The school board voted for Athens Drive High School to become Wake County’s newest Magnet School Sep. 15, 2015. Athens Drive now has the same Magnet status as Broughton, Enloe, and Garner High, and many other High Schools located close to downtown Raleigh.
“Athens Drive becoming a Magnet school means that we will get a theme to bring recognition to our student body allowing focus on in-depth study. As a Magnet school, we could receive new technology such as new computers in CTE classes and core classes,” said John Davis, English teacher at Athens Drive.
Magnet schools offer additional educational programs such as advanced arts and foreign language. Expanding programs called themes that are outlined in STEM, Performing Arts, CTE, and foreign languages, and with the objective to reassign students to diversify school rolls.
“Magnet programs will give Athens Drive a more valuable and serious attitude with opportunities for success. I think that it will look good for our school as students that are transferring will be deciding where they would like to attend ,” said Kareem Hilaire, senior.
Wake developed the magnet program in 1982 to diversify schools. Since then Wake County has a total of 42 magnet schools.
“One thing I know could be a problem but could also be a benefit would be the application process. It could mean that people who wouldn’t normally be in our district could attend Athens Drive High. The hope is that those that applied would work especially hard considering they worked hard to get into our school,” Davis said.
Magnet schools increase academic opportunities with innovative approaches and prepare students for future responsibilities. Magnet programs maximize school faculty use with these themed programs.
“I feel as though Magnet schools are more focused on the individuality with programs that set a stable foundation for students. I’m excited for the next generation as they will attend Athens Drive with its Magnet status and improved programs,” said Hilaire.
Athens Drive’s theme has not been developed yet. Applications for the 2016-2017 school year to attend Athens Drive can begin in Jan.
“Over all I feel that this is a positive thing and could be what makes our school special,” said Davis.
