Applying to the Program

McClatchy’s VAPA Music Program is a SCUSD specialty program. As such, an application is required for consideration. The application consists of three parts.

Application Part 1

Those applying to the program must complete the Specialty Programs application through SCUSD’s Enrollment Center online portal, SchoolMint. This includes families who reside in the McClatchy High School attendance area and the greater SCUSD enrollment boundaries. Be advised that residence in the school’s attendance area ensures enrollment in the school but not in its specialty programs, including VAPA Music. Everyone interested in the program must apply to it by visiting https://www.scusd.edu/high-school-specialty-program-application and completing the application during the 2025 Special Program application window of Saturday November 1 through Friday November 21, 2025. Due to high interest in the program, late application – those received after Friday November 21, 2025 – will not be considered.

Application Part 2

If accepted to the program through the district’s vetting process, applicants will be asked to complete the VAPA Music Program application form. The form will be shared with applicants and their families by the program director near the beginning of 2026. It is a simple form that collects contact information, details about previous music studies, and educational goals.

Application Part 3

The final step is a live audition. The audition consists of the performance of five pre-selected musical exercises and a short sight-reading check. The pre-selected exercises along with details about audition will be sent to applicants who have successfully completed parts 1 and 2 of the application process. Live auditions will be held during the end of February and beginning of March 2026, at McClatchy High School.

A Note About Dual Enrollment

McClatchy High School houses five Specialty Programs on its campus. Out of those, the only program compatible with VAPA Music for dual enrollment is HISP. Due to the limited number of seats in HISP, applicants who seek dual enrollment are encouraged to apply for HISP as their first and only application option. VAPA Music does not have an enrollment cap making it possible to enroll in the program after being accepted into HISP. Those interested in learning more about dual enrollment are asked to contact VAPA Music program director, Jorge Muñoz at jorge-munoz@scusd.edu.