Application deadline is this week for Wake's magnet, year-round school options

Just a friendly reminder that the 2020 deadline for Wake County's magnet and year-round schools ends this week — Thursday, Jan. 30.

The county's magnet school system aims to promote diverse school populations by attracting students to schools outside of their neighborhoods. Magnet schools pull students from other parts of the county by offering special programs and opportunities, such as specialized arts or STEM classes, that aren't offered at the county's traditional schools. Year-round schools help the county maximize the use of school buildings by offering classes all year to different tracks of students.

Here's what you need to know about Thursday's deadline.

These applications are not considered on a first come, first served basis. So, if you've been planning on getting this done, but you haven't filled out the application yet, all is not lost.

It's complicated. And it involves a look at the socioeconomic status of your neighborhood and the socioeconomic status of the school where your child is assigned next year.

You'll learn on Feb. 19 if you got a spot.

Nope. Magnet and year-round application results can't be appealed. If you received your second or third choice and would prefer to attend your base school, however, you can apply during the Request for Transfer Period, which runs Feb. 21 to March 6, 2020. According to Wake County, these "'back to base' requests are guaranteed to be approved."

You also can remain in the applicant pool for your first choice school if you return back to your base, according to the county.