High School Choices 2022-23

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.

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 Choose
Resides Schools
Network Schools
Academies of Louisville
Introducing 3DE
Magnet Schools
Magnet Programs
School Profiles
How to Apply
Important Note
Specialized School Choices
English as a Second Language
Services for Students With Educational Disabilities
FAQs

Let’s Get Started

JCPS has 22 high schools, which include 16 comprehensive high schools that serve primary residential addresses and six magnet schools. Details about alternative schools and programs are available.

Students currently enrolled in the eighth grade at a JCPS school will automatically be enrolled in the high school based on their primary residential address unless they apply to and are accepted into another school.

We understand families want to have options for their child’s education, which may include a choice other than their resides school. For eighth-grade students who apply to a school other than the one that serves their address, JCPS offers options including 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. Explore options with your child

Step 2. Choose your school

Step 3. If you choose a resides school, you’ll be automatically enrolled. If your choice is your resides school, no application is necessary. You will be automatically enrolled in your resides school if you are currently enrolled in the eighth grade. If you are new to the JCPS District and want to attend your resides high school, you must first contact that school (not the district) about new student registration. The school will require a proof of address. If you choose a network school, magnet school, or magnet program you must  apply during the application period: November 2– December 16, 2020. Students who apply during the application period will be notified of the status of their application by April 1, 2021.

How to Choose

1. DECIDE what type of learning setting works best for your child.
2. REVIEW the choice options, programs, and offerings at each high school, and align them with your child’s interests and life goals after high school.
3. CHECK to see if transportation is provided for your school.
4. FIND out more by watching the virtual tour videos on the JCPS website and attending open houses at the schools, if available. Please visit jefferson.kyschools.us for details.

Resides Schools

JCPS has 16 resides high schools that serve primary residential addresses. There are many great programs, options, and opportunities at your resides high school. Students who choose to attend their resides school do not have to apply, but should reach out to the school directly.

Academy @ Shawnee
Atherton
Ballard
Doss
Eastern
Fairdale
Fern Creek
Iroquois
Jeffersontown
Marion C. Moore
Pleasure Ridge Park
Seneca
Southern
Valley
Waggener
Western

*Transportation is not provided if you live in close proximity to your school, generally within 1 mile.

Network Schools

The 16 comprehensive high schools within JCPS are organized into three geographical networks. 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 map for a list of schools within each network.

*Transportation is not provided if you live in close proximity to your school, generally within 1 mile.

The Academies of Louisville 

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—a shift 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 experience
• 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 their resides school. If it is a school within your 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.*

Academy @ Shawnee
Atherton
Ballard
Doss
Fairdale
Fern Creek
Iroquois
Jeffersontown
Marion C. Moore
Pleasure Ridge Park
Seneca
Southern
Valley
Waggener
Western

*Transportation is not provided if you live in close proximity to your school, generally within 1 mile.

Introducing 3DE

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.

The 3DE Program will launch in the 2021-22 school year for all freshmen enrolled at the Academy @ Shawnee and Valley High School. If you are interested in attending the Academy @ Shawnee or Valley High School and neither is your resides school, you will need to apply to the school. 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

The Academy @ Shawnee is poised to soar to new heights with the implementation of the 3DE Program. Shawnee has used the national standards of practice to evaluate how to best meet the needs of its students through engaging, differentiated, and standards-based mastery within career Academy pathways. Through the work with 3DE, teachers will be provided with additional resources that increase levels of student engagement in all classrooms as well as provide opportunities for critical thinking. Students’ schedules at Shawnee have been designed to accommodate 3DE, providing increased time for case challenge collaboration and related independent research, writing, and presentation development. As a result of stronger cross-departmental teaming, the teachers and staff at the Academy @ Shawnee are looking forward to challenging students to explore the ways that tackling real businesses’ challenges uses the knowledge, principles, and skills they learn in their core, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and special area courses. It’s all connected!

Valley High School

Valley High School’s renaissance will continue with the introduction of 3DE. Valley will use this immersive learning experience to provide its students with relevant, authentic, project-based applications and real- world case challenges that reflect the interconnectedness of life beyond the walls of the classroom. Teachers and administrators are excitedly anticipating the ways that 3DE will make core and CTE classes come to life for students, revealing the applicability of all high school courses to the real world. Valley’s staff is united behind a new mission to be a supportive and diverse community dedicated to meeting the needs of all students through pathways and through interdisciplinary learning that develops the skills needed to be successful in postsecondary endeavors. Valley High School already has the physical and administrative infrastructure in place to facilitate the collaboration needed for 3DE at the freshman level and is prepared for more full program implementation. Valley looks forward to seeing its students graduate with an understanding of how they can bring the breadth of their studies to bear on the pursuit of their dreams.

Magnet Schools

There are six districtwide magnet high schools. 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.

Within the district, magnet schools attract students of various socioeconomic backgrounds, race, and academic achievement levels. Magnet schools offer specialized instruction of theme-based education that appeals to student interests, talents, and abilities. Magnet schools promote innovation in teaching, increased parental involvement, greater student engagement, and diverse student bodies that lead to higher student achievement.

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

• A focus on core subjects and grade-level coursework.
• Added emphasis on high academic standards, proper conduct, citizenship, and the development of self-discipline.
• Highly structured, orderly classrooms that require nightly homework and strict adherence to school rules (including dress codes).
• A mission centered on instructional approaches that help students build basic knowledge and gain high competence in fundamental skills. 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. Butler Traditional High School and Louisville Male High School utilize a lottery system; no additional information is required to be submitted with an application to these schools.

Butler Traditional
Central High Magnet Career Academy (MCA)
DuPont Manual 
J. Graham Brown 
Louisville Male
Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS) at DuPont Manual

*Transportation is not provided if you live in close proximity to your school, generally within 1 mile. Transportation is not provided to the Brown School.

