Magnet Schools of America

09/08/2026

High expectations require high support.

For students and teachers to rise to high expectations, they need clarity, protected time and a little grace.

In the latest Magnet Voice, Dr. Davis talks about what it looks like to create the conditions for people to succeed while building a school culture rooted in connection and purpose.

🎧 Listen to the full episode:
https://magnet.edu/magnet-voice

09/07/2026

📖 New from Distinct by Design: Magnet Schools by Design: Preparing Students for a Future That Is Already Here.

How can magnet schools intentionally design learning experiences that prepare students for a rapidly changing world? This article explores the power of purposeful magnet design—and why a strong theme can be much more than a label.

Read the full article: https://heyor.ca/nEM4LJ

09/04/2026

🎭 A new chapter is underway for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ Northwest School of the Arts.

The arts-focused magnet school is welcoming students to a newly renovated campus, creating refreshed spaces for students to learn, create and pursue their passions.

From dance and theater to music and visual arts, Northwest continues to provide specialized opportunities that make magnet education unique.

Congratulations to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and the Northwest community on the start of this exciting new chapter!

https://heyor.ca/0NcZzQ

09/03/2026

🏆 It’s time to shine! Merit Awards applications are now open.

Does your school exemplify what magnet education can achieve? The 2026–2027 Magnet Schools of America Merit Awards recognize MSA member schools and programs demonstrating exceptional achievement in areas including academic excellence, curriculum innovation, diversity efforts, specialized teaching, and meaningful parent and community engagement.

This is your opportunity to showcase the innovative programs, outstanding learning experiences and commitment to excellence happening across your school community.

📅 Applications are due November 10

Learn more and get started: https://heyor.ca/h5cEgv

09/02/2026

The first few days of school set the tone.

Before the schedules settle in and the routines take hold, there’s an important opportunity for school leaders to establish—or reestablish—connections.

In the latest episode of Magnet Voice, Dr. Davis shares why those early moments matter and how connection can shape the year ahead.

🎧 Listen to Starting the School Year with Connection and Purpose:
https://magnet.edu/magnet-voice

09/01/2026

5 Reasons to Attend the 2026 MSA Policy Training Conference

The policies shaping public education don't stop at the schoolhouse door. Join us October 28–30 in Washington, D.C., to better understand the issues affecting magnet schools and connect with the people and conversations shaping what's next.

Here are just five reasons to attend:

1️⃣ Gain insight into the issues shaping education
2️⃣ Meet with your members of Congress
3️⃣ Build your skills and confidence
4️⃣ Connect with magnet leaders from across the country
5️⃣ Return home ready to lead

From timely policy discussions to meetings with federal lawmakers, the 2026 Policy Training Conference offers an opportunity to gain knowledge, build connections, and bring valuable insights back to your school or district.

📅 October 28–30, 2026
📍 Washington, D.C.

🔗 Register today: https://heyor.ca/07SmMn

Full payment is required before the conference begins. If not paid in full, a valid Purchase Order must be submitted by October 23, 2026. Unpaid registrations default to the onsite rate, regardless of registration date.

08/31/2026

Magnet Schools of America CEO Ramin Taheri will be participating in Harvard Kennedy School's PEPG’s Emerging School Models Conference: Broadening the Landscape for Choice on September 17–18.

The conversation will bring together education leaders to explore how school models, policy, technology, and innovation are shaping the future of educational opportunity.

We’re looking forward to bringing the magnet school perspective to the conversation.

Learn more: https://heyor.ca/xvAUT8

08/28/2026

There's still time to invest in professional learning that will support your magnet program throughout the school year.

MSA's On-Demand Professional Learning Catalog gives you immediate access to more than 10 hours of expert-led content designed to help magnet educators strengthen programs, lead with confidence, and turn ideas into action.

Whether you're looking for one specific topic or the complete collection, you'll find practical strategies you can implement right away.

Start learning today:
https://heyor.ca/oShcg0

08/27/2026

📣 New stories. New ideas. New conversations.

A new school year brings a familiar question: How do we create schools where students don't just attend, but feel connected, engaged, and excited about what's ahead?

Dr. Baron R. Davis, Magnet Schools of America's Superintendent-in-Residence, explores that question from two complementary perspectives in the latest issue of Distinct by Design and a new episode of The Magnet Voice.

Together, the article and podcast episode invite us to consider a bigger question for the year ahead:
Don't just ask how we can get students ready for the future. Ask how we can design schools that make them want to be part of it.

📖 Read the latest issue of Distinct by Design: https://magnet.edu/distinct-by-design -reader
🎙️ Listen to the latest episode of The Magnet Voice: https://magnet.edu/magnet-voice

08/27/2026

Congratulations, Jen! 🎉 We’re proud to celebrate the incredible educators in our magnet school community who inspire students to learn, grow, and thrive every day. Well deserved! Marine Science Magnet High School