Polk County Public Schools will soon begin accepting school choice applications for the upcoming 2025-26 school year.

This is an opportunity for families to apply for their students to attend a variety of PCPS programs, including magnet/choice schoolscareer academies (middle and high school), International Baccalaureate (high school) and Cambridge (high school).

Families must submit their applications online via Parent Portal during the application window from Jan. 13 to Feb. 21. All applications are chosen based on a lottery system (with the exception of high school IB/Cambridge, which have academic requirements).

PCPS is hosting a series of School Choice Showcases to give families a chance to explore their school options. Each showcase will highlight the options available at PCPS schools in the surrounding community. Visit our School Showcase page for dates, times and locations.

Important note: Harrison School for the Art’s application window is different due to the timing of their audition process. The application window is currently open and closes on January 8. All information can be found at harrisonarts.com/apply.

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.

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School ZonesKnow 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.).

FIND YOUR ZONE

Zone A | Lakeland

Zone C | Davenport, Dundee, Haines City

Zone B | Lake Alfred, Winter Haven

Zone D | Bartow, Lake Wales

High School Accelerated Programs

High School Choice Program

FAQ's