
November 22, 2022 – Decatur Public Schools’ three magnet programs will begin accepting applications online on December 1, 2022, for students interested in enrolling in a magnet program for the 2023-24 school year. This is the third year the magnet process will be done completely online. However, DPS is using a new online application and lottery system this year, SchoolMint.
Each of the magnet school programs offer unique philosophies to draw students from all over the district. Any student living within the District #61 boundaries can apply to a magnet school. Programs range from structured environments in which students wear uniforms to a curriculum that encourages independence. You can learn more about each program now and submit an application starting December 1 at www.dps61.org/magnet.
DPS will also host three informational sessions in the coming weeks, during which interested families can speak with the magnet program principals to get a feel for each program. Attendance at these informational sessions is not required to apply for magnet programs. For the virtual sessions, please register to receive the Zoom link at www.dps61.org/magnet:
- Wednesday, November 30 at the Decatur Public Library @ 5:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, December 7 via Zoom @ 5:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, December 14 via Zoom @ 5:30 p.m.
Online applications are open December 1, 2022, through January 31, 2023. The District’s central office will then conduct an electronic lottery in March 2023 to fill the available seats in each magnet school program. Parents/guardians will be notified by email and/or text message throughout the application and lottery process.
Decatur Public Schools will offer the following magnet school programs for the 2023-24 school year:
- American Dreamer STEM Academy (K-8th Grade)
- Johns Hill Magnet School (K-8th Grade)
- Montessori Academy for Peace (PreK-8th Grade)