Application Period Opens for WCPSS Magnet School Program
February 9, 2009 - Today marks the opening of the magnet school application period for the Wake County Public School System. Families in Wake County may apply for their children to attend one of the 33 magnet schools including 19 elementary, 8 middle, 5 high schools and 1 early college. David Ansbacher, who leads WCPSS Magnet Programs talks with reporters at Moore Square Middle School about the opening of the magnet application period. |
In WCPSS, magnet schools provide interesting ways for students to study the NC Standard Course of Study. Magnet schools have themes such as the International Baccalaureate program, Gifted and Talented, Leadership or Creative Arts and Sciences. The newest theme this year is the School of Engineering being developed with NC State University at Brentwood Elementary School.
Dr. David Ansbacher, director of the WCPSS Magnet Program, says families are encouraged to investigate the educational possibilities for their children at magnet schools.
“Our schools provide many options for parents to consider under the magnet pathways of International Baccalaureate, Gifted & Talented, and Leadership,” said Ansbacher. “Each of these programs offers an enhancement to the standard course of study that will engage young learners.”
Parents have had the chance to learn about magnet schools by attending the magnet fair last November, or the recent information sessions. Families can still compare schools using the website at www.wcpss.net/magnet and contact magnet schools directly to get information on their programs. There are also weekly information sessions at the Magnet Resource Center at 10:00 each Tuesday.
Magnet applications are available online starting today, Feb. 9 and ending February 28, 2009. There is no benefit to applying early or late within that window of time. Magnet applications will only be accepted online, and families can choose up to three possible programs on the application.
Ansbacher said there are a number of factors that will impact a student’s magnet application:
- Was the application submitted between Feb 9 and Feb 28?
- Transportation patterns
- Siblings
- School capacity
- Classroom capacity
- Diversity
- Present magnet/year-round status of applicant
Ansbacher says there are some factors that don’t impact a student’s magnet application:
- How early your application arrives
- Additional information or extenuating circumstances
- Requests for specific schools (Applications are for programs. School assignment is based on the home address).
Families will be notified of acceptance in mid-March 2009. If accepted, families will have the opportunity to accept or decline the offer.
The Board of Education’s objectives for the Magnet Program is to foster healthy schools throughout the Wake County Public School System by using choice to help:
- Reduce high concentrations of poverty and support diverse populations;
- Maximize use of school facilities and
- Provide expanded educational opportunities
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