RIDGECREST — The deadline for parents to submit applications for their children to attend the Concordia Parish Academy of Math, Science and Technology is at 3 p.m. today.

The magnet program, which operates at the former Ridgecrest school site, offers specialized courses and does not rely on school district lines, but rather can draw students from the entire parish.

The school opened in 2012 for grades kindergarten to fifth grade with 120 students. Each school year, students in the highest grade move up and create the next grade level. Sixth grade students this school year will move up and create the first seventh-grade class for the 2014-2015 school year.

The students enrolled at the school are automatically enrolled in the next grade if they have maintained the academic and disciplinary requirements.

Slots for a new kindergarten class will be open, as well as a few throughout all grade levels. There are no requirements to enter the magnet program, but students must maintain a 2.5 GPA and keep good behavior and attendance records to remain enrolled.

Applications are available at the school, the central administration building on U.S. 84 in front of the municipal complex or online at cpsbla.us.

Applications must be dropped off at the central administration building by 3 p.m. today.

For questions on the application process, contact Cindy Smith at 318-336-4226 ext. 35120.