Magnet School FAQ’s

 

      1. What is a magnet school?   Magnet schools are public schools with  specialized or focused areas of                 instruction. They are tuition free, as they are part of the local school district and are funded the same               way as traditional schools. 

 

      2. What are the curriculum requirements at a magnet school?  Magnet schools are expected to                       address all standards required of public schools in addition to the focused theme(s) of the school.

 

      3.  Who can attend a magnet school?  First option for attendance will be given to students 

            who live within the magnet school zone. After that, any student living within school district 

            boundaries may attend the magnet school. Selection for out-of-zone students will likely be

            made through the use of a lottery system. Enrollment may be capped at the discretion of the 

            school and district administration to ensure the high quality of programs being offered.

 

     4.   If I am “out-of-zone,” how will my child be transported to the magnet school?

           Ideally, the school district will be able to provide transportation to out-of-zone students. 

           There may be instances, however, when parent transport may be necessary.

 

      5.  What is the difference between a magnet school and a charter school? Magnet 

            schools are public schools that are part of the local school district, and therefore must follow 

            all state rules and regulations governing public schools. Charter schools are public schools that 

            are independently run and are not part of a traditional school district. They are held 

            accountable to the charter they submit to receive state funding, and may be privately funded 

            as well.