High School Choices

All Jefferson County Public Schools students graduate prepared, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential and contribute as thoughtful, responsible citizens of our diverse, shared world.

Welcome to JCPS!

Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) is preparing its high school students for college, career, and life using a rigorous curriculum, exciting career pathways, and hands-on learning opportunities that challenge and engage learners. We know that one size doesn’t fit all, and we are proud to offer a variety of unique school settings, programs, and activities that empower and inspire your child to reach their full potential.

We are thrilled that the Jefferson County Board of Education (JCBE) approved our new School Choice Proposal, which provides students in West Louisville the option to attend a school close to home, streamlines feeder patterns to enhance the predictability of school paths, establishes a magnet strategy that better aligns with national best practice, and provides necessary resources to schools in the newly established Choice Zone.

Whether your child is new to JCPS or continuing their education with us, we look forward to helping them explore their interests through engaging, hands- on learning opportunities that have real-world applications and bring core content to life.

All JCPS high schools offer students the opportunity to earn college credit and take Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses. The Academies of Louisville are career-themed learning communities in 15 of our high schools that set students up for success as they partner with Louisville’s business community to gain practical work experience and industry certifications.

JCPS provides families with even more school choice options through various magnet schools and programs that focus on specific professional pathways and provide specialized learning environments.

As you identify the best school fit for your child, know that each of our schools has dedicated and experienced teachers and staff who share a constant focus on three main pillars, which have earned JCPS national recognition for our transformative approaches to education: Backpack of Success Skills, Racial Equity, and Culture and Climate.

Take a moment to review the multitude of options we have available and determine how they best align with your child’s learning style and interests.

JCPS graduates earn millions of dollars in college scholarships every year and go on to exciting careers in every field you can imagine—in Louisville and across the globe. We are excited to see where your child’s journey takes them as they seek to make their mark on the world.

Dr. Marty Pollio
Superintendent
Jefferson County Public Schools

Contents

Let’s Get Started
Next Steps
How to Register & Apply
Resides Schools
Academies of Louisville
3DE by Junior Achievement
Magnet Schools
Magnet Programs
School Profiles
Specialized School Choices
English as a Second Language
Services for Students With Educational Disabilities
SchoolMint
FAQs

Let’s Get Started

JCPS has 24 high schools ensuring that students from all backgrounds can find a sense of belonging.

Students currently enrolled in the eighth grade at a JCPS school will automatically be enrolled in a high school designated by their address unless they apply and are accepted into another school. For the upcoming school year, students’ resides high school may have changed because of the new school choice plan. Find out the high school designated for where you live by using the online tool.

We understand families want to have options for their child’s education, which may include a choice other than their resides school. New for the 2023-24 school year, JCPS is also offering students living in the Choice Zone an option to attend school close to home. Eighth-grade students can also apply to network schools, Academies of Louisville, magnet schools, and magnet programs.

Review the school options, programs, and offerings at each high school with your child, and align them with your child’s goals and future plans after high school.

What Are Your Next Steps?

You may register your child for school regardless of immigration status and/or a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.

Step 1. Review Options
Review with your child and check to see if transportation is provided for the schools you’re interested in.

Step 2. Choose your school

  1. If you choose your resides school:
    • Current students: No application is needed. You will be auto-enrolled.
    • New to JCPS: Contact the school (not the district) if you’re new to JCPS. Proof of address is required.
  2. If you live in the Choice Zone:*
    • You can attend either your close-to-home option or a school farther away.
  3. If you choose a network school, magnet school, or magnet program:
    • Apply: If your choice is outside of your resides school boundary, apply during the application period: November 1–December 16, 2022. Students who apply during the application period will be notified of the status of their application by April 2023.

How to Register & Apply

Dates to Remember

Showcase of Schools: October 15, 2022
Applications open: November 1, 2022
Application deadline: December 16, 2022
Acceptance notification: April 2023

1 Register Online

  • Students who have previously attended a JCPS school don’t need to register again.
  • If you are new to JCPS and want to attend your resides high school, you must first contact the school (not the district) about new student registration. The school will require proof of address.
  • If you are new to JCPS and want to attend a magnet school or magnet program, register with the district at the JCPS School Choice Office or online.
  • Once registration is complete, JCPS will verify your information and will send you an email to complete your application, which could take up to two days.

2 Apply

If you wish to attend a school other than the school that serves your home address, you must complete an application. Families are encouraged to apply online, but in-person application options are available.

You can apply in person at the following locations:

  • JCPS School Choice Office: 4309 Bishop Lane
  • JCPS Satellite Offices by appointment only
  • California Community Center: 1600 W. Saint Catherine Street (502) 485-8746
  • Academy @ Shawnee: 4018 W. Market Street (502) 485-6787
  • JCPS English as a Second Language (ESL) Office: 1325 Bluegrass Avenue

Important to Note

  • Submitting a magnet application doesn’t guarantee admission, and submitting false information will void an application.
  • Students have the option to apply to a school within their network.
  • Waiting lists are not kept from year to year.
  • Magnet applications can only be edited during the magnet application period. If changes are made, only the most recent changes are considered.
  • Siblings of current or former magnet school students do not receive preference in the application process. However, applications for siblings who share the same birth date (twins, triplets, etc.) who are applying to a magnet that utilizes a lottery will be treated as one application. In these cases, parents must submit a separate application for each child.
  • Students must live in Jefferson County to attend a magnet school or program. If families are relocating, they should contact the JCPS School Choice Office at (502) 485-6250.
  • You may register your child for school regardless of immigration status and/or a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.

Resides Schools

Fast Facts

  • No application required
  • Transportation provided*

JCPS has 16 resides high schools, which are organized into three geographical networks, that serve primary residential addresses.

If your child does not choose their resides school, the next option is to look within your network schools. Students may apply to any school within their network. See the list of schools within each network.

*Transportation is generally not provided to students living within 1 mile of assigned school.

Network High Schools

Network 1

Doss
Fairdale
Iroquois
Pleasure Ridge Park
Valley
Western**

**Western High School is not accepting ninth graders during the 2023-24 school year and will transition to a full magnet school in the 2024-25 school year.

Network 2

Fern Creek
Jeffersontown
Marion C. Moore
Seneca
Southern

Network 3

Academy @ Shawnee
Atherton
Ballard
Eastern
Waggener

Choice Zone Schools

EQUITY • Access • Ease of Understanding • Diversity • Choice

Students living within the Choice Zone will have the choice to attend an elementary, middle, or high school close to home or a designated school farther away.

Incoming freshmen, new students to JCPS or students with an address change in the Choice Zone must complete an application to make their close-to-home or far-away school selection. There is no default school. Students can update their selection annually.

All students may also apply for magnets and transfers.

Academy @ Shawnee High
Academy @ Shawnee Middle
New West End Middle

Network 1

Maupin Elementary
Kennedy Elementary
King Elementary

Network 2

Cochran Elementary
Engelhard Elementary
McFerran Preparatory Academy
Wheatley Elementary

Network 3

Atkinson Academy
Breckinridge-Franklin Elementary
Byck Elementary
Portland Elementary

The Academies of Louisville

Fast Facts

  • If resides school, no application required
  • If network school, application required
  • Transportation provided for both resides and network schools*

*Transportation is generally not provided to students living within 1 mile of assigned school.

