Wake's three newest magnet schools could be in line for millions in federal dollars.

The school board will vote Tuesday to request a federal magnet grant that would cover Brentwood Elementary, Smith Elementary and Millbrook High. Wake will implement the magnets regardless of the grant, but David Ansbacher, senior director for magnet programs, said the programs would be “more robust” with the federal funding.

Brentwood and Smith will enroll their first magnet students in August. Millbrook will be in a planning year for 2009-10 before taking magnet students.

The numbers crunchers will be interested in the school-by-school look at the magnet/calendar applicants.

For instance, Brentwood Elementary School drew 261 applicants to the new engineering magnet theme that will start in August. There were questions how well it would draw in its first year.

"Brentwood did a fabulous job of going out there and selling the program," said Laura Evans, a senior director in Growth and Planning.

Magnet schools are back on the school board's agenda today.

During the afternoon portion of today's work session, the board will discuss the annual magnet review and decide what next steps to take. Rosa Gill, chairwoman of the school board, anticipates staff will present recommendations for magnetization, and possibly demagnetization, of specific schools.

The magnet program has gotten a lot more attention since the school board decided last year to demagnetize four elementary schools.

UPDATE

The board gave preliminary approval to magnetize Brentwood and Smith elementary schools.

Don't be surprised if you see news stories today about the school system's efforts to reach out to the faith community.

The school district has scheduled a media availability this morning at Brentwood Elementary School in North Raleigh. Assistant Superintendent Marvin Connelly will talk with reporters about efforts to encourage faith communities to partner with schools to support student learning.

At the school, Brentwood faculty, staff, parents and members of a North Raleigh church will be working on a landscaping project designed and carried out with materials donated by church members.

UPDATE

Click here for the district's press release.