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Application Information

Application Criteria for Communications and Media Relations

Applic­ation period

Sept. 28 - Nov. 13

  • To apply for all Specialty Centers, please complete a SchoolMint account. This is your one-stop shop for all applications, directions, and submissions. Access your SchoolMint Account

  • New cohorts consist of up to 75 students who have demonstrated the greatest potential for success based on the following criteria:

    • Grades and performances from middle school (grades 6, 7 and 8)
    • Results from reading test taken at school.
    • Evaluation of mechanics and substance of a writing test completed at school.
    • Evaluation of written or video response to center project prompt.
    • Strength of two recommendations (a third recommendation is optional).
    • School attendance (please note unusual circumstances).
    • Recommendations by selection committee.

  • **Oct.6, 2026: Open House is scheduled at the Center for Communications and Media Relations from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m beginning in the Varina Auditorium.

    September 12, 2026 at 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.: Specialty Center Information Session at Highland Springs High School

    September 24 at 6:00 p.m.- 8:30 pm: Specialty Center Information Session at Tucker High School

    Sept. 28, 2026 at 9 a.m.: Specialty center application available online on SchoolMint

    Nov. 13, 2026: Specialty center application due date

    Feb. 12, 2027: Application status available to students

    Feb. 19, 2027: Student deadline to declare intent to accept acceptance and waitlist offers

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I apply to the Center for Communications and Media Relations?

You should apply to the Center for Communications and Media Relations if you:

  • Have a desire to improve your communications skills.
  • Have a record of high achievement in English and language arts.
  • Have an interest in learning in an academic environment.
  • Like to use technology in science, social studies and English.
  • Have an interest in a career in television, journalism, computer information systems, photography, advertising, graphic design, web design or public relations.

What facilities are available at the Center for Communications and Media Relations?

The center uses advanced technology, including:

  • Television studios and control rooms.
  • A presentation studio
  • A digital imaging lab using powerful Dell computers utilizing Adobe Creative Cloud
  • A video lab using Dell computers utilizing Adobe Creative Cloud
  • A voiceover studio
  • 2 podcasting stations

How can I learn more about the Center for Communications and Media Relations?

You can learn more about the center by: