information provided by Richardson ISD.

Richardson ISD (RISD) Magnet Schools offer students specialized programs focusing on interest-based pathways. These unique opportunities are designed to deeply engage students by aligning education with their specific interests. Whether your child is passionate about robotics, theatre, or law, RISD has a dedicated program to help them thrive.

🏫 What Makes RISD Magnet Schools Unique?

Unlike traditional neighborhood schools, which are based on residential zones, RISD magnet schools are open to students outside their local attendance zone, provided the family resides in Richardson. This gives parents the opportunity to choose a specialized school that perfectly matches their child’s interests.

RISD’s magnet programs span elementary, junior high, and high school levels. Focus areas currently include: advanced math and science, technology, leadership, the arts, and law.

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RISD Magnet Program Offerings by Campus

Elementary School Magnet Programs (Grades K-6)

RISD offers three distinct elementary magnet programs.

Campus	Focus Areas	Application/Tour Information
Arapaho Classical Magnet	Theater, digital media arts, house systems, fine arts, broadcasting	Campus tours: December 2025 through February 2026. Register at: risd.org/magnetschools/elementary-checklist/.
Hamilton Park Pacesetter Magnet	Leadership-focused magnet	Online application open: December 1 to February 28.
MST Magnet	Math Science Technology Magnet, house systems, gifted and talented strategies

Junior High Magnet Programs (Grades 7 & 8)

Campus	Focus Areas	Application Information
Richardson West Junior High	Arts, culinary arts, theater arts, visual arts, and robotics	Learn more at: www.risd.org/magnetschools/junior-high-checklist/.
Westwood Junior High	Math, science, and leadership magnet

High School Magnet Program (Grades 9-12)

Campus	Focus Areas	Application Information
Richardson High School Magnet Program	Arts, law, and science	Online application open: January 13 to January 31, 2026. More information at: www.risd.org/magnetschools/high-school-checklist/.

Note: All RISD magnet programs require an application, and eligibility/application processes vary by grade level.

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🌟 How Magnet Programs Benefit Students

Magnet programs provide students with the chance to explore what excites them most while building a strong academic foundation. Students learn alongside peers who share their interests and passions, which fosters a community where curiosity and collaboration thrive.

As Principal Mottram states, students who find a program that nurtures their strengths and connects them with others who share their drive truly thrive.

A Student’s Perspective:

Yanira Salguero, a senior at Richardson High School (RHS) Law Magnet program, shared her gratitude:

“The Law Magnet program at RHS has prepared me for the future in so many ways… it has also taught me how to be prepared and responsible when it comes to making decisions because decisions have rewards or consequences.”

Yanira credits the program and her instructor with showing her how to be responsible, reliable, hardworking, and an amazing citizen overall.

🚀 The Future of RISD Magnet Programs

RISD is committed to the success of its students and is currently studying opportunities to expand the district’s magnet program. This expansion aims to offer even more interest-based pathways and experiences.

The proposed expansion focuses on three key areas:

• Improvement in current magnet programming and systems.

• Increased choice programming.

• Expansion of inter-district transfer options.

Learn more about the magnet experience in RISD and explore the possibilities for your child at risd.org/magnetschools/.

More about RISD content on Richardson Life Magazine.