Recommended Changes
At the November Board of Trustees meeting, Superintendent Glenn recommended changes to choice and magnet programs for the 2025-2026 school year. The recommended changes are as follows:
Elementary
- Montessori and Greenwood School of Inquiry programs will be discontinued at the end of the 2024-2025 school year
Middle
- ACTS/STEMS/Medical Magnet/AVID will phase out for rising 7th and 8th grade students
High
- AVID will be discontinued at the end of the 2024-2025 school year
- The Fine Arts Academy will no longer require applications or auditions
All current magnet middle school students would continue in their programs through 8th grade. Incoming 6th graders would have a choice of focus electives, no matter which school they attend. Focus electives include: STEMS/ARTS/MEDICAL/GENERAL EXPLORATORY
The D50 Board of Trustees will vote on these recommended changes to the choice and magnet programs at the January Board meeting.
Superintendent Glenn’s Statement:
“Due to the recent success of our elementary schools, as evidenced by our SC School Report Card ratings, our district has re-evaluated our choice and magnet school offerings to align with the evolving needs of students and the community. These improvements will provide more opportunities for all of our middle school students to take focus electives. We believe these improvements will assist our district with providing the best possible educational experience for every student in our district.”
How Will Transfers Be Handled:
Please note that if a transfer is requested it will follow regular procedures if a magnet program is no longer offered at a school. All transfers will be based on availability and space at each school. The district will provide information to parents on transfer requests for rising 6th graders if needed. All transfer students will need to provide their own transportation to their school if approved.
Questions/Concerns:
The district has created an email address to provide students, staff, parents, and families with an opportunity to share questions and concerns regarding these changes. The email address is [email protected]. For more details on these changes, please visit www.gwd50.org/choicemagnet/.