Terrell ISD is excited to bring additional opportunities to students and their families with the announcement of three new choice schools that will open in the 2026-2027 school year.
The S.T.E.M Academy at JW Long, College Preparatory Academy at Dr. Bruce Wood, and the Arts & Sciences Academy at Gilbert Willie, Sr. Elementary will open in August 2026 and provide high-quality, best-fit options for Terrell ISD students to realize their full academic potential.
Each of the academies will operate as a “school within a school,” and students must apply to attend. In its first year, the academies will serve incoming kindergarten through second grade students with an additional grade level being added each year until full buildout by the 2029-2030 school year.
Students who are selected to attend the S.T.E.M. Academy at J.W. Long Elementary will benefit from a curriculum that encourages project-based learning and enjoy engineering and technical classes that will improve their problem-solving skills, boost their confidence and self-esteem, and encourage them to be curious and creative thinkers.
At the College Preparatory Academy at Dr. Bruce Wood Elementary School, students will develop the skills needed for college success by participating in project based learning and enrolling in advanced coursework. Students will enjoy enrichment activities, develop leadership skills and have the opportunity to participate in college and career visits.
Students who attend the Arts & Sciences Academy at Gilbert Willie, Sr. Elementary will benefit from a curriculum that enhances their development of motor skills and techniques and fosters improved problem solving skills. Students will enjoy arts and science classes that will boost their confidence and self-esteem while improving their overall academic performance.
Spots are limited and acceptance into each academy will be based on an interest questionnaire, consideration of the student’s discipline history and the signing of a parent and student commitment letter upon notification of acceptance. Students who wish to apply to a choice academy outside of their attendance zone may do so; however, transportation will not be provided between your child's zoned school and the academy. Additionally, students who do not currently attend Terrell ISD or live outside of Terrell ISD boundaries may also apply.
The online application window for all district choice schools, including the Global Leadership Academy and College Prep Academy at Furlough Middle School, will open on Wednesday, November 5 and close on Thursday, December 18 at 5:00 PM. Students will be notified of their acceptance on Tuesday, February 10.
Parents wishing to learn more about the district's new academies are invited to attend “Discover Terrell ISD” on Wednesday, November 5 from 5:30 - 7:00 PM at the Jamie Foxx Performing Arts Center located at 400 Poetry Road, Terrell, Texas. The free event will enable parents to ask questions and to take advantage of the onsite application assistance that will be available.
Additionally, parents can also learn about the district’s current choice options including Pre-K, the Global Leadership Academy, the College Preparatory Academy at Furlough Middle School, and the Dual Credit and Career & Technical Education opportunities available at Terrell High School.
For more information on Discover Terrell ISD, visit terrellisd.org/discoverterrellisd
For more information on each of the new academies including a Frequently Asked Questions Page, visit:
S.T.E.M Academy at JW Long: terrellisd.org/JWLStemAcademy
College Prep at Bruce Wood: terrellisd.org/WESCollegePrep
Arts & Sciences at Gilbert Willie, Sr.:
terrellisd.org/