Families in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) can now apply for Richmond County School System (RCSS) magnet schools and specialized programs for the 2025-2026 school year.
Applications are open for students in elementary, middle and high school, with the deadline set for Jan. 6, 2025.
“School choice gives families the chance to find programs that fit their children’s interests and academic goals,” said School Options Program Specialist Brian Hadden. “We’re proud of our nationally recognized magnet schools and also offer career-focused programs in fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and skilled trades to prepare students for the future.”
The RCSS has four magnet schools, including: A.R. Johnson Health Science & Engineering Magnet School, C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School, John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School and Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School.
Families must apply online by Jan. 6 of next year, and students applying to magnet schools must complete academic testing. Applicants for John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School will also have to pass auditions, if they meet initial requirements.
In addition to magnet schools available for entry, RCSS also offers a range of specialized programs for students across the district. Some programs require an application, while others ctan be accessed through a student’s current school.
Specialized programs that require an application include: Academy for Advanced Placement Studies, International Baccalaureate, and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
Other specialized programs that may or may not require an application feature the Cyber Academy of Excellence, the Performance Learning Center, the Marion E. Barnes Career Center, and the Reaching Potential Through Manufacturing.
“Parents can also request a school transfer under Georgia’s House Bill 251(HB251) if space is available in the desired school,” stated a press release from the RCSS. “The transfer application deadline is May 1, 2025.”
For more information or to apply for School Choice or HB251, visit www.rcboe.org/choice or call the School Options Office at 706-826-1136.
