When your child wraps up 6th grade, it’s natural to start wondering, “What’s next?” The jump to junior high can feel like a big one for kids and parents. It’s a time for growth, new opportunities and taking the next step. For families in COLTON and nearby Magnolia neighborhoods, that step can be exciting since the path forward leads to Magnolia Parkway Junior High School.
Magnolia Parkway Junior High is a highly respected, top-rated school where students begin discovering their independence and building leadership skills. They prepare for life after middle school, while continuing to receive the support they’ve always known.
In this guide, we’ll cover what you can expect from Magnolia Parkway Junior High School: the academics, the school culture, the clubs and sports, and why so many families are genuinely happy to be zoned here.
Academic Excellence at Magnolia Parkway Jr. High School
Although Magnolia Parkway Junior High School is new, it’s part of the well-respected Magnolia Independent School District (ISD), which has earned high ratings for providing high-quality education and strong student performance across all its schools.
At Magnolia Parkway JH, students can take advanced academic classes starting in 6th grade. These classes are open to anyone who wants to be challenged and go deeper into the subject. They follow the Texas curriculum (TEKS) but add more complex and creative learning. These classes help students get ready for tougher high school courses like Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB).
Students are also recognized for their hard work and achievements. The school gives out awards based on how well students perform on state tests like the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) exam. High-performing students may be invited to join the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), which focuses on leadership, character, and service. Some students also take part in UIL Academic competitions, where they compete in subjects like math, science, and writing.
Another reason for the school’s academic success is its experienced staff. The school’s principal, Dr. Julia Venghaus, has more than 17 years of experience in education and holds a Doctor of Education degree. The assistant principals also have more than 20 years of experience each and have degrees in Educational Leadership. Many teachers and counselors at the school have taught for many years and have advanced degrees. Their knowledge and care help students feel supported and ready to learn.
Student Life and Programs at Magnolia Parkway JHS
Starting junior high is a big milestone for any student. It’s when they begin to take on more responsibility and prepare for the challenges of high school. At Magnolia Parkway Junior High School, students are given the tools they need to grow both in the classroom and as young adults. Here’s how the school helps them take that next step.
Challenging Classes and High School Credit Opportunities
Students at Magnolia Parkway Junior High School can take advanced classes in math, English, science, and history. For students who are ready for a challenge, the school offers Algebra I, Spanish I, and Studio Art I in 8th grade. These courses count for high school credit, which helps students get ahead before they even leave junior high.
For example, in Studio Art I, students complete high school-level work in drawing, painting, and sculpture. To get into this class, students must first take Advanced Art in 7th grade and submit a portfolio of their artwork. If accepted, they spend the year building a final portfolio that is reviewed by both junior high and high school art teachers. If they pass, they earn credit for Art I and can take Art II in 9th grade.
Electives That Match Student Interests
Magnolia Parkway Junior High School offers many elective classes to help students discover what they enjoy:
- Band – Includes beginner, concert, symphonic, wind ensemble, and jazz band.
- Choir – Students can join groups like treble choir or tenor/bass choir at beginner or advanced levels.
- Theater – Includes intro to theater, theater arts, production (8th grade), and stage design.
- Art – From Intro to Art to Advanced and Studio Art I.
- Robotics and Coding – Great for students interested in technology, programming, and engineering.
- Woodworking – A hands-on class for 8th graders to build projects using tools and safety skills.
- Digital Design and Innovation – For students who enjoy video game design, animation, and working with Google apps.
Strong Athletics Program
Magnolia Parkway Junior High School has a full range of sports for both boys and girls:
- Football (boys only – required for boys in athletics)
- Volleyball (girls only)
- Basketball
- Track and Field
- Cross Country
- Tennis
- Color Guard – combines dance, flag work, and performance.
To play sports, students must turn in a physical and maintain good grades and behavior. Practices are usually after school, and uniforms are provided for most sports.
Career and Life Skills
Magnolia Parkway Junior High School helps students think about their futures through special courses:
- Pathways to Success – Required for 7th graders; helps students explore career options and learn life skills.
- College and Career Readiness – Required for 8th graders; teaches students how to plan for high school, explore job options, create a resume, and manage a basic budget.
There are also classes like Exploring Entrepreneurship (8th grade only), where students learn how to start a business and come up with real business ideas.
Leadership and School Involvement
Students at Magnolia Parkway Junior High School can take part in programs that build confidence and leadership, such as:
- Teen Leadership – Teaches students how to make good decisions, speak confidently, and work as a team.
- Yearbook and Journalism – Students write stories, take photos, and help create the school’s yearbook or news content.
- PALS (Peer Assistance and Leadership) – 8th graders mentor younger students and do community service.
- National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) – Honors students who show strong grades, leadership, and good character.
Why Families in COLTON Love Being Zoned to Magnolia Parkway JHS
One of the biggest reasons families choose COLTON is because of the excellent public schools their children can attend. Here’s why so many COLTON families are proud to be zoned to Magnolia Parkway Junior High School.
Seamless Transition from Magnolia Parkway Intermediate
Students living in COLTON move directly from Magnolia Parkway Intermediate School to Magnolia Parkway Junior High School after 6th grade. Since both schools are part of Magnolia ISD and share similar values and expectations, this allows students to experience a smooth and familiar transition between schools. They are also able to stay connected with many of the same classmates, and parents don’t have to worry about adjusting to a new school system.
Close and Convenient Location
Magnolia Parkway Junior High School is located at 11750 FM 1488 in Magnolia, Texas, just under 10 miles from the COLTON community in Todd Mission. Families can reach the school in about 14–16 minutes by car, with routes available via FM 1488 or FM 1488 and the TX-249 tollway.
This close distance makes daily routines like morning drop-offs and afternoon pickups simple and stress-free for families. It also means parents can attend events like open houses, parent-teacher conferences, and student performances without having to plan around long commutes.
Being so close to school also gives students more opportunities to get involved in after-school programs such as sports, band, theater, and clubs. They can participate fully without worrying about transportation challenges.
Strong Partnership Between COLTON and Magnolia ISD
The relationship between COLTON’s developer, AIRIA Development Company, and Magnolia ISD is rooted in shared values: education, community, and long-term investment in students. COLTON has donated school supplies, sponsored teacher appreciation events, and launched the “Big & Bright Futures” program to help local students and staff.
As Lisa Connell from AIRIA Development said,
“Community outreach and support of the local school districts is a tenet to the success of a master‑planned development… we are beginning programs to support the Magnolia ISD local schools that will serve COLTON.”
This ongoing partnership shows that COLTON is deeply invested in helping Magnolia schools thrive, and that’s a powerful foundation for your child’s future.
Education Grows With Your Family in COLTON
For COLTON, home is a promise. A promise that your child will grow up in a community that values learning, supports its schools, and believes in every student’s potential.
With Magnolia Parkway Junior High one exit away, your child’s journey through school is supported every step of the way by caring teachers, strong programs, and a neighborhood that truly shows up for its families.
If you’re dreaming of a place where your family can grow roots and your children can be supported, encouraged, and inspired, COLTON is ready to welcome you home. Schedule a visit today and see the difference a strong community and great schools can make.