Local High School Admissions Q&A

What’s your #1 pro tip for students preparing for admissions interviews (if applicable)?

Be authentic and prepared to share your interests, goals, and personal anecdotes. 

What's one question you ask every student applying for your school?

Describe what you are seeking from your high school experience. How will you contribute to our community of learners?

What’s one of the most important things a student should consider when inquiring about high school?

Students should consider the academic programs and flexibility, taking into account their interests, preferred subjects, language options, and social connections. 

How does a student know they would be a good fit for your school? How do you ensure a student can thrive in your school environment?

Students who do well at The Adelson School are seeking a more personalized education with lower student/teacher ratios. They are community minded and contribute both inside and outside the school. They are advocates who exercise leadership skills and take ownership of their learning. 

How do you personalize a student’s education? What systems are in place for different educational needs? 

If a student has been diagnosed with a neurodiversity, and if we have the resources to support the student’s diverse needs, our Educational Specialists will create an Individualized Accommodation Plan (IAP) or an Educational Support Plan (ESP), which becomes the roadmap for our teachers to implement. 

Although Adelson does not offer a special education program, we offer a support program that helps students be academically successful with their grade level peers.

We have a Learning Lab that is open to all students. The primary objective  of this initiative is to provide additional academic assistance and organizational skills to students who may require extra support. The learning lab is another demonstration of the school's commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and emphasizing the importance of seeking assistance when needed.

What does a typical school day look like? 

We begin each day with the Pledge of Allegiance and Israeli national anthem, Hatikvah. We are on a modified block schedule. The school day consists of six 55 minute classes, Monday through Thursday, with four 80 minute rotating block periods meeting on Fridays. Advisory meets Monday through Thursday at the end of the day. We have a 15-minute snack break every morning and a 40-minute lunch break.

What programming do you offer students outside of class, for example, extracurriculars after school, to help keep students engaged? 

Sports: 

• Baseball
• Women’s/Men’s Basketball
• Women’s/Men’s Cross Country
• Women’s/Men’s Swimming
• Women’s/Men’s Tennis
• Women’s/Men’s Track and Field
• Women’s Volleyball 3
• Co-ed Soccer
• Co-ed Golf
• Co-ed Flag Football
• Co-ed Spirit Team

Extracurriculars:

• Theater
• Robotics
• DECA
• Music

What is your most interesting school tradition? 

Shabbat services every Friday and observance of all Jewish holidays enrich our community.

How do you support the mental health and emotional well-being of students?

Adelson counselors support our students’ social-emotional health by leading grade level or classroom-specific discussions to help students grow into confident, independent, and empathetic human beings. In connection with the School’s advisory program which provides another layer of support, counselors guide our students to understand how to evaluate options, resolve conflicts, seek support, and cultivate healthy and meaningful circles of friends that foster our school community.

How would you describe the school’s community and culture?

The Adelson School welcomes families of all faiths and affiliations. We draw strength from a rich Jewish heritage and maintain a deep respect for Jewish values and Israel.

We create safe spaces where students are taught to honor and respect themselves and others as they practice positive physical, emotional, and mental health. 

Connection and open communication are vital parts of the Adelson experience. Teachers and staff get to know students as individuals and keep parents informed of successes and concerns. 

What does college counseling look like at your school?

With the goal of helping students and their families identify colleges and universities that will provide the best possible match, the College Counselor provides comprehensive services to students and families beginning in the ninth grade. Because planning for college begins well before the application process, the College Counselor offers guidelines for course and activity selection in preparation for the writing of student résumés during eleventh grade. Annual presentations are held by the College Counselor for families of students in all grades to discuss the PSAT and SAT exams, course selection, activities, summer programs, and Gap Year programs. Parents are invited to meet individually with the College Counselor at any time in the college planning process.

