LAUSD parents, the Choices brochures were mailed out over the weekend, and you know what that means, right? 
Time to fill ‘em out! They’re due back to LAUSD headquarters extra early this year: on Friday, December 18th, which is the last day of school before Winter vacation, and which is not that far off, so don’t get caught without having mailed it in. Do it today!!
What Choices are we talking about? Magnet schools. These are the specialized schools (sometimes schools-within-schools) that exist within the bounds of the giant LAUSD. Originally established in the late 1970′s by a court order, but now dubbed “Court-Ordered Voluntary” on the website (I couldn’t make that kind of thing up), the program was designed to level the playing field and offer specialized academic interests to those students who may not otherwise have had access to such educational opportunities. While it’s debatable whether the program is still fulfilling its mandate, that debate can take place elsewhere. This is just about the details.
Now for those of us who need more information on the choices we actually have, our old option of the District-wide Choices Faire has been lost in the budget cuts. So here’s how to get more info:
• The LAUSD Choices website has lots of information, including a list of the new magnets opening for the 2010-11 school year — check it out. Or you can call them at (877) 462-4798.
• The LAUSD TV channel, KLCS, will be airing information on the many magnet school options. The show is called “Choices/Opciones” and it will air 12 times between now and December 18th. Showtimes are listed below. 
• Our Local District 3 Magnet choices will be presented at a Mini-Faire on Saturday, November 21st at Cochran Middle school, beginning at 9am.
• Ask a Magnet Yenta, a great blog that has tons of helpful information on the process and the real skinny on what it all means.
• The GoMamaGuide Blog lists dates for seminars led by Tanya Anton on how to navigate the world of LA Public schools, including all the magnet choices.
Good luck and don’t forget the December 18th deadline!