Magnet & Choice Schools
Magnet and choice schools offer the standard required curriculum of general education, as well as distinctive themes or programs, such as science, technology, math or the arts, that attract students to the schools.
Differences Between Magnet and Choice Schools
Originally, the sole purpose of magnet was to desegregate schools that were specifically identified in the Polk County desegregation agreement.
Choice schools can be created in response to community or school interest.
Know Your Zone!
Students interested in attending a magnet or choice program may only apply to schools within their zone of residence. To determine your zone, please refer to the district’s online GeoZone application. Enter your address and then select the appropriate check box (Magnet Zones, IB Zones, etc.).
Zone A | Lakeland
2805 Morgan Combee Road, Lakeland, FL 33801
863-499-2960 | code.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
Beginning in kindergarten, students engage in hands-on activities that spark their creativity and develop critical-thinking skills. A personalized approach to teaching and learning empowers students and prepares them for advanced secondary opportunities.
What makes CODE different: Personalized learning and a STEM-focused curriculum that integrates programming, fabrication, 3D modeling, makerspaces, and engineering challenges.
2410 N. Crystal Lake Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801
863-668-3055 | clms.polkschoolsfl.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: 6–8
Dynamic partnerships and hands-on, real-world learning experiences help students to excel in today’s classroom and prepare to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce.
What makes CASE different: A STEM-focused curriculum that allows students to select one of two academic pathways: Engineering emphasizes robotics, instructional TV, and computer-assisted design programs; Science emphasizes aquatics, aquaculture, agriscience and hydroponics.
400 N. Florida Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33801
863-499-2742 | lcma.polkschoolsfl.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: 6–8
LCMA is an International Baccalaureate (IB) school committed to high-quality, challenging education that is augmented through numerous community partnerships and a collaborative environment.
What makes LCMA different: The IB Middle Years Programme combined with award-winning arts programs, use of a hands-on fabrication lab, an innovative Digital Design course, Environmental Symposium, and academic competitions make for a one-of-a-kind educational experience.
1330 N. Lincoln Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33805
863-499-2955 | lincolnavenuejaguars.weebly.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
Lincoln Avenue is a STEM and International Baccalaureate (IB) school that offers an accelerated, hands-on, transdisciplinary curriculum. Academics are enriched through weekly classes including STEM Lab, visual arts, music, and Spanish.
What makes Lincoln Avenue different: The school combines the IB Primary Years Programme and a STEM curriculum that utilizes 3D printers, a fabrication lab, robotics, and mobile devices.
510 Hartsell Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33815
863-499-2870 | blakeacademy.polkschoolsfl.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–8
Blake makes accommodating diverse learning styles of students a top priority. Students “loop,” staying with the same teachers for 6th-8th grade, helping to build strong teacher-student relationships and support academic achievement.
What makes Blake different: At every grade level, there is an emphasis on technology. Middle school students may take digital video, engineering, Spanish and agriculture courses for high school credits.
1501 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33805
863-499-2810 | rochellearts.polkschoolsfl.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–8
Rochelle’s STEAM curriculum develops the whole learner and prepares each student for success in their future career. Multiple performances and exhibitions allow students to demonstrate their learning in meaningful, engaging ways.
What makes Rochelle different: A STEAM approach that integrates STEM and the arts. Core academic programs are enhanced by electives including dance, band, chorus, orchestra, theatre and the visual arts.
3415 Swindell Road, Lakeland, FL 33810
863-499-2890 | winston.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
Winston offers a rigorous STEM program that helps students make connections to industries and economy. Students engage in hands-on, technology-rich activities to solve real-world problems.
What makes Winston different: A STEM program that introduces students to prefabrication manufacturing, engineering, robotics, and offers integrated science experiences.
Zone B | Lake Alfred, Winter Haven
601 Avenue C, S.E., Winter Haven, FL 33880
863-291-5300 | brighamacademy.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
An International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, Brigham Academy helps students become more globally minded, deepen their cultural awareness, and develop independent and collaborative learning skills.
