LAUSD Magnet Schools: Gifted/High-Ability vs. Highly Gifted MagnetSchools

LAUSD offers two types of magnet schools for gifted children: Gifted/High-Ability Magnets and Highly Gifted Magnets.

Gifted/High-Ability magnet programs are intended for students who demonstrate the ability to work two years above their grade level in academic subjects. This standard can be met in several different ways, depending on the age and ability of the student.

Highly Gifted magnet programs are only open to students who score 99.5% and above on an LAUSD intellectual assessment, with priority given to those who score 99.9%. Unlike other magnet schools, which are open to all students, verification of a student's abilities are required before a student will be considered for a Gifted/High-Ability or Highly Gifted Magnet.

Schools may identify prospective students for assessment as gifted. Alternatively, parents may request an assessment through the child's current LAUSD school. If your child attends a private school, contact the Gifted/Talented Programs Office to learn how your child can be verified for the magnet program you are interested in.

For a detailed explanation of how to navigate the magnet school application process, check out LAUSD MAGNETS HANDBOOK: A Guide to Getting Your Child into an LAUSD Magnet School, available for just $2.99 at Amazon (affiliate link).

For more information and regular updates, visit the book's site at LAUSD Magnet Schools.

Image via FreeDigitalPhotos.net by Grant Cochrane.