Quality Education & Training

Education and Workforce Development Opportunities in Garland

Garland ISD – A Quality Education for Every Student

Garland Independent School District (GISD) serves more than 51,000 students across 67 campuses, Pre-K through 12th Grade, making it the second-largest district in Dallas County and one of the 100 largest in the U.S.

GISD’s innovative Choice of School program highlights academic excellence and empowers families to find the right educational fit for their child. Featured campuses include:

  • Couch Collegiate Prep

  • Club Hill STEM Elementary

  • Handley STEM Elementary

  • Southgate STEM Elementary

  • Coyle Technology Center for Math & Science

  • Lyles Collegiate Middle School

Through the Open Enrollment program, families outside the district can select and enroll their student in a specific GISD school or apply to participate in a magnet program.

Preparing for The Future

GISD students have the opportunity to graduate with more than their high school diploma. They can earn at least 12 hours of transferrable college credit, an associate’s degree, a career certificate or an industry certification. 

Access to Higher Education Opportunities

Area students enjoy convenient access to a wide range of higher education institutions, including the Garland-based campus of Dallas College. The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), University of North Texas (UNT), Southern Methodist University (SMU) and Amberton University, along with other colleges and universities throughout the DFW metro area, offer additional pathways for higher education close to home. 

Dallas College Garland Campus 

The Dallas College Garland Campus serves as a key hub for professional and workforce training. Through the Ascend Institute​, local companies and individuals can participate in specialized training for today’s competitive industries.

Skills Development Fund Program

In partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission and local businesses, the Skills Development Fund Grant provides customized employee training that enhances skills and boosts wages. Training options cover:

  • Business and Technical Skills

  • General Technical Training

  • Non-Technical Workforce Skills

Through this collaboration, Garland continues to strengthen its economy and expand career opportunities.

Programs include:

  • Workforce training

  • Continuing Education Classes (CEU)

  • English as a Second Language (ESL)

  • High School Equivalency (HSE) Preparation Program

  • Welding Certification

  • Machinist Certification

Garland is one of the largest manufacturing cities in the state of Texas, home to more than 300 manufacturers.

Dallas County Manufacturers’ Association (DCMA)

DCMA provides resources for Garland-based manufacturers, including peer-driven solutions, grant information, training and recruitment connections. It also creates a workforce pipeline of college students ready to go to work and meet the needs of area manufacturers.

Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas 

Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas (WFSDallas) is dedicated to strengthening the Garland community through comprehensive workforce development initiatives. Its mission is to connect employers and job seekers, offer tailored solutions that spur economic growth and enhance the quality of life in the region.

WFSDallas invests in innovative workforce strategies that encompass job training, placement and retention. This approach not only meets the immediate needs of employers and job seekers, but also supports broader economic development objectives.