A presentation is held in the fall for parents of eleventh graders, during which the college and scholarship search process is initiated. Further, parents receive a two-year timeline, listing significant dates relating to college applications, the FAFSA application, standardized testing expectations, and the scholarship search process. Parents are then encouraged to schedule individual meetings with the College Counselor to discuss these topics as well as family goals and to begin discussing individual colleges and universities.

Twelfth graders are required to attend fall workshops to guide them through the Common Application, the University of California Application, as well as an Essay Workshop. The College Counselor also sends deadline reminders to parents for the FAFSA and other scholarship programs.

The College Counselor writes a college recommendation letter for each senior and ensures the accuracy of each student’s transcript prior to sending it to any college or university.

What else is essential for students and families to know about your school?

• We are a Zionist school that stands with Israel. 
• Jewish Studies is required through 12th grade, and Hebrew may become the mandatory language for high school students. 
• Approximately two-thirds of the student body is Jewish.
• As part of our commitment to a drug-free environment, randomly-timed drug tests of all faculty, staff, and students (Grades 7-12) are conducted.
• Our 14-acre campus features cutting-edge classrooms, science labs, a library, art studios and a music room, a performing arts theater, a natatorium, a state-of-the-art technology lab, an indoor track, 3 tennis courts, and a soccer field.

 

What's one question you ask every student applying for your school?

What do you believe you can contribute to the Bishop Gorman community as a student here?

What’s one of the most important things a student should consider when inquiring about high school?

Academic expectations, course offerings and graduation requirements.

How does a student know they would be a good fit for your school? How do you ensure a student can thrive in your school environment?

The best way to experience Bishop Gorman is by attending Preview Day.  Alexander Dawson is a partner school of ours and a relationship we very much value.  Alexander Dawson has their own designated Preview Day just for their 8th grade class.  Preview Day is an immersive experience that includes interactive mini-course lessons, lunch with student ambassadors, and spirited activities.

How do you personalize a student’s education? What systems are in place for different educational needs? 

Bishop Gorman recommends courses for all incoming freshmen based on High School Placement Test scores, middle school transcripts and teacher recommendations.  A rubric is used for placement with a longitudinal track record for student success.

We  have 3 academic tracks - College Prep, Honors and Scholars if a student wishes to pursue a specific Bishop Gorman High School diploma type.  Students on the College Prep track can still take Honors and/or Advancement Placement courses in subsequent years with good grades and teacher recommendations.  

An A/B block schedule (4 classes a day) allows for students to have the flexibility to take additional electives or more advanced classes. 

A student will have the same Academic Counselor for 4 years.  The counselors monitor academic progress and assist in advising class placement and schedules.  They will meet with their assigned students regularly throughout the school year to ensure students have the necessary credits and classes to achieve their goals.

Lastly, for those students with a diagnosed mild to moderate learning difference our Learning Center extends additional educational and support services.  For students formally enrolled in the program, the Learning Center offers a comfortable learning environment for small-group studying, individual tutoring and test-taking accommodations.

What does a typical school day look like? 

School begins at 8 AM and students attend 4 class periods that are 85 minutes in length. 

Students enjoy lunch in our Student Commons for 30-minutes.  School ends at 2:35 PM and the majority of our students are involved in extracurricular activities such as sports, theater, or clubs.

What programming do you offer students outside of class, for example, extracurriculars after school, to help keep students engaged? 

Bishop Gorman promises a well-rounded high school experience.  We have 28 different athletic teams, 50 + clubs, societies and activities as well as a robust performing arts and communicative art program.  There truly is something for everyone.

What is your most interesting school tradition? 

We welcome our newest Gaels with a gauntlet consisting of cheerleaders, the marching band and faculty and staff, who cheer, play and clap as the freshmen enter the school for the first day of the school year.

How do you support the mental health and emotional well-being of students?

We have a full-time Wellness Counselor who provides support to our students with their non-academic needs. Taking care of our students’ emotional needs is just as important as taking care of their academic needs. The Wellness Counselor helps with school/social life balance, family issues, etc.

What does college counseling look like at your school?

