The application period is now open for Washoe County School District (WCSD) students and families to apply for their “School of Choice” beginning in August 2026.
From March 9 at 8 a.m. through March 20 at 5 p.m., families may apply for the opportunity to have their student(s) attend a different school than their zoned school during the upcoming school year.
“We are excited to offer this opportunity to our students and families, as we know some want to attend a school that is outside the zone in which they live,” said Desiree Mandeville, director of Student Enrollment and Records for WCSD. “We want our students to feel connected and engaged with their schools, and it is important for them to be able to enroll at a school and academic program that is a good fit for them.”
Families may select up to three school options in order of preference when applying for a school outside their zone. Most schools will accept applications, and while some may not have available capacity for students who do not live in their zone, the district will make every effort to accommodate families and students who submit applications.
WCSD also considers a school’s projected future enrollment, current staffing vacancies, and current building utilization in determining whether schools may accept students from other zoned schools.
Once the School of Choice application is approved the student will be assigned to the approved school through the grade levels available at that school. However, if a student is already in fifth- or eighth grade— and is therefore preparing to change schools— families must submit a new School of Choice application for the coming year, or the student will be automatically assigned to attend their zoned school for their next grade level in middle school or high school.
The Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) has specific rules and guidelines for varsity sport participation for students who are enrolled under School of Choice.
Parents/guardians may log into their Avela Account to see updates to their School of Choice application. All communication will occur through this site regarding applications. Assistance is available by emailing schoolofchoice@washoeschools.net or calling (775) 333-6099.
(WCSD contributed to this report.)
