4 Ascension Schools Gaining Magnet Programs

DONALDSONVILLE, La. (AP) — Ascension Parish public schools will start a new kindergarten through 12th-grade Westside Magnet Program in Donaldsonville next year, the first in the parish's history,

School officials tell The Advocate Thursday the academically advanced program will focus on college and career readiness and enhanced technology offerings for all grades and put computers in the hands of every child in the third grade and up.

The magnet program will be conducted on a school-within-a-school basis at the four public schools on Ascension's west bank: Donaldsonville Primary, Lowery Elementary, Lowery Middle and Donaldsonville High schools.

Superintendent Patrice Pujol said the Westside Magnet Program will give Donaldsonville parents and students more viable choices for the new school year.