Under the direction of our College Counselor, students will experience a comprehensive college planning program that includes:

• An annual college fair of more than 120 schools
• On-campus college visits throughout the school year
• A college application camp prior to the start of senior year
• Hosting a variety of parent information nights on the college application process
• Collegiate financial aid/scholarship information
• Guiding and advising on NCAA requirements and procedures

In addition, all of our students use Naviance which is a web-based program designed to help navigate every aspect of the college admissions process.

What else is essential for students and families to know about your school?

Bishop Gorman provides a college preparatory education in an environment distinguished by Catholic values.  We are committed to a faith-based environment, where students will find spiritual discovery and acceptance throughout their Bishop Gorman journey.  It is important that our students are living purposefully in faith and service through the following requirements:

Theology: Students are required to take Theology courses each year at Bishop Gorman.

Liturgy: Students and faculty worship together monthly to enhance the spiritual experience.

Christian Service: Students are required to participate in service opportunities.  Service opportunities create teaching experiences while setting a foundation for our students to become servant leaders.

And although optional, we have a variety of retreat opportunities where students can explore their relationship with God, themselves and others.

 

What’s your #1 pro tip for students preparing for high school?

You are not alone: get to know your teachers, counselors, and put yourself out there to meet other new students by joining clubs or saying hi. Even if you’re shy, the more you invest in any school, the more the school will feel like the right place to be. What you invest into your school/education is exactly what you’ll get out of it. 

What is one question you ask students applying to your school?

Are you genuinely interested in one of our programs (law enforcement, emergency medical services/pre-med, forensic science, fire science (brand new), 911 dispatch, criminal justice, and US Army JROTC).

What’s one of the most important things a student should consider when inquiring about Magnet/CTAs?

Visit the campus!!!! Do a shadow day (where you spend the day on the school’s campus), attend open houses, schedule a tour. Your general impression while you’re there will help you make your decision.

How does a student know they would be a good fit for your school? How do you ensure a student can thrive in your programs?

1. If you’re interested in the programs (listed above), you’ll be a good fit. 

2. If you care about your community and want to make a difference, you’ll be a good fit. 

3. How do students thrive? We have field trips multiple times a year for each program, we offer internships related to the programs, we have guest speakers, we have graduates (now working in the fields) return to give advice. We offer lots of opportunities…it’s up to the students to take advantage of them. 

How do you personalize a student’s education? What systems are in place for different educational needs? 

While we have AP, dual-enrollment, and honors classes, we also have support for students with individualized educational plans. 

We’re a small school (only 815 students). While we may not be able to offer a particular AP course (AP French), we can get you into via an online program. 

What does a typical school day look like? 

We have a built-in assistance period every school day from 7:05-7:45 a.m., where students can make up assignments, get extra help, etc. Teachers are available during that time for students to visit with. We are on a block schedule so students then visit four classes through the school and four different classes the following day. 

What do you offer students outside of class?

• Over 30 clubs (National Honor Society, Chess, E-sports, CTSOs, etc.)
• Internships (Clark County Coroner’s Office, District Attorney’s Office, etc.)
• Volunteer opportunities (EVERYWHERE!)
• We do NOT have sports (with the exception of archery and cheerleading). 

What is your most interesting school tradition? 

We have a Hall of Heroes hallway where we recognize all of our graduates who are ‘Everyday Heroes.’ Whether they are in the military, dispatchers, police officers, etc. we showcase their achievements. 

How do you ensure parents stay connected or involved?

While we encourage students to volunteer, we do the same with parents. The more families volunteer together, the more invested they are (in the school and community). 

We send out a weekly newsletter highlighting all the many happenings on and off campus. 

How do you support the mental health and emotional well-being of students?

• Students who feel connected to their schools, feel better and perform better. 
• We have tons of opportunities to feel connected (clubs, dances, family events, etc.)
• Teachers are kind and supportive.
• Counselors are always available to students for additional guidance, support, and resources. 

How would you describe the school’s community and culture?

