OPEN THE DOORS TO YOUR CHILDREN S FUTURE RESOURCE GUIDE SCHOOL YEAR

Transcription

1 OPEN THE DOORS TO YOUR CHILDREN S FUTURE WHY HPS? SCHOOL OPTIONS SCHOOL DIRECTORY HOW TO APPLY FAQs RESOURCE GUIDE SCHOOL YEAR

2 OUR DISTRICT: WHAT MAKES US DISTINCT Schools are led by administrators with depth of experience Educators who are practicing experts in their professional fields Technology-rich schools that lead the way in 21st century learning Early elementary campuses that boast spaces that nurture childhood joy, learning and exploration Secondary high schools that are places for self-development, definition and educational excellence Rich partnerships with local colleges and universities such as University of Hartford, Trinity College, UConn, Capital and Manchester Community Colleges Partnerships with private and public agencies providing a variety of experiences that enhance themed academies and internship opportunities Extended learning opportunities with local partners that offer support and resources, including funding to sustain and further develop Hartford Community Schools OUR COMMITMENTS: WHAT WE PROMISE EVERY STUDENT Teach students to be active leaders in their own lives and communities Inform families and students about available school selection options and how to access them Ensure that each student is prepared for college, career and community success Lead every school with talented, diverse individuals committed to working in service of children Partner with community organizations that support student learning, complement curriculum, and provide a wide range of enrichment services Commit to building parent partnerships by involving families with in-home learning activities, communicating student progress and school programs, and providing volunteer and engagement opportunities

3 OUR PERFORMANCE: HOW WE MEASURE SUCCESS #1 In 2016, Hartford Public Schools received the Donna Grady-Creer District Award by Magnet Schools of America, distinguishing our district as the number-one district of merit for exemplifying a commitment to equity, excellence, and diversity. WHY HPS? 95% NAF Nearly 95% of our graduating seniors were accepted into colleges and universities like American University, Amherst College, Boston College, Fordham University, Harvard University, Morehouse College, University of Pennsylvania, Stanford University, Yale University and more! Thirty-two of our schools work side-by-side with Hartford Performs to connect and engage our students with quality arts experiences that advance student learning and deepen engagement in the community. Four of our high schools are accredited through the National Academy Foundation (NAF), providing experiential learning opportunities, internships, and courses centered around career themes and viable industries. The first Hartford Promise scholarship includes a diverse group of 144 scholars representing 17 Hartford high schools, who will be attending 37 different national colleges and universities. A MESSAGE FROM DR. LESLIE TORRES-RODRIGUEZ, SUPERINTENDENT, HARTFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS Hartford Public Schools, we are committed to academic innovation, to fostering an educational community that transcends geographic boundaries At and empowers inspiration and curiosity so that each one of our 20,000 students can discover their own superpower. I love Hartford Public Schools. My hopes and dreams are wrapped around the success of all our schools to help our children thrive. Our duty as a school community is to ensure that every child has a safe, respectful and nurturing school environment. Eighty-two percent of secondary high school students accessed college and career readiness tools such as advanced coursework and internship opportunities High school partnerships with local colleges and universities offering students access and opportunity to advanced coursework and college credits at low to no cost for families Over 1,100 Hartford Public Schools student athletes participating in the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) Since 2011, three of our magnet schools have earned the title of #1 Magnet School in the Nation as recipients of the Dr. Ronald P. Simpson Distinguished Magnet Schools of Excellence Award As a product of the Hartford Public Schools system, I know what the school district is capable of and I know what is at stake. That s why from neighborhood schools to magnet schools and open choice schools Hartford Public Schools provides more educational opportunities than any other district in the region. We believe education involves more than a one-size-fits-all approach. I welcome you to come and learn more about us by visiting our schools, attending an open house event, or viewing our website at to make the right choice for your child s future.

