3 Hartford magnet schools receive national recognition

Three Hartford Magnet Schools were named National Magnet Schools of Distinction.

Hartford Magnet Trinity College Academy, Breakthrough Magnet School North, and Breakthrough Magnet School South were awarded the honor by Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools.

MSA’S National Merit Awards program honors and recognizes magnet schools that demonstrate commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful desegregation and diversity efforts, and consistent delivery of high quality educational services to all stakeholders, according to a release.

“On behalf of Hartford Public Schools, I would like to thank Magnet Schools of America for this recognition,” said Superintendent Leslie Torres-rodriguez. “The success of Hartford Magnet Trinity College Academy, Breakthrough Magnet School North, and Breakthrough Magnet School South is due to the hard work of our school leaders, teachers, and staff, working in partnership with families and the community. They ensure that all of our students are engaged with specialized themes and innovative approaches to instruction.”

This is the second year in a row that the Breakthrough Magnet schools, both character education-themed schools, have been recognized. Last year, along with Annie Fisher Montessori Magnet School, Breakthrough Magnet School South and Breakthrough Magnet School North were honored as Magnet Schools of Excellence, being included in a group of magnet schools that demonstrated the highest level of excellence, according to MSA.

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.

“These Hartford Public Schools magnet schools have been recognized for their ability to deliver a theme-based education that prepares students to succeed academically,” said Sherri Davis-googe, chief operating officer of Hartford Public Schools. “They exemplify, like all of our magnet schools, how the combination of high expectations, inclusiveness, and collaboration can be a winning formula for all students.”

Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com