Magnet Programs

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

Academy @ Shawnee

Flight and Aeronautics—This program enables students to complete the first phase of aviation training leading to a pilot’s license. Students gain the technical knowledge and skills of aviation through a range of classroom instruction, flight simulations, and flight time in fixed-wing aircrafts. Flight School students can earn hours toward their pilot’s license.

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.

Fairdale High School

Civil Services (Law/Government Service, Fire, Police, EMS)—Civil Services career theme programs provide students with opportunities to develop and apply the skills necessary to serve society and enhance the overall quality of life.
Heavy Equipment Science—This program prepares students for the construction field by giving them the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to operate and maintain heavy equipment machinery.

Iroquois High School

Skilled Trades Apprenticeship Academy—The Skilled Trades Apprenticeship Academy provides technical training in preparation for careers in construction, electrical, plumbing, masonry, and welding. Students earning industry credentials will have the opportunity to participate in the apprenticeship TRACK Program.

Seneca High School

Urban Agri-science Technology—Students learn animal and plant science as well as wildlife management. The animal science pathway focuses on veterinary medicine as well as equine and small animal science. The plant science pathway includes greenhouse management, aquaculture, and floral and landscape design. Students in the wildlife management pathway study wildlife rehabilitation; habitat building and loss; plant, soil, and water quality; pollution and contamination; and renewable practices in forestry. Instruction includes laboratories, field experiences, student-run businesses, supervised agriculture experiences, and leadership development through the Future Farmers of America (FFA). Students have the potential to earn dual credit through Murray State University.

Southern High School

Automotive Maintenance and Collision Repair Technicians—This program prepares students for a career in automotive maintenance and collision repair. The curriculum includes the technical training necessary to repair, service, and maintain today’s advanced vehicle management systems. Students also learn the basics of how to run a service desk, a dispatch office, and a parts department in a fully equipped repair shop.

Machine Tool and Die Technology—Students prepare for careers in the manufacturing and machining industry. All types of manufacturing processes are discussed so students can set up and operate machine tools to produce precision parts based on blueprints or drawings.

The program gives students the opportunity to develop skills with conventional machine tools, such as lathes, mills, and surface grinders, as well as skills in Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD), Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM), and Computerized Numerical Control (CNC).

Western High School

Early College (eleventh and twelfth grade only)—The Early College Program lets students earn more than 60 free, transferable college credits in various courses from Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC).

Culinary Arts—This program addresses a skill set necessary for success in careers associated with restaurants, institutions, food service, hospitality, and catering as well as food and beverage operations.

School Profiles

JCPS has 22 high schools, which include 16 resides high schools that serve primary residential addresses and 6 magnet schools.

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

The Academy @ Shawnee

The Academy @ Shawnee has a rich history. It was constructed in 1927 to serve the students and families of West Louisville. JCPS 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 school in the United States that offers the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Private Pilot License course. 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, Interactive Media, and Aircraft Maintenance. The Freshman Academy, a 3DE Model School, will support the Academies by providing students with authentic and relevant learning experiences that are interdisciplinary and project-based. Along with our Academies, we offer Honors 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:

• Engage in team-based activities, develop your leadership skills, identify and grow your strengths, and learn 21st-century essential skills through hands-on, project-based learning.
• All freshmen participate in a Freshman Academy PBL designed to encourage student success. During this PBL, students will have opportunities to explore career pathways and receive guidance for their secondary and postsecondary planning.
• Shawnee offers an ever-expanding list of dual-credit courses.
• Shawnee is the only school in JCPS to offer a Flight and Aeronautics career
• pathway where students can gain the technical knowledge and skills of aviation. Students will have the opportunity to take the private pilot written exam and receive flight hours toward their private pilot’s license.
• During the 2021-22 school year, Shawnee will be implementing the 3DE Model. 3DE uses a case methodology approach to redesign student experiences to increase student engagement, comprehension, and performance. 3DE will support the Academies of Louisville model to deliver authentic and relevant learning experiences that are interdisciplinary and project-based.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Aviation, Interactive Media Arts, and Manufacturing (A.I.M) Academy: Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Automation Engineering, Flight and Aeronautics, Graphic Design
• Health and Human Services Academy: Allied Health, Early Childhood Education, Management and Entrepreneurship 
• Global Pathway: Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC)

Quick Facts

Principal: Kym Rice
Academy Coach: Rachelle Wood 
Student Enrollment: 403
Phone: (502) 485-8326
Address: 4001 Herman Street, Louisville, KY 40212 
Web: shawnee.jcps.schooldesk.net 

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 offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, which aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. The IB Program 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:

• Students have required units within the core content areas with opportunities in the Honors Program, Advance Program, and IB Program.
• Atherton High School is an IB World School. Atherton is the only JCPS District high school to offer IB. There are only four IB schools in Kentucky. Pre-IB courses in grades nine and ten prepare students for the program. Unlike Advanced Placement (AP), IB allows only students who have completed its curriculum to take the IB examinations. Colleges and universities recognize the value of the IB Diploma and the academic depth, breadth, and rigor it represents.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Engineering Academy: Aerospace Engineering, Aviation Maintenance Technician, Electrical/Electronics Engineering
• Health Science Academy: Allied Health, Emergency Medical Technician, Patient Care Technician, Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Sciences
• Media Arts Academy: Cinematography and Video Production, Graphic Design

Quick Facts

Principal: Dr. Thomas Aberli
Academy Coach: Jennifer Walker
Student Enrollment: 1,411
Phone: (502) 485-8202
Address: 3000 Dundee Road, Louisville, KY 40205
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Atherton/index.html 

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 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 1 of the 11 original JCPS high schools that opened as a wall-to-wall Academy school for the 2018-19 school year.