4 EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS Hartford Public Schools has the largest menu of tuition-free, theme-based school options in the Greater Hartford area. As part of an all-choice system of schools, families can select from a wide variety of school options, models and themes that best fit the needs, interests and learning styles of their children. MAGNET SCHOOLS Magnet Schools have specialized themes and approaches to courses, classwork and/or teaching, such as STEM, Montessori, Performing Arts, Sports Medicine and Social Justice. The application process for Magnet Schools is administered by the Regional School Choice Office (RSCO) in conjunction with Hartford Public Schools, and is open to students from the Greater Hartford region. Eligible Applicants: Hartford and Suburban Residents Access Application: Online at OPEN CHOICE Open Choice offers Hartford students the opportunity to attend public schools in suburban districts in the Greater Hartford area. Open Choice also offers suburban students the opportunity to attend school in one of Hartford s themed non-magnet public schools. For a full listing, please visit The application process for Open Choice is administered by the Regional School Choice Office (RSCO) in conjunction with the Capital Region Education Council. Eligible Applicants: Hartford and Suburban Residents Access Application: Online at DISTRICT SCHOOLS District Schools allow all Hartford Residents the option of sending their child to a school that is closer to home with access to quality education, a rigorous curriculum, and vibrant arts and music programs. Hartford has four school zones. If you are unsure of which zone you live in, please access our transportation map at: Parents should note that choosing an out-of-zone school may affect availability of school transportation. CHARTER SCHOOLS Charter Schools allow families to choose from independently designed and operated schools that follow their own state-approved charter. Hartford Public Schools has a strong partnership with Achievement First and administers the application process for admission to their charter schools in Hartford. Hartford Residents interested in accessing Achievement First schools should apply online via the District Choice lottery application. The Hartford District Choice lottery is administered by HPS Office of School Choice. Eligible Applicants: Hartford Residents Access Application: Online at Eligible Applicants: Hartford Residents Access Application: Online at

5 FAIRS & EVENTS RSCO Lottery Opening Day Saturday, November 4, AM-2PM Dunkin Donuts Park 1214 Main Street Hartford, CT Snow Date: Sunday, November 5, PM-4PM SCHOOL OPTIONS RSCO Fair Saturday, January 27, AM-1PM Conard High School 110 Beechwood Road West Hartford, CT Snow Date: Saturday, February 24, AM-1PM Hartford Public Schools 5th Annual Education Expo Saturday, February 10, AM-1PM Sport & Medical Sciences Academy 280 Huyshope Avenue Hartford, CT Snow Date: Sunday, February 11, PM-4PM

6 Elementary Schools Type Grades Achievement First Hartford Elementary D/C K-4 Asian Studies Academy at Bellizzi D PK4-8 Batchelder School D PK4-8 Betances Early Reading Lab M PK3-4 Betances STEM Magnet School M 5-8 Breakthrough Magnet School North M PK3-5 Breakthrough Magnet School South M PK3-8 Burns Latino Studies Academy D PK4-8 Burr School D PK4-8 Environmental Sciences Magnet School at Mary Hooker M PK4-8 Expeditionary Learning Academy at Moylan School D/O PK4-5 Hartford Pre-Kindergarten Magnet School M PK3 & PK4 Kennelly School D PK4-8 Martin Luther King Jr. School*** D PK4-8 MD Fox School D PK4-8 Milner School D PK4-8 Montessori Magnet School at Annie Fisher M PK3-8 Montessori Magnet at Moylan/McDonough M PK3-6 Naylor School D PK4-8 Noah Webster MicroSociety Magnet School M PK3-8 Parkville School D PK4-5 Rawson School D/O PK4-8 Renzulli Gifted and Talented Academy* D/O 4-8 Sanchez Elementary D PK4-5 S.A.N.D. School D K-8 Simpson-Waverly School D PK4-8 STEM Magnet at Annie Fisher M K-8 West Middle School D PK4-8 Wish Museum School D PK4-8 PK-12 Schools Type Grades Capital Preparatory Magnet School M PK3-12 Global Communications Academy D/O K-12 Kinsella Magnet School of Performing Arts M PK4-12 M = Magnet D = District D/O = District/Open Choice D/C = District/Charter

