Student FAQs

What are the benefits of a Magnet program?

Magnet programs prepare students to be competitive to any of their peers in college and beyond. The opportunities offered in each program better prepare them and set them apart as an ideal candidate for college. Magnet students get a much more intensively focused course of study in a field of interest to them, making their learning experience more relevant and enjoyable.

Why don’t all three BCSS high schools have all three Magnet programs?

Given how specialized and intensive each program is, each of the schools puts forth a lot of effort in elevating the program within their building. This way, each student is able to receive an immersive experience into a field of study they are passionate about.

How will being in the Magnet program be different from being a traditional Cass High student enrolled in honors and AP courses?

Within the magnet program, a course sequencing has been selected for students to take that allow them to follow their passion of international studies. Within that course work, there are many AP opportunities, but there are also unique classes and electives available to magnet students that offer a much more intensive experience in the areas they love.

As a Magnet student, how will our schedule be different from a traditional Cass High student?

Your schedule will look very similar as far as the number of classes and the times that you take them. However, a magnet schedule will follow a cohort, or a group of students interested in the same subjects as you. This way, you are with like-minded peers who will help elevate your learning. Also, your schedule may include magnet-exclusive classes not offered to a traditional high school student.

Will all of my classes be with other Magnet students?

Though you will be with a cohort for the majority of your classes, there will be some classes, particularly non-magnet core classes or electives, that you will share with traditional high school students.

Will being in the Magnet program be hard? Will I spend all my free time studying?

It is our hope to academically challenge each student to their fullest potential, but not to the point of overload. Because of this, we put many supports in place, such as counselors, tutors, advisors, etc. that will help them navigate how to study and manage their time. We would like to see all students spending their free time involved in extra curricular activities or home with their families.

Will this program truly help me get into top tier colleges?

Absolutely! With the magnet curriculum set forth, the rigor of AP classes, the opportunities for research in a high school setting, the availability of multiple diploma seals, the multiple chances to study abroad, and so much more, magnet students will be the most competitive students to any college they pursue.

How can I relate what I learn in the Center for Advanced International Studies to a future career?

One of the best things about the Center for Advanced International Studies is the foundation it will give you to follow any career path and find success. International studies educate you about people and culture around the world, how to communicate with those people, and how to see similarities through your differences. These are skills that are valuable in every job and, coupled with the leadership qualities the Magnet program aims to instill in its students, will lead to a successful career.

Can I play sports or be in the band and still be in Magnet?

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage you to take part in other programs within the school outside of magnet. Being an active participant in other clubs, sports and organizations will make you a more well-rounded and happier student. In addition to that, it will also make you more competitive for college acceptance.

How will I get to Cass High if I’m zoned for another high school?

Magnet transportation is provided for all magnet students through satellite locations. Each zone has satellite spots where parents drop off their kids, and the magnet bus will pick them up and carry them to their magnet school. Afternoon transportation works similarly, provided the students are not staying after school for extra curricular activities.

How many languages can I take at Cass High School?

Cass High currently offers four unique languages: American Sign Language, French, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish. We hope to establish an Arabic program in the coming year. You may take as many of those languages as interest you; however, you must take at least three courses in one of those languages.

How much are trips abroad, and how can I pay for them?

There is no set cost for international travel. The cost of a trip depends on many factors, such as your destination, the cultural activities on your itinerary, what method of transportation you utilize while abroad, current airfare, etc. Most trips will cost several thousand dollars; however, the Magnet Parent Foundation works to create ample fundraising opportunities for students to lessen the cost of the trip for their family.

How far will we travel abroad?

Magnet students choose the locations of our travel abroad trips, so that is up to you! It is our goal as a program to take students to all four corners of the world before graduation.

Current Student Feedback

Why did you choose to become a part of a Magnet program?

• I want to learn a language other than Spanish, and I was not zoned for Cass. Magnet gave me the opportunity to transfer school zones.
• I want to travel abroad and experience new cultures and languages.
• I want to be a part of something that’s different from the traditional high school experience.
• I want to stand out to colleges.
• I chose to be a Magnet student because it will give me better opportunities in my future career field.
• I want to meet new people and open new possibilities.
• I like the idea of rigorous classes and I was ready to challenge myself.
• The Magnet program gives me creative freedom and the ability to drive my own education.
• Honors classes were too easy…I needed a challenge.
• I want to be a leader amongst my peers, and Magnet gives me the opportunity to be involved in many facets of the school.
• The Magnet program stood out to me. I knew this program was going to fuel my curiosity even more, and it would set up such a diverse foundation for my future.
• I chose Magnet because of the high level of support I would be given.
• I want to immerse myself with a group of students who are devoted to learning.

Why did you choose to come to the Center for Advanced International Studies at Cass High School?

• I dream of knowing multiple languages, and this program pushes me to bilingualism and beyond!
• It’s always been a goal of mine to see more than my own perspective and appreciate other cultures.
• The main thing that made me choose Cass was the possibility of learning various languages. Being bilingual is very beneficial in any workplace and it can open so many opportunities.
• Cass–and specifically the International Studies Program–is the Magnet program that seemed the most diverse and the most social. With an education in International Studies, I can pursue whatever job opportunity I like and find success. Cass’s program really ensured a variety of careers to choose from.
• To understand other people and other cultures is huge in today’s society, and I feel that’s a really important characteristic to have. Choosing Cass meant that, in the future, I can connect with other people at a whole new level.
• Cass’s Magnet program was broader and more provided more opportunities for my future.
• Cass is based on family. It had a very welcoming and accepting environment.