The Academies of Louisville are career-themed learning communities (such as Aviation, Health Sciences, Engineering, Manufacturing, Culinary, and many more) within 15 JCPS high schools that allow all students to have more hands-on experiences, work with business partners, and connect what they’re learning in core subjects to the real world.

Academies offer a new kind of educational experience, shifting from traditional techniques to deeper learning that better prepares graduates for college, career, and life. Benefits for every student include a personalized learning experience; participation in hands-on, project-based learning; development of 21st-century essential skills; and work experience with businesses like GE Appliances, UPS, Norton Healthcare, and more than 100 others. Throughout a student’s four years in their career Academy, they will have the opportunity to participate in the following:

  • Industry and college field trips
  • Job shadowing
  • Paid co-op, apprenticeship, or internships through SummerWorks
  • Ability to earn college credits and industry certifications
  • Postsecondary transition plan and a Backpack full of Success Skills

Students do not need to apply to an Academies of Louisville school if it is theirresides school. If it is a school within their network, an application to the school is required. Transportation will be provided to students if the school of choice is their designated resides school or a resides school within their network.*

3DE by Junior Achievement

3DE provides integrated learning through dynamic case challenges in which students are grouped together and “commissioned” by businesses to collaborate with their peers to develop plans that address an actual, current problem the business is facing. Each 3DE student will participate in 16 case challenges and a senior project during their four years.

3DE is an evolution of the Academies of Louisville that supports the district’s Backpack of Success Skills pillar. The program uses and enhances schools’ business partnerships by more fully integrating students into businesses’ operations through the case challenge work, which also facilitates partners’ deeper engagement in curriculum development. This engagement not only provides additional opportunities for relationship building but also aids students in graduating with a deeper understanding of business operations within and outside of their chosen pathway.

The skills demonstrated through the case challenge work within 3DE will produce several Backpack worthy artifacts as students develop competencies that progress them toward readiness for transition to postsecondary life.

If the 3DE schools are not your resides school, you must apply. A separate application is not necessary to participate in the 3DE Program. The program will expand to additional grades, and potentially additional schools, in subsequent years.

  • Academy @ Shawnee
  • Jeffersontown High School (Launched 2022-23)
  • Valley High School

Magnet Schools

Fast Facts

  • Application required
  • Transportation provided*

*Transportation is generally not provided to students living within 1 mile of assigned school.

JCPS has eight districtwide magnet high schools, two of which are located at duPont Manual. Magnet high schools provide a whole-school approach. Students throughout JCPS must apply, and bus transportation is provided for students who are accepted into magnet schools.* Submitting a magnet application does not guarantee assignment in a school.

Magnet schools offer specialized instruction of theme-based education that appeals to student interests, talents, and abilities. They also promote innovation in teaching, increased parental involvement, greater student engagement, and diverse student bodies that lead to higher student achievement.

Two of the eight magnet high schools offer the Traditional Program as their magnet. The Traditional Program provides a highly structured, back-to-basics learning environment.

Some magnet schools may ask for additional information as part of the application process, such as a student work sample or test scores. If a school requires additional information, please reply promptly and send the information directly to the school. Applications will be considered incomplete if requested information is not submitted to a school. No additional information is required for applications to Butler Traditional High School and Louisville Male High School because they utilize a lottery system.

Brown, J. Graham, School
Butler Traditional
Central High School Magnet Career Academy (MCA)
DuBois, W.E.B., High Academy
duPont Manual
Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS) at duPont Manual
Grace James Academy of Excellence
Louisville Male

Schools are listed in alphabetical order by last name.

Magnet Programs

Fast Facts

  • Application required
  • Transportation provided*

*Transportation is generally not provided to students living within 1mile of assigned school.

JCPS offers specialty programs within particular high schools that focus on a specific professional pathway or provide a specialized learning environment.

Atherton High School

International Baccalaureate—The International Baccalaureate (IB) Program develops internationally minded students who help create a better world by recognizing shared guardianship of the planet. 

Western High School

Note: Western High School is not accepting ninth graders during the 2023-24 school year and will transition to a full magnet school in the 2024-25 school year.

Early College (11th and 12th grade only)—Students can earn more than 60 free, transferable college credits in various courses from Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC). 

Culinary Arts—Students prepare for careers associated with restaurants, institutional food service, hospitality and catering, and food and beverage operations.

School Profiles

JCPS has 24 high schools, which include 16 resides high schools that serve primary residential addresses and 8 magnet schools.

Academy @ Shawnee
Atherton
Ballard
Brown, J. Graham, School
Butler Traditional
Central High Magnet Career Academy (MCA)
Doss
DuBois, W.E.B. High Academy
DuPont Manual
Eastern
Fairdale
Fern Creek
Iroquois
Grace James Academy of Excellence
Jeffersontown
Louisville Male
Marion C. Moore
Pleasure Ridge Park
Seneca
Southern
Valley
Waggener
Western*
Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS) at DuPont Manual

*Western High School is not accepting ninth graders during the 2023-24 school year and will transition to a full magnet school in the 2024-25 school year.

Specialized School Choices

Chaffee, Georgia, Teenage Parent Program.
Liberty High School
Pathfinder School of Innovation
The Phoenix School of Discovery

Schools are listed alphabetically by last name.

The Academy @ Shawnee

The Academy @ Shawnee, which was constructed in 1927 to serve West Louisville families, has invested more than $41 million into renovations to transform our historic flagship school into a model 21st-century learning environment. Shawnee has the distinction of being the only JCPS school offering the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Private Pilot License course, where students can gain the technical knowledge and skills of aviation.

Long respected for our Aviation Program, Shawnee joined the Academies of Louisville Program to provide students with additional learning opportunities

in health and human services, automation engineering, graphic design, and aircraft maintenance. The Freshman Academy, a 3DE Model School, supports the Academies by providing students with authentic and relevant interdisciplinary and project-based learning experiences.

Along with our Academies, we offer Honors, dual-credit, and Advance Program classes as well as opportunities to engage students in music and visual art. Shawnee offers a variety of exciting opportunities to prepare and empower students for success. Our students will engage in authentic learning experiences that enhance our positive school culture and community. Follow us on social media:  @ShawneeAcademy and #SOAR with us!

School Highlights

  • Leadership and teamwork skills developed through hands-on Project-Based
    Learning (PBL) that identifies and cultivates student strengths

  • Career exploration for all freshmen to discover career pathways and receive secondary and postsecondary planning guidance

  • Expanding list of dual-credit courses

  • Flight and Aeronautics Pathway

    • ​Students can take a private pilot written exam and receive flight hours needed for their private pilot’s license.

    • Home to Kentucky’s only flight simulator on a school campus

  • 3DE by Junior Achievement

    • Interdisciplinary PBL experiences increase student engagement, comprehension, and performance.

  • Management and Entrepreneurship

Quick Facts

Atherton

Atherton High School has a rich heritage of academic achievement and cultural appreciation that spans nearly 100 years. As an Academies of Louisville school, Atherton also offers students exciting opportunities for career-centered, hands-on learning; real-world work experiences through internships and job opportunities; development of critical 21st-century job and life skills; and community involvement.