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 offers a Freshman Career Options course to all ninth-grade students. This yearlong course is designed to support student efforts, encourage student success, and improve personal and academic skills. Students will be able to make an informed decision about further course work and working toward individual postsecondary planning. As a result, students have the option to choose a career pathway at Ballard.
• With 11 pathway options across 3 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. Recent pathway additions include Interactive Media, Aerospace Engineering, and Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Biomedical Science.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Business Services Academy: Administrative Support, Management and Entrepreneurship, Marketing 
• STEM Academy: Aerospace Engineering, Cyber Engineering, Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Sciences, Teaching and Learning
• Visual and Performing Arts Academy: Cinematography and Video Production, Graphic Design, Interactive, Media, Visual and Performing Arts

Quick Facts

Principal: Jason Neuss
Academy Coach: Clay Harned
Student Enrollment: 1,969
Phone: (502) 485-8206
Address: 6000 Brownsboro Road, Louisville, KY 40222
Web: https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/schools/profiles/ballard 

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.

Magnet Program Highlights:

• Provides Traditional education and a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum in a structured learning environment
• Offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the Honors Program
• Offers dual-credit courses through the University of Louisville (UofL) and
• Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC)
• Offers the Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) Program

Career Pathways Offered:

• Allied Health: This program provides skills training and experiential learning opportunities in preparation for careers in such areas as nursing, pharmacy technician, sports medicine/athletic trainer, medical assistant, EKG technician, phlebotomist, and veterinary assistant.
• Army JROTC: Focusing on citizenship, character, and leadership, JROTC Programs are partially sponsored by the military services. Emphasis is on community service through partnerships with communities and educational institutions.
• Pre-Nursing: This career pathway prepares students to apply basic health science principles and technical skills in support of and preparation for healthcare careers.
• Engineering: Engineering career-themed courses offer students a pathway toward achieving career goals and industry certifications.
• Teaching and Learning: This pathway is designed for students who are interested in teaching as a possible career. It offers multiple opportunities for students to participate in a variety of activities in a classroom. There is an emphasis on the construction of knowledge, the development of dispositions for teaching, and reflections on teaching and learning. Students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to design engaging, standards-based lessons and assessments to serve as a foundation for the content-specific methods courses.
• Web Development/Administration: This pathway involves creating, designing, and producing interactive multimedia products and services. This pathway will include the development of digitally generated or computer-enhanced media and the adherence to web standards, as used in business, training, communications, and marketing. Organizations of all types and sizes use digital media, webpages, and websites to communicate with existing and potential customers, to track transactions, and to collaborate with colleagues. This pathway will prepare students to enter the workforce ready to participate as leaders in a broad range of careers and further their education.
• Network Administration: This pathway’s courses will help students learn new administration support skills or upgrade existing computer information systems skills. Students will be able to properly install networking software on an appropriately sized computer, configure the software for a simple server environment and connect it correctly to a physical network, manage a simple networking environment, effectively troubleshoot problems, add new users and attend to security concerns, and work within the ethical/professional parameters in the field of network administration.

Quick Facts

Principal: William Allen
Student Enrollment: 1,649
Phone: (502) 485-8220
Address: 2222 Crums Lane, Louisville, KY 40216
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Butler

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. Central is one of two high schools in Kentucky to offer Montessori education. Central also offers a robust Career Program, including ten pathways and (new in 2020) the Muhammad Ali Institute of Social Justice.

School Highlights:

• Provides a precollege curriculum that includes two rigorous academic programs (Montessori and Muhammad Ali Institute of Social Justice) and ten career programs in four areas of concentration: business, law, technology, and health services
• Offers AP Capstone (Seminar/Research), a two-year course that prepares students for the academic demands of college and a wide variety of additional Advanced Placement (AP) courses
• Offers dual college-credit courses through the University of Louisville (UofL), Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC), and Morehead State University (MSU); offers early college opportunities through the school’s medical programs
• Offers Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC)

Research and Innovation:

We believe that research and innovation are two skills that students will need in the future to be successful. Our approach to learning is based on this belief. Our Research and Innovation (R&I) framework identifies six competencies/skills that prepare students for any future career.

These six competencies are as follows: Advocate, Agency, Creative/ Divergent Thinker, Empathic Citizen, Global Leader, and Thoughtful Researcher. Each competency defines a blended approach to learning that personalizes learning experiences, addresses racial inequities in the curriculum, and opens doors and opportunities for all students. Students engage in meaningful inquiry related to their academic and career interests. Students are expected to grow in these competencies and to provide evidence of growth and learning as a part of the Backpack of Success Skills defense as a senior.

Programs Offered:

• Allied Health
• Cyber Engineering
• Dental Assisting
• Management and
• Entrepreneurship
• Marketing
• Montessori Education
• Muhammad Ali Institute
• of Social Justice
• Navy JROTC
• Pharmacy Technician
• Pre-Law Studies
• Pre-Nursing
• Teaching and Learning 
• Veterinary Assistant

Quick Facts

Principal: Raymond Green
Student Enrollment: 1,237
Phone: (502) 485-8226
Address: 1130 West Chestnut Street, Louisville, KY 40203
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Central/http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Central

Doss

Our vision at Doss High School is: Be passionate. Be engaged. Be the best version of yourself. 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 to us 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:

• Project-Based Learning: Students engage with class content while working to solve authentic, real-world problems.
• Smaller Learning Communities: Students are organized into self-selected career academies that function as small teams of students and teachers, offering a more personalized learning experience.
• Core Classes: Students complete English, math, science, and social studies in addition to elective courses. Traditional, Advanced, Honors, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available.
• Dual Credit: Students are encouraged to participate in dual-credit coursework offered within each career pathway.
• Industry Certifications: Students prepare for national certifications within each career pathway.
• Work-Based Learning: Students engage in 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.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Business and Finance Academy: Financial Services, Marketing, Teaching and Learning
• STEM Academy: Allied Health, Automation Engineering, Patient Care Technician, Pre-Nursing
• Tech and Design Academy: Digital Design and Game Development, Information Support and Services

Quick Facts

Principal: Todd Stockwell
Academy Coach: Tina Carraro
Student Enrollment: 984
Phone: (502) 485-8239
Address: 7601 St. Andrews Church Road, Louisville, KY 40214 
Web: http://doss.jcps.schooldesk.net

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 college-preparatory magnet programs. Manual offers students the opportunity to experience unparalleled personal and academic growth while participating in a variety of specialized magnet courses. 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. Manual High School is a nationally recognized school for student academic success and has been a recognized U.S. School of Excellence since 1991. In addition, Manual students continue to top district, state, and national statistics in test scores, number of scholarship recipients, and number of National Merit Scholars.

