• School Choice in Gaston County Schools

    Explore magnet school and academy programs in Gaston County Schools

    Now is the time when parents begin thinking about the next school year.  As parents take a look at what’s available for their child’s education, it is important for them to know about the variety of choices that are offered in Gaston County Schools.

    Currently, Gaston County Schools provides 22 magnet school and academy program options that are connected to seven dynamic themes: careers, college prep/academically gifted, healthcare and medical sciences, leadership, performing arts, public service and safety, and technology and engineering.

    Explore 22 options in Gaston County Schools
    First, it is important for parents to talk with their children about what they want to be when they grow up, as it is never too early to begin planning for the future.  After discussing some possible job/career interests, parents are encouraged to explore each of the 22 magnet school and academy programs in Gaston County Schools to determine which one is right for their child.  The programs are designed to prepare students today so they can experience success tomorrow.
     
    Elementary Schools
    Gifted and Talented Academy @ Pleasant Ridge Elementary School
    Hawks Nest STEAM Academy
    Leadership Academy @ Costner Elementary School
    Performing Arts Academy @ Pinewood Elementary School
     
    Middle Schools
    Career Academy @ Southwest Middle School
    Career Academy @ York Chester Middle School
    Gifted and Talented Academy @ Cramerton Middle School
    Leadership Academy @ W.C. Friday Middle School
    Public Service Academy @ John Chavis Middle School
    STEAM Academy @ Stanley Middle School
    Technology and Industrial Engineering Academy @ Bessemer City Middle School
     
    High Schools
    Career Academy @ Hunter Huss High School
    Collegiate Prep Academy @ Forestview High School
    Gaston Early College High School
    Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences
    Health Sciences Academy @ East Gaston High School
    Highland School of Technology
    iAccelerate Academy @ Ashbrook High School
    Leadership Academy @ North Gaston High School
    Public Service Academy @ Cherryville High School
    Technology and Industrial Engineering Academy @ Bessemer City High School
     
    Online Learning
    Gaston Virtual Academy (all grade levels)

    How do I apply?
    Typically, students enter our magnet school and academy programs when they will be in kindergarten, sixth grade, or ninth grade; however, some programs have space available at other grade levels.  Students in Gaston County Schools as well as students who currently attend a private school, charter school, home school, or virtual school may apply now for the 2024-2025 academic year.

    For more information about each magnet school/academy option and to submit an online application, visit www.gaston.k12.nc.us/schoolchoice.  The deadline to apply is Friday, March 8 at 5:00 p.m.  The student placement lottery will be held at the end of March.