FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for a Magnet School assignment for 2012-2013?

• Families living in Hillsborough County.
• All students entering kindergarten through ninth grade.
• Current 9th, 10th, and 11th grade students may apply for some high school magnet programs.

Is there any advantage to applying early in the application period for a magnet program?
No. Applications are not processed on a first-come first-served basis. All elementary and middle school magnet applications received during the application period are entered into the computer lottery. All magnet high school applications are entered into a database for each program. Parents or guardians may submit an application at any time during open application periods.

Is kindergarten part of the magnet program?

• Yes, kindergarten is included as part of the lottery.

How will families be notified if their child is selected for a magnet school?

• If your child is selected for a magnet school in the random computerized lottery or high school selection process, families will receive an offer of enrollment by U.S. Mail.
• If your child is offered a seat at one of your choices, you must accept or decline the offer.
• Failure to accept the offer will result in losing the seat offered.

Is transportation provided for Magnet Schools?

• Transportation is provided to all magnet themes. In some cases, transportation may be limited or not available.
• Transportation is not provided if you live within a two-mile walking boundary of the school. Additionally, transportation is not provided to Rampello K-8 School.

Where can families go for additional assistance about Hillsborough Choice?

• Families can call the Choice Information Line (813) 272-4692 or visit the Choice web site at http://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/choice.

Can families apply to both Magnet and School Choice?

• Yes. However, if a student is selected via the lottery for both Magnet and School Choice a family must decide which option to accept.