November 25, 2024 -Decatur Public Schools’ three magnet programs will begin accepting applications online on December 1, 2024, for students interested in enrolling in a magnet program for the 2025-26 school year. Again, this year, the magnet application process will be done completely online using an online application and lottery system, called SchoolMint.
Each of the magnet school programs offer unique philosophies and programs 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 and a link to submit an application starting December 1 at www.dps61.org/magnet.
Part of the application process is to attend a MANDATORY parent meeting for each magnet school that families will apply to. Parent meetings will offer information pertaining to its magnet program so that families better understand the individual programs, including the academic and behavioral expectations at each school. Families will also have the ability to speak directly with the magnet school principals. Attendance at these informational sessions is required to apply for the magnet program. Dates for these parent meetings are below.
- December 2, 2024 @Decatur Library 5:30 p.m. in the Madden Auditorium. All three magnet school principals available.
- December 12, 2024 @Johns Hill Magnet School 5:30 p.m.
- December 19, 2024 @Montessori Academy for Peace 5:30 p.m.
- January 9, 2025 @Ellsworth Dansby Magnet School 5:30 p.m.
Online applications will open Friday, December 1, 2024, through Friday, January 31, 2025. The District’s central office will then conduct an electronic lottery in March 2025, to fill the available seats in each magnet school program. Parents/guardians will receive notifications by email and/or text message throughout the application and lottery process via the SchoolMint platform. Students who accept a magnet seat are also required to attend a mandatory magnet school orientation prior to the start of the 2025-26 school year.
