Besides serving the gifted, some also help students with special hardships. And some have special themed programs, such as math. A number of other programs and special schools are available to qualified middle school students. Enrollment is based on teacher or administrative recommendations and test results. Interested parents should contact their zoned school for more information.
All middle schools have classes for eligible gifted children.
Discovery schools serve students who lack motivation and need extra academic and personal support, or who can't succeed in the regular school program. Enrollment is capped at 420 students. Special attendance permits are yet another middle school option, allowing students who have special medical or other needs or a family hardship to attend a non-zoned school. This practice will be strictly limited, however, as a condition of the district's unitary controlled choice plan. Special attendance permits are not allowed for magnet or fundamental programs.