School Highlights:

• Offers communications, college prep, math/science/technology, visual arts, and performing arts programs to students districtwide
• Offers the Advance Program and 30 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and has the highest ACT average of any Kentucky high school
• Has the most National Merit Semifinalists in the state as well as the most Governor’s Scholars and the most students selected for the Governor’s School for the Arts
• College-credit classes are available through partnerships with UofL and Campbellsville University.
• Provides academic classes for YPAS, and Manual students can enroll in comprehensive arts classes.

Magnet Programs and Pathways:

• High School/University (HSU): Students receive a rigorous liberal arts experience through the exploration of disciplines beyond core magnet requirements. A demanding college preparatory curriculum and proximity to UofL facilitate opportunities for AP and dual-credit courses.
• Journalism and Communication (J&C): Emphasizing real-world experiences and audiences, this program provides state-of-the-art technology and professional partnerships to help students master communication and media skills.
• Mathematics/Science/Technology (MST): The MST Program provides a research-based curriculum of rigorous coursework in life science, biotechnology, microbiology, optics, modern physics, robotics, and computer programming. Mentoring by university scientists and engineers facilitates college-level research.
• Visual Arts (VA): A rigorous, specialized visual art curriculum incorporates drawing, painting, sculpture, textiles, printmaking, and computer-aided design. Emphasizing visual art for authentic audiences, students learn creative problem-solving skills while surpassing scholastic and professional standards for visual art at the high school level.
• Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS)

Quick Facts

Principal: Darryl Farmer
Student Enrollment: 1,895
Phone: (502) 485-8241
Address: 120 West Lee Street, Louisville, KY 40208
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Manual

Eastern

At Eastern High School, learners discover their talents and strengthen their abilities through a full spectrum of liberal arts, cutting-edge technology, extracurricular opportunities, and rigorous coursework empowering them as leaders 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.
• 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.
• Award-winning arts program encourages students to explore instrumental music, performing arts, and visual arts.

Career and Technical Education Pathways:

• Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC): Students focus upon citizenship, character, and leadership. JROTC Programs are partially sponsored by the military services. Emphasis is on community service through partnerships with communities and educational institutions.
• Consumer and Family Services: Students develop knowledge and skills central to career areas involving human services, consumer services, consumer protection, and advising, education, and training as well as social and community services.
• Cinematography and Video Production: Students build skills to communicate dramatic information, ideas, moods, and feelings through the making and producing of videos and cinematographic expression.
• Computer Science/Computer Programming: Students focus upon computer theory, computing problems and solutions, and design of computer systems and user-interfaces. Students are also given the opportunity to earn AP credit.
• Graphic Design: Students learn and apply skills that focus on the principles and techniques for effectively communicating ideas/ information and packaging products to business and consumer audiences both in digital and other formats.
• High School of BusinessTM: Students are introduced to college-inspired business administration through an accelerated series of six courses that challenge students with hands-on marketing, management, finance, and economics courses. The program also offers dual credit opportunities.
• Information Support & Services: Students build a broad range of skills in the design of computing systems. The courses include instruction in the principles of computer hardware and software components.
• Network Security: Students learn to properly design, install, secure, and repair a LAN, including all network devices, servers and desktop computers.
• Web Development/Administration: Students create, design, and produce interactive multimedia products and services. This includes development of digitally-generated or computer-enhanced media, and the adherence to web standards, as used in business, training, communications, and marketing.

Quick Facts

Principal: 
Student Enrollment: 2,118
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 2018-19 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:

Academics include magnet programs and four professional career theme programs to provide students with opportunities to develop and apply the skills necessary to serve society and enhance the overall quality of life.

Fairdale High School is a Cambridge International school, with a focus on global problem solving and citizenship.

Fairdale has many unique support programs in place to develop the whole child, such as the RISE intervention and enrichment system. The school also offers the Mindfulness Program to support social and emotional needs that lead to greater academic and career success.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Civil Service Academy: Emergency Medical Technician, Fire Science/Firefighting, Law Enforcement Services
• Global Service Academy: Cambridge International Studies, Cyber Engineering, Hospitality, Travel, Tourism, and Recreation, Teaching and Learning, Visual and Performing Arts
• Public Service Academy: Allied Health/Patient Care Technician, Diesel Engine Technician, Heavy Equipment Sciences

Quick Facts

Principal: Brandy Corbin
Academy Coach: Dave Myers
Student Enrollment: 1,363
Phone: (502) 485-8248
Address: 1001 Fairdale Road, Louisville, KY 40118
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Fairdale 

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:

• In our Freshman Academy, students are required to choose a career pathway and take a minimum of three courses along that path. The completion of three courses delineates a student as Career Preparatory. A fourth class delineates a student as a Pathway Completer.
• Fern Creek’s Ivy Plus Academy is designed to connect high-achieving students with the nation’s top colleges. The program’s goal is to provide these students with the information, guidance, mentoring, and means to gain acceptance to these elite institutions.

