Magnet schools – whether at the Pre-K, elementary, or high school level – can provide children with a solid and immersive educational experience. Magnet schools offer innovative classroom environments that encourage students to engage with their education and set them up for future success. Magnet schools are highly recognized for their pioneering curriculums, diverse student bodies, and the academic achievements of their students, which is why so many parents now consider this option for their families.
For parents who are researching the top magnet schools in Connecticut, it can feel overwhelming when deciding which specific school is the best fit for your child. Of course, you want to choose the best possible option for your little one, a place where he or she will grow and thrive. If you are looking for a magnet school in the Greater Hartford area, you are in the right place. Goodwin College is home to two exceptional interdistrict magnet schools: Connecticut River Academy, an early college high school, and Riverside Magnet School, a Reggio Emilia inspired elementary school.
Below, we’ve compiled some of the top questions parents can ask to help alleviate the stress of the magnet school search.
Will the curriculum set my child up for success?
Typically, a magnet school’s curriculum is centered around a theme-based approach. So when considering the top magnet schools in Connecticut, parents should consider where their child’s interests lie. Some of the common magnet high school themes include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), Fine and Performing Arts, International Studies, and Career or College Prep. At the younger levels, you may encounter advanced approaches such as Reggio Emilia and Montessori. While magnet schools still have to adhere to certain curriculum requirements set by the state, this theme-focused curriculum has proven to be successful among many students. This approach motivates students to take interest and engage in their learning, thus helping them achieve academic excellence and a lifelong aptitude for learning.
What other students will attend this school?
Diversity is a key characteristic of magnet schools, especially among the top magnet schools in Connecticut. All magnet schools are open to the public, regardless of a child’s zip code. This creates a diverse student body that encourages students to connect and collaborate with others who come from different racial, socio-economic, and religious backgrounds. This has a positive effect on children as it creates a deeper sense of understanding, empathy, and respect among peers. Furthermore, these lessons of inclusion also have a positive effect on the community by encouraging inclusivity.
What type of learning environment does a magnet school have?
Magnet schools tend to take a hands-on approach when it comes to their learning environments. The top magnet schools in CT are no exception. For example, Goodwin College’s magnet school programs, Riverside Magnet School and Connecticut River Academy, have innovative learning environments that encourage students to complete hands-on activities and interact with the environment around them. Both schools have state-of-the-art classrooms with the resources and smart technology needed for students to stay engaged. Most of the top magnet schools in Connecticut also keep a low student-to-teacher ratio which allows students to receive a higher level of attention, support, and encouragement.
Is there an opportunity for our family to be involved in our child’s learning experience?
Parent and community involvement is not only allowed at magnet schools, but also strongly praised. The top magnet schools in Connecticut believe that their school is part of a larger community and encourage parental involvement in many different ways. At Riverside Magnet School, for example, parental involvement is encouraged through the Riverside Community Council (RCC). The RCC is a parent and school organization that allows families and staff to get together and make recommendations on ways to continually make Riverside Magnet a positive learning environment for the children.
Deciding which school is the best fit for you child, can be a challenging one because every parent wants to place their child in an environment where they can grow and succeed. Fortunately, there are many top magnet schools in Connecticut to choose from. Contact our team of professionals at 800-889-3282 to learn more about our magnet school education options, so that you can make an informed decision for your child. Or, learn how to apply by clicking here.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.