. Campuses will utilize their own teachers for all remote learning including their magnet programs.
Montessori information
Yes. Remote learning will be available for our Primary Montessori students.
Yes. Montessori for this age group is a paid-tuition program regardless of face-to-face or remote learning. Garland ISD does not receive state funding for students that are not eligible for Pre-K.
During the restarting school transition period (August 10 to September 7) parents will not be required to pay tuition. Regular tuition payments will start on September 8, 2020. The tuition will be the same for remote learners and face-to-face learners.
Schools are required to comply with the Governor’s Executive Order GA-29 regarding the wearing of masks. In addition to the executive order, TEA has delegated authority to school districts to require the use of masks or face shields for adults or students for whom it is developmentally appropriate. Under this authority, GISD is requiring face coverings.
Face masks are not optional for students and staff who are on campus. While it may be impractical for students to wear masks or face shields during participation in athletic or other extracurricular activities, TEA has specified that schools must require students, teachers, staff, and visitors to wear masks or face shields when entering and exiting facilities and practice areas, as well as other areas where social distancing is not possible.
Schools may, for example, allow students who are actively exercising to remove masks or face shields, as long as they maintain at least six feet of distance from other students, teachers, and staff. However, schools must require students, teachers, and staff to wear masks or face shields as they arrange themselves in positions that will allow them to maintain safe distancing.
For the purposes of school attendance, mask requirements include either a non-medical grade disposable face mask, a cloth face covering (over the nose and mouth), or a full-face shield to protect the eyes, nose, and mouth. Face shields may be superior to cloth face coverings in many circumstances, given improved ability to see mouth movements and improved air circulation.
Montessori teachers will be working diligently to include appropriate activities and projects that are aligned to their respective programs. Whenever possible, teachers will incorporate projects that utilize common household items and substitutions to ensure access for all students. When this is not possible, and specialized materials or supplies are necessary, campuses will coordinate pick up and/or delivery of items to students. Contact your campus principal for program-specific questions.
Academy information - elementary and middle
To the extent possible, your child will participate in their specialized activities. Due to the challenges associated with accommodating both face-to-face and remote learning, and complying with guidelines set by the CDC; the frequency and design of their participation may be affected. Contact your campus principal for program-specific questions.
Since magnet students will be taught by magnet teachers, students will receive instruction that is appropriate for their program. This includes lesson planning, design, and execution to meet program requirements. This includes, but is not limited to, project-based learning, novel studies, critical thinking and real-world application. Contact your campus principal for program-specific questions.
MST information - elementary and middle
Yes. Since Magnet students will be taught by magnet teachers, students will receive instruction that is appropriate for their program. This includes lesson planning, design, and execution to meet program requirements. This includes, but is not limited to, project-based learning, novel studies, critical thinking and real-world application. Contact your campus principal for program-specific questions.
High school magnet programs
Yes. Students in high school magnet programs can choose remote learning. The schools and district will support your student’s participation in a high school magnet program, including early college programs.
Dallas College uses Blackboard for their online learning, so dual credit students may have some classes in Blackboard and some classes in Canvas.
The GISD Reopening School Instructional Guidebook states: “For students who opt to take remote learning courses, only a limited and specific number of CTE courses will be available online. Many of the courses have hands-on experiences that are required by the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills or program needs and certification requirements. High school students may elect to take CTE courses that are not offered through a remote learning format in a face-to-face format at their home campus or at the GRCTC while taking non-CTE courses virtually.”