Magnet Themes

There are several themes at the various Magnets. Click on the theme name to see the list of participating schools.

BUS

BUSINESS

COMMUNICATION ARTS

CES

CENTER FOR ENRICHED STUDIES

G/HG

GIFTED +/HIGHLY GIFTED

LIBERAL ARTS

PUBLIC SERVICE

STEM

SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY/ENGINEERING/MATH

VAPA

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

Business (BUS)

Business Magnets offer a rigorous educational opportunity using differentiated instructional strategies, engaging project-based learning opportunities and work-based learning experiences. Students will engage in business fundamentals and entrepreneurship, goal-setting, resource allocation, organization structure and management techniques, economics, and information technology.

Communication Arts (CA)

Communication Arts (journalism, radio-television broadcasting, theatre, video/film production, computers, digital arts and advertising) prepares students to acquire and accurately use information and communication technologies equipping them to effectively communicate orally, in writing, and through multimedia formats. Magnets infuse technology throughout the curriculum to create exciting and rigorous programs.

Center for Enriched Studies (CES)

Center For Enriched Studies Magnets engage students in a rigorous instructional program that encourages cooperative learning, integrates projectbased assignments and emphasizes creative and critical thinking in all disciplines. Students will be provided with a strong foundation in academics, which is necessary to succeed in postsecondary education and high-demand 21st century careers. Centers for Enriched Studies are multi-level secondary schools and offer numerous advanced placement and honors courses. The expectation is that the schools will score above the state average on state assessments.

Gifted +/Highly Gifted (G/HG)

Gifted Magnets serve students who demonstrate ability or strong potential to work two years above grade level in academic subjects. These centers offer enriched interdisciplinary academic environments that are exciting, challenging, and encourage students to use creative/critical-thinking skills. High ability and Highly Gifted applicants may apply to a Gifted Magnet. +Before applying to a Gifted or Highly Gifted Magnet, please see specific eligibility criteria as verification is required. Please note that a Magnet application must be submitted in addition to the verification form.

Highly Gifted Magnet centers group students to allow for a demanding broad-based academic program. Emphasis is placed on problem solving and the development of higher level thinking skills, as well as positive social emotional growth. Priority will be given to highly gifted students (scoring 99.9%); however, students scoring at 99.5% and above on an L.A. Unified Intellectual Ability assessment may be accepted based on seat availability.

Liberal Arts (LA)

Liberal Arts Magnets provide programs that prepare students to be knowledgeable citizens of the 21st century and empower them to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. The programs are dedicated to the formation of knowledge in Humanities, Social Policy or World Languages or to utilize alternative pedagogies. Academic excellence and commitment to the values of diversity, community and collaboration provide the foundation in Liberal Arts Magnet programs.

Public Service (PS)

Public Service Magnets are designed and tailored to prepare young people who wish to pursue careers in criminology, fire, forensics, medicine, law and political science. There is strong focus on critical thinking, problem solving and communication, enabling students to see the connections between their classroom curriculum and the challenges of today’s world. These magnets are ideal settings for future doctors, firefighters, lawyers, police officers and other professions related to the Public Service field.

Science/Technology/Engineering/Math (STEM)

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Magnets utilize innovative strategies and technology to engage students in investigation and discovery. This hands-on approach captures natural curiosity and stimulates interest, thereby building understanding and quality performance. There is a greater focus on those activities that allow students to engage in real world problems, actively participate in project-based assignments and experience learning activities that lead to higher level thinking. Finally, students will learn how these subjects integrate with other disciplines. All schools listed will include at least one discipline of STEM.

Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA)

Visual and Performing Arts Magnets focus on learning the skills and knowledge for creating, refining, and sharing works in the Arts, Media the Entertainment industry. VAPA Magnets also promote teamwork, communication, creative thinking, and decision-making abilities. These are all traits needed to function successfully in the competitive and media-rich 21st century. Whether the student has already achieved a level of accomplishment or demonstrated an interest or potential to grow in an art form, Visual and Performing Arts Magnets provide highly rewarding learning experiences.