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As families plan for the next school year, one of the most important decisions is choosing the educational program that best supports your child’s unique strengths and interests. Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) offers a wide range of opportunities designed to help every student thrive – but how do you know which path is right for your child?
Start with Your Child’s Strengths
Understanding what excites and motivates your child is the first step to uncovering their unique path. Try these strategies:
- Observe and Listen: Notice the subjects or activities your child naturally gravitates toward at home and in school – what do they talk about most?
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage them to share what feels fun or challenging.
- Review Schoolwork Together: Look for patterns in assignments or projects that highlight consistent strengths.
- Encourage Exploration: Support participation in clubs or electives like robotics, music or art to uncover new talents.
Tap Into School Resources
Teachers and counselors can play a key role in uncovering your child’s learning style and interests through classroom observations, student surveys, interest inventories and informal conversations. BCPS offers:
- Counselor Support: Counselors guide families through interpreting assessment results and planning courses.
- Applied Learning Programs: Programs, such as robotics, debate, music, visual arts, computer science and more, can help identify interests that align with your child’s strengths.
- Program Mapping Tools: These show which schools offer specific enrichment opportunities, making it easier to match programs to your child’s passions.
- Strengths Surveys: Tools like Xello – a college, career and life-readiness platform – allow students to take surveys that help identify their interests and abilities.
Understanding Program Options
BCPS provides several specialized programs that combine advanced coursework with real-world applications. Knowing your options can help you find the right fit.
- Magnet Programs: Themes include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), performing arts and international studies, to name a few. Open to students across the District through an application process. Ideal for students with strong interests in a specific theme, who enjoy challenge and enrichment.
- Montessori Programs: Hands-on, student-led learning with mixed-age classrooms, emphasizing independence and holistic development. Best for self-motivated, curious learners who benefit from flexibility.
- Other Specialized Programs: Career academies, technical education and unique electives, such as robotics or e-sports. Great for students with specific talents or passions who want to deepen their skills.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Program
- What are my child’s interests and strengths, and how does this program support them?
- What is the program’s teaching philosophy and daily structure?
- What are the eligibility requirements and application process?
- How does the program prepare students for future academic and career opportunities?
Planning for your child’s future is an important decision. Let BCPS help you explore your options. Visit browardschools.com/magnet for more information or contact your school counselor today. Together, we’ll help find the path that fits your child’s strengths and dreams.
