Frequently Asked Questions

What is DREAMS Magnet about?

Our Design and Research, Engineering, Arts, Math, and Science (DREAMS) magnet center focuses on design thinking as a program-wide theme for developing socially-conscious and entrepreneurial students.  Students work on collaborative, cross-curricular projects that employ design thinking, a powerful learning tool that teaches students to use empathy and critical thinking to tackle problems of any kind from a human-centered point of view. 

What does the “DREAMS” stand for?

DREAMS: Design, Research, Engineering, Arts, Math and Science.

We believe that students (and adults, too!) learn better when they are able to connect their learning across various subject areas. Our classes are designed to help students take on multiple expert lenses to tackle long-term projects that need solutions – a skill that is essential for navigating our increasingly complex world.

What is “design thinking” and why is it the focus of learning?

Design thinking is a human-centered, multi-disciplinary approach to solving the world’s most complex problems. At the core of this theme is the building of empathy and engaging multiple perspectives. Empathy increases students’ capacity to effectively collaborate and communicate with others, and to apply a balance of creative and critical lenses to designing human-centered solutions for real problems.

These theme-based experiences culminate in students’ mastery of 21st century skills, so that they can collaborate, communicate, and think critically and creatively about ways to make a positive impact on their school community and their community at large.

How do I apply for DREAMS Magnet at Southeast MS?

You can apply online or by mail. If you apply by mail, please follow the instructions in the link below. 

Need help completing the application?

• Via Phone/Zoom: Contact Mr. Medina, Magnet Coordinator, at grm2738@lausd.net to schedule an appointment for application assistance.

• In Person: Drop by the main office and request to see Ms. Rubi, Parent Center Representative, who is available to assist families with the magnet application process.