Latest News & Updates

Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) is reaching for the stars with SpaceHUB—a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind aerospace mega-magnet program designed to build the ultimate STEM pipeline!

Every student in our schools has a seat.

That does not mean every student has a place.

There is an important difference.

Washington, DC (August 25, 2026) — Magnet Schools of America (MSA) has named 40 Nationally Certified Schools and 37 Nationally Certified Demonstration Schools, bringing the total number of nationally certified schools across the country to 337. As shining examples of magnet school excellence, these schools offer exceptional learning opportunities and join a distinguished, growing group of nationally recognized magnet programs. 

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.