Wylie Independent School District, Garland ISD and Plano ISD are strengthening community ties by providing free‑admission cards to seniors, active‑duty military personnel and veterans. The programs, known as Gold Cards in Wylie and VIP passes in Garland, let eligible residents attend a wide range of school‑sponsored athletic and fine‑arts events without paying an admission fee.
Wylie ISD Gold Card program
Wylie ISD issues Gold Cards to anyone 65 or older, as well as to active‑duty service members and veterans. The card works at both Wylie and Garland district events, giving seniors a simple, universal ticket. Since its inception more than 40 years ago, the district has issued over 3,200 cards, including 200 this semester alone. Applications are completed online at wylieisd.net/goldcard or by contacting Ian Halperin, the district’s executive director of community relations & marketing, at 972‑429‑3019.
Retired teachers may also apply, and cardholders can choose mail delivery or pick‑up at the Educational Service Center. Once issued, the card never expires. In addition to high‑school events, the Gold Card covers junior‑high activities that charge admission, though some events are excluded due to licensing requirements.
Garland ISD VIP pass
Garland ISD offers a VIP pass with the same eligibility criteria. Residents can schedule an appointment Monday‑through‑Thursday, 9‑11 a.m. or 1‑3 p.m., by calling 972‑494‑8580. A government‑issued photo ID or proof of military service is required. Like Wylie’s card, the VIP pass never expires.
Plano ISD RSVP program
Plano ISD’s Retired Seniors Valued in Plano (RSVP) program serves residents 60 and older. The free membership card grants free or discounted admission to most middle‑school and high‑school sporting events, including all home games for varsity and junior varsity teams. Away games, playoff contests and non‑school events held in school facilities are excluded.
RSVP members also enjoy free admission on opening nights for campus performances such as plays, band concerts, orchestra, choir and vocal music. Discounted tickets are offered for opening nights of musical productions and the Drill Team Spring Show. The program does not cover UIL‑sanctioned fine‑arts events, which remain at regular price.
Recent RSVP activities included a bus tour of Plano ISD facilities led by Superintendent Theresa Williams and Deputy Superintendent Johnny Hill. Participants visited Plano West Senior High School, Haggard Middle School, Plano Senior High School and the new Career and Technical Education Center. RSVP member Mark Ball praised the district’s construction projects and modernized campuses, noting the benefits for current students.
How to apply
Interested seniors, veterans and service members can apply for the Wylie Gold Card online or by phone, request the Garland VIP pass by calling the district office, or search “RSVP” on the Plano ISD website for the Plano program. All cards are non‑expiring, eliminating the need for annual renewal.
These initiatives reflect a shared goal among the districts: to keep senior citizens connected to local schools and provide affordable entertainment options for a valued segment of the community.
Original reporting: Wylie News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
