Overview
Advanced Academics Picture of Success
GISD Advanced Academics is a dynamic and inclusive program that helps every learner discover and grow their gifts.
- Learners engage in experiences across all campuses that grow the following skills: critical thinking, problem-solving, inquiry, creativity, communication, and collaboration. Our learning environments foster a growth mindset and help students take ownership of their development. Our focus on individual growth and community involvement prepares students for success beyond high school and as active, thoughtful members of society.
Hear What Students Have to Say!
GISD students share their experiences in Advanced Academics courses.
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GISD Advanced Academics -- General Information
Why enroll in advanced courses?
All students in GISD are provided opportunities to develop the skills in the GISD Learner Profile, but students in advanced courses experience challenging learning opportunities on a daily basis that often push them outside of their comfort zones and into the zone of innovation. Additionally, there is a direct correlation between the rigor of courses taken in high school and the successful completion of a college degree.
Lastly, AP courses and Dual Credit/OnRamps courses can yield college credits being earned! The average cost of a college course at a public university in the USA is around $1,200. If a student were to pass 3 AP exams and earn credit in 2 Dual Credit courses, that would mean savings of $6,000 and would save your student taking 15 hours of college credit (that's one semester worth of college). In Texas, AP Exam scores of a 3 or higher must be accepted at all public universities. Many universities across the nation accept AP Exam credits and Dual Credits. Please seek guidance from your college of choice on what kinds of credits will be accepted.
Please see pages 39-45 of our 2023-2024 Course Guide for more information about Advanced Courses.
Additionally, please review our Parent Info Night slideshow for more information.
Does advanced coursework simply mean more work?
Although this is a common misconception, advanced courses do not necessarily require more work from students; however, they do require students to explore and study subject matter with more depth and more complexity.
What advanced academic opportunities does GISD offer?
GISD offers a Gifted & Talented program, Advanced courses, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, dual credit courses, and a variety of enrichment opportunities for its students, from UIL to SeaPerch.
Opportunities to Earn College Credit
AP vs. OnRamps vs. Dual Credit: College Credit Comparison Chart (see below):
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As a result of education summits that brought together parents, students, teachers, business leaders, and community members to determine the desired skills and characteristics of a Georgetown learner, our Georgetown ISD Learner Profile was conceived. Our Advanced Academics programs and course offerings have been designed with this Learner Profile in mind, challenging every learner at an appropriate level, and stretching every individual to reach his or her full potential.