Middle School Choices

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Welcome to JCPS!

We have fantastic middle schools in Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS). Each of our middle schools offer engaging, effective teaching in a caring, supportive environment. We offer a variety of learning opportunities through unique schools, programs, and activities that will inspire your student to reach their fullest potential. 

This booklet will help you learn about the special qualities that each individual middle school can provide your student and family. 

Every JCPS middle school has dedicated and experienced teachers, technology for every student, family support services, and engaging after-school programming. They all contribute to our students' sense of belonging while teaching them core skills, like reading and math. But your student will also discover new worlds of art, music, and foreign languages as they learn to communicate and flourish in a constantly changing world. More than half of our middle schools have Explore Pathways—a chance for students to get a taste of a possible career path or a link to one of our high school Academies of Louisville Programs. 

Middle school staff understand that their students need some direction, encouragement, and equitable support as they continue building their academic and interpersonal skills. 

Please take the time to review the multitude of offerings we have available and determine how they align with the learning style and interests of your student. At JCPS, our mission is to always do what’s best for our students. We hope this booklet will help you determine what’s best for your middle school student.

Let’s Get Started

JCPS has more than 30 middle schools, ensuring that students from all backgrounds can find a sense of belonging. With nationally recognized teachers and programs, we are proud to provide an array of choices to best serve our students throughout the district. Fifth-grade students currently enrolled in a JCPS school will be automatically enrolled in a middle school designated by their address unless they:

  • Apply and are accepted into another school.

  • Live in the JCPS Choice Zone. 

Find out the middle school designated for where you live by using the online JCPS SchoolFinder tool (See page 6 for QR code). 

Choice Zone students will be required to select whether they’d like to attend school close to home or far away during the application window. 

We understand that families want to have options for their student’s education, which may include a choice other than their resides school. Fifth-grade students can also apply to magnet schools and magnet programs. Review the school options for your student, and evaluate how the programs and offerings at those schools align with your student’s goals and future plans after middle school.

Register and Apply

Review Options and Select Preference 

Decide what type of learning environment works best for your student, and explore school options, programs, and/or offerings at each school. 

Middle School Options

Resides Schools (page 8)

  • Current JCPS students will be automatically enrolled in their resides school. New JCPS students who have already registered with the district and would like to attend their resides school should contact the school (not the Office of School Choice) to enroll.

Choice Zone (page 10)

  • You can attend either your close-to-home option or the school designated for your address that is farther away. This is only for incoming sixth graders, middle school students new to the district, or middle school students with a new address in the Choice Zone. An application is required to make your selection. 

Magnet Schools (page 41)

  • If your preference is outside of your resides school boundary, you can select and apply for up to two magnet schools or programs. 

Traditional Magnet Schools* (page 41)

  • If you are currently enrolled in a JCPS Traditional Magnet elementary school, no application is necessary. You will be automatically enrolled in the Traditional Magnet middle school that serves your home address. 

*You must apply to a Traditional Magnet middle school if you are not currently enrolled in a Traditional Magnet elementary school.

Have You Registered? 

You need to register if:

  • Your student has never attended a JCPS school.

How to Register

  • Online

  • At any JCPS middle school

  • At the Office of School Choice

Registration Process

  • All students new to JCPS must register with the district before applying for school.

  • You may register your student for school regardless of immigration status and/or a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. For more information, contact the Office of Access and Opportunity at (502) 485-3650.

After You Register

After you register, JCPS will verify your information and send you an email to complete your application, which can take up to two business days. Incoming sixth graders, middle school students new to the district, or middle school students with a new address may then review their Choice Zone options if applicable. To find out which school is your resides school, call the JCPS Demographics Office at (502) 485-3050 or use the online JCPS SchoolFinder (see page 54 for QR code).

Apply

Dates to Remember

  • Applications open: November 11, 2024

  • Application deadline: December 20, 2024

  • Acceptance notification: April 2025

You need to apply if: 

  • Your student has never attended a JCPS school.

  • Your student has had a change of address.

  • Your student is applying for a magnet school or magnet program.

  • Your student is an incoming sixth grader who lives in the Choice Zone. 

Application Process 

All middle school students are automatically enrolled in their resides school, unless they live in the Choice Zone (page 10). If you live in the Choice Zone, you must select between your close-to-home or farther-away options. 

Magnet Application Information

  • Students may submit one magnet application per year.

  • Submitting a magnet application doesn’t guarantee admission, and submitting false information will void an application.

  • Waiting lists are not kept from year to year.

  • Magnet applications can only be edited during the on-time application period.

  • Siblings of current or former Traditional Magnet School students do not receive preference in the application process, but those who share the same date of birth (twins, triplets, etc.) are treated as one application. However, parents must submit a separate application for each student.

  • Students must be a resident of Jefferson County to attend a magnet school or magnet program. If families are relocating, contact the Office of School Choice at (502) 485-6250. 

How to Apply 

Families are encouraged to apply online, but in-person application options are available. 

You can apply in person at the following locations:

  • JCPS Office of School Choice: 4309 Bishop Lane

  • JCPS Office of Multilingual Learners (OML): 1325 Bluegrass Avenue

  • Any school location

Resides Schools

Fifth-grade students currently enrolled at a JCPS school will be automatically enrolled in a middle school designated by their address unless they:

  • Apply and are accepted into another school.

  • Live in the JCPS Choice Zone. (See page 10.) 

During the application window, Choice Zone students will be required to select if they’d like to attend school close to home or far away. 

If your resides school has a magnet program you wish to participate in, you must apply to that magnet program. (See pages 49–50 for magnet programs.) 

If you are new to JCPS, registration will be required before you can enroll or apply. Register online (see QR code on page 6), in person at your resides school, or at the JCPS Office of School Choice. Proof of address is required.

Choice Zone

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

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

All students may also apply for magnets and transfers.

Explore

What is Explore?

Explore Pathways introduce Career and Technical Education (CTE) to middle school students. 

All students in Explore schools will have access to the Explore learning experience; students don't need to apply for Explore itself. Explore is not a magnet program. It is a new way of structuring learning in middle school to focus on real-world experiences.

What Schools* Offer Explore Pathways?