7 Middle & High Schools Type Grades Achievement First Hartford High* D/C 9-12 Achievement First Hartford Academy Middle D/C 5-8 Achievement First Summit Middle D/C 5-8 Bulkeley High School D 9-12 Capital Community College Magnet Academy** M Classical Magnet School M 6-12 Great Path Academy at MCC M 9-12 Hartford Magnet Trinity College Academy M 6-12 High School, Inc. D/O 9-12 HPHS Academy of Engineering & Green Technology D/O 9-12 HPHS Law & Government Academy D/O 9-12 HPHS Academy of Nursing and Health Sciences D/O 9-12 Journalism & Media Academy D/O 9-12 McDonough Middle School D 6-8 Pathways Academy of Technology and Design M 9-12 Sport and Medical Sciences Academy M 6-12 University High School of Science and Engineering M 9-12 SCHOOL DIRECTORY Other Options & Opportunities* Type Grades Adult Education* D Adults 18+ * These schools do not participate in the Hartford District Choice lottery. Please contact the schools directly. ** Capital Community College Magnet Academy is no longer offered as an option in the Regional School Choice Magnet Lottery, and is not accepting new applications effective with the school year. *** Martin Luther King Jr. School is no longer offered as an option in the Hartford District Lottery and is not accepting new applications effective with the school year due to planned renovations. THEMES STEM/STEAM Schools incorporate Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math in an interdisciplinary and applied approach. Schools include Betances STEM Magnet School, Environmental Sciences at Mary Hooker, STEM Magnet at Annie Fisher, and Rawson School. Montessori is an educational philosophy that takes a child-centered approach to learning. Schools include Montessori Magnet at Annie Fisher and Montessori Magnet at Moylan/McDonough. Early College Experience (ECE) offers high school students the opportunity to earn tuition-free college credit. Schools include Academies at HPHS, Bulkeley High School, Great Path Academy at Manchester Community College, Hartford Magnet Trinity College Academy, and University High School of Science and Engineering. Performing Arts/Journalism & Media provides an arts-integrated curriculum that fosters creative thought, exploration and intellectual growth. Schools include Kinsella Magnet School of Performing Arts and Journalism & Media Academy. Community Schools promote student achievement, strengthen families and build strong communities through partnerships with local nonprofits such as Boys & Girls Club, YMCA, COMPASS Youth Collaborative, Organized Parents Make a Difference (OPMAD), and more. Schools include Asian Studies Academy, Burns Academy, Burr School, Hartford Magnet Trinity College Academy, Milner School, and West Middle School. National Academy Foundation (NAF) brings education, community and business together to prepare students for careers. Schools include HPHS Academy of Engineering & Green Technology, HPHS Academy of Nursing and Health Sciences, High School, Inc., and Pathways Academy of Technology and Design.

8 WHO CAN APPLY All parents or legal guardians of a student can apply. n n Hartford resident families can complete both the Hartford District Choice Lottery and the Regional School Choice (RSCO) Lottery applications. Suburban families who wish to access Hartford Public School Magnet and Open Choice options apply only through the RSCO application. WHERE TO APPLY There are two separate lottery applications for families applying to Hartford District Schools and RSCO Magnet/Open Choice schools: DISTRICT SCHOOLS Applications to our District (non-magnet) schools are open to Hartford residents only. Hartford residents should complete both the online Hartford District Choice application and the Regional School Choice Lottery application ( to maximize their options. To apply, please visit: MAGNET AND OPEN CHOICE SCHOOLS Applications to Magnet and Open Choice schools are open to Hartford and Suburban residents using the Regional School Choice Office (RSCO) application. To apply, please visit:

9 WHEN TO APPLY The Hartford District Choice Lottery and the Regional School Choice Lottery application periods are the same. OPENS: November 1, 2017 CLOSES: February 28, 2018 HPS District Choice Application: RSCO Magnet and Open Choice Application: WHAT S NEXT? What families need to know after the lotteries occur. Acceptance & Registration: n n n ACCEPT IMMEDIATELY, once your family receives notification offering placement. If a family does not accept within the time frame noted, the placement may be declined and the seat will be offered to another student. Families can accept electronically online or by returning the signed placement forms. REGISTER your child at their new school within two weeks of acceptance to ensure their seat. SCHOOL SELECTION AT A GLANCE The lottery application period will run from November 1, 2017 through February 28, The school selection process is easy when you follow these simple steps! STEP 1: PREPARE n Talk to your child about his/her interests n Create an account and password STEP 3: APPLY STEP 2: EXPLORE n Attend a school choice fair n Visit Open Houses and schedule a shadow day appointment at prospective schools n Hartford Residents: Complete both the HPS District and RSCO Magnet applications online n Suburban Residents: Complete the RSCO Magnet and Open Choice application online HOW TO APPLY STEP 4: CONFIRM n Stay in contact through Facebook and Twitter n Log in and accept your placement STEP 5: ENROLL n Visit the school and complete the registration process