Academies and Pathways:

• Communications: The Communications Academy provide sstudents with a core of four specialized, intensive, sequential courses in digital media, business, and/or technology.
• Engineering, Computer Science, and Skilled Trades: Ourcollaboration with the University of Louisville’s Speed School provides university mentors to foster our students’ knowledge and interest in Computer Science. Additional partnerships with postsecondary institutions provide students the options for dual credit in computer science. The Automation Engineering and for Mechanical Design pathways integrate computer programming, robotics engineering, and computer- aided design. In regards to our Skilled Trades, our Fire Science students work closely with the Fern Creek Fire Department (FCFD) right across the street from our school, including weekly training visits. These students will earn an International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) certification through their training experiences.
• Education, Community, and Service: As Freshmen, students will explore all three pathways in this Academy prior to choosing a pathway to study for their remaining three years. Students can earn industry certifications upon completion.
• Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) Programs: Focusing On citizenship, character, and leadership, JROTC Programs emphasize community service through partnerships with communities and educational institutions.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Communications Academy: Cinematography and Video Production, E-Commerce (Closing end of 2021-22), Graphic Design, Management and Entrepreneurship
• Education, Community and Service Academy: Consumer and Family Management, Culinary and Food Services, Early Childhood Education, Marine Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) 
• Engineering, Computer Science, and Skilled Trades Academy: Automation Engineering, Computer Science, Fire Science/Firefighting, Mechanical Designer, Plumber Assistant

Quick Facts

Principal: Rebecca Nicolas
Academy Coach: Sara Wilson-Abell
Student Enrollment: 1,748
Phone: (502) 485-8251
Address: 9115 Fern Creek Road, Louisville, KY 40291
Web: http://jcps-ferncreekhigh.campuscontact.com/Home 

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:

• With students from more than 54 countries who speak more than 41 languages, the cultural diversity at Iroquois High School allows for unique opportunities for all students to learn about the world around them.
• Small Learning Community—Small teams of students and teachers offer a personalized, cross-curricular learning experience.
• Academic courses include Honors, Advance, Advanced Placement (AP), and dual credit.
• A variety of elective courses are offered, including courses that earn college credit and industry certifications.
• The Builder’s Apprenticeship Academy provides students with hands-on experience in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, welding, and constructional electric while working in our school’s various workspaces. Students in the TRACK pathways may participate in apprenticeships with local employers that enable them to continue gaining the hours of experience they need to complete their training in these in-demand fields.
• Students in the Culinary and Food Services pathway learn how to prepare and plate food in a fully-equipped kitchen on the school’s campus. Students gain industry certifications and an understanding of nutrition as well as business and service basics related to various restaurant and culinary environments. Students graduate from this program equipped with the knowledge and skills to work in the culinary and food services industry.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Builder’s Apprenticeship Academy: Commercial Carpentry TRACK, Construction Electrical TRACK, Masonry TRACK, Plumber Assistant, Welder Entry-Level
• Create Academy: Cinematography and Video Production, Administrative Support, Mechanical Engineering
• Human Services Academy: Allied Health, Culinary and Food Services, Early Childhood Education, Patient Care Technician

Quick Facts

Principal: Rob Fulk
Academy Coach: Carmen Bellefant
Student Enrollment: 1,201
Phone: (502) 485-8269
Address: 4615 Taylor Boulevard, Louisville, KY 40215 
Web: http://iroquois.jcps.schooldesk.net

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.

Magnet Program Highlights:

• Students are offered a catalog of Advanced Placement (AP) courses for which they have the opportunity to earn college credit.
• Students may take college and dual-credit classes at local universities and online as early as sophomore year.
• Students are scheduled using a 90-minute alternating block schedule.
• Service learning is integrated into the curriculum and is required of all
• students across the school.
• Students interact across grade levels through classroom collaboration and
• mentoring.
• Students engage in project-based learning, which affords them the
• opportunity for authentic, real-world learning experiences.
• Students acquire skills identified in our Self-Directed Learning
• Framework, which is connected to the Backpack of Success Skills. This framework identifies success skills for students that will prepare them to be contributors to the community.
• Students participate in student-led conferences. These conferences engage students in setting goals, tracking goals, and self-reflection on the learning process.
• Students engage in exhibitions of learning, our Self-Directed Learning Showcases, which provide them with an opportunity to demonstrate authentic learning from the classroom.
• Students participate in our P.I.R.A.T.E. 1:1 Devices Program, through which they are issued an iPad or Chromebook to use for learning.
• Students participate in a defense process that requires them to demonstrate skills identified in our Self-Directed Learning Framework and the district’s Backpack of Success Skills.

Career Pathways Offered:

• Computer Science
• Digital Game Design and Development

Quick Facts

Principal: Angela Parsons
Student Enrollment: 750 (K-12)
Phone: (502) 485-8216
Address: 546 South First Street, Louisville, KY 40202
Web: http://www.mybrownschool.org 

Jeffersontown

At Jeffersontown High School, students are immersed in the full Academy of Louisville experience! While students are engaged in rigorous, individualized instruction in their traditional classes (English, math, science, and social studies), they are also given the opportunity to develop real-world skills directly related to a career pathway of their choice. 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, or Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) for Build and Design students or Patient Care Tech, Pre-Nursing, Allied Health, Business, or Marketing for Business and Health Science students. After completing four years at Jeffersontown High School, students will leave with a sense of purpose, but more importantly, they will have gained 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. This also includes a dedicated Academy principal and Academy counselor.
• There are advisory opportunities that introduce students to life skills to prepare them for entry into the workforce or postsecondary education as well as enrichment opportunities so that students can explore a vast variety of individual interests.
• Dual-credit classes are offered in partnership with a variety of universities, and there are rigorous course offerings in the Advance Program and the AP Program.
• The Academy Experience—Students will choose their Academy based on career interests after their time in the Freshman Academy. Within their Academy, they will job-shadow, explore career options, work with business partners, participate in work-based learning, and experience project-based learning to make connections between the classroom and the real world.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Build and Design Academy: Machinist Operator, Marine Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC), Mechanical Designer, Mechanical Engineer, Welding Maintenance Technician
• Business and Health Science Academy: Allied Health, E-Commerce, Marketing, Patient Care Technician, Pre-Nursing, Teaching and Learning

Quick Facts

Principal: Jarrod Durham
Academy Coach: Ashley Conway
Student Enrollment: 932
Phone: (502) 485-8275
Address: 9600 Old Six Mile Lane, Louisville, KY 40299 
Web: http://jcps.schooldesk.net/jhs 

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:

• Provides a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum that prepares students for college and scholarship opportunities in a traditional setting
• Offers 21 Advanced Placement (AP) courses as well as other advanced- level courses
• Offers dual-credit courses through the University of Louisville (UofL)
• Offers the 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 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 emphasis on critical thinking help students build basic knowledge and gain high competence in fundamental skills.