The bar is high at Veterans Tribute, both academically and behaviorally. If you want to be surrounded by peers who have goals to serve their community or country, make them better places, then VT is the right place for you. 

What does college counseling look like at your school?

• We have three dedicated counselors for just over 800 students. 
• College recruiters come to campus regularly to meet with students about their options.
• We host FAFSA nights twice a year for families to better understand funding college. 

What else is essential for students and families to know about your school?

• We recommend every student volunteer at least 25 hours each school year. We recognize students at an assembly each spring who have met our volunteer recommendations. 
• While our name is Veterans Tribute CTA, it doesn’t mean you have to go into the military, nor are we a military school. We are a school that values service: whether that is the country, community, school or family; we aim to graduate caring, motivated, young adults. 
• We are a uniform and standard student attire school. Monday -Thursday, there are no jeans allowed and students must wear collared shirts. Friday, students may wear jeans and a VT or college t-shirt.

What’s your #1 pro tip for students preparing for high school?

Clark County has many excellent high schools. Start exploring now, research your options, visit the campuses that interest you, and find the ones that truly spark your passion for learning.

What is one question you ask students applying to your school?

What are you passionate about?

What’s one of the most important things a student should consider when inquiring about Magnet/CTAs?

• You should also look closely at the programs each school offers. Do they truly interest you? Can you see yourself being part of them for the next four years?
• Transportation is one of the most important factors to consider. If you need it, find out whether busing is available. A-TECH offers transportation from anywhere in the valley, but not every school does.

How does a student know they would be a good fit for your school? How do you ensure a student can thrive in your programs?

• If you have the chance, I encourage you to visit A-TECH. Our Future Maverick Night Open House will be held on December 9th from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. It is a perfect opportunity to tour the campus, meet teachers, explore program spaces, and learn about our clubs and student organizations.
• A-TECH also offers Maverick for a Day Shadowing Program on select dates from October through December 2025. For details, contact Kelli Workman, A-TECH’s recruiter, at workmkm@nv.ccsd.net.
• Students can participate in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) related to their program area. These organizations help students build leadership skills, deepen their program knowledge, compete in events, and connect socially.
• Additionally, A-TECH provides 40 minutes of “A-TECH Time” four days a week, giving students a chance to get extra help from teachers, attend tutoring, retake tests, or participate in club meetings.

How do you personalize a student’s education? What systems are in place for different educational needs? 

When students apply to A-TECH, they select the programs they are most interested in pursuing as a major. Once enrolled, they can also choose from a variety of electives, including classes outside their primary program area. 

A-TECH offers regular, honors, pre-AP, AP, and dual credit courses, giving students a wide range of academic options. We offer quite a few electives, including band, orchestra, fine arts, and music technology, along with Spanish, Chinese, and Russian. This flexibility allows students to customize their schedules to match their interests and educational goals.

What do you offer students outside of class?

• A-TECH has over 50 clubs and student organizations. Examples include: African Student Community, Archery Club, ASU, Drumline,  Basketball Club, BSU, Board Game Club, Chess, Filipino Culture Club, First Robotics, GSA, HSU, Interact, Indigenous Student Union, Key Club, Korean Club, Mock Trial, National Honor Society, Pokemon Game Club, Science Olympiad, Soccer Club, Speech and Debate, Volleyball Club

What is your most interesting school tradition? 

Our senior traditions are some of the most memorable at A-TECH. Seniors design and wear custom crowns throughout the year, gather for a Senior Sunrise to mark the start of their final year, and close with a Senior Sunset celebration. In addition, we host a special Grad Walk through campus, where seniors are recognized for their achievements—and parents are invited to join in the celebration.

How do you ensure parents stay connected or involved?

Parents are welcome and encouraged to be involved at A-TECH throughout the year. They can serve on the Magnet Advisory Board, take part in the monthly Parent Advisory Council, and attend a variety of campus events. Parents who work in fields related to A-TECH programs have also shared their expertise as guest speakers and judges for student activities.

