Seven schools of the Hartford Public Schools district were named National Merit Schools of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America (MSA), the national association for magnet and theme-based schools. The local schools recognized with the award are Annie Fisher STEM Magnet School, Breakthrough Magnet School North, Breakthrough Magnet School South, Classical Magnet School, Great Path Academy, Montessori Magnet School at Annie Fisher, and Noah Webster MicroSociety Magnet School.
MSA’s National Merit Awards program honors the top magnet schools in the United States. These awards recognize schools that demonstrate a commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful desegregation and diversity efforts, and consistent delivery of high quality educational services to all stakeholders. Great Path Academy, Breakthrough Magnet School North, and Breakthrough Magnet School South are multi-year winners of this award.
“We are proud to receive the Magnet School of Distinction Award from Magnet Schools of America. This recognition reflects our magnet schools’ hard work and commitment in being leaders in providing high-quality education and services in an inclusive learning environment that empowers our students to succeed,” said Hartford Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez.
Erin Wilson-Ruff, Principal of Annie Fisher STEM Magnet School reflects, "The Magnet Schools of America Award of Distinction is a testament to the innovation, collaboration, and relentless dedication of our school's academic learning community. Our innovative STEAM programming includes Sumo Robotics, Future Problem Solvers Team, CATS Competitive Team w/NASA, Competitive ESPORTS/CT STEM Cup, All Girls First Lego League, K-8 STEAM Electives during the school day. We also offer Arts Integration including musical theater, Band, Chorus, Claymation, Visual arts, and a full array of sports. Our amazing community partnerships include collaborations with the Connecticut Science Center, University of Hartford, Uconn & University of Saint Joseph. We have academic supports on campus and afterschool programs to support students academic achievmeent in literacy and math. This honor reflects the hard work and determination of our students, staff, and families over the past year to create a thriving environment where STEAM education and students' academic achievement remain our mission. We are bursting with STEAM pride and will continue to learn and grow every day as we strive for excellence."
“Great Path Academy is honored to be recognized by the Magnet Schools of America as a Merit School of Distinction. Great Path Academy is committed to providing students with an equitable educational program focused on the middle college high school experience. Students at Great Path Academy can earn up to 36 tuition-free college credits with CT State Manchester which is the focus of our middle college model. GPA is a member of the Middle College National Consortium which is network of 50 schools across the country that promote access to college and college and career preparation. GPA's partnership with ReadyCT allows for students to gain work-based learning skills and experiences and opportunities through programs such as paid internships, research-based experiences, job shadow days, and career events. This distinction from Magnet Schools of America is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and students.” states Dr. Jessica Fitzgerald, Principal of Great Path Academy.
Lisa Massaro, Principal of Breakthrough Magnet School North adds, “Breakthrough Magnet School North is honored to be recognized over multiple years as a Magnet School of Distinction. Our students, staff, and families grow together through innovative practices, student-centered instruction, and a focus on character education. As a school, we provide enriching opportunities for our diverse community, ensure that everyone feels valued, and set high expectations for each other. With continued teamwork and Breakthrough pride, we know our BRICKS (people of character) can accomplish anything!”
Gus Jacobson, Principal of Noah Webster MicroSociety Magnet School states, “At Noah Webster MicroSociety Magnet school we are honored to be recognized as a Magnet Schools of America School of Distinction. This honor reflects the effort of not only our staff but also students and families in creating a welcoming school environment where all students can succeed. We are pleased that the MSA has recognized our work as a MicroSociety and the work of our citizens in promoting a real world environment in the school. Our citizens are preparing themselves for a world that is constantly changing and requires not only academic skills but also the ability to work with others, gain leadership skills, and promote a more just society!”
Holly Gustafson, Principal of Breakthrough Magnet School South shares, “The mission at Breakthrough Magnet School South is for staff, families, and community members of diverse backgrounds to work in partnership, developing students as models of outstanding character. As principal of an HPS magnet school, I am proud to say that our character/leadership theme is like "the air we breathe." Just walk into our school and you will see students, staff and families who are committed to supporting everyone in being a person of character! Breakthrough Magnet School South features and highlights include a wealth of extracurricular activities such as Student Council, Mini Cheer, Dance Club, Middle School sports, Esports, and 2-4-1 Sports. Opportunities for student leadership include Mini Scholars, Middle School Royal Scholars, Elementary Student Council, and the Young Women's Empowerment Group who provide philanthropic support for organizations in our community.”
The schools will be recognized and receive a National Merit School of Distinction Award during an awards ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s National Conference in April.
To receive a national merit award, members of Magnet Schools of America must submit a detailed application that is scored by a panel of educators. These schools are judged and scored 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.
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To learn more about the national merit awards program, please visit www.magnet.edu.