  • Academy @ Shawnee

  • Carrithers

  • Crosby 

  • DuBois, W.E.B.

  • Echo Trail

  • Farnsley

  • Highland

  • Hudson

  • James, Grace, Academy of Excellence

  • Jefferson, Thomas

  • Johnson Traditional

  • Kammerer

  • Meyzeek

  • Newcomer Academy

  • Olmsted Academy North

  • Olmsted Academy South

  • Ramsey

  • Westport

How Does It Work?

Sixth Grade: In sixth grade, students rotate through pathway offerings, followed by a special selection ceremony where they can choose their seventh- and eighth-grade pathways. 

Seventh and Eighth Grades: For the remaining two years, students will experience project-based learning, guest speakers, and field trips. They’ll also complete a Defense of Learning in their eighth-grade year that includes artifacts created during their time in that particular pathway.

What Pathways Are Offered at JCPS Middle Schools?

Currently, there are five pathways aligned with the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) Career Clusters. 

Business and Communication: This pathway focuses on teaching students all aspects of business, marketing, and leadership. They will learn about personal finance, entrepreneurship, digital citizenship, communication and journalism, sales strategies, and business planning. 

Consumer Science: This pathway explores personal growth, family dynamics, early childhood development, employability skills, economics, culinary and food services, fashion, interior design, and agribusiness. 

Engineering and Design: This pathway teaches students about the design process from start to finish. They will gain knowledge in robotics, coding, architecture, construction, 3D graphic design, and model building. 

Healthcare Science: This pathway provides students with knowledge and skills related to the medical field. They will learn about first aid/CPR, biology, sports medicine, and the various careers in healthcare. 

Public Service: This pathway explores government structures, law, and education in relation to local, state, and national communities. Students will participate in mock trials, disaster planning, and emergency response scenarios and will develop leadership skills while working to make positive changes.

Feeder Patterns

JCPS has developed 15 feeder patterns that allow parents to see the schools their student will attend based on their home address.

Percentages represent the portion of the student body to attend the indicated high school.

Middle Schools

Resides: No application required for current JCPS fifth graders unless you live in the Choice Zone
Magnets: Application required
Traditional Magnets: No application required for students currently enrolled in traditional elementary magnet

Resides Schools

Academy@Shawnee

Student Enrollment: 373 (Grades 6–8) 
Phone: (502) 485-8326 
Address: 4001 Herman Street, Louisville, KY 40212

The Academy @ Shawnee is committed to preparing students by helping them develop the core skills needed to be successful in middle school, high school, and beyond.

School Highlights

  • Engineering and Aerospace Magnet

  • Catered lesson materials that ensure every student is learning in the way that best meets their needs

  • Hands-on Project-Based Learning (PBL)

  • Clubs and activities: Black Student Union (BSU), Chess Club, Drama/ Theatre, and Sewing Club

  • Athletics: Archery, baseball, basketball, bowling, eSports, flag football, football, golf, swimming, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication: Finance/Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Digital Media, Sports Media, and Broadcasting

  • Engineering and Design: Robotics, Coding, Sketching, Engineering/ Physics Application, 3D Drafting, and Flight/Aviation

Healthcare Science: Sports Medicine, Nursing, Allied Health, and CPR

Carrithers Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 559

  • Phone: (502) 485-8224

  • Address: 4320 Billtown Road, Louisville, KY 40299

At Carrithers Middle, our mission is to increase the achievement and growth of every student through effective and engaging teaching and learning strategies. Together, we use rigorous academic standards to prepare our students to be productive citizens who are committed to learning.

School Highlights

  • Advance Program

  • 1:1 technology device-to-student ratio

  • Daily advisory period to build relationships between students and teachers

  • Full-time mental health practitioner (MHP)

  • Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) Distinguished ratings in band, choir, and orchestra

  • Fully functioning Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) lab

  • Clubs and activities: Beta Club, Black Student Union (BSU), chess, Quick Recall, robotics, Student Council, Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), and Verizon Student Tech Team

  • Athletics: Archery, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, crosscountry, dance, soccer, softball, Step Team, track, and volleyball

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication: Business, Marketing, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Advertising, Communication, and Journalism

  • Public Service: Government, Law, Legal Issues, Military, Public Speaking/Debate, and Courtroom in the Classroom

Conway Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 717

  • Phone: (502) 485-8233

  • Address: 6300 Terry Road, Louisville, KY 40258

Conway Middle provides quality learning experiences in a caring environment to prepare and inspire our students to be successful in life.

School Highlights

  • Advance Program

  • Verizon Innovative Learning School (VILS): iPad and data plan for all students/staff

  • Updated media center with flexible seating, project space, and technology access • Award-winning orchestra, band, and Chess Team

  • Youth Services Center (YSC) that helps remove learning barriers by connecting students and families with various service programs

  • Five state champion awards for Digital Products Online Judging by the Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP) team

  • Individualized approach to learning through Cougar Day intervention periods

  • Clubs and activities: Anime Club, Black Student Union (BSU), Chess Team, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Men of Quality, Future Problem Solvers, Quick Recall, STLP, and Walking/Jogging Club

  • Athletics: Archery, baseball, basketball (boys’ and girls’), cheer, cross-country (boys’ and girls’), football, soccer, softball, track and field, and volleyball

Crosby Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 832

  • Phone: (502) 485-8235

  • Address: 303 Gatehouse Lane, Louisville, KY 40243

This year, Crosby Middle will celebrate 50 years of academic excellence. Our programs provide all students with the opportunity to excel academically and emotionally. Every student at Crosby is a unique individual whom we prepare for the transition to high school and—more importantly—life. Crosby celebrates students and staff on a weekly basis.