Atherton is the only JCPS high school that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, which aspires to help schools develop well-rounded students who respond to challenges with optimism and an open mind, are confident in their own identities, make ethical decisions, join with others in celebrating our common humanity, and are prepared to apply what they learn in real-world, complex, and unpredictable situations.

School Highlights

  • Required units within core content areas
  • Honors Program, Advance Program, and IB Program opportunities
  • IB World School
    • Develops inquiring, knowledgeable, caring young people who help create a more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect
    • Pre-IB courses in grades nine and ten
    • IB examinations contingent on course completion
    • Colleges and universities recognize the academic depth, breadth, and rigor that IB diplomas represent.

Quick Facts

Ballard

Ballard High School strives to meet the needs of students, parents, and the community through the implementation of a rigorous and disciplined academic environment as we continue to build upon a long-standing tradition of excellence in academics, the arts, and athletics. Ballard continues to rank among the top schools in the state for a number of National Merit Finalists and Governor’s Scholars Program participants. Ballard has some of the highest state assessment scores of all Jefferson County non-selective schools, and students annually outperform Kentucky and U.S. averages on the SAT, Advanced Placement (AP), and ACT tests. Ballard is leading the way in the Academies of Louisville initiative as one of the 11 original JCPS high schools that opened as a wall-to-wall Academy school.

With ten pathway options across three different Academies, Ballard students have the opportunity to pursue programs that personally interest them. Students across all Academies benefit from unique experiences, such as hands-on training and mentoring from industry professionals. These experiences give them real world skills and practical knowledge and provide an advantage for college and career success.

School Highlights

  • Through Ballard’s diverse curriculum program, all students will have the opportunity for a positive educational experience that is tailored to meet their evolving stages of cognitive development.
  • Ballard offers an ever-expanding list of AP courses as well as the Advance Program (Gifted and Talented), Honors Program, and Exceptional Child Education (ECE) Program.
  • Ballard 101
    • For ninth-grade students
    • Semester-long course that supports student efforts, encourages student success, and improves personal and academic skills
    • Helps students make informed coursework decisions
    • Assists in individual postsecondary planning
  • Recent pathway additions: Allied Health and Retail Services/Fashion

Quick Facts

J. Graham Brown School

The J. Graham Brown School serves as a districtwide K–12 magnet school for students who thrive in a Self-Directed Learning environment. Students engage in an aligned college preparatory liberal arts curriculum based on our four tenets of Self-Directed Learning: Independence, Empathy, Initiative, and Innovation.

Our academic program cultivates critical, open-minded, and creative thinkers who are willing to take risks and are eager for new knowledge. Our learning environment develops compassionate, tolerant, and respectful human beings who value cultural diversity and contribute to the community. Grade-level academic performance and age-appropriate social skills are expected for success in this informal educational setting.

School Highlights

  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer college credit opportunity.
  • College and dual-credit classes at local universities and online as early as sophomore year
  • 90-minute alternating block schedule
  • Service learning required and integrated into curriculum
  • Cross-grade collaboration and mentorship
  • Project-Based Learning (PBL) teaches authentic, real-world problem-solving skills.
  • Prepares students to be contributors to the community by acquiring skills identified in our Self-Directed Learning Framework
  • Student-led conferences focus on setting and tracking goals and self-reflecting on the learning process.
  • Self-Directed Learning Showcases provide an opportunity to demonstrate projects and show the difference students are making in the community.

Career Pathway

Computer Science

Quick Facts

Butler Traditional

The Traditional Magnet Program provides a rigorous academic curriculum in a highly structured learning environment that is essential for maximum student achievement. The Traditional Program contributes to a student’s growth by placing an added emphasis on high academic standards, proper conduct, citizenship, and the development of self-discipline. A focus on the core subjects and an emphasis on critical thinking help students build basic knowledge and gain high competence in fundamental skills.

Our mission is to produce informed, responsible, contributing members of society. In order to do this, we offer a safe and structured learning environment that fosters a positive self-concept and perpetuates self-motivation and high academic achievement. After leaving Butler, alumni can rest easy knowing that they’re better prepared for college and for the life they have ahead of them.

School Highlights

  • Traditional education and rigorous college-preparatory curriculum
  • Honors Program and Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Dual-credit courses through the University of Louisville (UofL) and Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC)

Career Pathways

  • Allied Health
    • Skills training and experiential learning opportunities
    • Prepares students for nursing, pharmacy technician, sports medicine/athletic trainer, medical assistant, EKG technician, phlebotomist, and veterinary assistant careers
  • Army JROTC
    • Focuses on citizenship, character, and leadership
    • Emphasis on community service through partnerships with communities and educational institutions
  • Pre-Nursing
    • Prepares students to apply basic health science principles and technical skills
  • Automation Engineering
    • Students achieve career goals and industry certifications through engineering career-themed courses.
  • Teaching and Learning
    • Opportunities to participate in classroom activities
    • Emphasis on construction of knowledge, development of dispositions for teaching, and reflections on teaching and learning
    • Learn to design engaging, standards-based lessons and assessments
  • Web Development/Administration
    • Create, design, and produce interactive multimedia products and services
    • Develop digitally generated or computer-enhanced media and adhere to web standards used in business, training, communications, and marketing
    • Prepare students to further their education or enter the workforce as leaders in a broad range of careers
  • Network Administration
    • Learn new administration support skills or upgrade existing computer information systems skills
    • Learn to install networking software, configure software for simple server environment and connect it to physical network, and more
  • Management and Entrepreneurship
    • Learn to plan, organize, direct, and control functions and processes of a firm or organization
    • Instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision making

Quick Facts

Central High School Magnet Career Academy

Central High School Magnet Career Academy (MCA) hosts some of the most talented students in Louisville. Students are selected for admission through a competitive process that includes achievement test scores, grade point average (GPA), personal essays, and teacher recommendations. Central has the second highest number of Governor’s Scholars in the district, is one of two Kentucky high schools to offer Montessori education, and offers 11 career pathways through a robust career-themed magnet program.

School Highlights

  • Rigorous pre-college curriculum
  • Eleven career programs in the following areas of concentration: business; law; Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); health services; and teaching and learning
  • AP Capstone (Seminar/Research)
    • Two-year course
    • Prepares students for academic demands of college
    • Variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Dual-credit courses through the University of Louisville (UofL), Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC), and Morehead State University (MSU); offers early college opportunities through school’s medical programs
  • Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC)
  • Montessori learning

Career Pathways

  • Management and Entrepreneurship
  • Marketing
    • Learn about buyer behavior and dynamics, principle of marketing research, demand analysis, cost-volume and profit relationships, and more.
  • Cyber Engineering
    • Blend of programming, cybersecurity, and hardware engineering
    • Research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components
    • Explore robotics, electricity, and security concerns
  • Dental Assisting
    • Learn about patient care, dental radiographs (x-ray photographs), dental procedure equipment, and office administrative functions under the supervision of dentists and dental hygienists
  • Navy JROTC
    • Learn about theory and practice of naval science and life in the U.S. Navy
  • Pre-Med
  • Pre-Nursing
    • Prepares students to apply basic health science principles and technical skills
    • Veterinary Assistant
    • Learn about animal nursing care, animal health and nutrition, animal handling, clinical pathology, radiology, surgical assisting, clinical laboratory procedures, and more.
  • Teaching & Learning
    • Opportunities to participate in classroom activities
    • Emphasis on construction of knowledge, development of dispositions for teaching, and reflections on teaching and learning
    • Learn to design engaging, standards-based lessons and assessments

Quick Facts

Doss

Doss students are encouraged to be passionate, engaged, and ultimately, the best versions of themselves. Our mission is to inspire, create, and foster authentic learning opportunities that maximize student engagement. Our goal every single day is to provide the absolute best education possible for each student and give them the chance to feel like a true part of the school.

