The Academy of Fine Arts, formally known as AVAPA, at Garland High School provides students with a semi-professional and early collegiate education and experience in their chosen disciplines. Students graduating with an AFA Diploma will have successfully completed course work and performance requirements that will prepare them for success beyond high school whether it be university or employment.  Explore AFA.

With a grant from the Texas High School Project (THSP), GHS initiated the Achievement Academy with the ultimate goal of making all GHS students College Ready, Career Ready, Life Ready! The Texas High School Project is dedicated to all Texas students graduating high school ready for college and career success and prepared to be contributing members of the community.  Explore Achievement Academy.

Early College High School (ECHS) is a program that provides students with the opportunity to earn up to 60 free college hours with the potential to earn an associate’s degree. 

The ECHS program embeds social/emotional supportive measures throughout the program to encourage young learners who have the potential to do advanced work.

The goal of this program is to support and provide educational opportunities for traditionally underrepresented students in higher education including at-risk, low income, English language learners and first-generation students. Interested students should possess a high level of commitment, academic tenacity and show the potential to do college-level work while in high school.

Garland, North Garland, Rowlett, Sachse and South Garland offer an Early College High School program and will accept up to 125 incoming ninth-graders each year who meet program criteria.  Explore ECHS.

MYP is a challenging framework that encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world. Students who complete the MYP are well-prepared to undertake the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). Explore MYP.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is a rigorous course of study designed to meet the needs of highly motivated secondary students and to promote international understanding.  The effectiveness of the IBDP program is due not only to the depth of the individual courses, but also to the comprehensive nature of the program.  Explore IBDP.