Magnet Application Process

The ZooBot magnet program is for students who have a passion for the care and conservation of living things and the environment. Students must be motivated and able to learn in collaborative groups. This magnet program utilizes project-based learning integrating Science, English, Social Studies, and/or Math corresponding with the ZooBot magnet themes, protected lands & water, farming in the 21st century, environmental justice, and environmental advocacy. Students must be organized and responsible for their assignments and must be willing and ready to be outdoors in various elements ready to observe, collect data, and learn more about the natural world. ZooBot students attend field studies to learn as scientists with the goal of becoming stewards of the environment. 

CHOICE PROGRAM - an opportunity for students to apply to a magnet program outside of their zoned school. 

Richland School District Two students are assigned to schools based on their residential address; they may apply to a magnet school or another school within the district through the Choice program. This program offers parents and students residing in Richland District Two the opportunity to request permission to attend a school other than their zoned school. Parents may apply electronically each December or May for placement that will take effect the following school year. Only students who are zoned residents for Richland School District Two are eligible to apply and participate in a Richland Two Choice Program. For more detailed information about how to apply and due dates: https://www.richland2.org/Departments/Enrollment-Registration/Choice-Program

ZooBot Selection Process: ZooBot looks at the whole child to determine if the program is a good fit for a student who is interested in zoological and botanical studies, as well as care and conservation for animals and the environment while experiencing authentic and applicable real-world situations.

Along with the interest criteria we students are invited to be a part of the program based on their interview, a collaboration activity, a writing sample, test scores, and teacher references.  The interview portion of the evaluation is based on a student’s interest in Zoological and Botanical Studies and commitment to scholastic excellence.  Academic ability is evaluated by a combination of information about grades, test scores, teacher recommendations, and a writing sample.

Annual ZooBot Magnet Program Costs: $360 per year

The fees cover the following:

1. 6-7 field studies per year

2. After-school programs

3. Care of classroom pets 

4. Other ZooBot-related activities: classroom supplies, gardening supplies, trash pick-up, etc.