Elementary Programs of Choice Applications will open after Jan. 1, 2026 for the 2026 – 2027 School Year
| Click here for WLA Information. | ||
The Hall County Elementary Programs of Choice applications for 1st – 5th grade will open on each school’s website in the early spring. Students who live in the school zone or in the Hall County School District but are outside the school’s attendance zone must apply for an in-district application according to those published deadlines. Students who live outside of the Hall County School District may also apply, but they will also have to complete the out of district (tuition) application according to those published deadlines.
Many of our elementary programs of choice will be holding parent information meetings this winter/spring. For a list of meeting dates and times, please go to each school’s website after Jan. 2026.
Elementary Program of Choice applications are posted on each school’s web page and are also available below under “Elementary Programs of Choice.”
- Advanced Scholars Academy (ASA) at Sandra Dunagan Deal Elementary School
- Dual Language Immersion Path at Sandra Dunagan Deal Elementary School
- The Advanced Scholars Program (ASP) at Friendship Elementary School
- Discovering our Gifts Academy (DOG) at Lula Elementary School
World Language Academy will open January of 2026 for the fall of 2026.
World Language Academy: Applications for World Language Academy (Pre-K and Kindergarten) are available at: https://wla.hallco.org/web/join-our-school/
Parents of students who are accepted to attend a program of choice at a school outside of their attendance zone must provide transportation to and from school. (The World Language Academy has some limited options for transportation, and information about this is available at WLA).
- Please click here for a list of HCSD elementary programs of choice
- Please click here for more information about World Language Academy.
Magnet Schools and Programs of Choice
The Hall County School District has been featured in both the Wall Street Journal and Forbes magazine as an example of a school system where innovation in programming and technology is being used to emphasize students’ individual strengths and interests, and, consequently, to increase the number of students engaged in rigorous coursework.
Students are assigned to schools based on their residential addresses, and all schools have a variety of excellent programming options to meet students’ needs. However, it is our belief that students are most successful when they are involved in programs that engage and motivate them, that capitalize on their unique talents and interests.
Hall County Schools offers a school choice program that makes a highly personalized education available to all students. Currently, the system offers many magnet schools and programs of choice to bring innovative curricula to students in a more concerted effort to meet their individual needs.
Students may apply to a school with a certain focus or to a school with a unique program that matches their individual interests, aptitudes, and goals. Except for Howard E. Ivester Early College, Lanier College Career Academy, and World Language Academy (in some instances), parents of students who live outside the school’s attendance zone must provide transportation.
HCSD Virtual Program of Choice for Grades 3 – 12
The purpose of the HCSD Virtual Program of Choice is to build a connected community of teachers, staff, families, and students who will thrive in virtual learning. It is designed for 3rd – 12th grade students who:
- Desire a virtual choice
- Demonstrate success in a virtual environment
- Can work independently
- Have access to internet
Accepted students will take all of their classes virtually. The virtual classes will have both synchronous and asynchronous components, and students can expect to have regularly scheduled live class sessions every week during the school day, as well as independent learning activities. Students can participate in after-school extracurricular activities in their home school ((zoned school or where student is currently enrolled). For more information: VirtualPOC.Hallco.org
Director/Principal: Mr. Scott Tipton
Magnet Schools Listing
Like Charter Schools, Magnet School concepts were developed through a thoughtful, comprehensive planning process during which parents, teachers and administrators “dreamed a school.”
After reaching consensus on innovative or unique educational options for all students, these schools gained approval from the Hall County Board of Education to use a focused, school-wide approach for increased engagement and achievement.
If families are interested in their children attending a Magnet School to which they are not zoned, they may submit an application to the school.
Magnet School Applications for the 2026-2027 School Year
- For students entering 1st – 12th grade, parents may complete a transfer request form for a Magnet School (opens early Nov) , and parents will be notified by February of acceptance decisions. More information regarding all transfers will is available at: Transfer Information – Hall County Schools. You are required to upload 2 proofs of residency with your application, click here for the list of approved documents. Applications without acceptable proof of residency will be delayed and will not be considered until proofs of residency are received and approved.
For students entering Kindergarten: To enroll your child in kindergarten, parents/guardians must first register their child in their zoned school during the kindergarten registration period, beginning in March during kindergarten registration. (Please refer to the School Attendance Map at School Attendance Zones – Hall County Schools to find the zoned school.) Once kindergarten students are registered to their zoned schools, parents/guardians may complete a Transfer Request Form that will be posted on the Transfer Information – Hall County Schools in early March.
Chestatee Academy utilizes Renzulli’s Schoolwide Enrichment Model to provide gifted pedagogy to all students within our school. Chestatee takes students where they are, gives all their talents a chance to shine, and helps them choose a path to their best future through our SOAR Pathfinder Academies.
