For many residents, the last time they entered a public school may have been years ago—maybe when they were students.

This fall, Denton ISD is creating two new opportunities to invite more community members back through its doors. Through the new Gold Card Program and Ambassador Program, the district hopes to strengthen relationships and create more ways for residents to connect with the students, educators and experiences shaping Denton ISD.

“Strong schools and strong communities are built together,” said Nick Petito, Chief Communications & Marketing Officer for Denton ISD. “Both of these programs are about building partnerships with our families and our neighbors. When the community pours into our schools, our students are the ones who benefit, and we want to make sure that goes both ways.”

What is the Gold Card Program?

The Gold Card program gives eligible residents a new way to experience student achievements firsthand. Beginning Aug. 3, residents ages 60 and older within Denton ISD boundaries OR family members of a current Denton ISD student can receive a Gold Card for free admission to district-hosted athletic events and fine arts performances throughout the school year.

The program allows residents to attend football or volleyball games, cross-country meets, concerts, student productions and much more, while strengthening connections between residents and local schools.

Eligible residents can pick up their Gold Card at the Denton ISD Central Office in the Stephens Administration Building starting Monday, August 3. Gold Card pick up will be available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Residents must show ID to verify their name and address. The card will be printed on-site.

“The Gold Card is our way of saying thank you,” Petito said. “So many community members have poured into our schools for years, and this is an open invitation to stay connected to the great things happening in our district — on the field, in the gym, on the stage and in our classrooms. That connection benefits everyone; it gives residents a way to stay involved while building a stronger support system for our students.”

What is the Ambassador Program?

While the Gold Card program invites residents into schools, Denton ISD’s new Ambassador program helps community members understand district operations.

The program will offer six information sessions during the 2026-27 school year, with meetings in September, October and November, followed by sessions in February, March and April. Participants will learn about public education, including:

  • School finance
  • Teaching, learning and accountability
  • Legislative advocacy and priorities
  • Operations, planning and safety
  • Communications, community relations and human resources
  • Technology and instructional technology

The application period for the first ambassador cohort is July 27 to Aug. 21. The program is open to parents, guardians, community members, local businesses and others interested in learning about public education and Denton ISD.

Each session will occur at a different district location, allowing participants to see the district’s work in action through tours and presentations.

“Building strong, reciprocal partnerships with our families and our community is one of our highest priorities,” said Dr. Susannah O’Bara, Superintendent of Denton ISD. “The Ambassador Program is an immersive experience and an open invitation to see our district up close, ask questions and get to know the people behind the work. Denton ISD is at its best when our community walks alongside us.”

Building lasting partnerships

For Denton ISD, both programs represent more than new initiatives—they’re opportunities to strengthen connections between schools and the community.

“Public schools are the hub for a community,” Petito said. “That’s who pours into them; that’s where families send their children, and we want them to know the value that a Denton ISD education brings.”

Through the Gold Card Program, residents can also stay informed about other opportunities to volunteer, mentor students or support schools. Through the Ambassador Program, participants can become informed community voices who understand the challenges and opportunities in public education.

As Denton ISD looks ahead, the district hopes these programs create a growing network of engaged residents connected to the schools and students at the heart of the community.

Want to learn more?

To learn more about the Gold Card Program or get one, click here.

To learn more about the Ambassador Program or apply, click here.

The above story was produced by Multi-Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel, with the Community Impact's Storytelling team, using information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.