If you are concerned or dissatisfied with your neighbourhood school, you may apply for a transfer through programmes such as Permits With Transportation (PWT) and Open Enrolment. If your child is academically advanced, he or she may also qualify for transfer to a Magnet School or Centre. Magnets are still run through LAUSD, but enrolment is not defined by geography. Students must apply. Most magnet schools centre their curriculum on a theme like maths, language or the arts. To review your options, visit the LAUSD E-choices website (http://echoices.lausd.net).

You may also consider sending your child to a Charter school, which can best be described as a hybrid of the public and private school systems, though LAUSD might not approve that comparison. These 104 schools are open to all children from all neighbourhoods and receive more freedom in curriculum and class size. Unlike privates, however, they must be non-sectarian and free, though many encourage parental contribution. In order to remain active, Charters must maintain a high standard of learning and many surpass their LAUSD counterparts. Enrolment is mostly conducted by lottery, but the student body must reflect the racial and ethnic balance of the district population. You can learn about the Charter system on the LAUSD website (www.lausd.net) or by contacting the Charter School Division (213 241 2665). These schools are also rated and evaluated at www.greatschools.net.