School Highlights

  • Advance Program

  • Highly competitive Distinguished Math Scholars (DMS) Program offering high school algebra and geometry credit in eighth grade

  • Band, Orchestra, and Choir Ensembles that consistently earn Distinguished honors at the district and state levels

  • Unique Classroom Experiences: 

    • Project-Based Learning (PBL): Provides students weekly handson, inquiry-based learning experiences across all subject areas 

    • Social Emotional Learning (SEL): Weekly opportunities for students to engage in building positive peer relations as well as discussions led by teachers and counselors alike

  • Clubs and activities: Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Astronomy, Black Student Union (BSU), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Girls Who Code, Media Production, Nature Club, Piano Club, Science Olympiad, Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA), and Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA)

  • Athletics: Football, cross-country, volleyball, golf, tennis, field hockey, basketball, cheer, dance, bowling, swim team, archery, soccer, baseball, softball, track and field, lacrosse, and flag football

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication: Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship, and Social Media Certifications

  • Engineering and Design: Programming, Building, and Debugging; Media Production; 3D Graphic Design; Code.org Certification; Rube Goldberg Machines Competition •

  • Healthcare Science: CPR and First Aid Certifications, Stop the Bleed Certification, and First Aid

Echo Trail Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 689 (6th grade only in 2023-24) 

  • Phone: (502) 485-8398 

  • Address: 2601 Echo Trail, Louisville, KY 40245

Echo Trail Middle opened in the fall of 2023 and is the newest school built in eastern Jefferson County since 2008. The new facility features a modern, open-concept floor plan and is located in the heart of the Parklands. Our students have a variety of opportunities to engage in hands-on learning and outdoor activities. We strive to "Expect greaTness" in everything we do as a Wolf Pack.

School Highlights

  • GREAT Pillars of Success: Acknowledges and recognizes students for embodying the following values of our school— Growth Mindset, Ready and Responsible, Enthusiastic Attitude, Actively Participating, and Treating Yourself and Others With Kindness

  • Student voice, advocacy, and service-learning opportunities: Student ambassadors and leadership roles, student-led conferences, field trips, and student-led school campaigns

  • Extracurricular activities: 40+ activities, clubs, and athletics

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication: Explore all aspects of business, leadership, and marketing through the lens of finance, entrepreneurship, digital citizenship, marketing, advertising, and business planning.

  • Consumer Science: Learn employability skills and human connection while exploring the worlds of culinary arts and services, safety, CPR, fashion, and healthy lifestyles.

Engineering and Design: Enter the world of discovering robotics, architecture, construction, 3D graphic design, and building models.

Farnsley Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 974

  • Start/Dismissal Times: 8:40 a.m./3:20 p.m.

  • Phone: (502) 485-8242

  • Address: 3400 Lees Lane, Louisville, KY 40216

Farnsley Middle provides a safe environment that encourages lifelong student success. We recognize the uniqueness of all our students and are committed to promoting student-centered excellence in academics and the development of social skills, leadership, and creativity. Farnsley’s pathways offer students hands-on, engaging learning experiences with future schools and community connections.

School Highlights

  • Mathematics/Science/Technology (MST) Magnet Program

  • Advance Program and Gifted and Talented Program

  • Nationally recognized robotics (VEX), engineering, and tech offerings along with a Verizon Innovative Learning School (VILS) Lab fully equipped with VR headsets, 3D printers, Glowforge printer, and 1:1 technology device-to-student ratio

  • Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) Distinguished ratings in band, choir, and orchestra

  • Award-winning and nationally recognized academic and leadership teams

  • 65+ activities, clubs, and athletics offered

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication: Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship, and Social Media Certifications

  • Engineering and Design: Programming, Building, and Debugging; Code.org Certification; Rube Goldberg Machines Competition; and Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Curriculum

  • Healthcare Science: CPR and First Aid Certifications, Stop the Bleed Certification, and First Aid

Highland Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 661 

  • Phone: (502) 485-8266

  • Address: 1700 Norris Place, Louisville, KY 40205

At Highland Middle School, our mission is to teach to high academic and social standards so each member of the school community becomes more globally minded and develops a desire for lifelong learning and community responsibility. 

School Highlights

  • Fine Arts Magnet: Students districtwide can participate in Highland’s award- winning program, which consists of chorus, music, band, and orchestra. 

  • Daily social-emotional learning opportunities through Soft Start

  • Athletics: cheer, cross-country, golf, fencing, field hockey, basketball, tennis, football, volleyball, swimming, archery, soccer, baseball, softball, girls’ lacrosse, flag football, track and field 

  • Clubs and activities: Adventures Club, Art Club, LGBTQ+ Alliance, Black Student Union (BSU), Quick Recall, Minecraft Club, Racial Equity Committee, Harry Potter Club, Garden Club, Creative Writing Club, Muslim Student Association

Explore Pathways

  • Consumer Science: Learn employability skills and the human connection with economics by exploring the worlds of culinary and food services and fashion and interior design. Discover the world of agribusiness while focusing on the systems found in our natural world from food science to renewable energy.

  • Engineering & Design: Enter the world of engineering and design through the avenues of robotics, coding, architecture, construction, 3D graphic design, and building models.

Hudson Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 648

  • Phone: (502) 485-8187

  • Address: 3526 W. Muhammad Ali Boulevard, Louisville, KY 40212

Hudson Middle is the first new middle school in West Louisville since 1932. We are currently teaching and learning in a temporary building. Students have access to specially designed Explore Pathway classrooms—such as our on-site Hudson Café and courtroom. Thanks to the new School Choice plan, we are thrilled to help our students explore various career paths closer to home.

School Highlights

  • Social Justice class that incorporates the Learning for Justice Social Justice Standards to promote an equitable education

  • Special Panther Days, which include career exploration, schoolwide team building, and community service-learning projects

  • Student leadership opportunities: Social Justice Impact League, Panther Explore Ambassadors, Principal Student Council, Black Student Union (BSU), and more

  • Activities, clubs, and athletics: Basketball, football, cheerleading, dance, track, curling, flag football, baseball, Big Brothers Big Sisters, drama club, step club, anime, and more

Explore Pathways

  • Consumer Science: Culinary Arts (Cooking), Food Science, Sustainable Living, and On-Site Hudson Café

  • Engineering and Design: Digital Innovations (2D/3D design), Coding and Artificial Intelligence, and VEX Robotics

  • Public Service: Law and Government, Public Speaking and Debate, Social Justice and Advocacy, and On-Site Courtroom

Thomas Jefferson Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 1,000

  • Phone: (502) 485-8273

  • Address: 1501 Rangeland Rd., Louisville, KY 40219

At Thomas Jefferson Middle School (TJMS), we support our students through our school vision of WE LEAD, focusing on Literacy, Equity, Acceleration, and Design (LEAD). Student growth is a core focus of instruction with an intentional focus on student literacy. TJMS is an Explore school, aligning our Explore Pathways with the Academies of Louisville at Seneca and Southern High Schools. Students are offered a variety of options for their related arts class in addition to their Explore Pathway class.