How do you support the mental health and emotional well-being of students?

A licensed social worker is available on campus to support students’ well-being. Services include mental health and wellness check-ins, referrals to community resources, conflict resolution and peer mediation, family support and crisis intervention, as well as assistance with goal setting, coping skills, and life planning.

How would you describe the school’s community and culture?

A-TECH is a small, close-knit high school of about 1,225 students, where everyone knows each other and celebrates each other’s successes. Our students are hardworking and motivated, but what truly stands out is the warm, welcoming atmosphere—students, teachers, and staff all look out for one another, making it easy to build friendships and feel part of the A-TECH family.

What does college counseling look like at your school?

Counselors meet with students regularly throughout high school to discuss their goals and plans for life after graduation. In addition, colleges and universities visit A-TECH throughout the year to share information about their programs. Schools such as Dartmouth, MIT, USC, Yale, UNLV, and many others come to campus to meet directly with students.

What else is essential for students and families to know about your school?

A-TECH’s mission is to empower a diverse student body by teaching the academic concepts and technological skills necessary to empower students to succeed in a highly competitive, technologically changing world. A-TECH students embark on a learning experience designed to maximize opportunity and potential. This high-achieving, Nevada Five-Star, and three-time National Blue Ribbon school offers academic distinction and technological excellence to those who choose one of its eight college and career preparatory programs. If you are interested in attending A-TECH, you must complete an application to be part of the lottery at Magnet.CCSD.Net. This application will be available from early October 2025 until January 13th, 2026.

 

What’s your #1 pro tip for students preparing for high school?

Organization & Communication skills are imperative in high school.  

What is one question you ask students applying to your school?

What program are you interested in?  

What’s one of the most important things a student should consider when inquiring about Magnet/CTAs?

Research the programs thoroughly in which you are interested/applying to, to see what they offer to you.  

How does a student know they would be a good fit for your school? How do you ensure a student can thrive in your programs?

Students who are eager to learn, get involved, and challenge themselves are a great fit here. We support every student with caring teachers, counselors, and programs designed to help them grow and succeed.

How do you personalize a student’s education? What systems are in place for different educational needs?

We make sure every student has the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Our 7 programs offer classes at different levels, so students can challenge themselves while still getting the help they need. Counselors and teachers work closely with students to make sure their schedules fit their goals, strengths, and interests.

What does a typical school day look like?

Our school is on a 4x4 block (4 classes each day). Each class is about 82 minutes long. We have blue days  (periods 1, 2, 3, &4) and silver days (5, 6, 7, & 8). We have 2 lunch periods. School begins at 7:00am - ends at 1:16pm.

What do you offer students outside of class?

We are a comprehensive high school. We have a number of Clubs/Organizations and Sports that students can participate in without having to go to their zoned school.  

What is your most interesting school tradition?

We host an Alumni Day Panel. This has been a tradition for about 15 years. We invite our alumni back to speak to our senior class.

How do you ensure parents stay connected or involved? 

We have a school website, social media, parentlink is the option we utilized the most to communicate with parents/students as well as Infinite campus. Parents are welcome to meet with their students counselors or teachers if needed.  

How do you support the mental health and emotional well-being of students?

We have a total counseling team of 9 counselors which 2, are dedicated to our magnet students. Additionally, we have a school social worker at our school to provide mental health support. Additionally students can access mental health support via Hazel Health and Care Solace.  

How would you describe the school’s community and culture?

At Canyon Springs High School & Leadership and Law Prep Academy is a very inclusive and accepting culture.  

What does college counseling look like at your school?

The counseling department hosts college visits, scholarship workshops as well as offer post secondary planning with our students. We are very lucky to have the fulfillment fund on our campus to provide college planning support to 11th & 12th grade students.  

What else is essential for students and families to know about your school?

Our campus is full of opportunities for students to get involved beyond the classroom. We encourage students to explore clubs, sports, and activities that help them grow as well-rounded individuals—not just academically, but socially and personally too.