The Pre-K and kindergarten enrollment/Choice of School application window opens on April 1 in Garland ISD.

If you have a 4- or 5-year-old at home, this is the moment many families start looking ahead to what’s next. Garland ISD’s early childhood programs help children build confidence, develop key skills, and feel ready for the classroom from day one.

Why these early years matter

Around 90% of a child’s brain develops before age 5, making Pre-K and kindergarten a key window for learning. Students who attend early learning programs often demonstrate stronger skills in literacy, language, and math, as well as improved self-regulation and social development. They are also more likely to stay on track academically and succeed later in school.

In Garland ISD, these early years help students build a strong foundation for how they learn, communicate, and interact with others.

What kids learn in Pre-K

Pre-K classrooms focus on building foundational skills through hands-on, engaging learning.

Students are introduced to:

• Letters, numbers, colors, and shapes
• Early reading and math skills
• Listening and communication
• Social skills like sharing, routines, and teamwork

Learning also includes science, social studies, fine arts, and physical development, creating a well-rounded experience. Classrooms are led by certified teachers using a research-based, state-aligned curriculum designed for early learners.

How kindergarten builds confidence and skills

Kindergarten builds on that early foundation and helps students transition into more structured learning.

Students develop:

• Reading, writing, and math skills
• Memory and reasoning
• Problem-solving strategies
• Stronger language and literacy abilities
• Social and emotional awareness

By the end of the year, students are more independent, more confident, and ready for the next step in their education.

What a typical school day looks like

A typical day in Pre-K and kindergarten balances structure with flexibility.

Students move through a mix of:

• Whole-group instruction
• Small-group learning
• Hands-on centers and activities
• Play-based learning

Throughout the day, students may practice letter sounds, work with classmates, or listen to a story. The variety keeps them engaged while reinforcing key skills in multiple ways.

What makes Garland ISD different

Garland ISD offers a range of options to meet the needs of different families.

Pre-K is available at 35 schools across the district, including two dedicated Pre-K centers and 33 elementary campuses offering full-day classes.

The district provides:

• Certified teachers and a research-based curriculum
• General education classrooms with ESL support for students learning English
• Bilingual programs in Spanish and Vietnamese that build both languages while teaching academic content
• A Montessori magnet option for a more student-driven learning experience

This range of programs gives families the flexibility to choose an environment that fits their child’s needs and learning style.

Choice of School & Enrollment

Garland ISD operates as a Choice of School district, meaning families can select the school their child will attend instead of being limited to their neighborhood campus.

Families can:

• Choose their neighborhood school
• Apply to attend a different campus
• Explore magnet and Montessori programs

The Choice of School and magnet application window for incoming Pre-K and kindergarten students opens April 1. During this time, families review options, rank preferred campuses, and submit their selections based on availability.

Before families new to the district can participate in Choice of School, they must complete new student enrollment. Once enrollment is submitted and processed, families receive access to the Choice application and can proceed to select campuses.

From there, families submit their school preferences and complete the Choice of School process as part of preparing for the upcoming school year.

Next steps

Families can explore their options and connect with Garland ISD in person or online. Enrollment for Pre-K and kindergarten will be available beginning April 1. 

The Explore GISD Expo on April 11 offers a chance to meet campus and department staff, learn about programs, and complete enrollment in one place.

Garland ISD also supports families before their child enters the classroom through the GISD Littles Club, which provides developmental tips, access to resources, and a staff-supported community for families with children ages 0–5.

The journey begins in GISD

For many families, this is the first big step into their child’s school journey. Choosing where that journey begins matters. Garland ISD gives families the options, support, and strong start every child deserves.