School Highlights

  • Patriot Academy: Helps sixth graders transition to middle school by separating them from other grades so that their teachers can focus on supporting them through social-emotional lessons 

  • Advance Program and Gifted and Talented Program

  • No-uniform school that supports student expression through a dress code policy 

  • Related arts offerings: Band, orchestra, choir, and physical education (PE)

  • Clubs/Activities: Academic Team, Art Club, Beta Club, Book Clubs, Chess Club (state champions), Equity Club, Gaming Club, and Student Council

  • Athletics: Baseball, basketball, cheerleading, soccer, Step Team, and track

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication: Focuses on careers in personal finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, and advertising

  • Engineering and Design: Focuses on the design process and careers in robotics, programming, and construction

  • Public Service: Focuses on government structures, law, and education

Kammerer Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 796 

  • Phone: (502) 485-8279

  • Address: 7315 Wesboro Road, Louisville, KY 40222

At Kammerer Middle, we engage students of diverse backgrounds in culturally responsive and academically challenging learning environments where differences are respected and celebrated. Kammerer provides a positive and safe environment where students explore interests and elevate talents to achieve success on an emotional and academic level.

School Highlights

  • Award-winning band, choir, and orchestra programs: Consistent Distinguished ratings at Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) with students selected for various college Honor Band programs

  • Advance Program, Distinguished Math Scholar (DMS) Program, and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) School Safe and Civil Schools Program

  • Youth Services Center (YSC) available to all Kammerer students and families

  • Clubs and activities: Academic Team, Anime/Manga, Beta Club, Black Student Union (BSU), Braiding Club, Chess, Children's Fine Art Classes (CFAC) Art Club, Drama Club, Future Problem Solvers, Guitar Club, Jazz Band, Minecraft Club, Pep Club, PingPong Club, Photography Club, Quick Recall, Ski Club, Special Olympics Club, Wyldlife Club, and Yearbook Club

  • Athletics: Baseball, basketball, cheer, cross-country, dance, field hockey, flag football, football, golf, swimming, soccer, softball, tennis, track, and volleyball

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication: Digital Literacy, Media and Journalism, Art and Graphic Design, Interactive Media, and Business and Marketing

  • Engineering and Design: Coding and Robotics

  • Healthcare Science: General Health and Wellness, Nursing, Nutrition, Sports Medicine, and Forensics

Knight Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 751

  • Phone: (502) 485-8287

  • Address: 9803 Blue Lick Road, Louisville, KY 40229

Knight Middle’s mission is to be a learning community grounded in equity and empathy that engages and empowers every student socially, emotionally, and academically. Knight embraces and celebrates the strength of diversity that our students and families bring to our community.

School Highlights

  • Advance Program offered

  • Four Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM)-based elective courses • Offers Knight Clubs after school throughout the school year, which vary based on the interest of the students but have included Art Club, Black Student Union (BSU), Chess Club, Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA), Knight Cares, Knight Diamonds, Men of Quality, Podcast Club, Skateboard Club, Robotics Club, Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP)/Tech Club, and more

  • Athletics: Cheerleading, boys’ and girls’ basketball, flag and tackle football, cross-country, volleyball, track, and soccer

Lassiter Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 928

  • Phone: (502) 485-8288

  • Address: 8200 Candleworth Drive, Louisville, KY 40214

At Lassiter Middle, we pride ourselves on fostering a positive school culture and providing a structured environment where students thrive under high academic expectations. Our vibrant community is dedicated to supporting each student in reaching their full potential, embracing diversity as a cornerstone of our values. We believe that interactions play a crucial role in shaping our students' experiences and growth. Together, we create a nurturing environment where every individual feels valued and empowered. Join us at Lassiter, where excellence meets inclusivity and every interaction matters.

School Highlights

  • A dominant presence in the regional Governor's Cup Academic Team, securing multiple championships

  • Related arts opportunities: Rock Band, Concert Band, Orchestra, Literacy Magazine, physical education (PE), Career Choices, and Multimedia Technology classes 

  • Brand-new Verizon Innovations STEM Lab funded by Heart of America, offering design and engineering opportunities using 3D printing technology, Sphero robotics, Virtual Reality, and much more

  • Clubs and activities: Academic Team, Adelante Hispanic Achievers, Beta Club, Black Student Union (BSU), Cooking Club, Drama Club, Future Problem Solvers, Girls on the Run, Girls Who Game, Lassiter Ambassadors, Men of Quality, Multicultural Club, National Honor Society (NHS), Quick Recall, Robotics, Student Council, Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Video Game and Minecraft Club, Yearbook, and Women of Worth

  • Athletics: Archery, Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, CrossCountry, Flag Football, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track, and Volleyball

Meyzeek Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 899

  • Phone: (502) 485-8299

  • Address: 828 S. Jackson Street, Louisville, KY 40203

Meyzeek Middle provides a balanced curriculum in which all students are challenged to think critically and excel academically. Meyzeek’s historically distinguished Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Program attracts the most talented scholars from all over the city and offers an exceptional experience designed to prepare them for a dynamic future. The Meyzeek experience promotes STEM inquiry and exploration while simultaneously integrating artistic expression in order to address the learning styles and interests of a diverse learning community.

School Highlights

  • Mathematics/Science/Technology (MST) Magnet

  • Advanced-level mathematics, including algebra and geometry

  • Competitive academic teams and leadership opportunities: Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA), Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), National Junior Beta Club, MATHCOUNTS, Science Olympiad, Governor’s Cup, Debate, Future Problem Solving, Quick Recall, and Robotics and Engineering accolades

  • Community School Program (CSP) that provides after-school programs and services for the whole family

  • 30+ extracurricular activities, clubs, and competitive athletic teams

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication

  • Engineering and Design

  • Healthcare Science

Marion C. Moore School

  • Student Enrollment: 732 (Grades 6–8)

  • Phone: (502) 485-8304

  • Address: 6415 Outer Loop, Louisville, KY 40228

Our culture at Marion C. Moore School stems from our mission and vision. We strive to be a school where students want to be, adults want to work, and the community is proud to have their students attend. We are the largest school in the city of Louisville and proudly serve grades six through twelve. Your student can be with us for seven years, which is a unique benefit of Moore’s combined school model.

