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Articles - Education MAGNET SCHOOLS Does your child show a strong interest or aptitude for the arts, sciences, language arts, mathematics, social sciences, health sciences, business, law, government, or the judicial system? If so, learning more about the opportunities offered at magnet schools may be worth your effort. In 1976, the U.S. Department of Education’s Emergency School Aid Act expanded to include the planning and implementation of magnet schools. Initially developed in an effort to eliminate or prevent minority group isolation, many of these thematic programs have become models for providing a superior education as well. WHAT THEY ARE Magnet schools are part of a local public school district, are tuition-free for those living in that school district, and are funded in part and approved by the Department of Education. They exist either as "programs within schools" (an extension of traditional school facilities) or as a "whole school" (a stand-alone magnet facility), with over 89% of U.S. facilities being whole school programs. Although the subjects taught at traditional schools are part of the curriculum, these programs are based on the premise that children do not learn in the same ways. It is believed that if students—as well as staff—voluntarily choose to be in the program because of a strong interest or inclination toward the school’s focused curriculum, all aspects of their school experience will be more positive. Because attendance at these schools is based on interest rather than socioeconomic factors, they make for a more racially diverse environment. NOT JUST FOR HIGH SCHOOLS Although when most people think of magnet schools they usually think of the arts, health sciences, language arts, and business programs available to high school students, the opportunity to attend these specialized schools is not limited to older children. In fact, more than 55% of America’s magnet programs are located in elementary schools. Programs emphasizing the language arts, geography and history, the fine arts, and math and science are available to the youngest students. MAGNET SCHOOL APPEAL A number of qualities make magnet schools attractive to students, their parents, and educators. These perceived traits include: - A specialty curriculum not generally offered in "traditional" schools. - Parents and students have a say in where their child attends school. - A strong commitment to parent involvement and an effort to mold student attitudes and values. - A safe, orderly environment. Because a choice is made to be in a particular school, there is usually less conflict. - Improved attendance. Because students want to be there, they will be there. - A sense of working toward a common goal. Students come into the school environment with shared interests and a similar purpose. - Increased self-esteem because a student feels "special" for attending a "special" school. - Because of their personal interest in the specialized curriculum, students tend to be more successful. - Educators have the opportunity to interact with colleagues of similar interests and vocational/educational backgrounds. - Magnet schools provide specific career preparation. Businesses and organizations in the community with the same focus often develop relationships with the school. BIBB COUNTY’S MAGNETIC TRAITS The Bibb County School District offers children from elementary to high school eleven magnet programs. Every child residing in Bibb County may apply for admission to a magnet school. In addition to residency, a genuine interest, demonstrated by both the student and his/her parent(s), in the school’s focus area is mandatory. Selection to fill the vacancies at a particular school is based on a computerized random selection process. Children outside of the Bibb County School District may also apply for admission to a program, but are only considered on a space-available basis and must pay tuition. Once selected to attend a magnet school, students can continue in the program as long as desired, but must reiterate that desire on a yearly basis in order to remain in the program. Bibb County offers transportation to students selected to attend a magnet school more than 1½ miles from their home. If you would like to learn more about a particular program, contact the school directly.
Elementary Schools Bibb County currently has five elementary magnet schools serving children in kindergarten through sixth grade. Alexander II Math and Science Magnet School, 478/751-6708 The first magnet school in the state of Georgia, Alexander II opened its doors in 1979. The school’s focus is on math and the sciences. It is located adjacent to Mercer University and maintains close ties with that well-respected institution. Alexander II has been named a Georgia School of Excellence in 1984, 1993, and 2001. Clisby Fine Arts Magnet School, 478/751-6723 Bibb County’s second magnet school, Clisby, began offering its fine arts program in 1983. Drama, music, art, and dance are the focus of Clisby’s program, and are integrated throughout a traditional curriculum. The school is currently being renovated. Students and staff will return to the original location in the Vineville Historic District during the 2001-2002 school term. Hunt Language Arts Magnet School, 478/751-6733 Hunt’s child-centered approach to the language arts integrates writing, literature, and Spanish into a basic curriculum enabling the development of problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Morgan Magnet School, 478/784-3141 Morgan is a "Traditional School" which provides a structured learning environment. Students wear a uniform, participate in a school-wide reading program, and are offered an after school enrichment program. Winship Geography/History Magnet School, 478/751-6755 A Social Studies School of Excellence, Winship students spend the year exploring the world through guest speakers, field trips, and active participation. The ultimate goal of Winship is to create productive citizens in a multi-cultural world. Middle School Miller Core Knowledge Magnet School, 478/751-6766 Miller is the only school in Georgia, and one of only eight in the nation, to offer the Core Knowledge Curriculum. This program has been successful nationally with students of varying abilities and levels of achievement. The curriculum provides a specific body of knowledge believed necessary for every American to become culturally literate and academically successfully. High Schools All five of Bibb County’s high schools have magnet programs. Central High Fine Arts Magnet High School, 478/751-6770 This school specializes in preparing young people for the world of fine arts. Students must submit a portfolio of work to be admitted into the visual arts or journalism areas of the program, and auditions are required for admittance to the drama or music programs. Central High School students may also apply for admission to the International Baccalaureate Program, an internationally recognized liberal arts curriculum. Law, Government, Justice Academy, 478/784-5466 A program within a school, the Academy is located at Southwest High School. This focus was developed to provide students with a head start in developing careers as law enforcement agents, security officers, forensics specialists, fire fighters, EMTs, foresters, attorneys, judges, clerks of courts, legal secretaries, resource specialists, and law clerks. Northeast Health Science Magnet High School, 478/751-6787 The only one of its kind in Georgia, Northeast provides a state-of-the-art high-tech health science/math focus for its students. The program is designed to prepare young people for careers in the health care industry. Unique opportunities include shadowing and interning with health care professionals; distinguished lecturers and Saturday seminars. Southeast Business Magnet School, 478/784-3120 This program, known as Southeast Advanced Career Training (SEACT), provides high school students with skills in advanced computer applications and management training. An agreement with Macon Technical Institute allows students to earn post-secondary credit from courses taken in the Business Magnet curriculum. Westside High School, 478/757-5520 Students thinking about a career in engineering are offered a magnet curriculum rich in math and science. Beginning with the ninth grade Class of 2001-2002, Westside will provide the opportunity to mentor with engineering programs at Mercer University and Macon State College. Magnet schools provide children with the tools to excel in areas where they are gifted or have a strong interest. They give students the opportunity to be exposed, in a positive environment, to their peers with similar interests from different socioeconomic, ethnic, and racial backgrounds. Indeed, their very survival depends on serving diverse student populations effectively. Magnet schools can be a catalyst in teaching future generations to excel in their chosen career field and help to develop respect and understanding for people from all walks of life. They are truly an attractive alternative. Resources: The American Institutes for Research The Educational Resources Information Center Brenda Latham, Director of Teaching and
Education Magnet Schools of America Mid-Atlantic Equity Consortium U.S. Department of Education |