What makes Brigham different: Second language and inquiry-based studies, interactive approaches, and technology-rich labs designed to encourage independent thinking while making learning fun.
2500 Havendale Blvd, Winter Haven, FL 33881
863-965-5455 | garner.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
Beginning in kindergarten, students engage in hands-on activities that spark their creativity and develop critical-thinking skills. A personalized approach to teaching and learning empowers students and prepares them for advanced secondary opportunities.
What makes Garner different: Personalized learning and a STEM-focused curriculum that integrates programming, fabrication, 3D modeling, makerspaces, and engineering challenges.
601 MLK Jr. Blvd., Winter Haven, FL 33881
863-291-5320 | jewettacademymagnet.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: 6–8
An International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, Jewett Middle Academy integrates rigorous academic experiences with intercultural understanding to develop compassionate, knowledgeable, responsible citizens.
What makes Jewett Middle different: High academic and social expectations, a focus on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and the use of technology to enhance learning.
2250 8th Street, N.E., Winter Haven, FL 33881
863-291-5373 | jsa.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–8
Jewett School of the Arts fosters innovation by integrating science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics (STEAM) in core academic courses.
What makes Jewett School of the Arts different: Immersive hands-on, project-based activities that align with students’ interests while building STEAM proficiency; utilizing courses in design media, theatre, musical expression, dance and more.
925 N. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Alfred, FL 33850
863-295-5988 | lapolytech.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: 6–8
Lake Alfred Polytechnic Academy students prepare for advanced levels of study through hands-on, personalized experiences that utilize the school’s fabrication lab and programming and robotics courses.
What makes Lake Alfred Polytech different: A schoolwide STEM focus, community and higher education partnerships that provide opportunities for authentic problem solving in immersive environments, individualized plans that support accelerated mastery.
Zone C | Davenport, Dundee, Haines City
900 Avenue F, Haines City, FL 33844
863-421-3334 | bethune.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
Bethune Academy offers a unique STEM educational experience through the collaborative exploration of environmental issues. The school’s rigorous curriculum integrates critical-thinking skills, technology and hands-on activities to help develop critical and creative thinkers.
What makes Bethune different: A variety of learning environments, including the classroom, interactive computer labs, and field experiences throughout Central Florida.
701 Ledwith Avenue, Haines City, FL 33844
863-421-3267 | danieljenkinsacademy.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: 6–8
With an emphasis on Florida environmental studies, Daniel Jenkins Academy offers a personalized approach to STEM education. Customized learning paths are developed to best meet each student’s needs. The school features an innovative fabrication lab as well as courses in programming and robotics.
What makes Daniel Jenkins Academy different: Working closely with Florida research institutes to offer
hands-on learning experiences in areas of engineering and environmental science.
4751 N. C.R. 547, Davenport, FL 33837
863-420-2557 | davenportschoolofthearts.com
Program: Choice
Grades: K–8
Davenport School of the Arts provides a challenging, flexible, innovative curriculum that blends the arts with strong academic instruction and enriching academic experiences.
What makes Davenport School of the Arts different: A highly qualified staff, a variety of learning environments, and opportunities including music, visual art, dance, musical theatre and drama help students to develop into creative problem solvers with strong leadership skills.
415 E. Frederick Avenue, Dundee, FL 33838
863-421-3316 | dea.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
Dundee Elementary is an International Baccalaureate accredited elementary school that develops students into globally aware, internationally minded citizens who have a passion for lifelong learning.
What makes Dundee Elementary Academy different: A highly qualified staff that collaborates with all stakeholders to provide inquiry-based instruction in a safe, supportive learning environment.
5555 Lake Trask Road, Dundee, FL 33838
863-419-3088 | dra.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: 6–8
An International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, Dundee Ridge Middle Academy offers a state-of-the-art campus and innovative, technology-rich learning environment that embraces each student’s unique talents and interests.
What makes Dundee Ridge Middle different: Highly skilled staff members challenge students to use their academic knowledge to solve real-world problems.
