JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Hundreds parents and students in the Jacksonville area got to pick which school they think is the best option for them for the 2015-2016 school year.
The annual Duval County School expo took place Saturday at the Prime Osborn Convention Center.
Organizers say the event usually draws in about 10,000 people each year. Hundreds of students were at the Convention Center.
Many of them were thinking about what they want to be when they grow up. Parents got to learn about magnet programs, career academies, charter schools and high school acceleration programs for the next school year.
"It's very important. It's really important because I want a brighter future for him. I want the best for him," said parent Jamie Jackson.
Students had the opportunity to learn about schools that specialize in things like robotics and aviation.
"I want to joining the robotics club and join the military," said rising sixth grader Jahiree Jackson.
From automotive, to a military academy, to international studies there were a lot of other options for students.
"We have touch tanks where an entire class can stand around and interact with the creatures that be be found locally. we have aqua culture, where the children raise fish from eggs, They raise rainbow trout," said Kathleen Malz from Mayport Elementary Coastal Sciences Academy.
Any student can apply to each school, but admission is not guaranteed.
Admission is determined by how many openings there are and how many students apply for each school.
"I'm into the arts. I love music and I like technology, too. So hopefully something in one of those fields," said student Alex McIntyre.
"It's exciting with the way education is so stressed. We need to be focused on the kids being job ready as well," said parent Elizabeth Rogers.
Applications to apply for each school program are due Feb. 28.
If you were unable to attend the expo and want more information about schools in Duval County, click here.