San Antonito Named National Magnet School of Distinction

The East Mountain elementary school was honored by the Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools.

For the fourth consecutive year, San Antonito STEM Magnet has been named a National Magnet School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America.

“I am extremely proud of each and every staff, student, and family member of San Antonito STEM Magnet,” said Principal Patricia Gallegos. “... Year after year the staff continues to come up with innovative ways to incorporate environmental STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) into the weekly curriculum through grade-level project-based learning.”

Gallegos thanked APS, the district’s Office of Innovation, and the community for their “continuous support of our STEM focus and goals.”

The East Mountain elementary has also received the STEMY from Air Force Research Labs for School of the Year in STEM Excellence and National Magnet Certification from Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools.

Students and teachers worked hard for the accolades.

Teachers implement at least eight hours of STEM integration within each instructional week and a minimum of three project-based learning units per year. Students attend maker space and technology classes each week, as well as physical education, art, music, and library classes.

The eleven-acre campus houses gardens, nature trails, and an outdoor classroom. It’s a beautiful campus that supports environmental science initiatives, a telescope observatory, and innovative learning through STEM integration.

The community has also played a role in the school’s success.

San Antonito utilizes local experts, families, and businesses to enhance student learning using real-world connections. The school’s PTA is actively involved and supports students, families, and staff in various ways.

The national merit award will be formally presented during an awards ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s National Conference hosted by New York City Schools in April.

To qualify for the award, Magnet Schools of America members submit a comprehensive application that is scored by a panel of educators. Schools are judged 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.