FAQ
1. What do you look for in applicants?
2. How many of my classes will be J&C classes?
3. Do J&C students take Advanced Placement (AP) courses, or is that only for certain programs?
4. Can I be part of J&C if I enter another magnet?
5. Will I be able to take other electives, like band?
6. Does J&C have an early review admissions process like VA, MST or YPAS?
7. I want to participate in a sport. I understand upper level J&C courses require time after school. Will I have time for both?
8. How can I donate?
What do you look for in applicants?
Like all the Manual magnet programs, the admissions committee looks at grades, recommendations, attendance, community involvement, extracurriculars, and standardized test scores, but J&C is specifically concerned with writing ability. The application includes an on-demand writing exercise. Participation in media-related middle school activities, such as newspaper, yearbook, literary publications, or broadcast journalism classes, can also help, but we understand that not all middle schools offer these. Though we are interested in students who express a passion for careers in journalism, it is not a requirement. Our coursework will help students prepare for virtually any career.
How many of my classes will be J&C classes?
In an eight-class block schedule, J&C students take at least two J&C courses per year. Their other courses are the same rigorous core courses and electives that all Manual students take.
Do J&C students take Advanced Placement (AP) courses, or is that only for certain programs?
Yes! Most of our students take AP courses. Like students in all magnets, J&C students have been National Merit Scholars, valedictorians, scholarship winners, and class presidents.
Can I be part of J&C if I enter another magnet?
Yes and no. While we sometimes offer seats to non-J&C students, J&C is more than a collection of courses. It is a relatively small program of 200 students who work together closely for four years, developing collegial relationships that other students may not experience as a regular feature of high school life. J&C teachers advocate for the program’s students from the first day of school until graduation, developing stronger ties with families and leading to meaningful recommendation letters. There are layers of involvement: a J&C parent group called the Publishers, J&C student social clubs, and domestic and international travel opportunities. J&C students receive first consideration for inclusion in the programs, and the classes are in high demand and fill quickly. Another obstacle to non-magnet student involvement is that each magnet has its own course requirements, and student schedules must first meet the demands of their magnet assignment. Despite these restrictions, we do permit non-magnet students to enroll in some courses by application when space permits. We urge you to apply if J&C is what most interests you. It is the only way you can count on inclusion.
Will I be able to take other electives, like band?
You will have enough room in your schedule to fit in other electives. You are not locked into only J&C electives.
Does J&C have an early review admissions process like VA, MST or YPAS?
No, there is no early review for J&C.
I want to participate in a sport. I understand upper level J&C courses require time after school. Will I have time for both?
Yes, many of our students participate in other after-school activities along with J&C activities and editor roles.
How can I donate?
Thanks for asking! Click here to donate via PayPal. Your donation is tax-deductible because it is actually going to The Publishers, a 501(c)(3) organization specifically formed to support the Journalism & Communication magnet program.