Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) announced that it was awarded the U.S. Department of Education’s Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) grant for more than $14 million. BCPS is one of 19 school districts in the nation and one of only three districts in Florida to receive funding in 2022.
The five-year grant will increase school choice options and support the implementation of a new Achieving Career Equity for Students (ACES) magnet theme in six schools. The ACES program focuses on career exploration, allowing students to participate in career-themed instructional models based on their interests and giving them the opportunity to connect their learning and experiences to future career aspirations. The program also provides a personalized learning environment that prepares students for the future through exposure to careers and post-secondary interactions.
Through the MSAP grant, BCPS will create three new, whole-school magnet programs at Oakland Park Elementary School, Mirror Lake Elementary School, and James S. Rickards Middle School and significantly revise the magnet programs at Plantation Middle School, Plantation High School, and Northeast High School.
“The MSAP grant aligns with the District’s Strategic Plan and focuses on providing high-quality instruction to our students,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. Vickie L. Cartwright. “Through the ACES project, schools will introduce innovative educational practices that allow students to meet high academic standards and prepare them for college and careers.”
The whole-school approach to magnet programs is key to ensuring equity as it allows more than 6,000 students currently attending these schools to have access to high-interest, rigorous and meaningful program opportunities. This program also provides opportunities for approximately 1,900 additional seats beyond these schools’ boundaries.
Magnet schools are founded on the five pillars of diversity, innovative curriculum and professional development, academic excellence, high-quality instructional systems, and family and community partnerships.
To learn more about BCPS’ Magnet Programs, visit browardschools.com/magnet.