Zone D | Bartow, Lake Wales
590 S. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830
863-534-7410 | bartowacademy.polk-fl.net
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
At Bartow Elementary Academy, students participate in a hands-on, inquiry-based, situational curriculum that is enhanced by strong partnerships with local businesses and higher education establishments. Students have access to the latest technology and an interactive STEM lab.
What makes Bartow Elementary Academy different: Accelerated academics, technology-rich experiences, and an environment that fosters individual responsibility, citizenship and leadership while promoting academic mastery.
1350 N Maple Ave, Bartow, FL 33830
863-534-7455 | stephens.polkschoolsfl.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: K–5
An International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, Stephens Academy helps students become more globally minded, deepen their cultural awareness, and develop independent and collaborative learning skills.
What makes Stephens different: Second language and inquiry-based studies, interactive approaches, and technology-rich labs designed to encourage independent thinking while making learning fun.
1795 E. Wabash Street, Bartow, FL 33830
863-534-7435 | ua.polkschoolsfl.com
Program: Magnet
Grades: 6–8
Union Academy Middle Magnet is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme.
What makes Union different: Students take three years of Spanish language instruction, investigate and solve problems in a technology-rich environment, and are prepared to participate in the Pre-IB and IB Diploma programs at Bartow High School.
High School Accelerated Programs
1270 S. Broadway Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830
863-534-0194 | bhsib.polk-fl.net
Program: Choice
Grades: 9–12
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at Bartow Senior High offers students an academically challenging curriculum and experience, preparing them to succeed in postsecondary education. Beginning with ninth grade, students are able to take college-level (AP) courses. IB diploma graduates can be awarded up to 45 college credit hours.
What makes Bartow IB different: Students participate in rigorous academics, while engaging in a cohesive, diverse learning community. A passion for lifelong learning is instilled, and graduates are empowered to become highly productive, influential citizens.
2800 Hornet Drive, Haines City, FL 33844
863-419-3371 | hainescityhigh.polkschoolsfl.com/ib
Program: Choice
Grades: 9–12
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at Haines City Senior High offers students an academically challenging curriculum and experience, preparing them to succeed in postsecondary education. Beginning with ninth grade, students are able to take college-level (AP) courses. IB diploma graduates can be awarded up to 45 college credit hours.
What makes Haines City IB different: Rigorous coursework is designed to push students to greater depths of knowledge and questioning, while also developing them into highly productive members of our global society.
750 Hollingsworth Road, Lakeland, FL 33801
863-499-2855 | harrisonarts.com
Program: Choice
Grades: 9–12
Lois Cowles Harrison Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, founded in 1989, is a public high school of choice. Enrollment is based on an audition. Harrison students participate in one of the following disciplines: chorus, creative writing, dance, guitar, jazz, motion picture arts, musical theater, orchestra, piano, technical theater, theater, and visual arts.
What makes Harrison School for the Arts different: Students pursue a rigorous four-year course of study that focuses on artistic development while also preparing students for postsecondary success.
1500 S. Jackson Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830
863-519-7504 | bhs.polkschoolsfl.com/summerlin
Program: Choice
Grades: 9–12
Summerlin Academy promotes academic achievement, personal accountability, civic responsibility and leadership skills in order to prepare students to succeed in higher education, the workforce, community and life. Students must complete four years of JROTC and 150 hours of community service, as well as two years of a foreign language to graduate.
What makes Summerlin Academy different: A challenging curriculum in a military-structured environment that includes honors, Advanced Placement and dual enrollment courses. Summerlin is also the only school in the district that offers Russian and Japanese, and electives like kendo, scuba diving, archery, and an equestrian program.
4905 Saddle Creek Rd, Lakeland, FL 33801
863-614-9183 | tenoroc.polk-fl.net
Program: Choice
Grades: 9–12
Tenoroc Senior High offers the internationally acclaimed Cambridge AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) program, which challenges students with rigorous academic standards while allowing them to earn college credits as they prepare for post-secondary education. Beginning with ninth grade, students are able to take college-level courses in core academics as well as electives.