10 Q: Q: Q: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT IS THE HARTFORD PUBLIC SCHOOL OFFICE OF SCHOOL CHOICE (HPS CHOICE) AND THE REGIONAL SCHOOL CHOICE OFFICE (RSCO)? HPS Choice Office: n Manages and oversees the marketing, recruitment and placement process for all Hartford Schools. Conducts the HPS District Lottery, which places students in our District and Charter schools. RSCO (Regional School Choice Office): n A division of the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE). n Works in partnership with HPS Choice Office to ensure that both Hartford and Suburban families have access to quality, integrated educational opportunities offered through the RSCO Lottery. n Placements in Hartford Magnet and Open Choice schools are conducted through the RSCO lottery. Families interested in Magnet and Open Choice schools should consult the RSCO Catalog at choiceeducation.org. IS MY CHILD GUARANTEED A SEAT? HPS District Choice Guarantee ensures that a student in a transitional grade will be placed in ONE of the FOUR school options selected on their on-time application. RSCO Magnet School Lottery does not guarantee a seat at a Magnet school for any family or student. WHAT IF I AM INTERESTED IN PRE-KINDERGARTEN FOR MY CHILD? To be eligible for PK4 through the Hartford District Choice Lottery, the student will need to be four years of age by December 31, Families interested in PK3 should consult the RSCO Catalog and apply via the RSCO Magnet application. Families complete both applications online. Q: Q: Q: WHAT IF MY CHILD IS A PRESCHOOLER IN NEED OF KINDERGARTEN? To be eligible, the student will need to be five years of age by December 31, This is a transitional grade under the Hartford District Choice lottery. All families MUST apply online. Families who already have their child within zone at a Hartford District PK4 Program need not apply, as their child will roll up into that school s kindergarten class. IF I MISS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE AND SCHOOL SELECTION PROCESS FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR, WHAT SHOULD I DO? Hartford District Choice Office: n Complete a Placement Request Form with Choice Staff at the Welcome Center, 960 Main Street, First Floor, to place your child at a Hartford Public School for that school year. n There is NO HPS Choice Guarantee for families who miss or come after the lottery process. Regional School Choice (RSCO) Magnet Lottery: n For the late application period, please consult Applications will only be accepted online at the above-mentioned site. n No Magnet or Open Choice school placements are made beyond October 1. IS MY CHILD ABLE TO ATTEND SCHOOL IF HE/SHE IS UNDOCUMENTED? Yes, all children living in the United States have a right to a free K-12 public education. Immigrant children do not need a green card, visa, passport, alien registration number or Social Security number in order to register for school.

11 Q: Q: WHAT ARE THE TRANSPORTATION GUIDELINES FOR HARTFORD DISTRICT AND CHARTER SCHOOLS? IS MY CHILD ELIGIBLE? Transportation guidelines are set by the Connecticut State Department of Education. To focus resources where they are needed most, students living near their schools may not be eligible for busing. General Transportation Guidelines: n PK4: There is no transportation available for Hartford District and Charter Schools n GRADES K-1: Student lives 0.5 miles or more from enrolled school n GRADES 2-5: Student lives 1.0 miles or more from enrolled school n GRADES 6-8: Student lives 1.5 miles or more from enrolled school n GRADES 9-12: Student lives 2.0 miles or more from enrolled school WHAT ARE THE TRANSPORTATION GUIDELINES FOR MAGNET AND OPEN CHOICE SCHOOLS? For transportation information for Magnet and Open Choice schools, please visit: FACT OR FICTION? IF FAMILIES HAVE ONE CHILD AT A MAGNET SCHOOL, THEIR SIBLING AUTOMATICALLY GETS IN. FICTION Many RSCO Magnet schools have sibling preference; however, this is not a guarantee, but a preference in the lottery. Consult the RSCO catalog to see if your school has sibling preference. If your school does have a preference, you must apply online and select that school as first choice for the preference to apply. I DO NOT NEED TO REAPPLY/RE-ENTER MY CHILD EACH YEAR INTO THE SCHOOL LOTTERIES. FACT You only have to apply to the HPS District lottery if your child is in a transitional grade (entry or exit grade of a school). Families MAY reapply if they would like a change in school. This is also true for Magnet and Open Choice schools. Families only need to apply when their child is transitioning into or out of a school. Applications do not carry over from year to year. MAGNET AND OPEN CHOICE SCHOOLS DO NOT HAVE SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES (SPED) AND ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS (ELL) SERVICES. FICTION Just like all HPS District Schools, our HPS Magnet and Open Choice schools must service and meet the needs of ALL SPED and ELL students, along with any Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). FAQs If you have specific questions regarding services, please contact: Special Education Department: English Language Learner Services: THE LOTTERY APPLICATION PROCESS IS NOT FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE. FACT Families should take time to explore all of their school selection options before applying. Attend school fairs, visit an open house and engage with school staff before applying online. It does not matter when you apply, only that you apply on time before February 28, 2018.

12 APPLICATIONS & CONTACT For application information, please contact: Hartford Public Schools Office of School Choice 960 Main Street, 9th Floor Hartford, CT Regional School Choice Office (RSCO) 450 Columbus Blvd, Suite P28 Hartford, CT Like Us on Facebook facebook.com/hartfordmagnet Follow us on #HPSOpensDoors