Lafayette, LA (KPEL News) - It's time to start considering whether you'd like your child to attend a magnet school in Lafayette Parish. The school system announced that the online application process for the 2024-25 academic year are now open.

The deadline to apply for one of 21 schools of choice is December 19, 2023, and space is limited.

The LPSS Magnet Academies offer students five pathways: Arts, Health and Biomedical, STEM, World Language Immersion, and Career and Leadership. The programs allow them to explore their desires while receiving a quality education that adheres to the curriculum required by the state.

Elementary School

Elementary students can learn in Spanish, French, or Mandarin Chinese. They can also explore the worlds of Arts & Technology or Environmental Sciences.

Middle School

At the magnet middle schools, they can dive deeper into the Arts or Environmental Sciences. If they prefer, sign them up for the Biomedical Academy, Informatics Academy, or STEM Academy.

High School

High school offers them the opportunity to continue along the STEM path or get even more granular as they study Performing Arts, Broadcasting and Journalism, Visual and Applied Arts, Business, Information Technology, Legal Studies, or Health. If they are interested in the military, the Air Force or Navy JROTC programs may be the right fit. Students who want to get college credit early can sign up for the Early College Academy. In partnership with SLCC, LPSS allows them to complete their high school education while working toward a degree. Some students finish high school with both a diploma and an associate degree.

Important Dates and Information

• The deadline to apply is Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at 4:30 PM.
• A lottery drawing for all grade levels will be held February 6, 2024, to determine student placement.
• Applications can be submitted at lafayettechoice.com.

As an aside, enrollment for the Early Childhood Education Program is also open right now. Check out the Enroll Lafayette website to determine what options are available to your child.