School Highlights

  • Provides VEX Robotics platform to design, build, and program real-world objects, such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms

  • A unique structure of having middle school and high school students share a campus that supports consistency in academic focus

  • Related arts courses, which mirror high school Academies, that provide opportunities to explore offerings

Newburg Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 641 

  • Phone: (502) 485-8306

  • Address: 4901 Exeter Avenue, Louisville, KY 40218

At Newburg Middle School, we aim to inspire students in their quest for knowledge while promoting success and self-confidence through teamwork, critical thinking, and self-discipline as students become contributing members of our global society.

School Highlights

  • Mathematics/Science/Technology (MST) Magnet Program: 

  • Advance Program and Gifted and Talented Student Programming

    • Honors Algebra 1

  • Diverse student body that speaks 21+ languages

  • VEX Robotics and Engineering Program

  • Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) School: a schoolwide college- and career-readiness system designed to increase the number of students who enroll and succeed in higher education and in their lives beyond high school

  • Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) Distinguished ratings in orchestra, band, and chorus

  • Athletic opportunities: volleyball, cheer, football, cross-country, baseball, softball, basketball, tennis, archery, soccer, eSports, and dance (local-, regional-, and national-level academic competition opportunities)

  • Outdoor classroom with a drone course

  • Kutz 4 Kidz: State-licensed, fully operational barber shop offering free haircuts to kids

  • Student Achievement Community Center (SACC) provides students and families access to clothes, shoes, and fresh produce on-site at Newburg. 

  • Strong community partnerships with Faurecia, GE Appliances, and the Newburg Boys’ and Girls’ Club

  • Verizon Innovative Learning (VIL) Lab: Chromebook and data plan for all students/staff

Noe Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 1,195

  • Phone: (502) 485-8307

  • Address: 121 W. Lee Street, Louisville, KY 40208

Diversity, creativity, and academic excellence—these are the hallmarks of Noe Middle. By providing challenging courses and recognizing the individual talents of each student, Noe prepares students for the demands of high school while honoring their youthful enthusiasm and desire to make a difference in the world. Noe’s mission is to focus on student success as the goal of all activities through a student-centered environment, an interdisciplinary team-teaching organization, and a cooperative effort of staff, parents, and the community.

School Highlights

  • Visual and Performing Arts Magnet Program: Specialized, intensive studies in Dance, Drama, Music, and Visual Arts that help students develop their artistic potential through daily accelerated classes and opportunities to prepare for possible entry into a high school arts magnet

  • Gifted and Talented Magnet Program: Designed to meet the unique needs of advanced learners who excel in academics, the arts, creativity, and leadership through student choice, project-based instruction, and leadership opportunities

  • Offers the Advance Program • Uses the College Preparatory Mathematics (CPM) Curriculum

  • Offers Algebra I and Geometry for high school credit 

  • Student leadership opportunities: National Junior Beta Club, Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA), Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), and service-learning projects

  • Athletics: Archery, Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross-Country, Dance Team, Field Hockey, Flag Football, Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Swim, Tennis, Track, and Volleyball

  • Clubs of interest: A Capella Music Group, Art and Activism Club, Black Student Union (BSU), Book Club, Chess Club, Girls on the Run, Girls Who Code, Graphic Arts Club, Guitar Club, Jazz Band, Journalism/Multimedia Club, Piano Club, School Musical, Sexuality And Gender Acceptance (SAGA), and Yearbook Staff

Olmstead Academy North

  • Student Enrollment: 496

  • Phone: (502) 485-8331

  • Address: 4530 Bellevue Avenue, Louisville, KY 40215

Olmsted Academy North (OAN) is the first JCPS all-male middle school. The three pillars of Olmsted Academy North are to be Respectful, Responsible, and Safe. We offer Advance Program, Gifted and Talented Program, and a host of inclusive clubs, sports, and activities. We are a trauma-informed school, implementing daily Restorative Practices (RP). We are excited to offer the Explore Program in the fall. Our pathways are Consumer Science and Engineering and Design. Our goal is to ensure that our young men are ready for the next level by engaging and challenging them every day at OAN!

School Highlights

Our mission: Providing our young men with rigorous instruction; encouraging collaboration and inclusion through Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM)-focused exploration; and designing innovative futures

  • Clubs and activities: Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Coding, Mechanical Engineering, Digital Design, Robotics, Black Student Union (BSU), Men of Quality, Student Tech Team, eSports, Cooking Club, and Express Pass

  • Athletics: Football (flag and tackle), basketball, soccer, track and field, and cross-country

Explore Pathways

  • Consumer Science: Culinary Arts (Cooking), Food Science, Sustainable Living, Hands-On Student Creations, and Employability Skills

  • Engineering and Design: Digital Innovations, Computer-Aided Design, Innovation Lab, Coding, Virtual Reality, and VEX Robotics

Olmstead Academy South

  • Student Enrollment: 558

  • Phone: (502) 485-8270

  • Address: 5650 Southern Parkway, Louisville, KY 40214

In addition to academic proficiency in core subjects, young women at Frederick Law Olmsted Academy South will have a mastery of Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) skills; an understanding of and appreciation for the arts; and the ability to provide meaningful service to their diverse communities. Our vision is for each of our young women to leave Olmsted Academy South equipped with 21st-century skills through STEAM-based education.

