Latest News & Updates

Ask someone what makes a magnet school distinctive, and the answer will often begin with its theme: STEM, the arts, health sciences, international studies, technology, or another area of specialization.

Themes matter. They can create identity, attract students, organize learning, and connect schools to powerful opportunities.

We often say that every student deserves an opportunity. It’s a statement few would dispute. But if we are honest, opportunity is not created by aspiration alone.

It is created by design.

Too often, we think of opportunity as something students either have or do not have.

Public education has always been about more than delivering instruction. It is one of our nation’s most important democratic institutions. An institution created to prepare young people for civic life, expand opportunity, and strengthen the communities they will one day lead.

Those purposes have endured. The world around them has not.

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) proposed changes to federal grant regulations that would affect how schools and districts use federal education funds. If finalized, the rule could limit the use of grant funds for conference attendance, professional development, association memberships, and subscriptions unless specifically approved by the federal agency and included in the grant terms. 

In recognition of Teacher Appreciation Week and National Teacher Day, Magnet Schools of America (MSA) is proud to celebrate its 2025-2026 national award recipients, honoring the educators, school leaders, and districts who are advancing excellence in magnet education.

Washington, DC (April 9, 2026) — The Administration’s fiscal year (FY) 2027 discretionary budget request proposes once again to eliminate funding for the Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP), consolidating it into a broader “Make Education Great Again” (MEGA) block grant. Magnet Schools of America (MSA), the national nonprofit representing the nation’s magnet schools, strongly opposes this proposal.

Magnet Schools of America is proud to recognize Brian Hurley of Echo Park Elementary School of Leadership, Engineering and Technology in ISD 196: Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan as the Region VI Teacher of the Year. A dedicated educator and instructional leader, Hurley has played a transformative role in shaping a magnet program where leadership, engineering, and technology are not just themes—but lived experiences for every student.

Magnet Schools of America is proud to recognize Latoya Lyons, principal of William H. Brown STEM Magnet School in Chicago Public Schools, as the Region VI Principal of the Year. A visionary and equity-driven leader, Lyons has transformed her school into a thriving STEM-centered learning community where students are empowered to explore, innovate, and succeed. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to ensuring that all students—regardless of background—have access to rigorous, engaging, and meaningful educational experiences.

Magnet Schools of America is proud to recognize Sharon Cuba, a kindergarten teacher at San Antonito STEM Magnet Elementary in Albuquerque Public Schools, as the Region V Teacher of the Year. With a dual background in elementary and special education, Cuba brings a uniquely comprehensive and compassionate approach to teaching—one that ensures every student is seen, supported, and challenged to succeed.

Magnet Schools of America is proud to recognize Nanette McCann, principal of Baton Rouge Magnet High School in Louisiana, as the Region V Principal of the Year. A transformational leader with decades of impact, McCann has shaped one of the nation’s most recognized magnet high schools through visionary leadership, a commitment to excellence, and a deep belief in the potential of every student.

Magnet Schools of America is proud to recognize Brandy Garrett, a dedicated educator at Millbrook Environmental Connections Magnet Elementary School in Wake County Public School System, as the Region IV Teacher of the Year. With more than 25 years in education—including 16 years in magnet schools—Garrett has built a career defined by innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to equity. Her work brings magnet themes to life through immersive, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and empower students as learners and leaders.

Magnet Schools of America is proud to recognize Karey Fisher, principal of Nursery Road Elementary School – Arts Magnet in School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties, as the Region IV Principal of the Year. A visionary leader in arts-integrated education, Fisher has transformed her school into a vibrant learning community where every child is seen, heard, and empowered through the arts. By embedding media, visual, and performing arts across all subjects, she has created a magnet program where creativity fuels academic achievement and student engagement.