One of the most important things families consider when choosing a new home community is the quality of the local schools. At Union Park by Hillwood, we are delighted to be located in the Denton Independent School District (DISD). Students living in Union Park attend Union Park Elementary and Paloma Creek Elementary, Navo Middle School, and Ray Braswell High School.

DISD is a highly rated school system with a wealth of educational and extracurricular programs that provide something for every student. From elementary through high school (including Advanced Placement (AP) programs), DISD’s commitment to “Empower lifelong learners to be engaged citizens who positively impact their local and global community” shines through. Here are a few statistics:

Educating for the Future

The only thing we know for sure about the future is that change will happen, and that life and the job market will be different than they are today. Many people in today’s workforce are doing jobs that didn’t exist when they graduated from high school, and it will likely be the same for today’s children. Preparing children for success in an unknown future means training them how to learn by keeping them engaged and curious.

Denton ISD has constructed its educational programs to offer varied learning opportunities that bring diversity in education to every student. The district aims to support all learners in maintaining a love of learning and reaching their full capacity.

DISD Offers Programs and Opportunities for Every Student

Gifted and Talented – DISD calls its gifted and talented program EXPO for EXceptional POtential. The district selects EXPO participants from students who excel intellectually, creatively, in leadership, or in a particular academic field. The district identifies these students by referrals from faculty, parents, or community members, and each nominated student goes through a testing and selection process.

Advanced Placement – In addition to top-notch academic programs for high school students, DISD can give college-bound students a leg up with Advanced Placement courses. Braswell High School offers students choices of more than 20 AP courses in its dual-credit programs. The AP program enables students to complete college-level work in high school, develop writing skills, and improve study habits.

Athletics – Braswell High School and Navo Middle School offer a range of athletics programs, including men’s, women’s, and co-ed programs. Students can choose sports such as basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, football, and track and field. The district also offers golf, water polo, swimming and diving, tennis, and strength and conditioning.

Technology – DISD uses technology to deliver up-to-date educational skills to all students, and the district is doing a great job. The Center for Digital Education has recognized DISD as one of the nation’s top technologically advanced school districts. The district works with nationally known partners to ensure that students, educators, and families have the latest devices available for teaching, learning, and accessing student information.

Fine Arts – Whether a student is interested in music, dance, theater, or visual arts, DISD has it all. Some students even go on to choose a career in a creative field, but there are plenty of reasons for all students to participate in the arts, even if they don’t intend to pursue a career in the arts. Studies show that music instruction can jumpstart language and reading skills. Participation in the arts expands the ability to imagine other perspectives and develop well-being, self-expression, purpose, and relationships.

Foreign Exchange – Denton ISD’s foreign exchange program at Braswell High School offers a broadening cultural experience for international students and the community. Students from other countries learn about this country’s history and our government and deepen their spoken and written English language skills.

Extracurricular Activities – Middle school, and to an even greater extent, high school, are times for young people to try new things and learn what work and activities they might like to pursue later in life. Navo Middle School and Braswell High School offer many opportunities for students to experiment with new extracurricular pursuits in a safe, friendly environment.  Examples include student government, UIL Academics, Future Farmers of America, cheerleading, the school newspaper, art club, theater, and many more.

Special Education – At DISD, determining whether a student needs special education services is a collaborative process including parents, teachers, administrators, and assessment staff. DISD provides these services in the least restrictive environment possible for the student. The district’s services to the special needs community include academic, functional, and vocational services, adapted physical education, occupational therapy, and much more.

Career and Technical – Braswell High School offers courses in more than 20 technical and professional fields ranging from aviation to the culinary arts to welding. High school trade classes are an excellent option for students who are not college-bound. Occupational skills are in high demand in today’s job market, and Braswell aims to prepare students with career education programs that enable them to succeed not only in today’s job market but in the job market to come.

Are You Looking for a New Place to Call Home?

There are many elements to consider when relocating, and schools are chief among them. At Union Park in Little Elm, Texas, we’re confident that our community schools within Denton ISD offer everything a student could need with academics and programs that are of the highest quality.

If you are looking for a new home and community, we invite you to consider Union Park by Hillwood. You can take a virtual tour or search for new homes on our website to get a feel for the community. Contact us or stop by to learn more about what Union Park has to offer your family.