As part of IEA’s Finding the Right Fit: Choosing a High School as a Gifted Student series, IEA students share how they discovered their best fit high school, what they learned along the way, and the advice they believe families would like to know.
From public and private schools to magnet programs, boarding schools, and more, each gifted learner’s path looks different. Through their reflections, our students offer guidance and encouragement for families exploring high school options.
Chloe – Public School Gifted Magnet Program
Name of School: Eagle Rock High School
IEA Program: Academy & EXPLORE
Homestate: CA
Did you consider any other high schools seriously? If so, which ones?
None
What type of support and learning environment were you looking for when choosing a high school?
- Magnet program
- Support for gifted talent
- Advanced studies
- Sports program
What were your top 3 reasons for choosing your school?
- Travel distance
- IB/magnet and sports programs
- Costs
How has this school supported your needs as a gifted student?
Eagle Rock School offers a lot of places to cool off and de-stress if you need it and a lot of people you can talk to if you need help.
Are there any ways you wish your school could better support you? If you’ve looked for help elsewhere, what programs or services have you found helpful?
I found programs outside of school to fill gaps, like the IEA EXPLORE program.
Do you have any tips or advice for gifted 8th graders who are deciding where to go to high school?
My advice is don’t think too much about it if you don’t get the school you want. Don’t stress about it; it’s no big deal.
Do you have any tips to share with incoming 9th graders to help them start the year off right?
Don’t procrastinate.
This story is part of IEA’s Finding the Right Fit: Choosing a High School as a Gifted Student series on finding the right high school. By sharing their experiences, our students hope to support other gifted students and families on the same journey.
