Exploring Public Magnet School Programs
Public magnet school programs offer specially designed learning experiences for public school students. Magnet programs can range from immersion foreign language schools (where students are taught bilingually beginning in kindergarten) – to the prestigious International Baccalaureate program (a rigorous high school course of study that leads to an internationally recognized diploma).
Not every county in Maryland offers magnet programs, but those that do have a special application process. Generally, elementary magnet programs are filled by a random lottery system. Middle and high school magnet programs also use a lottery system, but they may also require that applicants meet specific minimum requirements before their name can be entered into the lottery.
School districts often host informational meetings in October, for families who are interested in learning more. Applications for magnet school programs are usually due sometime in November. Homeschool students can apply for a magnet school programĀ WITHOUTĀ being currently enrolled in public school.
| County | Application Due |
Web Site |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Arundel | End of November | www.aacps.org/magnet |
| Baltimore City | Mid-January | www.baltimorecityschools.org/schools |
| Baltimore County | Mid-November | dci.bcps.org/department/innovative_learning/educational_options/magnet_programs |
| Frederick | Early March | www.fcps.org/academics/elementary-magnet-program |
| Harford | End of November | www.hcps.org/Schools/MagnetPrograms |
| Montgomery | Early November | www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/specialprograms |
| Prince George’s | Varies | www.pgcps.org/specialty-public-charters-applications |
| St. Mary’s | Early November | www.smcps.org/academies |
| Washington | Early December | wcpsmd.com/advanced-programs/magnet-programs |
| Wicomico | Varies | www.wcboe.org/Page/598 |
Last modified on September 13, 2019