At Chestatee Academy, students can choose from over 40 different academies that cover a wide range of interests from robotics and website design to crime scene investigation, soccer, baking, and jazz band.
For 1 hour, twice a week, students get to explore their passions and create products to share with our community. Students are able to complete a pathway in STEM, Arts & Culture, or Health & Wellness.
For more information: cms.hallco.org or 770-297-6270
Chestnut Mountain Creative School of Inquiry (CSI) is for students in grade K-5 who enjoy discovery and creativity. The program is designed to engage students in 21st Century learning as they question, research, discover and create. Curriculum standards are taught through inquiry-based learning opportunities woven throughout the content areas.
Martin Technology Academy of Math and Science provides a challenging academic learning environment for students in grades K-5. Instruction is inquiry-based, and STEM Enrichment classes reinforce the hands-on approach with interest-based activities that focus on state and national standards in math and science.
Mount Vernon Exploratory School provides students a project-based learning environment where they develop 21st Century skills through the integration of technology. PBL is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging and complex question, problem, or challenge. Curriculum standards are taught using a hands-on project approach that engages students and promotes deep understanding.
Sardis Enrichment School uses the Schoolwide Enrichment Model to develop students’ talents; to provide a broad range of advanced-level enrichment experiences; and to foster learning in children’s areas of interest. Students participate in authentic, interest-based exploratory, enrichment, and self-directed learning activities.
Sugar Hill Academy uses the Schoolwide Enrichment Model to promote talent development and career awareness through student interests.
Tadmore Elementary School of Communication allows students the opportunity to develop a variety of communication skills through speaking, writing, art, music, movement, and digital formats. At Tadmore, communication is the foundation through which all of the standards are taught in an intentional, integrated format which allows students to practice and develop listening and speaking skills which will serve them throughout their academic and professional careers.
Wauka Mountain Multiple Intelligences Academy bases its unique programming options on Howard Gardner’s research on multiple intelligences.
World Language Academy World Language Academy is a PreK – Grade 5 dual-language immersion school where student receive a portion of their instruction in Spanish. Additionally, WLA students take classes in Brazilian Portuguese as part of their rigorous coursework and inquiry-based learning experience.
Competitive Programs of Choice
Any Hall County School District student may apply to a Program of Choice in his or her area of interest, regardless of home school assignment. Students are selected to participate in Programs of Choice through a competitive application process during which they are evaluated for the match between strengths and interests and the program goals, specialized content and instructional approaches.
Parents of selected students who live outside the school’s attendance zone must provide transportation. For applications and information about the selection process, please see the school’s webpage.
Elementary School Programs of Choice
Advanced Scholars Academy (ASA): The Advanced Scholars Academy (ASA) at Sandra Dunagan Deal Elementary is an innovative program of choice that seeks self- motivated, passionate students. A rigorous, personalized, and authentic learning experience has been carefully and deliberately created to meet the needs of the individual learner. The faculty and staff of ASA recognize that all children come to school with different levels of prior knowledge, skills, interests, and needs. ASA is eager to design customized schedules and instruction to better serve the unique needs of each student.
ASA will develop learning experiences that use the Georgia Standards of Excellence as the core knowledge for integrated thematic units of study which promote inquiry, creativity, critical thinking and problem solving. Project based learning will utilize a personalized learning platform that will reflect both a student’s interests and learning style as they research, explore, and discover. Students will have enrichment activities extending beyond the traditional classroom into the community. Effective communication, both oral and written, is a necessary component. Students will be given opportunities to showcase their work and will be required to articulate understanding to real world audiences.
In addition to a curriculum with high expectations, it is the desire of ASA to develop the whole child. The staff is committed to producing well rounded students who also exhibit exemplary character and citizenship. Character development will be purposeful and practiced daily to nurture high standards in regards to respect and manners. All students will be part of community service learning. One of the most essential components of ASA will be a commitment from parents to be engaged in the entire learning process as valued partners and volunteers.
Applications:
Contact ASA Coordinator Erin Blair at Erin.Blair@hallco.org
Dual Language Spanish Immersion Path Program of Choice: The Dual Immersion Program at Sandra Dunagan Deal Elementary is open to Pre-K or Kindergarten students and will help grow bilingual and culturally diverse students in the community. In addition to supporting Spanish language acquisition for English speakers, the program also cultivates native Spanish speakers who are new to the English Language while having them maintain their Spanish.
The Dual Language Path is a cohort group that begins in PreK or Kindergarten for most students. Others may enter the program in other grades by passing a competency test. Students receive instruction in both English and Spanish through the immersion model each day.
Educating students in two languages positively impacts intellectual growth and cognitive development at the elementary level. Students need to maintain satisfactory growth in both languages in order to remain in the program.
