Choosing the right educational path for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a family. Guilford County Schools (GCS) is fortunate to offer a variety of Choice Programs that give students unique opportunities to explore their passions, prepare for college and careers, and build skills for the future.
Whether your child is interested in advanced academics, career and technical pathways, or the arts, there’s a program to fit their needs.
Options Available at All High Schools
Every GCS high school offers:
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Honors Courses
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Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
Each year, students meet with their school counselor to develop a Four-Year Plan. This plan helps them select courses that best align with their post-secondary (college or career) goals.
Signature Career Academies (SCA)
Students can apply to unique academies designed around specific career pathways, including:
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Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity (Kearns Academy, Northeast High)
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Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering (Smith High)
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Biotechnology Research & Pharmacy (The Academy at Smith)
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Counseling & Mental Health
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Drone Technology (Western High)
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Global Logistics & Supply Chain Management (Western High)
These academies connect directly with high-demand industries, giving students both classroom learning and real-world exposure.
In-School Academies
Some high schools offer specialized programs within the school:
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Southern High: Agriculture–Science, Health Science, Education
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Andrews High: Aviation, Health Science
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Dudley High: Engineering, Education, Health Science
These academies allow students to remain at their base school while accessing hands-on, career-focused opportunities.
Early & Middle Colleges
For students who want a head start on college, GCS offers Early and Middle College programs:
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Early Colleges (beginning in grades 9 & 10) combine AP high school courses with college coursework. By grades 11 & 12, students are fully enrolled in college classes.
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Examples: Early College at Guilford, STEM Early College at NC A&T
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Middle Colleges (grades 9–12) allow students to take both high school and college classes throughout their four years.
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Examples: Middle College at UNCG, A&T Four Middle College, Middle Colleges at GTCC (Greensboro, High Point, Jamestown), Greensboro College Middle College
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These programs can save families thousands of dollars by allowing students to earn college credits tuition-free while in high school.
Additional Advanced Options
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Advanced Placement Academy at Western High
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International Baccalaureate (IB) programs at Grimsley, High Point Central, Page, Smith
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Arts Schools: Penn-Griffin School of the Arts, Weaver Academy
Why This Matters for Families
These opportunities help students:
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Build skills for high-paying careers
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Get a jumpstart on college through dual enrollment
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Explore passions in arts, technology, science, or trades
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Connect learning to real-world pathways
Making the right choice now can open doors later — to college, apprenticeships, careers, and scholarships.
Mark Your Calendar!
📅 GCS Choice Fair
🗓 October 22, 2025
This is the perfect time for families to explore all the available programs, meet school staff, and ask questions before making decisions.
🔗 For more details, visit the GCS Choice Schools & Programs website or scan the QR code on the flyer.
👉 Takeaway: Families should start conversations early, attend the Choice Fair, and work with their child’s school counselor to develop a plan that aligns with both interests and future goals.
