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Garland, Texas
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Community rivalry, a devastating fire, and the location of two railroads played a vital part in the founding of the city called Garland, Texas. Rich in history, Garland dates back to the 1850’s. A few of the historic homes still remain near the downtown area.
Located in Dallas County Texas, Garland is conveniently situated Northeast of Dallas and West of Rockwall. It shares the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard with both Rowlett and Rockwall. The city of Garland is located along both I-30 and the George Bush Turnpike corridors, providing easy access to Rockwall, Dallas, Richardson and Plano. As of the 2000 census, Garland had a population of 218,768, making it the 10th most populous city in Texas, and the 86th most populous city in the United States.
Residents of Garland and the surrounding communities enjoy a variety entertainment options including Hawaiian Falls Waterpark, the Patty Granville Performing Arts Center, and the 22,000 acre Lake Ray Hubbard with its many recreational opportunities such as sailing, fishing, skiing, fishing and boating.
Garland Independent School District. A Recognized District by the Texas Education Agency in 2009-10, Garland ISD boasts an enrollment of over 57,000 students and is the second largest district in Dallas County as well as one of the largest districts in the state of Texas. The community maintains a “small town” feeling, yet the teachers have access to the increased resources that large districts offer.
Every school in the district provides the same high level of instruction. However, that doesn’t mean that you will find “clone” schools in Garland ISD. Schools, like students, are unique with personalities that reflect the attitudes of the staff, students, and parents.
Magnet Programming
Within the list of campuses, GISD has a variety of magnet programs. Elementary level magnets include a mix of students who live nearby and students from all three cities who qualified for the magnet programs. At the secondary level, the magnet programs are usually “school within a school” programs, offering a mix of regular curriculum and specialized magnet courses.
Elementary and middle school magnet programs include gifted and talented, math, science & technology, and classical curriculum. High school magnets expand upon these offerings to include International Baccalaureate (IB) program, the Performing Arts Endorsement (PAE) program,television production and broadcasting, law and criminal justice, and concurrent college enrollment.
“Freedom of Choice” Enrollment
Only a handful of districts nationwide offer open enrollment options for students. However, none have a “choice” plan as far-reaching as Garland ISD. While other districts use attendance zones to determine who goes where, in GISD, parents are able to choose the campus they wish to have their child attend. The “Choice of School” period takes place each year in January for the following school year. Each year, between 97% and 98% of our students receive their first choice school!
Shopping in Garland
Garland is a shopper’s paradise! Whether you prefer browsing for unique items in specialty shops or power shopping in a major mall, Garland has it all!
The Firewheel Town Center is the crown jewel of Garland’s retail area. The Town Center is an open-air mixed-use development featuring an exciting mix of department stores, specialty retail stores, diverse restaurants and a theatre. The complex also includes office and residential developments.
Outdoor lovers will love shopping at Bass Pro Shops. Located on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, this store features everything a fisherman and hunter could possibly need.
Head into historic downtown Garland and you&rsquoll find a delightful collection of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. The first Saturday of every month is when we hold First Saturday Trade Days, which feature the merchants, craft and food vendors, and live entertainment.
Be sure to bring your appetite when you come to Garland because we have a diverse and growing number of restaurants to suit every palate and mood. Whether you&rsquore dining in style at one of our fine establishments or enjoying a burger at a local hangout while watching the game, eating in Garland is an experience you…and your stomach… will treasure!
