OCT 1 MARKED BEGINNING OF APPLICATION PROCESS FOR LAUSD MAGNET SCHOOLS AND OTHER EDUCATIONAL CHOICES; Process ends Nov 13. Magnets currently+historically outperform other school options – including charters!

by Daryl Strickland | LAUSD Daily | http://bit.ly/1ObAgtX

 

Oct 1, 2015  ::   Beginning today, the Los Angeles Unified School District will begin accepting applications for the popular magnet program.

This process, known as eChoices, which starts today and ends Nov. 13, provides parents with more options for educating their child. For nearly 40 years, the magnet school and Permits with Transportation programs have proven popular among families living within District boundaries and looking for educational options.

Magnet schools offer different themes, such as business, dual languages, International Baccalaureate, liberal or performing arts, gifted or enriched studies, allowing students to focus on particular academic interests. Student enrollment in k-12 has grown steadily, along with the number of magnets. Roughly, 200 schools operate in the District, with plans to open more in the coming year.

“Our magnet schools highlight innovation, personalized pathways, and choice opportunities for integration across the city of Los Angeles,” said Dr. Frances Gipson, Local District Superintendent-East.

The magnets have been outperforming other school options in standardized test scores, including the most recent results. Moreover, since 1986, the state Department of Education has named 78 magnet schools as California Distinguished Schools. In addition, the federal government has honored 14 other magnets with National Blue Ribbon School status.

Another educational opportunity for families is the Permits with Transportation program. This allows Hispanic, black, Asian and other students of color to attend an integrated campus, with District-provided bus transportation if the child lives more than two-miles from the school. Also, white students have an opportunity to voluntarily attend a school that are predominately Hispanic, black, Asian and other non-Anglo schools.

This weekend, Local District-East has organized a Magnet School Fair that expects to draw large numbers of parents considering their options. Each school will have representatives attending the event to meet families, and to answer questions.

“Together, magnet coordinators and their school communities have organized our local magnet fair to assist our families in knowing about choices in our community,” Gipson said. “These schools reflect personalized choices for learning and engagement,” she said.

To apply for the programs, go to the eChoices website [ http://echoices.lausd.net] and fill out an application, or call Student Integration Services with questions at (213) 241-4177.