Like a magnet attracts iron, Cincinnati Public Schools’ magnet elementary schools attract students to programs aimed at different interests and learning styles.
Started in the 1970s, CPS’ nationally recognized magnet elementary schools offer parents many choices for a child’s education. The choices include teaching styles, such as Montessori and Paideia, and content focuses, such as foreign language, the arts and college-preparatory curriculums.
There are six magnet programs offered at 20 elementary schools located around the Cincinnati Public School District. Most magnet elementary schools draw students from within an assigned area labeled East or West, based on a student's home address. A few magnet elementary schools are considered citywide schools, meaning they serve students from throughout the district.
All CPS magnet elementary schools are open to students with disabilities.
Check out what’s attractive inside CPS’ magnet elementary schools.
Application is handled entirely at the magnet school the child wants to attend.
Cincinnati Public Schools no longer will consider a student’s race or gender for enrollment into magnet schools, in response to a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling.
Call the school for application hours.
Parents are encouraged to apply early. Students are accepted into magnet elementary schools on a first-come basis. Students not accepted into magnet programs will
attend their neighborhood elementary schools.
Waiting Lists: A student's name may be on a waiting list at several magnet schools. However, once the student is accepted into a magnet school, the student's name is removed from all waiting lists.
Acceptance: If space is available and all entrance requirements are met, a student will be accepted immediately into the magnet program when the parent comes to the school to apply.
Application Forms: Application forms for magnet elementary schools will be available at the schools and on the CPS Web site (www.cps-k12.org) after the sign-up process is determined. The completed form must be taken to the magnet school for the application process to begin.
Area or Citywide: A parent may apply to place a child in either a citywide magnet school or the magnet school serving the area — East or West — where the child lives. Out-of-area applications are accepted only if the school has no waiting list after serving its area students.
Transportation: A student enrolled in a magnet school assigned to the student's home area or a citywide magnet school is eligible for transportation provided by the district if the student lives more than three-quarters of a mile from the school. If a student enrolls outside the assigned area, parents must provide transportation to and from school.
Transportation Department: 363-0330
Student Services: All CPS magnet elementary schools are open to students with disabilities.
Student Services: 363-0280