Washoe County School District Opens School of Choice Applications for 2027-28

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  • calendar_today October 20, 2026

School of Choice Applications Now Open for 2027-28

The Washoe County School District (WCSD) has begun accepting School of Choice applications for the 2027-28 academic year. Families interested in enrolling their students in a school outside their assigned attendance zones can now submit applications online. The application window opened on October 19 and will close at 4 p.m. on October 30.

Application Process and Important Dates

The School of Choice application allows families to select up to three preferred schools, ranked in order of preference. Submissions must be made via the online application before the deadline. Placement for requested schools is determined by various factors, including available space, projected school enrollment, staffing vacancies, and overall building use.

Eligibility, Exclusions, and Zone Exceptions

Not all schools participate in the School of Choice program. Jessie Beck Elementary School, Mt. Rose K-8 Academy, Debbie Smith CTE Academy, the Academy of Arts, Careers and Technology, and TMCC High School are excluded from this process. Families interested in these schools should contact them directly for specific admission information.

Certain schools may be closed to School of Choice applications during the fall period if they are at capacity. Families are encouraged to review school availability before submitting an application.

Student Placement, Continued Enrollment, and School Transitions

Once a student is accepted through the School of Choice program, their placement remains valid for all grades offered at the selected school. However, students moving from elementary to middle school or from middle to high school must reapply if they wish to continue attending a school outside their zoned attendance area. If families do not reapply during these transitions, students will be assigned to their designated attendance zones.

Interscholastic Activities and Sports Eligibility

WCSD advises families to review Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) rules, which govern varsity sports eligibility for students participating in the School of Choice program. School assignment through this process may affect a student’s ability to participate in certain sports or activities, depending on state and district regulations.

How to Apply and Additional Support

Families can find more information and submit School of Choice applications at washoeschools.net/schoolofchoice. Application updates and communications will be available through family Avela accounts. For questions or assistance, families may contact the district by email at schoolofchoice@washoeschools.net or by phone at 775-333-6099.

Key Takeaways

  • Applications are open October 19–30 for the 2027-28 school year.
  • Families may select up to three schools outside their assigned zones.
  • Placement is based on enrollment, staffing, and building use.
  • Some schools are excluded or may be at capacity.
  • New applications are required for school transitions between elementary, middle, and high school.

Source: thisisreno.com.