School Highlights

  • Gender-Specific and STEAM Magnet Program: All-girl academy with STEAM-infused core curriculum, innovative technology courses, and visual and performing arts 

  • Technology courses: Robotics, Programming, Project Lead The Way (PLTW), Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Multimedia

  • Visual and performing arts: band, chorus, orchestra, piano, advanced art

  • Student activities: Academic Team, Environmental Club, Bike Club, Photography Club, Writers Club, basketball, volleyball, soccer, softball, dance, cheer, Step Team

  • Community partnership programming: Women in Leadership Program; Girls on the R.I.S.E. (Revolutionizing Interpretations through Self-Expression); Women’s Economic Leadership Program; Young Authors Greenhouse; Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA); Beta Club; Kentucky Science Center; Mercy Academy Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Partnership; and Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana STEM Partnership

  • Nationally certified by Magnet Schools of America

Explore Pathways

  • Business & Communication

  • Engineering & Design

Ramsey Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 1,172 

  • Phone: (502) 485-8391

  • Address: 6409 Gellhaus Lane, Louisville, KY 40299

Ramsey Middle School’s ensure students are empowered learners, service-minded leaders, and globally responsible citizens. Ramsey’s campus culture encourages students and staff to live up to our motto—Serve to Be Great—by encouraging them to be community leaders and serve those in need. Ramsey Rams are able to explore their potential by learning about various career pathways. Explore Pathways, aligned with the Academies of Louisville, are located in separate parts of the building. This, along with individual teams, helps facilitate a successful transition from elementary to middle school and build a sense of community. 

School Highlights

  • Industry-specific guest speakers, field trips, mentorships, and internal Explore event opportunities 

  • Modern classrooms and blended learning with personalized, student-centered learning 

  • Verizon Innovative Learning School (VILS): Chromebooks with integrated wireless technology for all students

  • 30+ extracurricular activities, clubs, and competitive athletic clubs combined 

Explore Pathways

  • Business & Communication

    • Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship, and Social Media Certifications

  • Engineering & Design

    • Programming, building, and debugging

    • Code.org Certification

  • Healthcare Science

    • CPR and First Aid Certifications

Stuart Academy

  • Student Enrollment:  1,262

  • Phone: (502) 485-8334

  • Address: 4603 Valley Station Road, Louisville, KY 40272

In partnership with the community, Stuart Academy's mission is to empower scholars to be 21st-century leaders who are ready for high school.

School Highlights

  • Advance Program (seventh- and eighth-grade students only)

  • Offers a variety of athletic and extracurricular activities at facilities that are among the best in the district

  • Physical education (PE) classes that use a fitness lab with state-of-the-art equipment

  • Parent engagement and involvement opportunities: parent nights, web talks with the principal and leadership team, field trips, volunteering, and parent-teacher conferences

  • Smaller class sizes than most JCPS middle schools 

  • Project-Based Learning (PBL) opportunities

  • Offers band, orchestra, and chorus as well as Boys’ and Girls’ Club Programs

  • Verizon Innovative Learning School (VILS): iPad and data plan for all students/staff

  • Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) programming

Westport Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 1,026

  • Phone: (502) 485-8346

  • Address: 8100 Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222

At Westport Middle School, we believe we can inspire every student by providing a safe and caring environment that fosters academic and individual growth. Our mission is to coach students collaboratively and each other to build a consistent learning community. This reflects our core values of consistency, community, collaboration, and coaching. Westport is part of the JCPS Explore Academy Pathway project allowing students a pathway of related arts classes aligned with student interests and high school Academies of Louisville.

School Highlights

  • Montessori Magnet Program (See page 49 for program details.)

  • Offers Illustrative Math, a research-based curriculum

  • Related arts opportunities: orchestra; band; choral music; drama; health science; robotics; coding; Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); African-American history; visual art opportunities; Best Buddies; and more

  • Embedded enrichment and intervention systems

  • Activities, clubs, and athletics: Academic Team, Art Club, Beta Club, Cooking Club, Drama Club, Equestrian Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Future Problem Solvers, Gay/Straight Alliance (GSA), MATHCOUNTS, Men of Quality, baseball, basketball, chess, cross-country, dance, field hockey, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, Step Team, swim, track and field, volleyball, and more

Explore Pathways

  • Business & Communication: Journalism, Career Exploration, and Entrepreneurship

  • Engineering & Design: Robotics, Coding, and STEM

  • Healthcare Science: Nutrition and Wellness, Health Professions, and Sports Medicine

  • Embedded enrichment and intervention systems

Magnet Schools

Barret Traditional Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 608 

  • Phone: (502) 485-8207

  • Address: 2561 Grinstead Drive, Louisville, KY 40206

     

Barret Traditional Middle provides a structured environment that allows every student to reach their highest potential while growing to be lifelong learners in a culturally diverse, ever-changing world. We teach our students to pursue excellence, demonstrate compassion, develop personal responsibility, and build a culture of respectfulness through service to others. We believe in the Barret Way, every day! Barret serves students who live within certain geographical boundaries. Use JCPS SchoolFinder (see page 54 for QR code) to determine what traditional school boundary you live in.

School Highlights

  • Schoolwide emphasis on performance-based assessment and focus on mastery—highly interactive, collaborative, inquiry-based instruction

  • Long-standing tradition of top-rated academic performance

  • National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence 2019

  • Kentucky 5-Star Rating 2020

  • 2022 Kentucky Blue Rating (TopPerforming)

  • Schoolwide emphasis on service learning through the Barret Cares Program, which provides community-service opportunities

  • District and state championships in basketball, football, tennis, volleyball, field hockey, baseball, cheer, dance, and golf

  • Related arts opportunities: Art; chorus; band; orchestra; Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); physical education (PE); health; drama; service learning; journalism; and Future City

J. Graham Brown School

  • Student Enrollment: 233 (Grades 6–8)

  • Phone: (502) 485-8216

  • Address: 546 S. First Street, Louisville, KY 40202

The J. Graham Brown School, the original magnet school, is a districtwide magnet school for students who thrive in a Self-Directed Learning environment. Our mission is to foster independence, cultivate empathy, ignite innovation, and inspire advocacy within a culturally responsive learning environment. Founder and first principal Martha Ellison says J. Graham Brown School students have the “reasoned minds and educated hearts” of self-directed, lifelong learners.

