Every year, eighth-graders at Toll Middle School face the staggering question between attending Hoover High School or Clark Magnet High School. A debate transpires between spending the next four years at a school that provides a diverse range of subjects and extracurriculars, or a magnet school that dedicates its curriculum to STEM.

“Some factors that affect my decision are how long the commute would be, if more people I know are going to Hoover or Clark, and which one would offer a better education,” said Elizabeth Ramazyan, a current eighth-grade student at Toll Middle School. 

Hoover offers students a wider variety of sports, clubs, AP classes, and a focus on their CTE (career-prep) classes. A unique class available to Hoover students is the AP Capstone program- a two-year research course where students have the opportunity to earn a Capstone Diploma. Hoover’s academic opportunities further extend towards career prep courses that include culinary, auto/mechanics, public safety, numerous art classes, drama, and more. 

In comparison, Clark’s academics emphasize their technology-centered curriculum due to their magnet title, including robotics development and cinematography production. The difference in their school’s focus can be identified through the CTE classes offered, which include arts/entertainment, business management, engineering and architecture, information, and communication technologies. 

 “I was initially attracted to Clark because of its focus in the math and science departments,” said Ninel Azizian, a current senior at Hoover. “I eventually want to become a doctor and I thought that having an education that focused on math and science would help me in my application process.”

Unlike Hoover’s general admission, Clark uses a raffle system to enforce selective student acceptance. 

“Being put on Clark’s waitlist was the best thing that ever happened to me,” Azizian said. “Now, as a Hoover Senior, I hold a 4.4 cumulative GPA and have experienced classes that otherwise aren’t offered at Clark.”

An additional consideration for students to face is the lack of in-school sports offered at Clark; students have to participate in their home school’s sport teams. 

Kaylen Rostamlu is an example of a Clark student who chose to commute to Hoover to take part in their school’s swim team. 

“It was very convenient since we had sports buses and were able to get to Hoover during the time practice started. I enjoyed being a part of my home school’s team and being able to connect with the people there,” said Rostamlu.

Clark and Hoover provide students with diverse opportunities that allow for GUSD students to find their niche. As students begin their journey of high school, they endeavor new experiences to be carried over to their futures, regardless of what school they attend.