3 APS Magnet Schools Earn National Recognition

Valley and Early College Academy high schools and Mission Avenue Elementary School have been named nationally certified magnet schools.

The three schools earned the distinction from Magnet Schools of America, the national association of magnet and theme-based schools. The certification process is designed to recognize the most exemplary magnet schools in the nation and help them as they continue to grow and provide high-quality, innovative curricula and instructional programs that promote choice, equity, diversity, and academic excellence for all students.

As Nationally Certified-Demonstration Magnet Schools, ECA, Valley, and Mission Avenue demonstrated through evidence, reflection, and strategic action that they have established the Standards of Excellence in their schools and fulfilled a commitment to community stakeholders.

"We commend your school's staff, students, families, and partners for their active roles in supporting your cognizant efforts to thrive for excellence," wrote Kelly Bucherie, Leadership Development & Planning Director for the National Institute for Magnet School Leadership.

Valley and Mission Avenue are part of APS's first-of-its-kind Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) pathway called Engineering the Future. Supported by a grant through the U.S. Department of Education, the pathway, which also includes Garfield STEM Magnet and Community School, provides students with comprehensive hands-on training in integrated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with access to all the tools necessary in the rapidly changing STEM field.

The Early College Academy is a college-prep magnet high school and sister school to the Career Enrichment Center that focuses on college preparation. Classes are offered to 200 students in a small school environment. ECA classes are scheduled in the morning, so students may take CEC, UNM, or CNM classes in the afternoon. UNM and CNM classes may apply toward an associate or university degree.