School Highlights

  • Districtwide Self-Directed Learning Magnet School serving kindergarten through grade-twelve students • Student voice, problem solving, and advocacy through ProjectBased Learning (PBL)

  • Student goal setting and self-monitoring of progress through student-led conferences 

  • Features the Ursa Innovation Lab, our makerspace, allowing students to innovate to create learning artifacts and experiences using various technologies

  • Opportunities to earn high school credit as early as seventh grade

  • Cross-grade collaboration and mentorship

  • Clubs and activities: Science Fair, Quick Recall, Written Assessments, Future Problem Solving, Robotics Team, Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Black Student Union (BSU), Asian Student Association, Beta Club, Drama (including two schoolwide plays each year), Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA), and Not Your Stereotypical Kids

  • Athletics: Archery (grades seven and eight), baseball (grades seven and eight), basketball, bowling (grades seven and eight), cheer, cross-country, eSports (grades seven and eight), golf (grades seven and eight), soccer (2022 undefeated JCPS Girls’ Soccer Champions), softball (grades seven and eight), swim (grades seven and eight), and track

W.E.B. DuBois Middle Academy

  • Student Enrollment: 502 (Grades 6–8)

  • Phone: (502) 485-7600

  • Address: 3307 E. Indian Trail Louisville, KY 40213 

W.E.B. DuBois Middle Academy is an Afrocentric middle school that opened during the 2018-19 school year. Our staff empowers each young man to achieve excellence by eliminating barriers to learning. At DuBois, it’s a guarantee that each student will demonstrate growth, becoming more adept mathematicians, readers, writers, and speakers, while also becoming better role models, listeners, and leaders in their homes and communities. Students embark on thrilling journeys of discovery with pathways. Engaging Explore Pathways are designed for middle school students and pave the way for their future success.

School Highlights

  • Gender-Specific Magnet: Afrocentric multicultural curriculum for all males 

  • Explore Pathways: Business and Communication, Consumer Science, Engineering and Design

  • Brotherhood reinforced by School Creed, L.E.A.D.E.R. Rules, and P.R.I.D.E. Values

  • Student leadership: Alpha Academy, student ambassadors, L3, Men of Quality, and Student Council

  • Field trips: Multiple field trip opportunities—citywide, out of state, and overnight field trips

  • Activities, clubs, and athletics: Band, Baseball, Chess, Flag Football, Golf, Passion Classes, Robotics, Soccer, Track, Trivia Team, and more

Explore Pathways

  • Business and Communication: Explore entrepreneurship, marketing, and communications. Develop vital skills in leadership, problem solving, and innovation.

  • Consumer Science: Discover the world of culinary arts in kitchen labs. Master basic cooking techniques, and explore global cuisines.

  • Engineering and Design: Do hands-on projects, explore the principles of design and problem solving, and unleash your creativity while shaping the world.

Grace James Academy of Excellence

  • Student Enrollment: 461

  • Phone: (502) 485-8123

  • Address: 1615 W. Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203

Grace James Academy of Excellence is a sixth- through twelfth-grade program that empowers its GEMS (Girls Excelling in Math and Science) to boldly conquer limitless possibilities through an inclusive and personalized curriculum.

School Highlights

  • Gender Specific Magnet for Girls

  • Core classes with a cross-curriculum Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) focus

  • Advance Program and programming for Gifted and Talented students

  • STEAM Exploration and Exposure 

  • Gender-Specific Skill Development

  • Afrocentric Integration

  • Athletics: volleyball, basketball, track and field, cross-country, soccer, cheerleading, softball, field hockey, archery, tennis, Step Team, dance, All-County Dance, Winterguard 

Explore Pathways

  • Business & Communication: Students learn about concepts within the business world, such as personal finance, entrepreneurship, marketing and advertising, developing sales strategies, planning out their own business/company, or even the infrastructure of a whole town.

  • Healthcare Science: Students experience the field of Healthcare Science by engaging in activities focused on the medical field. From first aid/CPR to biology to different careers in Healthcare Science, students learn the skills needed in today’s medical settings.

  • Engineering & Design: Students are introduced to the world of engineering and design by learning about the design process and applying that learning in hands-on activities, such as robotics, city design, construction, and 3D modeling. 

Jefferson County Traditional Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 825

  • Phone: (502) 485-8272

  • Address: 1418 Morton Avenue, Louisville, KY 40204

At Jefferson County Traditional Middle School (JCTMS), our staff, parents, and community all share the responsibility of educating our students. We expect each student to reach their full potential by doing things the Centurion Way with Integrity, Discipline, and Excellence. At JCTMS, we are a “Triple-A" school; our students excel in each of three “A” categories— Academics, Athletics, and the Arts. JCTMS serves students who live within certain geographical boundaries. Use JCPS SchoolFinder (see page 54 for QR code) to determine what traditional school boundary you live in.

School Highlights

  • Traditional Magnet: Offers a traditional education where students are held to high academic standards within a structured environment that promotes citizenship, self-discipline, patriotism, and respect for all 

  • Annual Patriotic Program

  • One of the highest rates of student attendance among JCPS middle schools

  • Award-winning band, chorus, and orchestra

  • High-performing athletic teams 

  • Clubs and activities: Art Club, Musical Theatre, Black Student Union (BSU), Men of Quality, Craft Club, Quick Recall, Book Club, Robotics, and Youth Services Center (YSC) Advisory Council

  • Athletics: Archery, baseball, basketball, cheer, cross-country, dance, field hockey, football, soccer, step team, softball, swim, and track

Johnson Traditional Middle School

  • Student Enrollment: 550

  • Phone: (502) 485-8277

  • Address: 2509 Wilson Avenue, Louisville, KY 40210

Lyman T. Johnson Traditional Middle School (LJTMS) is committed to creating a safe community where all students and adults are respected and empowered to become lifelong learners and leaders. 

LJTMS serves students who live within certain geographical boundaries. Use JCPS SchoolFinder to determine what traditional school boundary you live in.

School Highlights

  • Traditional Magnet: 

    • Dedicated to the concepts of scholarship, patriotism, courtesy, respect, responsibility, and citizenship

    • Student competence in fundamental skills, growth in citizenship and moral and spiritual values, responsibility for personal behavior, and a spirit of individual achievement and competition

  • Student leadership opportunities: Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Peer Tutors, Jag Ambassadors

  • Clubs and activities: Academic Team, Beyblade Club, Braid Club, Jag Ambassadors, Justice Now (Social Justice Club), LEGO Club, Peer Tutors, STLP, Yearbook

  • Athletics: basketball, cheer, cross-country, dance, football, Step Team, soccer, track

Explore Pathways

Business & Communication: Financial Literacy, Business Planning, and Graphic Arts

Engineering and Design: Vex and LEGO Robotics, Coding, and Website Creation

Western Middle School for the Arts

  • Student Enrollment: 671

  • Phone: (502) 485-8345

  • Address: 2201 W. Main Street, Louisville, KY 40212

Western Middle School for the Arts is a nationally certified magnet school whose mission is to educate and inspire students through academics and the arts to prepare them to be successful, compassionate, and creative citizens in our diverse world. We strive to be a high-performing school that fosters creativity and imagination while enhancing our students’ desires to excel in both academics and visual and performing arts.

