IB diplomas, magnet schools, AP - what's the difference and how do they work in MCo?

[Anonymous]

I am new to all of this -- please explain how these programs work in Montgomery County, who is eligible, etc. For instance, can a kid in say Quince Orchard school district apply to X IB or magnet program in another school cluster? What options are there? Please assume I know nothing because I am pretty confused. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

The high school IB programs and magnets are countywide, you test into them. They are competitive.

You can take AP classes anywhere.

[Anonymous]

Eight high schools have IB programs, most of which serve only the kids at that school; the one at Richard Montgomery High is part of the magnet program and students must apply to it. There are also magnet programs which specialize in certain subject areas: ecology, science, humanities, and others; those must be applied to, and admission is competitive. There are AP classes available at all high schools, but the courses which are available vary by school.

[Anonymous]

This is a good summary of the magnet programs, consortia, and local high schools: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/specialprograms/high/

[Anonymous]

Ditto elementary: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/specialprograms/elementary/
and middle: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/specialprograms/middle/