600 6th Street S.E., Winter Haven, FL 33880
863-291-5330 | winterhavenhs.com
Program: Choice
Grades: 9–12
Winter Haven Senior High offers the internationally acclaimed Cambridge AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) program, which challenges students with rigorous academic standards while allowing them to earn college credits as they prepare for post-secondary education. Beginning with ninth grade, students are able to take college-level courses in core academics as well as electives.
What makes Winter Haven Senior High different: Cambridge AICE provides an engaging and interactive educational experience that prepares students for independent thinking and long-term success. Cambridge students can select from a variety of courses to fulfill their individual interests as they pursue the AICE Diploma.
High School Choice Program
3DE is an instructional model that empowers students for success in any post-secondary path they choose. Whether students choose to go to college, the military, or the workforce, by the end of their 3DE experience, they will have developed six important competencies, effective collaboration, engaging communication, critical and analytical thinking, self-direction, cultural agility, and innovation and creativity. These competencies and their corresponding behavioral indicators are incorporated into students’ launch and core classes to allow teachers opportunities to align standards-based instruction and best practices for competency development to ensure an authentic and relevant learning experience for students.
The 3DE model provides students with opportunities to collaboratively solve real-world challenges for different business partners every six weeks. These real-world connections are explicit for the students throughout the case cycle and include business coaching and culminating events, which maximize student, staff, and community engagement.
FAQ's
How long can my application be on file in the applicant pool?
The applicant pool is kept for one school year. If students are not accepted from the pool that year, they must reapply the following open enrollment period.
How are students selected from the pool?
Students are selected for vacant seats by computerized random selection process.
Will my application be assigned a number or placement in the waiting pool?
No, no numbers are assigned and there is no designated placement, as all selections are random.
I have moved or changed my contact information, what should I do?
Notify the Office of Acceleration and Innovation at 863-534-0631 of the change.
How often are selections made?
Call the Office of Acceleration & Innovation at 863-534-0631 for lottery date updates.
What is the sibling policy for the magnet schools?
Kindergarten applicants with siblings enrolled in the magnet school of application who will be returning to that site for the upcoming school year will receive preference. Only 50% of the kindergarten class will be reserved for incoming KG siblings. No other sibling priority is given. Families must submit a sibling survey form to the school of enrollment prior to the open enrollment period. The application for the incoming kindergartner must be made during the open enrollment period.
How will I be notified of my acceptance?
An acceptance alert will show on your Parent Portal main page. An acceptance email will also be sent. Please check your Parent Portal account regularly for notifications. You will have 10 working days to respond.
My child’s “School Choice” status under the “Child Info” section of the Parent Portal is “waiting.” What are my next steps?
A “waiting” status means your child has not received a seat in a magnet/choice school. The Office of Acceleration and Innovation will conduct additional lotteries as seats become available in specific magnet/choice schools however, a magnet/choice seat is not guaranteed and parents should enroll their child in their locally zoned school.
If I apply for multiple schools and am accepted into one, will I still be eligible for the other schools?
Once you have accepted a seat at one school your application will be removed from all other waiting pools.
Can I apply for a magnet school outside of my zone?
No, your residence address must be in the Magnet Zone for the school you are applying for.
Is transportation provided for magnet school students?
If the residence address is 2 or more miles from the school, transportation will be provided.
Once I received my email of acceptance or alert through the Parent Portal, what is my next step?
If you receive an acceptance alert or email, you must accept or decline your seat through your Parent Portal account within 10 working days. You must also go to the school with two proofs of address for registration during that time.
If I move into another magnet zone after I’ve been accepted, what happens?
If you move out of the magnet zone you applied for and you have been accepted, you will have to forfeit the acceptance and apply (when applications are available) for magnet school in your new zone.
What happens if my child is retained and the application grade is incorrect and I’ve been accepted for the incorrect grade?
If your child is retained and you receive an acceptance for the incorrect grade, you will have to forfeit that seat, and reapply (when applications are available) for the correct grade.
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