School Highlights

  • Visual and Performing Arts Magnet School: Specialized, intensive studies in band, orchestra, piano, choir, theatre, visual art, media art, and dance that help students develop their artistic potential through daily accelerated classes and opportunities to prepare for success in high school and beyond

  • Structured to support excellence in math, science, language arts, and social studies through high-quality, individualized instruction

  • Nationally Certified Magnet School by Magnet Schools of America

  • Advance Program and Gifted and Talented Program

  • Recent multimillion dollar renovated school building with two performance spaces—486-seat auditorium and 200-seat black box theater, a new state-of-the-art piano lab, dance studio, and theatre classrooms

  • Student performances and other showcases open to the public

  • Student leadership opportunities: Beta Club, Student Council, Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), and Principal’s Student Advisory Council

  • Student athletics and activities: Basketball, Volleyball Club, Cheerleading, Soccer, Track and Field, Swimming, Archery, Dance Team, Dance Ensemble, Step Team, Photography Club, Children’s Fine Arts Club, Project Lit, Poetry Club, Yearbook Club, Black Student Union (BSU), 100 Black Men, Men of Quality, Beautiful As You Are (BAYA), Ladies of Leadership, and 4-H

Magnet Programs

Fast Facts
Application Required

Fine Arts 
Highland: Districtwide 

Students can join an award-winning music program consisting of choral, music, band, and orchestra.

Gender-Specific and STEAM
Olmsted Academy South (girls): Districtwide 

Gender-specific schools prepare young women through a rigorous academic curriculum that focuses on using next-generation skills. Emphasis is placed on leadership development that integrates engineering, technology, arts and humanities, and service learning within a diverse environment. 

Gifted and Talented
Noe: Districtwide

The Gifted and Talented Magnet is designed to meet the unique needs of advanced learners through student choice, project-based instruction, and leadership opportunities. Students are expected to perform above grade level in the Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS) and deepen their understanding through instruction geared toward their preferred learning styles. A combination of rigorous academic expectations, acceleration, and individual and peer assignments extends students’ academic and creative talents.

Mathematics/Science/Technology

Farnsley: Based on home address
Meyzeek: Based on home address
Newburg: Based on home address

Students can apply to the Mathematics/Science/Technology (MST)  program that serves their home address. The program  is designed for inquisitive students looking for opportunities to enrich and expand their learning beyond the Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS) for mathematics, science, engineering, and technology. Upon entry into the program, students are expected to participate in their learning and move at an accelerated pace through collaborative problem-solving, critical thinking, research, and public presentations of their findings. Students have access to enrichment and academic competitions.

Montessori

Westport: Districtwide

The Montessori Program fosters rigorous, self-motivated growth in all areas of development—cognitive, emotional, social, and physical. Students work independently and in groups (often with specially designed instructional materials), which allows them to act as role models and leaders. They are respectful of themselves and their surroundings and engage in critical thinking and self-directed learning. The curriculum provides a firm foundation in four core areas: language arts, math, science, and social studies. The classroom atmosphere encourages students to develop teamwork, problem-solving skills, self-confidence, self-esteem, and social awareness. Given the freedom and support to question, probe deeply, and make connections, Montessori students grow up to be confident, enthusiastic, and self-directed learners and citizens who are accountable to themselves and their community.

Visual and Performing Arts Magnet

Noe: Districtwide

The Visual and Performing Arts Magnet provides specialized, intensive studies in dance, drama/theatre, music, and visual arts. Students develop their artistic potential and have opportunities to prepare for possible entry into a high school arts magnet. Students are expected to perform above grade level in the Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS) and to deepen their understanding through instruction geared toward their preferred learning style. A combination of rigorous academic expectations, acceleration, and individual and peer assignments helps students extend their academic and creative talents.

Important to note: Some schools with magnet programs will ask for additional information as part of the application process, such as student work samples or test scores. If a school asks you for additional information, please reply promptly and send the information directly to the school. Applications will be considered incomplete if the requested information is not sent to a school.

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 the Office of Student Relations at (502) 485-3335.

Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program 

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

Liberty High 

Liberty High School is a Big Picture School that enrolls students in grades seven through twelve. Liberty offers students the opportunity to succeed with a small teacher-to-student ratio, personalized graduation plans, life skills education, internship opportunities, and an emphasis on learning outside the classroom and in the community. All students present Learning Exhibitions quarterly and pursue internships. Liberty classes are structured on a quarterly schedule providing students with the opportunity to learn and earn credits at an accelerated pace based on their specific plan, which is performance-based. All Liberty students enroll over-age and under-credited. The program is designed to support students who need additional resources at their current grade level in an effort to meet academic needs and who are at risk of not graduating.

Newcomer Academy

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 Multilingual Learners (ML) in the JCPS District. These students typically are in their first year of instruction in a U.S. school. They are usually at the beginning levels of English proficiency and may have had limited, or interrupted, educational experiences in their native countries. For more information on NCA, contact the school at (502) 485-6324.

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.

Services for Multilingual Learners

Exceptional Child Education (ECE) services are available for students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Kentucky Administrative Regulations (KARs). The ECE student receives specially designed instruction in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) closest to their home as determined by the Admissions and Release Committee (ARC) to meet the student’s needs described in their Individual Education Program (IEP).

Please note: Every school in the JCPS District offers English Development Programming for students who qualify for Multilingual Learner (ML) programming.

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). The ECE student receives specially designed instruction in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) closest to their home as determined by the Admissions and Release Committee (ARC) to meet the student’s needs described in their Individual Education Program (IEP).

FAQs