Magnet & Advanced Programs

Information about CogAT Testing, Magnet Programs and GATE Groups.

The magnet program is a program designed for the most highly-abled students in the county.  Students who are interested in participating in a magnet program must go through a screening and application process.  The process begins with an initial assessment of student reasoning and thinking abilities.  This is done by using the CogAT assessment.  All first and fourth-grade students take the CogAT assessment.  The students' scores are then reviewed by the Office of Advanced Programs.  In addition to the CogAT scores the team in the Office of Advanced Programs will look at other county based assessments such as reading and math assessments.  Students who meet the eligibility requirements will be identified as a GATE student and may receive an invitation to apply to the magnet programs in the county.  After students apply, they then must interview at their prospective school.  Decisions about acceptance at a magnet school will be decided by the Office of Advanced Programs.  Letters will be sent home to all applicants indicating whether or not they have been accepted to a program.    

Below you will find links to websites that will give you information about each of the magnet programs.  Each program is unique and it is important to consider the strength/interests your child has when choosing a school to apply to.  Please know that transportation is not provided to schools outside of your district. 

GATE Groups:

​ALL schools offer Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) services, designed to meet the unique needs of students identified by the Office of Advanced Programs through established criteria. GATE services typically feature pull-out programs that cultivate critical and creative thinking, alongside advanced problem-solving strategies.

More information about elementary Advanced Programs can be found here.