We have four great Academies in one great school, and every student will be affiliated with one of the four Academies. Student ownership in their overall success is critical at Doss. By attaching themselves to an Academy, students will be fully engaged in an authentic learning experience that travels across all content areas and that will bring a stronger overall enjoyment to school. Academies offer a new kind of educational experience—a shift from traditional techniques and environments to deeper learning and transition readiness for college, career, and life.

School Highlights

  • ProjectBased Learning (PBL) teaches authentic, realworld problemsolving skills.
  • Smaller Learning Communities: Selfselected career academies function as small teams for a more personalized learning experience.
  • Traditional, Advance, Honors, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Dualcredit coursework within each career pathway
  • Students prepare for careerspecific national industry certifications.
  • WorkBased Learning: Authentic pathway observation and employment opportunities in collaboration with local business partnerships, such as GE Appliances, Class Act, Galt House, Crowne Plaza, Papa John’s, Toshiba, Norton Healthcare, Trilogy Health Services, and more

Quick Facts

  • Student Enrollment: 945
  • Principal: Julie Chancellor
  • Academy Coach: Tina Carraro
  • Phone: (502) 485-8239
  • Address: 7601 St. Andrews Church Road, Louisville, KY 40214
  • Web: http://doss.jcps.schooldesk.net/

W.E.B. DuBois High Academy

Gender-Specific Magnet for Boys: W.E.B. DuBois High Academy is an innovative school serving grades six through twelve that opened in 2018. Open to all male students, our innovative learning environment offers an Afrocentric, multicultural curriculum that is both rigorous and engaging. Our mission is to engage, eliminate barriers, and empower each young man to achieve excellence. We guarantee that each student will demonstrate growth, becoming more adept mathematicians, readers, writers, and speakers, while also becoming better role models, listeners, and leaders in their homes and communities.

School Highlights

  • Districtwide magnet school
  • Uses evidence-based research and culturally responsive teaching methods
  • Core tenets: literacy, numeracy, social sciences, technology usage, speaking a foreign language
  • Focus on leadership attributes, including perseverance, resilience, initiative, discipline, and empathy
  • Dual-credit opportunities via a partnership with Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC), which could lead to scholars earning an associate’s degree upon graduation

Quick Facts

DuPont Manual

duPont Manual High School is a districtwide magnet school that provides a dynamic, interdisciplinary, diverse learning community that focuses on rigorous academic, technical, and artistic collegepreparatory magnet programs.

Manual offers students the opportunity to combine strong academics with specialized instruction in one of five magnet programs: High School/University (HSU), Journalism and Communications (J&C), Mathematics/Science/Technology (MST), Visual Arts (VA), and Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS). The Advance Program is also available for eligible students. Through a working relationship with the University of Louisville (UofL), qualified students in all programs may take college courses for credit.

School Highlights

  • Districtwide communications, college prep, Math/Science/Technology
  • (MST), visual arts, and performing arts programs
  • Advance Program and 30 Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Highest ACT average of any Kentucky high school
  • Highest number of students selected for Governor’s School for the Arts,
  • National Merit Semifinalists, Governor’s Scholars, Governor’s School for the Arts in state
  • Collegecredit classes available through UofL and Campbellsville University partnerships
  • Provides academic classes for YPAS
  • Comprehensive art classes

Magnet Programs and Pathways

  • High School/University (HSU)
    • Rigorous liberal arts experience through exploration of disciplines beyond core magnet requirements
    • Demanding college preparatory curriculum
    • Proximity to UofL facilitates opportunities for AP and dualcredit courses.
  • Journalism and Communication (J&C)
    • Emphasizes realworld experiences and audiences
    • State-of-the-art technology and professional partnerships to help students master communication and media skills
  • Mathematics/Science/Technology (MST)
    • Researchbased curriculum of rigorous coursework in life science, biotechnology, microbiology, optics, modern physics, robotics, and computer programming
    • Collegelevel research facilitated through university scientists and engineering mentorships
  • Visual Arts (VA)
    • Rigorous, specialized curriculum incorporates drawing, painting, sculpture, textiles, printmaking, and computeraided design
    • Teaches creative problemsolving skills while surpassing scholastic and professional standards for visual art at the high school level
  • Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS)

Quick Facts

Eastern

At Eastern High School, learners discover their talents and strengthen their abilities through a broad spectrum of liberal arts and extracurricular opportunities, cuttingedge technology, and rigorous coursework empowering them as leaders and preparing them for college, career, and community.

Eastern has earned an award for being a High Performing School in the Unbridled

Learning/College & Career Readiness for All accountability system. This award is given to schools that are leaders in preparing students for college and careers.

School Highlights

  • Academics comprise three programs: Advanced, Honors, and Comprehensive.
  • College dual-credit courses and 23 Advanced Placement (AP) courses give students the opportunity to earn invaluable college credit while in high school.
  • The Business and Information Technology (BIT) Program is unique to Eastern. It offers 27 different classes available for students. Eastern High School’s BIT Program is rated one of the best in Kentucky as well as in the country.
  • An award-winning arts program encourages students to explore instrumental music, performing arts, and visual arts.

Career Pathways

  • Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC)
    • Focus on citizenship, character, and leadership
    • Partially sponsored by the military services
    • Emphasis on community service through partnerships with communities and educational institutions
  • Consumer and Family Services
    • Develop knowledge and skills central to career areas involving human services, consumer services, consumer protection, advising, education, and training
    • Learn about available social and community services
  • Cinematography and Video Production
    • Learn to communicate dramatic information, ideas, moods, and feelings through the making and producing of videos and cinematographic expression
  • Computer Programming
    • Focus on computer theory and computing problems/solutions
    • Learn about designs of computer systems and user interfaces
    • Opportunity to earn AP credit
  • Graphic Design
    • Learn principles and techniques for effectively communicating ideas and information
    • Learn how to package products to business and consumer audiences digitally and in other formats
  • High School of Business™
    • Introduction to collegeinspired business administration
    • Accelerated series of six courses challenge students with handson marketing, management, finance, and economics courses
  • Dualcredit opportunities
  • Information Support and Services
    • Focus on the design of computing systems
    • Instruction in the principles of computer hardware and software components, algorithms, databases, and telecommunications
  • Network Security
    • Learn to design, install, secure, and repair a Local Area Network (LAN), including all network devices, servers, and desktop computers
  • Web Development/Administration
    • Create, design, and produce interactive multimedia products and services
    • Develop digitally generated or computerenhanced media and adhere to web standards, as used in business, training, communications, and marketing

Quick Facts

  • Student Enrollment: 2,051

  • Principal: Dr. Heather Orman
  • Phone: (502) 485-8243
  • Address: 12400 Old Shelbyville Road, Louisville, KY 40243
  • Web: http://www.easterneagles.org/

Fairdale

Fairdale High School has a proud tradition of preparing its students to find success after graduation, whether they’re going on to college or a career. Long respected for its highly regarded magnet programs for vocations, such as heavy highway construction and community emergency services (police, fire, and EMS), Fairdale joined the Academies of Louisville Program in the 201819 school year. This program provides students with real-world experience and learning opportunities in civil service, public service, and global service career Academies as well as a fourth Academy for freshmen.

