Apply now for magnet schools, special programs in Richmond County

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Families in the Central Savannah River Area can now apply for Richmond County School System magnet schools and specialized programs for the 2025-2026 school year.

Applications are open for students in elementary, middle, and high school, with the deadline set for Jan. 6.

Kids at dozens of CSRA schools can seek Ga. tuition vouchers

Dozens of CSRA schools are on a list allowing their students to apply for vouchers for private tuition.

“School choice gives families the chance to find programs that fit their children’s interests and academic goals,” said Brian Hadden, school options program specialist. “We’re proud of our nationally recognized magnet schools and also offer career-focused programs in fields like cybersecurity, health care, and skilled trades to prepare students for the future.”

Students applying to magnet schools must complete academic testing. Applicants for John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School must also auditions if they meet initial requirements.

‘$5 million idea’: New program targets mental health gap in local schools

Augusta University is celebrating a new program aimed at prioritizing the mental health of students in Richmond County public schools.

Magnet schools

A.R. Johnson Health Science & Engineering Magnet School
C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School
John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School

Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School

The district also offers a range of specialized programs for students across the district. Some programs require an application, while others can be accessed through the student’s current school.

Local students learn trades at East Georgia Skills Challenge

On Thursday, local students competed in the East Georgia Skills Challenge in 14 counties. Students competed in skills like cabinetmaking, carpentry, electrical, welding and plumbing.

Specialized programs that require an application:

Academy for Advanced Placement Studies
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM)

Other specialized programs

Cyber Academy of Excellence
Performance Learning Center (PLC)
Marion E. Barnes Career Center
Reaching Potential Through Manufacturing (RPM)

Parents can also request a school transfer under Georgia’s House Bill 251 (HB251) if space is available in the desired school. The transfer application deadline is May 1, 2025.

For more information or to apply for School Choice or HB251, visit //www.rcboe.org/choice or call 706-826-1136.