This past Saturday, Guilford County Schools held the magnet fair at the Pavillion at the Greensboro Coliseum and turnout was tremendous. Our school district is known for not only great traditional schools but also alternative and theme-based schools. According to their website, GCS has 54 magnet schools. Having so many educational options probably plays a big role in the fact that our district’s drop-out rate is low. Everthing from performing arts to aviation to Spanish immersion to math, science, and technology is available in the magnet schools. Today is the first magnet Monday which means that parents can bring their children to these specialized  schools to look around and get an idea if a school is right for them.

Choice in schooling is definitely trending in the 21st century. Even in the neighborhood/attendance zone schools, Guilford County students can take courses through the district’s virtual public school program. One can only imagine how schoosl will look five years from now. We predict that students having an August-June, 8am-4pm, brick-and-mortar experience only will be the exception, not the rule. And, Guilford County is ahead of the curve. Regardless of where you live, encourage the young people in your life to find the precise educational opportunities that will nurture their love of learning.  As always, remember to encourage them to be well-rounded and to READ, READ, READ! Happy Magnet Monday, dear readers. See you at school!