Denton ISD Gold Card Program Welcomes Community Members 

When Denton Independent School District (ISD) announced their new Gold Card Program for local residents over 60, they hoped the goodwill gesture would be well received by the community. Within hours, one thing became immediately clear: local residents are more than eager to show up for students. 

In the first two days, over 500 community members picked up a Gold Card after the program was launched on August 3, 2026, signaling enthusiastic support for the grassroots initiative designed to strengthen the connection between Denton ISD schools and the people who have cheered them on for years.

This free program invites eligible community members ages 60 and older to enjoy complimentary general admission to most Denton ISD home athletic events and student fine arts performances. From Friday-night football and basketball games to band concerts, theatre productions, and dance recitals, the Gold Card gives longtime community supporters an easy way to celebrate the accomplishments of local students.

“Strong schools and strong communities go hand in hand,” stated Dr. Susannah O’Bara, Denton ISD Superintendent of Schools. “So many of our neighbors have supported this district for decades, and the Gold Card is a small way to say thank you and to keep them close to the students they’ve championed all along.”

A Community Connection

The Gold Card Program is available to individuals 60 years or older who either live within Denton ISD boundaries or are family members of a current Denton ISD student, regardless of where they live. There is no cost to participate.

For district leaders, the program provides more than just free admission. It is an invitation for parents, grandparents, former educators, alumni, neighbors, and longtime residents to remain engaged in the culture created by the school district.

“To see more than 500 community members walk through our doors in the first two days tells us something we’ve always known,” Dr. O’Bara reiterated on the district’s website. “Our community cares deeply about our students and wants to be part of their journey.”

For students, to be able to look into the stands or out into a crowded auditorium and see the overwhelming show of support serves as a poignant reminder that their hard work and dedication matters not only to them but also to the community.

Hundreds of Events, One Card

Gold Card members gain access to a plethora of perks. First, members receive complimentary general admission to regular-season Denton ISD home athletic events, including football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, softball, and more. The card also provides admission to most student fine arts performances, including band, choir, orchestra, theatre, and dance events.

To keep them informed, members will receive periodic email updates featuring upcoming schedules, performances, and other opportunities to support students throughout the year.

“People have come in excited, asking about football schedules and concert dates,” shared Nick Petito, Denton ISD’s Chief Communications and Marketing Officer. “They’re ready to show up for our kids.”

How to Get a Gold Card

Eligible community members may pick up a Gold Card at Denton ISD Central Offices, located in Stephens Building on 1307 N. Locust Street in Denton. The office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You are required to bring a valid photo ID showing your name, date of birth, and home address. After completing a brief form, recipients receive their card the same day. One card is issued per person and cards are non-transferable.

Some exclusions apply, including UIL playoff games, tournaments, invitational events, outside events hosted at district facilities, and events that have reached capacity. To learn more, visit dentonisd.org.