School Choice Fair - November 1, 2025 at Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts 10AM-1PM
CLAYTON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS MAGNET PROGRAMS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
PLEASE REVIEW THE SCHOOL CHOICE GUIDE FOR ALL PERTINENT INFORMATION
REGARDING PARENT NOTIFICATION OF ACCEPTANCE.
Q: What is a magnet school?
A: Magnet schools are built on the foundation of five pillars and are free public elementary and secondary schools of choice that are operated by school districts or a consortium of districts. Magnet schools have a focused theme and aligned curricula in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Fine and Performing Arts, International Baccalaureate, International Studies, MicroSociety, Career and Technical Education (CTE), World Languages (immersion and non-immersion) and many others. Magnet schools are typically more "hands on-minds on" and use an approach to learning that is inquiry or performance/project based. They use state, district, or Common Core standards in all subject areas, however, they are taught within the overall theme of the school. (Source: Magnet Schools of America www.magnet.edu)
Q: What types of magnet programs are offered in CCPS?
A: Clayton County Public Schools currently offers magnet programs in the following areas: Aeronautical Sciences; Cambridge Assessment International; Dual Language Immersion (Spanish); Early College; Engineering; Film & Media; Medical Sciences; Pharmacy; Political Leadership; STEM; and Visual & Performing Arts.
Q: Where do I go to receive more information about the different magnet programs?
A: You can visit the various schools' websites and attend open houses.
Q: I would like to apply for a magnet program, but my student is not a current CCPS student. How do I submit my application in School Mint/Smart Choice?
A: Information for non-residents who are interested in applying for a magnet program can visit this link for more information on how to apply.
Q: I forgot to list a second choice on my application, or I want to change the school for which I am applying. Is this allowed?
A: As long as you have not submitted your application, you are able to make changes to your application until the deadline date. To make your changes, please sign-in to the application portal and click the "edit" button. Once you have submitted the application or the application window has closed, you will not be allowed to make further changes.
Q: When will I find out when my child's audition will take place?
A: You will choose a tentative audition date during the application process. Once your audition date has been confirmed, you will receive notification via email of your date and time. You may also check your audition information by signing in to your parent account at www.applyclayton.schoolmint.com.
Q: When will I find out about the lottery?
A: The lottery will be conducted during the last week of March. Details about the Lottery Selection Process can be found in the School Choice Guide and the following link.
Q: If I apply during the late application period, when will I be notified about a late round audition?
A: Notifications for late applicant auditions will begin in mid-March and will continue through the month of April.
Q: Will applying during the late application period reduce my changes in the lottery?
A: Yes. Most seats are assigned during the on-time application period. Many of the schools only have waiting lists available for late applicants.
Q: Who do I contact if I have a specific question/concern regarding a magnet program or school.
A: All classroom/school-level/operational concerns should be addressed by the following roles in the order provided:
Level 1: Teacher or Employee
Level 2: Principal or Departmental Supervisor
Level 3: Assistant Superintendent or Departmental Supervisor
Level 4: Deputy Superintendent or Chief
Level 5: Superintendent