Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools’ magnet application period is officially underway. The deadline to apply is January 30, so interested families should act fast. You can start your online application at https://wsfcsncc.scriborder.com/.
The magnet application portal has been streamlined and should be very easy to use. However, there are plenty of ways to learn more about magnet schools and make the right decision before applying. Here are a few tips from the district’s magnet team about how to make the most of your application process:
Choose your program – WS/FCS magnet schools follow a variety of different themes, including STEM/STEAM, visual and performing arts, the International Baccalaureate, and career apprenticeships. The best school for your student will depend on what course of study they’re passionate about.
Go on a tour – Once you find a school you’re interested in, you can call them to schedule a tour, either individually or by joining a group. Seeing the campus and speaking with staff will help you get a sense of what it’s like to attend your prospective school.
Visit a magnet night – Magnet nights are the perfect opportunity to immerse your whole family in a school’s culture. These events happen at various times throughout the application period and allow families to meet teachers, ask questions about curriculum, see demonstrations of what current students are learning in class, and more.
Be ready for kindergarten – The current application period is for rising first graders and up. There will be a dedicated application period for rising kindergarteners from March 16 through April 17, so if you’re enrolling a new kindergartener, check back in a few months.
Find your shuttle stop – WS/FCS guarantees transportation to all magnet schools through magnet shuttle express stops. If your prospective magnet school is outside your residential zone and you need transportation, the district has you covered.
Look for your receipt – After you complete your application, you should get an email receipt confirming your application has been submitted. If you don’t get that email, something may have gone wrong. Call the Student Assignment Department at (336) 748-3302 to make sure.
Follow district social media – New updates on magnet-related programming and events are popping up all the time, so follow WS/FCS on Facebook, X, and Instagram to stay up to date.
Ask for help – If you have any questions about how to apply, you can reach out to the Student Assignment Department at (336) 748-3302 or visit them at the Central Office at 475 Corporate Square Dr.
Keep an eye on the deadline – Again, the deadline to apply is January 30, and space is limited. Assignment is determined through lottery, but it’s still best to complete your application as soon as possible in case any issues arise.
To learn more about the district’s magnet schools and the programs they offer, visit https://www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/page/magnet-pathways.