Choosing the right school for your child involves understanding the available options and aligning them with your child’s interests and goals. Guilford County Schools (GCS) offers a rich tapestry of magnet programs, career academies, and specialized schools designed to cater to diverse student needs. This guide provides detailed information on the various schools and programs to help families navigate their scholars’ decision-making process.
Understanding School Types
- Magnet Schools: Public schools offering specialized programs drawing students from across the district.
- Career Academies: Schools focused on specific career paths, providing industry-related education and certifications.
- Choice Schools: Schools offering unique curricula or themes, available to students outside regular attendance zones.
Middle School Options
1. Allen Jay Preparatory Academy
- Focus: Leadership
- Programs: Leadership skills, service learning, project-based learning
- Highlights: Emphasizes personal growth and leadership qualities.
2. Brown Summit Middle School
- Focus: Advanced Academics
- Programs: Accelerated curriculum for gifted students
- Highlights: Challenging environment for academically advanced students.
3. The Academy at Lincoln
- Focus: Performing and Visual Arts
- Programs: Dance, music, theater, visual arts
- Highlights: Rigorous arts education alongside academics.
4. Johnson Street Global Studies
- Focus: Global Studies
- Programs: International cultures, language immersion
- Highlights: Encourages global awareness and multicultural understanding.
5. Ferndale Middle School
- Focus: International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP)
- Programs: IB curriculum, global citizenship
- Highlights: Promotes critical thinking and intercultural understanding.
6. Swann Middle School
- Focus: IB MYP
- Programs: IB curriculum, community service
- Highlights: Focuses on holistic education and community involvement.
7. Hairston Middle School
- Focus: STEAM
- Programs: Integrated STEAM curriculum, project-based learning
- Highlights: Blends arts and sciences to foster creativity.
8. Welborn Academy of Science and Technology
- Focus: STEM
- Programs: Hands-on science and technology projects
- Highlights: Emphasizes technology integration and innovation.
9. Eastern Guilford Middle School
- Focus: IB MYP
- Programs: IB curriculum, global perspectives
- Highlights: Develops knowledgeable and caring young people.
10. Western Guilford Middle School
- Focus: Spanish Immersion Continuation
- Programs: Advanced Spanish language, cultural immersion
- Highlights: Continues language immersion from elementary levels.
High School Options
Magnet Schools and Specialized Programs
1. The Early College at Guilford
- Focus: College Preparatory
- Programs: Dual enrollment, college credits
- Highlights: Earn up to two years of college credit.
2. Weaver Academy
- Focus: Performing Arts and Advanced Technology
- Programs: Arts training, technical certifications
- Highlights: Pre-professional arts and tech education.
3. Penn-Griffin School for the Arts
- Focus: Performing and Visual Arts
- Programs: Intensive arts curriculum
- Highlights: Combines academics with arts education.
4. The Academy at Smith
- Focus: Health Sciences
- Programs: Medical fundamentals, clinical experiences
- Highlights: Prepares students for healthcare careers.
5. STEM Early College at NC A&T
- Focus: STEM
- Programs: Engineering, biotechnology
- Highlights: Partnership with NC A&T State University.
6. Aviation Academy at Andrews High School
- Focus: Aviation Technology and Aerospace
- Programs: Flight training, aerospace engineering
- Highlights: Hands-on experience and FAA certifications.
7. Middle College at UNCG
- Focus: Health and Life Sciences
- Programs: College courses, health science focus
- Highlights: Located on UNCG campus.
8. Middle College at GTCC Campuses
- Focus: Various (Business, Technology, Logistics)
- Programs: College courses, career exploration
- Highlights: Earn college credits at GTCC.
9. Grimsley High School
- Focus: IB Diploma Programme
- Programs: IB curriculum, AP courses
- Highlights: Internationally recognized program.
10. Southern Guilford High School
- Focus: Academy of Computer and Information Sciences
- Programs: Programming, cybersecurity
- Highlights: Prepares for tech industry careers.
11. Eastern Guilford High School
- Focus: Academy of Health Sciences
- Programs: Medical courses, clinical experiences
- Highlights: Pathways into healthcare professions.
12. Southeast Guilford High School
- Focus: Academy of Agriculture and Biotechnology
- Programs: Agricultural science, biotechnology
- Highlights: Combines agriculture with biotechnology.
13. Northwest Guilford High School
- Focus: Academy of Biomedical Technology
- Programs: Biomedical sciences, lab research
- Highlights: Prepares for biomedical careers.
14. Kearns Academy
- Focus: Technology and Design
- Programs: Graphic design, multimedia
- Highlights: Careers in digital media and technology.
15. Newcomers School
- Focus: English Language Acquisition
- Programs: Intensive English instruction
- Highlights: Supports recent immigrants.
16. Aviation Academy at Western Guilford High School
- Focus: Aviation Technology
- Programs: Aviation maintenance, flight operations
- Highlights: Training for aviation careers.
How to Choose the Right School
Assess Your Child’s Interests and Goals
- Academic Strengths: Identify subjects where your child excels.
- Career Aspirations: Consider long-term career interests.
- Learning Style: Choose programs that match your child’s learning preferences.
Research Schools Thoroughly
- Program Offerings: Ensure the school provides desired programs.
- School Culture: Visit schools to get a feel for the environment.
- Extracurricular Activities: Look for clubs and activities that interest your child.
Consider Logistics
- Location: Proximity to home and transportation options.
- Schedule: Align school schedules with family routines.
- Support Services: Availability of counseling and academic support.
Tips for Families
- Involve Your Child: Engage them in the decision-making process.
- Attend Open Houses: Use these opportunities to ask questions.
- Talk to Current Students and Parents: Gain insights from those with firsthand experience.
- Review Academic Requirements: Ensure your child meets or can meet the prerequisites.
- Plan Ahead: Consider how the choice will impact future educational opportunities.
Additional Resources
- GCS Choice Programs Website: www.gcsnc.com/choice
- School Contacts: Reach out to program coordinators for detailed information.
- Counseling Services: Utilize school counselors for guidance.
- Parent Workshops: Attend sessions on navigating school choices.
Guilford County Schools provides a diverse range of educational options to meet the unique needs and aspirations of each student. By carefully evaluating each program and considering your child’s interests, you can make an informed decision that sets them on a path to success.
About Kareers 4 Kids
At Kareers 4 Kids, we are dedicated to empowering parents and students with the resources needed for informed educational and career decisions. Visit our website at www.kareers4kids.org for more information and support.
Please note that program offerings are subject to change. Always refer to the official Guilford County Schools website or contact schools directly for the most current information.