Career Pathways Offered:

• Accounting
• Army JROTC
• Cinematography and Video Production • Computer Programming Blended Hybrid • Management and Entrepreneurship
• Teaching and Learning

Quick Facts

Principal: Dr. William Foster
Student Enrollment: 2,033
Phone: (502) 485-8292
Address: 4409 Preston Highway, Louisville, KY 40213
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Male

Marion C. Moore

At Marion C. Moore, an Academies of Louisville school, our culture stems from our mission and vision. The vision is 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 13 career pathway choices as seen on the following page. 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 in excess of 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:

• A dedicated executive principal with an assistant principal, counselor, and team of core teachers are committed to the development of each Academy.
• In addition to core courses, the school offers a wide variety of electives that most closely align with your pathway, career, and personal interests. Academic courses include Honors, Advance, and Advanced Placement (AP) classes, with the ability to earn college credits through dual-credit courses in both academic and career courses along with industry certifications.
• A yearlong freshman seminar course is designed to teach you skills that promote initiative and responsibility for your learning, effective teamwork and communication, critical thinking, and problem solving along with some real-life skills needed so desperately by our youth today.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Community Academy: Administrative Support (Closing end of 2021-22), Animal Science Systems (Closing end of 2021-22), Culinary and Food Services, Management and Entrepreneurship, Teaching and Learning
• Health Science Academy: Allied Health, Clinical Medical Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Pre-Nursing, Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Sciences
• STEM Academy: Air Force Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC), Cinematography and Video Production, Civil Engineering, Industrial Electrician Assistant, Skilled Trades Construction Electrical TRACK

Quick Facts

Principal: Traci M. Hunt
Academy Coach: Jeanne Meredith
Student Enrollment: 1,226
Phone: (502) 485-8304
Address: 6415 Outer Loop, Louisville, KY 40228 
Web: http://moore.jcps.schooldesk.net

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. Classes include theatre, dance, orchestra, band, graphic design, choir, and visual arts.

School Highlights:

• Small learning community—Small teams of students and teachers offer a personalized learning experience.
• Core classes—English, math, science, and social studies as well as electives and the Freshman Seminar course
• The Freshman Seminar course introduces extracurricular, co curricular, sports, and other school-sponsored activities.
• Award-winning visual and performing arts classes include theatre, dance, orchestra, band, graphic design, choir, and visual arts.
• In the Cinematography and Video Production pathway, students learn how to operate camera equipment, script news segments, as well as edit and produce videos while earning certifications through organizations including
• Adobe Creative Cloud and Google. Students gain practical experience while working in our Control Room, producing stories for the school’s media outlets.
• Students in the Architectural Technology pathway gain hands-on experience in architectural design as they create or plot drawings, edit objects, work with layouts, and build model structures. Students graduate with industry certifications and the software knowledge needed to continue their education in this field.
• Hosts several hands-on learning environments, including a Health Sciences lab, CAD lab, and welding lab.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Business and Communications Academy: Cinematography and Video Production, Marketing, Teaching and Learning, Visual and Performing Arts
• Health Science Academy: Allied Health, Emergency Medical Technician, Patient Care Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Pre-Nursing
• Manufacturing, Engineering, and Design Academy: Architectural Technology, Graphic Design, Welder Entry-Level

Quick Facts

Principal: Kim Salyer
Academy Coach: Josh Lightle
Student Enrollment: 1,620
Phone: (502) 485-8311
Address: 5901 Greenwood Road, Louisville, KY 40258 
Web: www.ridgetalk.com 

Seneca

Seneca High School is a positive, caring community where staff members and scholars are committed to becoming an exemplary model 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 are committed to providing an environment and a system of support to ensure all scholars are successful. We are leading the way in the Academies of Louisville initiative as 1 of the original 11 JCPS high schools that opened as a wall-to-wall Academy school. Along with the Academies, we offer the Advance Program and Advanced Placement (AP) classes.

School Highlights:

• Small learning community—Small teams of scholars and champions offer a personalized learning experience.
• Core classes—English, math, science, social studies, Seneca 101, and electives
• All freshmen will take Seneca 101. This one-year course teaches career exploration and development along with essential success skills, such
• as how to take initiative and responsibility, effective teamwork and communication, critical thinking, and problem solving. This course will help you make an informed decision about which Academy you will enroll in for your sophomore through senior years and what personal, collegiate, and professional journey you would like to embark on after high school.
• Offers the district’s only Urban Agri-Science Technology magnet
• program where students learn animal and plant science as well as wildlife management. The animal science pathway focuses on veterinary medicine as well as equine and small animal science. The plant science pathway includes greenhouse management, aquaculture, and floral and landscape design. Students in the wildlife management pathway study wildlife rehabilitation; habitat building and loss; plant, soil, and water quality; pollution and contamination; and renewable practices in forestry. Instruction includes laboratories, field experiences, student-run businesses, supervised agriculture experiences, and leadership development through the Future Farmers of America (FFA). Students have the potential to earn dual credit through Murray State University.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Agri-Science and Leadership Academy: Animal Science Systems, Environmental Science/Natural Resources Systems, Horticulture and Plant Science Systems, Marine Junior Reserve Officers Training (JROTC)
• Health and Education Academy: Allied Health, Early Childhood Education, Patient Care Technician, Pre-Nursing, Teaching and Learning
• Law and IT Academy: Cyber Engineering, Management and Entrepreneurship, Pre-Law Studies

Quick Facts

Principal: Michael Guy
Academy Coach: Mary Louise Pozaric
Student Enrollment: 1,229
Phone: (502) 485-8323
Address: 3510 Goldsmith Lane, Louisville, KY 40220 
Web: www.ridgetalk.com 