This Program of Choice is open to Sandra Dunagan Deal Elementary students and is also open to students outside the attendance zone as a Program of Choice as capacity allows. (Tuition applies for students outside of Hall County- visit hallco.org for more information).
The Advanced Scholars Program at Friendship Elementary School is designed to create an academically rigorous, inquiry-based program to facilitate the growth of creative thinkers. ASP classrooms foster an environment that encourages each student to display their own talents while learning to work cooperatively.
Middle School Programs of Choice
Da Vinci Academy at South Hall Middle School is a program designed for students who have a passion for learning, primarily focused in the arts, sciences and technology. Students who are curious, who are original thinkers and who are open to discovering their gifts in a creative educational setting are prime candidates for this program. Intrinsic motivation, creativity and self-discipline are characteristics that DVA students should possess.
DVA provides a project-based learning environment that features a project-based cooperative learning integrated curriculum. The Museum of Inspired Learning offers opportunities for students to research and create collaborative exhibits in a museum setting. DVA teachers are carefully selected for their creativity, content expertise, and ability to teach in an integrated fashion; in addition to their DVA classes with multi-talented teachers, students also work with community experts in their fields of study.
Selection is based on evidence from students’ applications, teacher recommendations, and school transcripts of (a) intrinsic motivation to excel; (b) interest and advanced ability in the arts, sciences and/or technology; (c) creativity; and (d) ability to work well independently and in small group settings.
For more information: https://shms.hallco.org/web/da-vinci-academy/ or 770-532-4416
High School Programs of Choice
ATLAS: Leadership, Scholarship, and Compassion
ATLAS Academy at North Hall High School offers a well-rounded curriculum of advanced educational opportunities for 9th and 10th-grade students ready for academic rigor, leadership opportunities, and compassion projects. Learning experiences are integrated to build inquiring, compassionate, and life-long learners.
Courses are designed to prepare students for the transition into the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. Participants are also well-prepared for Advanced Placement, Ivester Early College, and/or Honors courses for their junior and senior years. Candidates are selected based on demonstrated achievement, motivation to excel, collaboration and leadership abilities, and desire to participate in community service.
Contact ATLAS Coordinator Adrienne West at Adrienne.West@hallco.org
Website: https://nhhs.hallco.org/web/atlas/
STEM Academy at North Hall High School provides an engaging, student-centered, integrated, and rigorous STEM curriculum through innovative instructional methods. STEM Academy students will have advanced educational opportunities in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, using hands-on, interactive technology, and real-world experiences.
Students will work with faculty, industry, and college advisors to design their own independent and group-based investigations, conduct research projects, and present their findings publicly. Students from any Hall County middle school may apply to this 4-year program. As upperclassmen, students can continue in STEM through the IB Diploma path or the AP/Honors path.
Contact STEM Coordinator Adrienne West at Suzanne.Haynes@hallco.org
Website: http://nhhs.hallco.org/web/stem-academy/
The EPiCC Academy at East Hall High School provides students with opportunities for creativity and collaboration that transcend that of the typical classroom. Students will work on rigorous, project-based learning assignments as they seek to become creative problem-solvers in the real world.
The Ivester Healthcare Scholars Program of Choice will provide Dual Enrollment and practical learning experiences for advanced scholars who have demonstrated a focused interest in healthcare fields. Students will engage in rigorous academic classes, unique mentorships, research / internship opportunities, and service applications in a 2-year program. This Hall County Schools POC is made possible through our continued partnerships with Brenau University, Lanier Technical College, the University of North Georgia and the Ivester College of Health Sciences at Brenau University.
Johnson International Scholars Academy (JISA) is a Program of Choice within Johnson High School that includes rigorous coursework and a thematic focus asking students to build community and think globally. The JISA curriculum is an academic program stressing advanced studies in the four core academics, a second language, and a program elective. Developing an awareness of the world’s diversity and the individual’s role in society is a central focus of this program.
Lanier College Career Academy (LCCA) is an innovative school that provides career pathways and post-secondary education opportunities to students from all the high schools in Hall County who are interested in careers in the hospitality, culinary arts, marketing, and cosmetology industries.
The mission of our LEGACY Program of Choice is to empower students with opportunities to serve their community while building a foundation of character and integrity into each of our students to stand on as they develop their leadership skills and impact their community, country and world.
The Navy Junior ROTC Program at East Hall High School provides students with an outstanding means to develop their leadership skills and become active and productive citizens. NJROTC is a hands-on leadership laboratory, where cadets learn the fundamentals of leadership and management by running the cadet company.
STEAM Program at Flowery Branch High School is an Honors Engineering Program where students learn to apply art concepts in real world engineering and technology solutions. Through innovative classroom instruction and access to cutting-edge technology, students collaborate to create authentic projects that combine science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, building the foundation for their academic and career-related futures. Classroom experiences are further enhanced with real-world application through STEAM field trips and presentations from industry professionals.