Magnet Schools

Magnet schools are public schools that provide specialized curriculums and instructional approaches to attract students from a variety of neighborhoods in a metropolitan area, according to the Education Commission of the States. Often, enrollment for magnet schools is regulated in a variety of ways to ensure schools remain racially balanced, usually through the use of admissions criteria, first-come, first-served applications, lotteries and/or percentage set-asides for neighborhood residents. Some magnet schools have competitive application processes.

Studies have shown that magnet schools have helped to desegregate schools in certain communities.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FROM EDUCATION WORLD:

• High Expectations Yield High Achievement
• Magnet School Helps Students Develop, Appreciate Different Talents

OTHER RESOURCES:

• Magnet Schools of America: A Brief History of Magnet Schools
  A description of the evolution of magnet schools from tools to reduce racial isolation to educational alternatives.
• Education Commission of the States: Magnet Schools
  Information about how different states use magnet schools.
• The Public School Parent's Network: Magnet Schools in Public Education
  Answers to frequently asked questions about magnet schools.

Article by Ellen R. Delisio
Education World®
Copyright © 2005 Education World