Opening its present-day school doors in 1958, Fairdale High School graduated its first class in 1962. The mascot is the Bulldog, and its school colors are navy blue and gold. The community of Fairdale, once known as Mann’s Lick, is now considered a neighborhood located within the boundaries of Louisville Metro.

School Highlights

  • Four professional career-themed programs
  • Cambridge International school with focus on global problem solving and citizenship
  • Unique support programs like the RISE intervention and enrichment system
  • Mindfulness Program that supports social-emotional needs

Quick Facts

Fern Creek

Our mission is to ensure readiness for college, career, and citizenship. Since 1923, our school has set high expectations for all partners in the educational process to help our students achieve their dreams. As an Academies of Louisville school and a Model Professional Learning Community, Fern Creek believes that each classroom and program should be tailored for each student to reach their full intellectual capacity and to be prepared for postsecondary success. Our Academies and business partnerships provide authentic, hands-on experiences and future career opportunities while allowing students to earn college credits and industry certifications.

School Highlights

  • Freshman Academy
    • Allows students to test their interest in the career pathways available to them
    • Concludes with student decision on which Academy best fits their personalized learning pathway
  • Ivy Plus Academy
    • Connect high-achieving students with nation’s top colleges
    • Provides information, guidance, mentoring, and means to gain acceptance to elite institutions

Academies and Pathways

  • Communications
    • Four core specialized, intensive, sequential courses in digital media, business,and/or technology
  • Engineering, Computer Science, and Skilled Trades
    • University mentors provided through collaboration with University of Louisville’s (UofL) Speed School
    • Computer science dual-credit options through partnerships with additional postsecondary institutions
    • Automation Engineering and Mechanical Designer pathways integrate computer programming, robotics engineering, and computer-aided design
    • Fire Science: Weekly trainings with Fern Creek Fire Department (FCFD); earn International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) certification
  • Education, Community, and Service
    • Consumer and Family Management, Culinary and Food Services, Early Childhood Education, and Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) pathways offered
    • Opportunity to earn industry certifications

Quick Facts

Iroquois

Our mission at Iroquois High School is to foster academic strength, emotional resilience, and social responsibility. We are committed to providing all students equitable access to opportunities that are championed by culturally proficient staff and diverse stakeholders. Iroquois joined the Academies of Louisville in 2018 to offer students the opportunity to explore and prepare for a variety of potential career pathways. Academies allow students to fully engage in personalized educational experiences that encompass multiple content areas and bring relevance to classroom instruction. As a member of their Academy, students enjoy a small community dedicated to supporting their future success.

School Highlights

  • Cultural Diversity: Students from 54+ countries speak 41+ languages
  • Small Learning Community: Personalized, cross-curricular learning experience
  • Academic courses: Honors, Advance, Advanced Placement (AP), and dual-credit
  • Variety of elective courses offered, including courses that earn college credit and industry certifications.
  • Builder’s Apprenticeship Academy
    • Hands-on experience in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, welding, and electrical
    • Apprenticeship opportunities with local employers for TRACK pathways students
  • Culinary and Food Services Pathway
    • Learn how to prepare and plate food in a fully equipped, on-campus kitchen
    • Gain industry certifications, understanding of nutrition, and business and service basics related to various restaurant and culinary environments

Quick Facts

Grace James Academy of Excellence

Districtwide Gender-Specific Magnet With an Afrocentric STEAM Perspective: Grace James Academy of Excellence illuminates academic excellence in an innovative, nontraditional, multicultural, gender-specific environment. Grace James creates transformative learning spaces where Girls Excelling in Math and Science (GEMS) are empowered as change agents as they learn a rigorous Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) curriculum through an Afrocentric lens. Inclusivity and empowerment are at the forefront of our school culture as we focus on social and emotional success through our Collaboration, Resilience, Originality, Willingness, and Narrative (CROWN) Values through a unified sisterhood approach. Every GEM will proudly wear their CROWN at Grace James Academy of Excellence! Ready to join our sisterhood?

School Highlights

  • Utilize modern classrooms and blended-learning models to offer personalized, studentcentered learning
  • Cross-curriculum STEAM focus in core classes with multiple industry partnerships
  • Student voice, advocacy, and service-learning platforms supported through problem-based and Project-Based Learning (PBL) opportunities
  • An Afrocentric model teaches students to see the world through multiple lenses and be advocates for others.
  • Current Grace James middle school students will be in an accelerated career pathways program (due to exposure to Explore Pathways).
  • Beyond the CROWN: The goal is to implement off-campus internships and coop opportunities that are aligned with career pathways.

Career Pathways

  • Health Science
    • Coop opportunities
    • Industry-specific certifications and dual-credit  opportunities
  • Engineering and Design
    • In collaboration with local universities and community partners
    • Exploratory program aimed at getting students exposed to all engineering fields so they can make informed decisions when choosing a career
    • Engineering certifications and dual-credit  opportunities
  • Data Science/Informatics
    • Collaboration with Microsoft Future Initiative
    • Industry-specific certifications and dual-credit  opportunities
  • Working toward implementing the Early College Program

Quick Facts

Jeffersontown

At Jeffersontown High School, students are immersed in the full Academy of Louisville experience. With award-winning arts and music programs, a variety of dual-credit  and Advanced Placement (AP) offerings, a wide variety of sports and clubs, and unique work-based learning opportunities, there is truly something for everyone at Jeffersontown High School.

Students will spend a year adapting to high school and exploring career options in the Freshman Academy. From there, students will become a member of a small learning community by entering the Build and Design Academy or the Business and Health Science Academy. Within their Academy, students will partake in challenging coursework while also learning about a career path directly related to their Academy: Engineering, Welding, CAD, Machinist Operator, Teaching & Learning, or Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) for Build & Design students or Patient Care Tech, Allied Health, Financial Services, or Marketing for Business & Health Science students.

Students will leave Jeffersontown High School with a sense of purpose and, more importantly, the skills and knowledge necessary to be a productive member of society—whether they will be joining the workforce or furthering their education.

School Highlights

  • Small teams of students and teachers offer a personalized learning experience.
  • Advisory opportunities prepare students for entry into the workforce or post-secondary education.
  • Dual-credit  classes offered in partnership with a variety of universities
  • Advance Program and Advanced Placement (AP) classes
  • The Academy Experience
    • Choose an Academy based on career interests after Freshman Academy
    • Real-world experience offered through job-shadowing opportunities, career exploration, work with business partners, work-based learning, and Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Quick Facts

Louisville Male

Louisville Male High School is a student-centered, college-preparatory, districtwide traditional magnet high school and one of the top-rated high schools in Kentucky. Since 1856, Louisville Male has been committed to supporting the goals and ambitions of its students. That pledge is reflected in an educational experience that demonstrates an unwavering commitment to create proficient, lifelong learners, critical thinkers, problem solvers, and communicators within a uniquely structured environment emphasizing student success, discipline, patriotism, traditional values, and service to society. Our mission is to provide a comprehensive and challenging precollege curriculum that fosters academic integrity and excellence.

