School choice applications now open in Duval County

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – If you’re looking to send your child to a new school next fall, school choice applications are now open in Duval County.

This allows parents to send students to schools that best fit their needs, regardless of their designated attendance area zones.

Applications opened on Sunday for the 2025-2026 school year, but there are some important things to keep in mind before submitting an application.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 31, and spots are not guaranteed.

Once candidates apply, they’re entered into a lottery and placement is based on seat availability and possible academic or other special criteria.

There are two designated school showcase dates when families can tour schools across the district, ask questions and speak with school leaders directly.

  • The Elementary School Showcase is Saturday, Dec. 7
  • The Middle & High School Showcase is Saturday, Jan. 11

This year’s program comes as the district moves forward with its decision to close or consolidate multiple schools under the newly approved Master Facility Plan.

Annie R. Morgan Elementary, Kings Trail Elementary, and Susie Tolbert Elementary will close at the end of the current school year.

The plan is designed to help the district make up for a $1.4 billion budget gap after DCPS lost roughly 30,000 students over the last 10 years because of declining enrollment.

For more details about the application process and showcase events, click here or contact your neighborhood school.


About the Authors
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This native of the Big Apple joined the News4Jax team in July 2021.

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