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Schools earn Magnet Schools of America Magnet Awards

3/7/2018

Three Richland School District Two schools and their magnet programs received 2018 Merit Awards from Magnet Schools of America.

Richland Northeast High and Spring Valley High schools were named National Magnet Schools of Excellence, the top merit award. Schools of Excellence are also eligible to be named the nation’s top Secondary magnet school; win $5,000; and win the Dr. Ronald P. Simpson Distinguished Merit Award, which is considered the most prestigious magnet school award in the nation.

Richland Northeast won for its International Baccalaureate Programme and Spring Valley for its Discovery and Explorations magnet programs. The International Baccalaureate Programme at Richland Northeast embraces the commitment to teach all students to think critically, to appreciate diversity, to serve others and be productive, and to be responsible citizens and lifelong learners in a global society. Spring Valley High’s Discovery and Explorations magnet programs seek to provide students with an innovative, academically challenging experience centered on rigorous mathematics and science education through unique, student-centered research and internship opportunities.

Forest Lake Elementary NASA Explorer School and its school-within-a-school, Elementary Learning Collaborative Magnet program, earned National Magnet Schools of Distinction Awards. The Forest Lake NASA Explorer School utilizes NASA resources and research to foster an interest in science, technology, engineering and math. The Elementary Learning Collaborative (eLc) at Forest Lake Elementary School builds its foundation upon the Integrated Curriculum Model and is designed to meet the needs of and challenge students with the potential for high academic achievement.

“Our award-winning magnet programs confirm that Richland Two is the district of choice — where every school is an excellent choice,” said Superintendent Dr. Baron R. Davis. “They provide opportunities for students to pursue their passions while acquiring knowledge and skills through quality instruction and engaging experiences. In innovative learning environments throughout our district, students identify their gifts and talents that guide them down their pathways to purpose.”

To receive a national merit award, members of Magnet Schools of America must submit a detailed application that is scored by a panel of educators. These schools are judged and scored on their demonstrated ability to raise student academic achievement, promote racial and socioeconomic diversity, provide integrated curricula and instruction, and create strong family and community partnerships that enhance the school’s magnet theme.

The magnet schools and their principals will be honored during an awards ceremony held at MSA’s 36th National Conference hosted by Chicago Public Schools in Chicago, Illinois, April 25-29.