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Orange County

OCPS Magnet programs earn national recognition

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Once again, Orange County Public Schools received national recognition for its outstanding magnet programs. 

Each year, Magnet Schools of America National Merit Awards recognize magnet schools that “demonstrate an exemplary commitment to academic standards, curriculum innovation, desegregation/diversity efforts, specialized teaching staffs, and parent and community involvement.”

 There are two levels of merit: Magnet School of Excellence Awards and Magnet School of Distinction Awards.

 Dr. Phillips HS’ Center for International Studies Magnet earned an Excellence rating. This is the top award given to a select group of magnet programs that demonstrate the highest level of excellence in all areas of the application.

“OCPS magnet programs are just one of the ways the district provides families high-quality choices in their child’s education,” said Superintendent Maria Vazquez. “We are proud of these 11 programs for their commitment to student success.” 

Ten magnets received the Distinction award for fulfilling all the scoring rubric requirements:

  • Arbor Ridge K-8 – 6-8 Option Magnet
  • Bay Meadows ES – STEAM Career Academy
  • Dr. Phillips HS - Visual and Performing Arts
  • Howard MS – Academy of Arts
  • Hunter's Creek ES - Two-Way Dual Language
  • Orlando Gifted Academy 
  • Roberto Clemente MS - International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme
  • Tildenville ES - Two-Way Dual Language 
  • University HS - International Baccalaureate
  • University HS - Performing Fine Arts 

MSA will recognize the Excellence and Distinction programs at their national convention in Dallas, Texas, on April 22nd.

Melissa Byrd, the District 7 Board Member on OCPS (which includes all of Apopka), was pleased with the recognition nationally.

“This is another example of how fortunate we are to have a school district that offers a wide variety of choices for kids," Byrd said. "OCPS has over 40 excellent magnet choices, and it’s truly exciting to see kids have the opportunity to pursue subjects that interest them.”

Orange County Public Schools, District 7 OCPS Board Member Melissa Byrd, Magnet Schools, Magnet Schools of America

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