FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact:
Marisa Berumen, mberumen@sandi.net, 619-847-6029
SAN DIEGO UNIFIED OPENS CHOICE PRIORITY ENROLLMENT WINDOW FOR
2026–27 SCHOOL YEAR
The Choice Program offers families across the county access to specialized schools and programs
tailored to student interests, learning styles, and future goals
*Interviews available with District leaders
SAN DIEGO (SEPTEMBER 22, 2025) – San Diego Unified School District has officially opened the priority Choice enrollment window, now through November 3, 2025, for families interested in selecting a school other than their neighborhood school for the 2026–27 school year.
The Choice program gives families the opportunity to apply to schools outside their neighborhood boundaries, from TK through 12th grade, including programs with unique themes such as International Baccalaureate (IB), STEM/STEAM, world languages, and visual and performing arts.
Applications are entered into an electronic lottery system that considers district priorities like sibling enrollment, active military status, and program continuity. Families applying during the priority window have the best chance to secure one of their top choices. Applications are not processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
"At San Diego Unified, we believe every child deserves a learning environment where they feel inspired, supported, and connected," said Superintendent Dr. Fabiola Bagula. "The Choice program is one way we partner with families to make that possible—by opening doors to schools and programs that reflect each student's unique strengths and dreams. This is about giving families voice, and giving students opportunities to thrive in environments where they truly belong."
To help families navigate the process, San Diego Unified will host two informational workshops via Zoom where parents and guardians can learn more and ask questions:
- Monday, October 6, 2025 | 5:30–6:30 p.m.
- Thursday, October 16, 2025 | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Zoom link: https://sandiegounified.zoom.us/j/81378374938
"It's important that families carefully consider the order in which they rank their school choices on the application," said Marceline Sciuto, Executive Director of Operations Support. "Last year, about 80% of applicants who applied during the Choice priority window received one of their top three choices, showing how much thought and planning can make a difference."
Families will be notified of their lottery results by mid-February 2026, allowing them time to coordinate with other district programs such as PrimeTime before- and after-school care.
For more information about Choice, visit Neighborhood Schools and Enrollment Options. Families may also contact the Family Welcome and Enrollment Center at (619) 260-2410 for multilingual support.
Choice Video can be found here
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Marisa Berumen
Communications Supervisor
mberumen@sandi.net | www.sandiegounified.org
Mobile Phone: 619 847-6029
4100 Normal Street, San Diego, CA 92103
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