School Highlights

  • Rigorous college-preparatory curriculum in a traditional setting
  • 21 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and other advanced level courses
  • Dual-credit  courses through the University of Louisville (UofL)
  • Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) Program

Traditional Magnet Program

The Traditional Magnet Program provides a rigorous academic curriculum in a highly structured learning environment essential for maximum student achievement. The Traditional Program contributes to a student’s growth by emphasizing high academic standards, proper conduct, citizenship, and the development of self-discipline. A focus on the core subjects and emphasis on critical thinking help students build basic knowledge and gain high competence in fundamental skills.

Career Pathways

  • Accounting
    • Learn to analyze and record financial transactions and report results to managers/owners
  • Army JROTC
    • Build skills in leadership, personal growth and behaviors, citizenship, decision making, health and fitness, first aid, team building, service learning, and geography
  • Computer Programming Blended Hybrid
    • Learn to design and create apps, troubleshoot programming languages
    • Upon completion of this career pathway, students will be prepared for an entrylevel position or continue their education in Computer Programming.
  • E-Commerce
    • Learn about the creation, execution, transmission, and evaluation of commercial messages in various media intended to promote and sell products, services, and brands.
  • Management and Entrepreneurship
    • Learn to plan, organize, direct, and control functions and processes of a firm or organization
    • Instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision making
  • PLTW Biomedical Sciences
    • Learn about basic medical sciences at the research level and biological science research in biomedical facilities
  • Teaching and Learning
    • Opportunities to participate in classroom activities
    • Emphasis on construction of knowledge, development of dispositions for teaching, and reflections on teaching and learning
    • Learn to design engaging, standards-based lessons and assessments

Quick Facts

Marion C. Moore

At Marion C. Moore, an Academies of Louisville school, our culture stems from our vision that Marion C. Moore will be the school where students want to be, adults want to work, and the community is proud to have their children attend.

We are the largest school in Louisville and proudly have grades six through twelve. Your child can be with us for seven years. This is a unique benefit of Moore’s combined school model. Moore is leading the way in the Academies of Louisville initiative. Moore’s Academies include Freshman Academy; Health Sciences Academy; Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Academy; and Community Academy. In these Academies, we currently offer 12 career pathway choices.

At Moore, students will be able to participate in real work experiences with field trips, job shadows, internships, potential apprenticeships, and other work-based learning experiences related to their career choices, all while potentially earning college credits as they go.

Moore has 15+ business partners, and we are adding to these all the time. These partners help advise on our career choice pathways and are up to date with current demands and trends. These business partners also host many of our student involvement opportunities. We encourage you to #KNOWMOORE and follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mooremustangs and @tracimorrishunt.

School Highlights

  • Wide variety of electives that most closely align with pathway, career, and personal interests
  • Honors, Advance Program, Advanced Placement (AP) classes
  • Opportunities for dual credit in academic and career courses and industry certifications
  • Freshman Seminar teaches skills that promote initiative and responsibility for learning, effective teamwork and communication, critical thinking, and problem solving along with some reallife skills needed so desperately by today’s youth.

Quick Facts

  • Student Enrollment: 1,293 (Grades 9–12)
  • Principal: Traci M. Hunt
  • Academy Coach: Jeanne Meredith
  • Phone: (502) 485-8304
  • Address: 6415 Outer Loop, Louisville, KY 40228
  • Web: http://mooremustangs.com

Pleasure Ridge Park

Pleasure Ridge Park (PRP) High School’s mission is to empower students to become dedicated and engaged in their classrooms, careers, and communities. We are leading the way in the Academies of Louisville initiative.

Along with the four Academies of PRP, we offer the Honors Program and PRP Advance Program. PRP has a long tradition as a top Advance Program school, and seasoned teachers encourage gifted and talented students to reach their full potential. Our Advance Program students are challenged in the classroom and are accustomed to a rigorous curriculum that allows them to be successful in college.

PRP students have many opportunities to showcase their skills in our visual and performing arts courses.

School Highlights

  • Small teams of students and teachers offer a personalized learning experience.
  • Introduction to extracurricular, cocurricular, sports, and other school-sponsored activities through Freshmen Seminar
  • Opportunities to earn industry certifications and dual credit in chosen career pathway
  • Award-winning visual and performing arts classes include theatre, dance, orchestra, band, graphic design, choir, and visual arts.
  • Hosts several hands-on learning environments, including health sciences lab, CAD lab, and welding lab

Quick Facts

  • Student Enrollment: 1,535
  • Principal: Sheri Duff
  • Academy Coach: Deanna Hawks
  • Phone: (502) 485-8311
  • Address: 5901 Greenwood Road, Louisville, KY 40258
  • Web: www.ridgetalk.co

Seneca

Seneca High School is a positive, caring community where staff members and scholars are committed to becoming exemplary models for success in a global society. Our mission is to prepare scholars for college and career goals as measured by the state academic standards. We have four distinct Academies and 12 pathways. Our Academies include the Freshman Academy, Agri-Science and Leadership Academy, Health and Education Academy, and Law and IT Academy.

Seneca’s Academies are committed to connecting our classrooms to community, college, and career, thereby increasing scholar engagement and achievement. To accomplish this, we engage scholars with meaningful and relevant content; provide scholars with real skills for the real world; guide scholars in career discovery and career exploration; foster relationships and connections between scholars, staff, community, college, and career; and empower scholars by offering hands-on, real-world learning experiences with our community and business partners.

School Highlights

  • Advance Program, Advanced Placement (AP), 20+ dual-credit opportunities
  • Urban Agri-Science Technology Pathway
    • Only JCPS school to offer this pathway
    • Animal science pathway—veterinary medicine, equine science, and small animal science
    • Plant science pathway—greenhouse management, floral and landscape design, and Ag sales and marketing
    • Fish and wildlife pathway—habitats; wildlife rehabilitation; plant, soil, and water quality; aquaculture; pollution and contamination; and renewable practices in forestry
    • Ag power pathway—complex systems and technology used to get agricultural products to consumer
    • Laboratories, field experiences, student-run businesses, supervised agriculture experiences, and leadership development through Future Farmers of America (FFA)
    • Potential to earn dual credit through Murray State University

Quick Facts

  • Student Enrollment: 1,344
  • Principal: Michael Guy
  • Academy Coach: Emily Wirtzberger
  • Phone: (502) 485-8323
  • Address: 3510 Goldsmith Lane, Louisville, KY 40220
  • Web: http://seneca.jcps.schooldesk.net/

Southern

Southern High School’s mission is to use a collaborative process focused on learning, ensuring that all students develop 21st-century skills so that they will be college- and career-ready.

