Magnet FAQs
Spring Valley General Magnet Programs FAQs
Q: What is the difference between Explorations & Discovery?
Both programs are math and science magnets; however, they differ as described below.
Discovery is an honors/AP-level magnet geared toward students who are sure that they want the most rigorous background in math & science. Two independent research projects will be completed during the sophomore and junior years. Students will present their research results at regional competitions. Magnet electives focus on teaching students how to do research, which is extremely beneficial for college and post-graduate level education. Since Discovery classes are spiraled and the teachers know what to expect from the incoming students, the scope and depth of Discovery classes are a step up from the regular honors math and science classes.
Explorations is a college-preparatory level magnet (less rigorous than honors) that requires a 200-hour internship to be completed after a student’s junior year followed by an oral presentation of this experience in April/May of the senior year. The internship reinforces professionalism and aids students in determining their college major and career focus. Electives focus on forensic science. Since Explorations classes are spiraled and the teachers know what to expect from the incoming students, the scope and depth of Explorations classes are a step up from the regular college prep math and science classes. Explorations is NOT for the student who wants to take honors math and science courses but does not want to do research.
Q: What are the benefits of being in a magnet program versus regular honors or college-preparatory classes?
Students will be in smaller math and science classes with students that are similar in ability and interests. Students have a supportive family-like atmosphere of teachers and students. Magnet faculty are able to write more personal college recommendation letters because they may have had students for more than one class and/or traveled with the students. Math and science classes are taught at a deeper level for optimal college and standardized test preparation. The research and internship experiences differentiate magnet students from others with similar GPAs during the college application process. Finally, the lead magnet teacher will monitor your child’s progress, discuss scheduling, and basically serve as an additional adult mentor throughout your child’s high school years.
Q: What criteria are used for admission to the magnet programs?
First semester grades for the 8th grade, MAP and PASS scores for 7th and 8th grade (or similar standardized tests if from out of district/state), teacher recommendations (current math and English, plus one other of student’s choice), writing sample (done at the middle schools or at the interview for out of district applicants), application questions, interview, and a group activity completed at time of interview.
Q: When are the interviews and how are they set up?
Interviews are typically conducted on two different days from 4–8 pm. Once all applications have been received you will be contacted by e-mail regarding your interview date and time. The interview will be with two Spring Valley/magnet staff members. The interview and writing sample together take about one hour to complete. All rising ninth grade applicants that meet the math prerequisites will be interviewed.
Q: Can I apply for both Explorations and Discovery?
No, you may only apply to one program at Spring Valley. Discovery is the honors/AP level magnet for math and science and requires two independent research projects. Explorations is the college-prep level magnet for math & science and requires a 200 hour internship.
Q: Will all of my child’s classes be with only magnet students?
No, both Discovery and Explorations are “school-within-a-school” magnets. Math and science classes will be with only magnet students, but other classes will be with all Spring Valley students. This provides students with a small learning community yet also provides the opportunity for them to broaden their circle of friends and participate in non-magnet activities/classes.
Q: Will my child’s classes all be located in one part of Spring Valley?
No, although freshman lockers and homerooms are usually together on the first floor. Due to the diversity of student schedules and interests along with classroom locations, students will have classes throughout the Spring Valley campus.
Q: Is there an opportunity for my child to shadow a magnet student?*
Yes!! Student shadowing opportunities have always been a great way for students to get a glimpse of what a specific magnet program offers. We will do our best to accommodate as many interested applicants as possible. There will be no shadowing 12/11-12/20/23 due to final exams. To schedule a shadow day for your child, please complete this Google form.
Discovery Magnet Program Questions
Q: What math course should my eighth grader be completing?
Algebra I or Geometry
Q: If my child does not want to do a research project/paper is Explorations an option?
If your child is enrolled in Algebra 1 as an eighth grader, Explorations may be an option. However, the math and science sequences for Explorations are taught at the college-preparatory level, not the honors level. If your child is enrolled in geometry as an eighth grader, he/she would begin the Explorations math series his/her sophomore year with Explorations Algebra 2. In general, these geometry students would be better-served by continuing the math sequence their freshman year rather than waiting for their Explorations classmates to begin Algebra 2.
Q: Will my child be able to fit electives other than math, science, and those required for a high school diploma in their schedule?
Yes, many of our students participate in band, orchestra, student government, etc. However, some of their electives will be the research classes. In addition, some of these students take early bird classes to allow more electives.
Q: How much homework does a Discovery student have each night as opposed to an all-honors classes student?
The amount varies depending on the other classes that are selected to go along with the required Discovery classes. For example, if a student chooses to take AP Human Geography (a college-level course) as a freshman, he/she can expect much more homework than a student taking an honors or college-prep social studies credit. In addition, the amount of time each child spends on homework is very dependent on the child.
Q: What are average standardized test scores for Discovery students?
For the graduating Discovery classes of 2016-2020, the average critical reading and math SAT score was 1413 out of 1600. The average composite ACT score was 30.6 out of 36.
Q: We have recently moved into Richland School District Two. Can our child apply to Discovery?
Yes, if your child is currently in the eighth grade or is a rising ninth grader. There is a Choice 2 application period that occurs from early May – early June each year in addition to Choice 1. Unfortunately, due to the four-year Discovery curriculum we can only accept students as rising ninth graders. Discovery freshmen have their sophomore research proposals written by the end of their freshmen year.
Explorations Magnet Program Questions
Q: What math course should my eighth grader be completing?
Pre-Algebra or Algebra I
Note: If your student is currently enrolled in geometry, he/she is likely a better fit for Discovery. Explorations students take Geometry second semester of their freshman year; therefore, if a student completed Geometry in eighth grade, he/she will have to wait until his/her sophomore year to begin Algebra 2.
Q: Can an Explorations student take Honors or AP classes?
All introductory math and science classes through a student's junior year are taken at the college-prep level. However, classes in other subject areas may be taken at the level most appropriate for the student, which includes honors and Advanced Placement classes.
Q: What is the senior internship?
All Explorations students must complete a 200 hour internship sometime between the end of the junior year and April of the senior year. The internship may be in the career field of the student’s choice, but must be more than a cashier at a fast food restaurant. Internships are managed by Ms. Kim Bouchey. Positions may be volunteer or paid positions. It is the responsibility of the student to find and secure the position although guidance and assistance is available. In the past internships have been completed at local hospitals/doctor’s/dentist’s/vet’s offices, after school programs, TV stations, the airport, nursing homes, state offices like DHEC and Dept. of Education, state parks, etc.
Q: Can I be involved in other school activities?
Yes, Explorations students are very involved in Student Council, the fine arts, clubs, and sports at Spring Valley.