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. At the heart of Southern High School is our vision to develop and graduate college- and career-ready students. 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, to ensure that all students learn. 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:

• Along with the four Academies at Southern, we offer 13 Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
• All freshmen will be assigned an advisory period where they will have an opportunity to meet with an advisor and a small group of classmates. Along with career exploration and development, this period teaches essential success skills, such as how to take initiative and responsibility, effective teamwork and communication, critical thinking, and problem solving. This experience will help you make an informed decision about which Academy you will enroll in for your sophomore through senior years and what personal, collegiate, and professional journey you would like to embark on after high school.
• Students in the district’s only Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair pathway gain hands-on training while working in our on-site Automotive Repair Shop. Students build their skills as they are introduced to the repair shop environment and understand how to safely operate the equipment. Students graduate with industry certifications and are prepared to begin a career in the automotive industry.
• Students in the iGen Academy gain financial literacy through real-world work experience while working at the fully-operational Class Act Federal Credit Union branch on the school’s campus. Students who work in the branch
• are required to complete a paid summer training program with Class Act. Many Southern graduates have begun full-time careers with Class Act since completing the program.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Automotive and Engineering Academy: Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair, Entry-Level Collision Repair Painter, Entry-Level Non-Structural Damage and Repair Technician 
• iGen Business Academy: Financial Services, Hospitality, Travel, Tourism, and Recreation 
• Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology, and Leadership (METaL) Academy: Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC), Cyber Engineering, Machinist Operator

Quick Facts

Principal: Tyler Shearon
Academy Coach: James McCabe
Student Enrollment: 1,302
Phone: (502) 485-8330
Address: 8620 Preston Highway, Louisville, KY 40219
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Southern

Valley

Established in 1936, Valley High School 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. And it doesn’t stop there! Valley has been chosen for a prestigious program, 3DE by Junior Achievement (JA). This immersive learning experience will provide our students with relevant, authentic, project-based applications and real-world case study challenges.

School Highlights:

• Distinguished College Scholars Program—Students accepted into this elite program demonstrate the potential for academic excellence, leadership, and the drive to succeed. Students take rigorous courses, receive a mentor to help guide them through their years at Valley, and are provided added support and opportunities for them to excel through college. There will also be opportunities for students to increase their leadership roles and community service involvement.
• 3DE by JA—Valley has been selected to lead the way with this initiative! Students will have the chance to be part of an innovative learning method that provides them with the chance to think independently and work collaboratively to solve complex problems.
• Our Freshman Academy provides incoming ninth-grade students with the support they need to make a smooth transition from middle school and navigate high school successfully.
• At Valley, students have the opportunity to earn college credit by enrolling in dual-credit courses or by taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
• Valley is an Academies of Louisville school, so students have the opportunity to earn industry certifications and college credits as they jump-start their futures with our Career 
• Technical Education (CTE) Programs in the areas of health science, veterinary medicine, computer coding, business, and industry trades.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Business and Industry Academy: Computer Programming, Electrical Technician, Environmental Control System Technician (HVAC), Management and Entrepreneurship 
• Health Science Academy: Allied Health, Clinical Medical Assistant, EKG Technology/Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, Pre-Nursing, Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Sciences, Veterinary Assistant
• Global Pathway: Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC)

Quick Facts

Principal: Mike Kelly
Academy Coach: Marla Paschal
Student Enrollment: 850
Phone: (502) 485-8339
Address: 10200 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40272 
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/High/Valley

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 three career-focused learning communities. 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:

• The Freshman Academy at Waggener has earned National Career Academy Coalition (NCAC) Model Status to become the first accredited Academy in JCPS and Kentucky. Model Status is awarded to Academies that demonstrate nationally recognized best practices in preparing students for Academy and high school success.
• All freshmen take a yearlong Career Options course, which allows students to sample each of our career pathways; make an informed decision about their tenth- through twelfth-grade Academy; and start to envision their personal, collegiate, and professional life after high school.
• Waggener’s Health Science and IT and Law Academies offer high-demand career pathways with state-of-the-art labs, cutting-edge technology, and their own core team of teachers and administrators who value personalized learning and relationships.
• Instructionisproject-based;taughtinthecontextoftheAcademytheme;and integrated with meaningful business, postsecondary, and community partnerships.
• As an Academies of Louisville school, Waggener has more than 15 business partners that offer our students field trips, mentoring, mock interviews, résumé writing, job shadows, paid internships, and apprenticeships.
• Our learning environment develops compassionate, tolerant, and respectful human beings who value cultural diversity and contribute to the community through service-learning opportunities.
• Waggener offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and dual-credit courses 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.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Health Science Academy: Allied Health (Sports Medicine), EKG Technology/Technician, Pre-Nursing, Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Sciences
• IT and Law Academy: Computer Science, Pre-Law Studies, Teaching and Learning, Web Development/Administration

Quick Facts

Principal: Dr. Sarah Hitchings
Academy Coach: Chesney West
Student Enrollment: 924
Phone: (502) 485-8340
Address: 330 South Hubbards Lane, Louisville, KY 40207 
Web: http://schools.jefferson.kyschools.us/high/waggener

Western

Western High School strives to engage, prepare, and graduate all students ready for their education and career goals. To do this, Western’s Warrior Way is to be engaged in learning today, empowered for success tomorrow. Students can engage in many programs at Western, including Early College, culinary arts, carpentry, graphic communications, administrative support, and patient care. Additionally, over their four years, students can earn up to 60 college credits, tuition-free! Western offers the Advance Program, Comprehensive Program, and Honors Program. Additionally, Western is one of two schools offering the Louisville Rotary Promise Scholarship, helping students attend college.

