Gold Card Program
For more than four decades, Wylie ISD has honored senior citizens through the Gold Card Program. The program is a way of giving something back to residents who have supported the district, its teachers and students throughout the years. We are proud to announce that active-duty military personnel and veterans will now be included in this program.
“One of the District’s core values is Gratitude and Celebration,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Vinson. “We are honored to provide this program which shows our gratitude to these vital segments of our community while at the same time allows them to join in celebrating our students. We hope everyone eligible will take advantage of this program.”
Participants complete a brief application form online. The Gold Card is free and is good for a lifetime. With the card, members enjoy free general admission to all Wylie ISD home athletic events. This is a huge benefit especially for those who are living on fixed incomes. “I still enjoy high school football but gate fees are costing $5 or more per game,” stated Jerrell Clemmons, long-time football fan and Wylie resident. “My card is accepted everywhere I go, except for maybe Jerry’s World (AT&T Stadium).”
In the 1990s, the club was expanded to include retired Wylie ISD teachers in appreciation of their years of service to children and schools. Moreover, many of them have adult children who have settled in Wylie and have children attending Wylie schools. “My wife and I have nearly worn our cards out chasing our grandkids around to all their sporting events,” added Wayne Benton. “It’s convenient to pull out our Gold Cards rather than keeping up with purchasing tickets and it saves us money.”
Another Gold Card feature is discounted admission to fine art events. With three junior highs and two high schools, the opportunities to watch student performances including concerts, plays, musicals or dance shows have greatly increased. Gold Card holders may still need to reserve tickets for some fine arts events.
Julie Pannell, Recreation Guest Service Specialist for the Wylie Senior Recreation Center, began adding some of Wylie ISD’s Fine Art performances to the center’s activity calendar. She also works closely with the school district’s communications staff to ensure her guests are members of the Gold Card Program.
“The senior citizens in our community are the heart of Wylie. We love giving them a chance to be a part of the Gold Card Program as it gives them access to music and the plays they love,” added Ms. Pannell. “In addition, the program allows them to have access to the local athletic teams and to show their pride and spirit for Wylie!”
The Wylie ISD Gold Card is also accepted at Garland ISD events. We appreciate their partnership.
Residents interested in the Gold Card Program may apply online at: www.wylieisd.net/goldcard or at the District’s Community Relations Department located inside Wylie Stadium. Contact Diane Neel at 972-429-3012 or email diane.neel@wylieisd.net for more information. The District also encourages current members to update their contact information so they will continue to receive information about upcoming events.