Southern High School’s mission is to use a collaborative process focused on learning, ensuring that all students develop 21stcentury skills so that they will be college and career-ready. Southern is leading the way in the Academies of Louisville initiative. We are student-focused, knowing that teaching only occurs if all students learn. Students can expect to be given the opportunity to become successful in whatever area they choose. They can expect their teachers to use a collaborative effort, while being firm, fair, and consistent.

Southern has a community feel and is quickly becoming known for its innovation and concern for all students. Students and teachers alike are gaining recognition for their work on the state and national level.

School Highlights

  • Four Academies and 13 Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair Pathway
    • Only school to offer this pathway in JCPS
    • Gain hands-on training while working in onsite Automotive Repair Shop
    • Learn to safely operate equipment
    • Graduate with industry certifications and prepared to begin a career in the automotive industry
  • iGen Academy
    • Gain financial literacy while working at a fully operational Class Act Federal Credit Union branch on the school’s campus (paid summer training program required for this opportunity)
    • Many students begin fulltime careers with Class Act after graduating from the program

Quick Facts

Valley

Graduating its first class in 1937, Valley has a distinguished history, a vibrant present, and a promising future. Our vision is for all of our students to graduate prepared to be compassionate and productive citizens.

Valley’s mission is to be a supportive and diverse community dedicated to meeting the needs of all students through pathways that develop skills to be successful in postsecondary endeavors. As an Academies of Louisville school, Valley offers students a variety of challenging academic classes, exciting career pathways, and award-winning extracurricular offerings. With the help of our community partnerships, our students have the opportunity to work with the latest technology, gain valuable job experience, and develop connections in the career fields of their choice.

Plus, it doesn’t stop there! Valley is also home to the prestigious 3DE by Junior Achievement (JA) program. This immersive learning experience provides our students with relevant, authentic, project-based applications and real-world case study challenges.

School Highlights

  • Distinguished College Scholars Program
    • Rigorous courses, mentor guidance, increased leadership opportunities, and community service involvement
  • 3DE by JA
    • Collaboration to solve complex problems using innovative learning methods
  • Advanced Placement (AP) and dual-credit  courses
  • Opportunities to earn industry certifications and college credits in the areas of health science, veterinary medicine, computer coding, game design and development, business, industry trades, and Navy JROTC

Quick Facts

Waggener

Waggener is the proud home of inspired adults and prepared students who are empowered to use their diverse talents and personalized learning experience to benefit society.

Waggener is leading the way in the Academies of Louisville, featuring two career-focused learning communities with eight different career pathways.

A rigorous precollege curriculum complements our career pathway options with multiple opportunities to receive college credit, saving students thousands of dollars in tuition and preparing them with the experience necessary to successfully complete a college degree program.

Waggener offers robust athletics, fine arts, and extracurricular programs and integrates service learning into the curriculum.

School Highlights

  • Nationally accredited Freshman Academy named Model Status through National Career Academy Coalition (NCAC)
  • 15+ business partners offer field trips, mentoring, mock interviews, résumé writing, job shadows, paid internships, and apprenticeships
  • Learning environment develops compassionate, tolerant, and respectful human beings who value cultural diversity and contribute to the community through service-learning opportunities
  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses and dual-credit  courses through four local universities
  • Opportunities to earn nationally recognized industry certification and internship experience through the University of Louisville (UofL), Western Kentucky University (WKU), Sullivan University, and Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC)
  • Waggener graduates begin postsecondary endeavors with nationally recognized industry certification and internship experience.

Quick Facts

Western

Note: Western High School is not accepting ninth graders during the 2023-24 school year and will transition to a full magnet school in the 202425 school year.

Western High School strives to engage, prepare, and graduate all students ready for their education and career goals. To ensure this, the Western Warrior Way is to be engaged in learning today and empowered for success tomorrow!

Students can engage in various programs at Western, including Early College, Culinary Arts, Carpentry, Graphic Design, Management and Entrepreneurship, and Allied Health. Over four years, students can earn up to 60 college credits, tuition-free, through our Advance, Comprehensive, and Honors Programs.

Additionally, Western is one of only two JCPS schools offering the Louisville Rotary Mentoring Program, which works to help our students better transition into life after high school.

School Highlights

  • Small learning communities offer a personalized learning experience.
  • Residential Carpentry
    • Gain practical experience in construction by installing and repairing wood structures and fixtures
    • Graduate with knowledge and skills to begin a career in the construction industry
  • Culinary Arts
    • Learn how to prepare and plate food in a fully equipped, on-campus kitchen
    • Gain industry certifications, understanding of nutrition, and business and service basics related to various restaurant and culinary environments
    • Earn Barista Certification while working at Culinary Café, which is made possible through a partnership with Heine Brothers Coffee

Quick Facts

  • Student Enrollment: 863
  • Principal: Michael Kelly
  • Academy Coach: Rick Moir
  • Phone: (502) 485-8344
  • Address: 2501 Rockford Lane, Louisville, KY 40216
  • Web: https://www.jcpswesternhighschool.com

Youth Performing Arts School

The Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS) at duPont Manual High School is the most comprehensive performing arts high school in Kentucky, where students have the distinct opportunity to train, learn, and nurture their talent to become tomorrow’s artists. No tuition is required; however, students must audition to attend. Students are selected to attend by a competitive process that evaluates achievement test scores, academic achievement, personal essays, teacher recommendations, performing arts auditions, and an onsite writing prompt.

YPAS is one of only two schools in Kentucky to provide high school students with majors in the performing arts. Students team up with faculty, parents, professional artists, and community members to develop, perfect, and practice their craft in artistic experiences uncommon to any regular program school setting. Students’ success is founded on commitment and discipline applied to the artistic program, and success is enhanced by the school’s rich diversity and understanding of the creative spirit.

School Highlights

  • College and Career Day
    • Annual event
    • College, university, or conservatory representatives audition YPAS seniors for assignment in postsecondary performing arts programs.
    • Provides opportunity to talk with colleges, universities, and conservatory representatives about program applications and auditions and to receive special scholarships
  • YPAS cocurricular performance program
    • Comprehensive classroom learning experience coupled with hands-on performance opportunities
    • All students have the opportunity to participate in afterschool performances and touring companies that perform regionally and internationally.
  • Academic classes taken at duPont Manual High School complement arts education.

Majors

The districtwide programs at YPAS are similar to university programs in structure, scope, and instruction. Students are immersed in intensive and expansive professional training on stage and in the classroom that prepares them for college, conservatory, and beyond.

  • Band: Wind and Percussion Instruments
  • Dance
  • Design and Production (Technical Theatre)
  • Guitar
  • Musical Theatre
  • Orchestra: Stringed Instruments
  • Piano
  • Theatre (Drama/Acting)
  • Vocal Music

Quick Facts

  • Student Enrollment: 422
  • Administrative Director: Cayce Crowder
  • Principal: Dr. Michael Newman
  • Phone: (502) 485-8355
  • Address: 1517 South Second Street, Louisville, KY 40208
  • Web: http://www.ypas.org

Specialized School Choices

JCPS offers other school options to meet the various needs of Jefferson County students. For more information on admission to these schools, contact Student Relations at (502) 485-3335.

Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program

Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program (TAPP) is designed to prevent school dropout due to teen pregnancy and parenting. The program, offered to middle and high school students throughout Jefferson County, is available at 1010 Neighborhood Place. Since 1970, TAPP has enabled thousands of young women to complete their high school education. Achievement is a key component of TAPP, with an increasing number of our graduates enrolling in accredited colleges and technical career programs. Being a mother at a young age presents many barriers to success in school, such as illness, childcare issues, transportation, and access to medical care. TAPP provides these and other valuable services onsite so students never have to leave campus.

Liberty High School

Liberty High School is a new Big Picture School that enrolls students in grades seven through twelve. The programs are designed to support students who need additional resources at their current grade level in an effort to meet academic needs and assist in transitioning to the next grade level. Liberty offers students the opportunity to succeed with a small teacher-to-student ratio, individualized graduation plans, life skills education, internship opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences. Liberty offers classes on a quarter schedule and with block scheduling. Liberty’s classes are offered quarterly, providing students the opportunity to earn extra credits toward graduation.

Pathfinder School of Innovation

The Pathfinder School of Innovation, JCPS’s only comprehensive virtual school for students in grades six through twelve, has a goal of producing exemplary levels of achievement through research-based instruction and data-driven assessment to provide our students with a strong foundation to pursue a variety of postsecondary opportunities. Pathfinder students receive asynchronous (on-demand) instruction so that they may learn at their own pace with synchronous (live) support and intensive progress monitoring. The Pathfinder School of Innovation works to meet each student’s needs academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally, just as they would for in-person instruction, using digital tools and resources. Advanced Placement (AP), dual credit, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses are available online to Pathfinder students.

The Phoenix School of Discovery

The Phoenix School of Discovery is a choice school that specializes in meeting the needs of students through differentiated instruction. The Phoenix School enrolls students in grades six through twelve. Classes are taught by highly qualified educators in a setting that offers a small

Student-to-teacher ratio. Instruction is further enhanced by technology and interventions targeting students’ social, emotional, and academic needs. The school’s primary focus is not only to prepare students in grades six through twelve to reach state proficiency levels but also to meet the needs of the students where they are and to equip them with the necessary skills to be successful in life after high school.

English as a Second Language

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Department, located at 1325 Bluegrass Avenue, serves families who need help with English. The ESL Department works closely with students and families to ensure that English Language Learners (ELLs) attain English proficiency. The department also offers language services and facilitates communication between families and schools to help maintain a strong connection in the educational process. For information on how to obtain ESL services, contact the office at (502) 485-3623 to make an appointment.

Newcomer Academy

The Newcomer Academy (NCA) seeks to provide a welcoming and respectful environment that meets the unique linguistic, academic, and social-emotional needs of ELLs in grades six through twelve in the JCPS District. These students typically are in their first year of instruction

in a U.S. school. They are usually at the “entering” level (a 1.0 to 2.0 level of English proficiency on the World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment [WIDA]) and may have had limited, or interrupted, educational experiences in their previous countries. Students are referred to the NCA by the ESL Intake Center, where all families of a non-English-language background register when they first enter the JCPS District. At the ESL Intake Center, new students complete an English language assessment, and students in middle and high school who score below a certain threshold are referred to the NCA. Enrollment at the NCA is completely voluntary, and parents may waive ESL services at any time. NCA students transition to another middle or high school with an ESL Program once they have achieved a level of “emerging” (2.1) or higher on a WIDA test. For more information on the Newcomer Academy, contact the school at (502) 485-6324.

Accelerate to Graduate

The Accelerate to Graduate (A2G) Program is designed for graduating seniors at Newcomer Academy. The A2G Program allows seniors to participate in individualized coursework. The coursework focuses on project-based learning and achieving competency in content standards in order for students to meet all remaining graduation requirements. To be eligible for the A2G Program, the student must currently be an ELL, be 18 or over, and need 10 or fewer credits to graduate high school. Learn more by calling the Newcomer Academy at (502) 485-6324.

Services for Students With Educational Disabilities

Exceptional Child Education (ECE) services are available for students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Kentucky Administrative Regulations (KARs). Students receive specially designed instruction to meet their needs as described on the Individual Education Program (IEP). Each student is served in the school that they would attend if not disabled unless the IEP requires some other arrangement.

The ECE Parent Resource Center assists parents in understanding the special education process. The staff helps parents work in partnership with their child’s school. The ECE website offers information on Assessment, IEP Development, Parent Resources, Placement, Programs, Policy and Procedures, and Quick Call Listings at https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/node/5131.

SchoolMint

Action Required:

  • All families must create a new account to submit school applications at http://jcpsapply.com/
  • SchoolMint is a new technology platform that allows families to track their application status as well as engage in the JCPS-managed school choice system that includes the following:
  • Pre-Application for New Students to JCPS
  • Update My Address
  • Elementary Application
  • Dual Resides Selection Process
  • Magnet Application
  • Student Transfer Application
  • School Registration Forms

The mobile-friendly and multilingual platform will simplify the 2023-24 application process for families by assisting with understanding and navigating their school choice options. All applications for schools that use a lottery in their selection process will be managed in the secure and equitable SchoolMint platform. SchoolMint allows for real-time district communication to families regarding deadlines, application status, and additional documentation that is required that can be sent through email and text messaging.

FAQs

Q: How do I register and apply to schools?
A: Information on registering, applying for JCPS schools as well as applying to magnet schools and programs is listed on these pages.

Q: What does School Choice mean?
A: JCPS offers a school choice system that lets parents apply to the school that best meets their child’s needs. We boost academic success by letting parents apply to the school or program that best matches their child’s needs and learning style. New in the 2023-24 school year, JCPS also offers students living in the Choice Zone the option to attend school close to home or far away.

Q: How many magnet choices can I submit for my child?
A: Parents may select up to two magnet choices on the application.

Q: How can I change the application to a different school or program?
A: An online application can be changed until December 16, 2022. Changes are not permitted once the application period closes.

Q: How do I find out my resides school?
A: Use the SchoolFinder, https://apps.jefferson.kyschools.us/demographics/schoolfinder.aspx tool on the JCPS website to find your school.

Q: I have applied, but my address has changed. What do I do?
A: Call the Office of School Choice at (502) 485-6250 to determine if the change of address will impact your child’s application. Some schools or programs have boundaries. A change of address could mean your child, if accepted, would have a different school assignment.

Q: When and how will I find out about my child’s assignment?
A: Students who apply during the application period will be notified by letter, email, or phone of the status of their application by April 2023.

Q: I missed the magnet application period. What are my options?
A: You may submit a magnet application after December 16, 2022, but the application will only be considered if the school has openings for additional students. Students may always attend a school within their zone.

Q: I don’t live in Jefferson County right now but will be moving there before school begins. Can I submit a magnet application for my child?
A: You may submit a magnet application in order for your child to be considered for your school choice option. Students may always attend a school within their zone. You must provide proof of residence in Jefferson County before your child can enroll in a JCPS school. Call the Office of School Choice at (502) 485-6250 for more information.

Q: I’ll be moving to Jefferson County after school begins. What are the magnet options for my child?
A: Students who relocate to Jefferson County after the start of the 2023-24 school year can inquire about a magnet school option at the time of their arrival through December 31, 2023. Students may always attend a school within their zone. Call the Office of School Choice at (502) 485-6250 for more information.