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Magnet Programs

Washington County Public Schools offers a choice of special focus programs for advanced-level learners. The magnet programs are an integral component of WCPS's initiatives to provide challenging academic experiences for an increasingly diverse student population across the county.

The magnet program model features classes for academically gifted students in grades two through five at the four elementary magnet schools and grades six through eight at the three magnet middle schools. Magnet teachers focus instruction at one to two levels above their students' current grade levels; classes are designed for the most highly able/gifted students. At the elementary magnet schools, theme-based enrichment activities benefit all children at the school.

The process for application to WCPS Magnet Programs has changed.  During 2012-2013, all first and fifth graders will be screened to determine eligibility for application to magnet programs for grades two and six. Qualified students will be invited to apply and notified of the Open House events for each of the magnet schools.

Openings for elementary school age students entering grades three through five during 2013-2014 are limited to a few seats at Boonsboro, Emma K. Doub, and Fountaindale Elementary School. Openings for students entering grades seven and eight during 2013-2014 are limited to a few seats at Springfield Middle School.

Students and parents interested in applying to a program should contact the Office of Advanced Programs (301)-766-2992. The selection process includes an abilities test, a student interview with a theme-related task, teacher and parent questionnaires, and a review of academic achievement and standardized test scores.

For more information about Magnet Programs, visit the College & Career Readiness website.

Comprehensive Calendar of Events & Processes for Advanced and Specialized Programs

More information will be posted at a later date.

Elementary Magnet Information

  • Boonsboro Elementary Magnet Program for World Languages and Global Communication
  • Emma K. Doub Elementary Magnet Program for Integrated Arts and Technology
  • Fountaindale School for Arts and Academic Excellence
  • Williamsport Elementary Magnet Program for Science, Technology and Math

Magnet Program general information PowerPoint

Middle School Magnet Information

  • Boonsboro Middle School Magnet Program for World Languages and Global Communication
  • E. Russell Hicks Middle School Magnet Program for the Humanities, Media Technology and Communication
  • Springfield Middle School Magnet Program for Science, Technology and Math

High School Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate  

Office of Advanced Programs
820 Commonwealth Avenue, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740

Comments or Questions? Contact Jessica Reinhard at 301-766-2992

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