EBR Mania helped to launch the official start of the magnet and gifted application period for East Baton Rouge Parish Schools. The event drew thousands to the Mall at Cortana on Saturday, October 27th, many of them looking for educational opportunities for their students.
EBR Mania showcases programs the East Baton Rouge Parish School System offers in visual and performing arts, music, technology and more.  Several EBR schools participated in the event for the first time this year. In the spring, the School Board voted to expand magnet and programs to more schools in the district. 
    “We were expecting a big turnout this year.  The popularity of the magnet and gifted programs has increased dramatically.” Carlos Sam, director of magnet programs.
This year, families registered for a chance to win a seat in a magnet school.  The application period for magnet and gifted programs began on October 29 and ends on January 11.  Families are urged to submit one complete application to the school of their choice, but are reminded there is no special treatment for getting the application in on the first day. 
    “All applications receive the same priority,” Sam says.  By February 1, families will know if their child has been accepted or if their name will be placed in a waiting pool.  The EBR Mania event was a key resource for families who needed more information about the process. The event is also an important recruiting tool for the programs.
    “Each magnet school recognizes the fact that the EBR Mania is a one-stop shopping spree for parents who wish to compare and contrast different programs,” says Theresa Porter, recruiter for magnet programs.  Porter adds, “Our goal is to target students who fit into one of our programs, regardless if they are already enrolled in our school system or attend private or parochial school.”