School Highlights:

• Small learning community—Small teams of students and teachers offer a personalized learning experience.
• All freshmen will be given the opportunity for exposure to and experience in each of the offered career pathways. The Freshman Academy emphasizes career exploration and development and essential success skills, such as how to take initiative and responsibility, effective teamwork and communication, critical thinking, and problem solving. These opportunities will help freshmen make an informed decision about which career Academy they will enroll in for their sophomore through senior years.
• In the Residential Carpentry pathway, students gain practical experience in construction as they apply technical knowledge and skills to install and repair wood structures and fixtures. Students are able to connect what they’re learning in core subjects to the real world and graduate with the knowledge and skills to begin a career in the construction industry.
• Students in the Culinary Arts pathway learn how to prepare and plate food in a fully-equipped kitchen on the school’s campus. Students gain industry certifications and an understanding of nutrition as well as business and service basics related to various restaurant and culinary environments. Students graduate from this program equipped with the knowledge and skills to work in the culinary and food services industry. Students also have the opportunity to gain real world work experience through our partnership with Heine Brothers Coffee while working at the Culinary Café and earning their Barista Certification.

Academies and Pathways

Grade 9 - Freshman Academy
Grades 10-12 

• Culinary, Carpentry, and Graphic Design Academy: Culinary and Food Services, Graphic Design, Residential Carpenter Assistant
• Health Science and Business Academy: Allied Health, Management/Entrepreneurship, Patient Care Technician

Quick Facts

Principal: Anthony Sieg
Academy Coach: Rick Moir
Student Enrollment: 689
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 on-site writing prompt.

YPAS is one of only two schools in Kentucky to provide high school students with majors in the performing arts. Students team 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:

• Each year, YPAS hosts college, university, or conservatory representatives who audition YPAS seniors for assignment in postsecondary performing arts programs. This day, called College and Career Day, offers our students the opportunity to talk with many colleges, universities, and conservatory representatives in order to apply to and audition for their programs and to receive special scholarships.
• The YPAS cocurricular performance program provides a comprehensive classroom learning experience coupled with hands-on performance opportunities. All students are provided the opportunity to participate in after-school performances and touring companies that perform throughout the region and travel internationally.
• To complement their arts education, students take academic classes at DuPont Manual High School.

YPAS 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

Principal: Darryl Farmer
Administrative Director: Melissa Case
Student Enrollment: 451
Phone: (502) 485-8355
Address: 1517 South Second Street, Louisville, KY 40208 
Web: http://www.ypas.org 

How to Apply

Register online with the district.

• Students who have previously attended a JCPS school do not need to register.
• If you are new to the JCPS District and want to attend your resides high school, you must first contact that school (not the district) about new student registration. The school will require a proof of address.
• If you are new to the JCPS District and want to attend a magnet school or magnet program, you must register with the district at the JCPS Student Assignment Office or online.
• Once registration is complete, JCPS will verify your information and will send you a code to make your application. This process can take up to two days.

If you wish to attend a school other than the school that serves your home address, you must complete an application.

Please apply in any of the following ways:

• Apply online at www.jefferson.kyschools.us. 
• Apply in person* at the following:
  • JCPS Student Assignment Office located at 4309 Bishop Lane
  • JCPS Satellite Office at the California Community Center located at 1600 West Saint Catherine Street
  • JCPS Satellite Office at the Academy @ Shawnee located at 4018 West Market Street
  • JCPS English as a Second Language (ESL) Office located at 1325 Bluegrass Avenue

*Please Note: Due to COVID-19 health recommendations that may affect the registration/application period, families are encouraged to call (502) 313-HELP to determine if these sites are available prior to arriving.
The application period runs from November 2, 2020, through December 16, 2020. Students who apply during the application period will be notified of the status of their application by April 1, 2021

Important to Note

• Submitting a magnet application doesn’t guarantee admission in a magnet school or program.
• Waiting lists are not kept from year to year.
• Magnet applications can be edited only during the application period. If changes are made to an application, 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 still submit a separate application for each child.
• Submitting false information will void an application.
• Students who apply during the application period will be notified of the status of their application by April 1, 2021.
• Students must be a resident of Jefferson County in order to attend a magnet school or program. If families are relocating, please contact the Student Assignment Office at (502) 485-6250.

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.

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.

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.

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 on-site so students never have to leave campus.

Pathfinder School of Innovation

The Pathfinder School of Innovation offers a flexible schedule for students in grades 6-12.  Students are provided personalized instruction utilizing best practices in self-directed virtual learning with progress monitoring.  

We offer expanded course offerings to meet the needs of ALL students with credit accumulation, credit acceleration, and credit recovery.

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 services from ESL, 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 sixth- through twelfth-grade ELLs 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.

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

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/student-support/exceptional-child.

FAQs

Q: How do I register and apply to schools?
A: No application is required to attend your resides high school.

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.

Q: How do I apply for magnet schools or magnet programs?
A: The online magnet application can be accessed on a computer, tablet, or smartphone. If you don’t have internet access, you can go to the nearest high school or the JCPS registration site located in the Lam Building at 4309 Bishop Lane. You can also apply at the following*:

• The JCPS Satellite Office at the California Community Center located at 1600 West Saint Catherine Street
• The JCPS Satellite Office at the Academy @ Shawnee located at 4018 West Market Street
• The JCPS English as a Second Language (ESL) Office located at 1325 Bluegrass Avenue

If you are new to the JCPS school district 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.

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 magnet application to a different school or program?
A: An online magnet application can be changed until December 16, 2020. Changes are not permitted once the application period closes.

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

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

Q: When will I find out the status of my child’s magnet assignment?
A: Students who apply during the application period will be notified of the status of their application by April 1, 2021.

Q: I missed the magnet application period. What are my options?
A: You may submit an application after December 16, 2020; however, the application will only be considered if the school has openings for additional students. Students may always attend their resides school.

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. You must provide proof of residence in Jefferson County before your child can enroll in a JCPS school. Call the Student Assignment Office 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 2021-22 school year can inquire about a magnet school option at the time of their arrival, through December 31, 2021. Students may always attend their resides school. Call the Student Assignment Office at (502) 485-6250 for more information.