A partnership of business and industry, higher education, and the public school system is taking shape as Gwinnett County Public Schools prepares to launch its first charter school in August 2007. The mission of Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology is to focus on nurturing the talents of academically able students through a challenging, unique, and integrated curriculum. Through specialized centers, Gwinnett’s newest educational environment will offer students an opportunity to pursue mathematics and scientific inquiry and discovery in three broad focus areas: 
Engineering: Aerospace Design & Application, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Engineering . 
Bioscience: Biomedical Design, Biotechnology, and Forensic Science 
Emerging Technologies: Robotics, Nanotechnologies, and GPS Applications 

Recently, the school system took two major steps that will contribute to the school's successful opening. In January, the system received 249 applications from students interested in being in the school's inaugural freshman class. This year's class is limited to 200 students. (Each year, another freshman class will join the program until the school serves students in grades 9-12 in 2010-11.) System leaders are in the process of reviewing the applications for the 2007-08 class and will be conferencing with the families of some applicants in cases when additional information may be needed. Once these steps are completed, the system will randomly select the members of the freshman class from the applicants and set up a waiting list. All applicants will be notified of their status by February 28. 

In addition to recruiting students, GCPS also is looking for leaders from businesses and colleges to serve on the school's advisory board. At a breakfast meeting on January 23, key leaders gathered to learn more about the school. A number of those in attendance committed to serving as an advisor to the school in some capacity-- serving as a sounding board, helping to shape the school's curriculum and instructional goals, lending their expertise, and supporting the school. 

For more information on Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology, contact Dr. Cindy Loe, associate superintendent for Teaching and Learning, at 678-301-7000.