magnet

Interdistrict Magnet Schools

Grades PK3-12

Magnet programs offer hands-on learning experiences focused on specific themes or specialized programs, like Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), visual and performing arts, International Baccalaureate, Montessori, and many more.

Educational Benefits

Specialized curriculum
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Specialized curriculum

Core educational programming incorporates specific themes or subjects, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), performing arts, international studies, or languages, allowing students to delve deeper into areas they are passionate about.

Magnet School Application Tips

Make sure you’re eligible.

Los estudiantes de Connecticut que ingresan a PK3 hasta el 12.º grado son elegibles.

Apply only to schools that are a fit for your family.

You are eligible for only one placement offer, so apply only to schools from which you would accept an offer. There is no requirement to use all your choices—just focus on the options that are the right fit.

If you’re only interested in magnet schools, only apply to magnet schools.

You do not have to apply to the other program options (Open Choice, CTECS)*.

* Something to consider when applying to multiple programs: CTECS placements begin in February, before magnet school and Open Choice Program placements. If you apply to CTECS and receive a placement, you are no longer eligible for a magnet or Open Choice placement based on the one-offer rule.

Have a placement priority?

Make the school with a priority your first choice for the best chance of getting a placement.

Applicable Placement priorities:

  • Direct Pathway
  • Enrolled Siblings
  • Child of Staff
  • Placed Siblings
  • Pathway School
  • Residential Neighborhood
  • Residential Zone

Important!

The RSCO application process is different from a traditional application process. While families can apply to multiple options, a student is only eligible for one choice.

So, if a placement offer is made, the student is automatically removed from all other waitlists. We try to place students in their top choices, but this is not always possible. A placement offer could be made for any selected school on an application.

Other things to know

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Students moving up to another magnet school may get priority through pathway schools.

Pathways support students as they transition within the magnet system. If you’re moving from elementary to middle or middle to high school, priorities are available between specific magnet schools to help increase the chance of placement and keep groups of students together.

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Some schools charge prekindergarten tuition

Magnet schools operated by the Capitol Region Education Council (CREC) and Goodwin University Educational Services (GUES) charge prekindergarten tuition based on a sliding scale. Tuition varies with family income.

RSCO magnet school themes

Mark your calendar

Where you can find us.

Ready to get started?

The RSCO School Choice Application will open on December 3, 2025.

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