Two Elementary Campuses Take Shape in Garland ISD
The new Freeman Elementary and Kimberlin Academy for Excellence campuses demonstrate the district’s focus on student success and community investment.
From the ground up, two new elementary campuses are taking shape in Garland ISD, promising vibrant spaces where students can learn, explore, and grow. These new campuses at Freeman Elementary and Kimberlin Academy for Excellence demonstrate the district’s focus on student success and community investment.
These campuses are more than construction projects. They are welcoming neighborhood landmarks and a visible example of the promise GISD made to families when voters approved the 2023 Bond. Both were celebrated during a groundbreaking ceremony last summer, marking an important milestone in bringing the new campuses to life.
At Freeman Elementary, a new chapter is beginning as the old building, demolished in late 2024, makes way for a modern campus that will welcome students from both Freeman and Golden Meadows Elementary. The new campus is designed to spark curiosity and build connections. Bright, flexible learning spaces support collaboration and hands-on instruction, while thoughtful elements prioritize safety and accessibility for every student.
The new Kimberlin Academy for Excellence will eventually house both Kimberlin and Hillside Academies for Excellence at the former Hillside Academy location. The building will open with the Kimberlin name, honoring the legacy of Garland resident Harriet Kimberlin. The Hillside name will be retired. Classrooms and shared spaces are intentionally designed to encourage engagement and collaboration, providing modern environments that enhance instruction and the student experience.
These campuses are part of a broader community investment in GISD schools. The 2023 Bond funds new buildings and renovations across the district, supporting students, staff, and neighborhoods. As construction continues, Freeman and Kimberlin are already shaping expectations for what is possible, reflecting innovation in design and a long-term commitment to the district’s students, staff, and families.
A new video featuring aerial views of the construction highlights just how far both projects have come. Watch the video to see the campuses take shape from above and follow the progress firsthand.