CPS Magnet Schools Reach Record-Breaking National Honors for Academic Excellence

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CHICAGO - Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is celebrating a historic milestone as 10 magnet schools across the District have been named 2026 Schools of Excellence or Schools of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America (MSA). This achievement marks the highest number of CPS magnet schools ever to receive these prestigious national honors in a single year. In addition, a CPS magnet high school attained national recognition as a certified magnet demonstration school. Finally, one CPS principal has been recognized as the 2026 Regional VI Principal of the Year, representing a 12-state region across the Midwest.

"These recognitions are powerful evidence of the momentum building across Chicago Public Schools," said CEO/Superintendent Dr. Macquline King. "Our schools are rebounding and redefining what is possible for student success. Every day, our educators and students are driving meaningful transformation, and it is incredibly rewarding to see their dedication and excellence acknowledged on a national stage."

The full list of schools recognized nationally by MSA:

• Schools of Excellence: William C. Goudy Technology Academy, LaSalle II World Language Magnet Elementary School, Mark Sheridan Math & Science Academy, Ole A. Thorp Elementary Scholastic Academy
• Schools of Distinction: Chappell World Language Magnet School, Hawthorne Scholastic Academy, Jonathan Burr Elementary School, Joseph Jungman STEM Magnet School, Newberry Math & Science Academy, William H. Brown STEM Magnet Elementary School
• Nationally Certified-Demonstration School: The Chicago High School for Agricultural Science retained its status as a Nationally Certified Demonstration school, which means it not only meets the Standards of Excellence, but exceeds the criteria and serves as a learning model for magnets across the country to replicate.

It is William H. Brown STEM Magnet Elementary School's second year on the list of awardees. In 2017, Brown Elementary was one of three CPS schools to receive a $15 million federal grant through the Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) to transform into STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) schools. The school, which was once on the brink of closure, is now providing advanced courses for high-achieving students alongside intervention programs. It is home to a full broadcast studio to expose students to journalism, video recording, and broadcasting, and also has three computer labs to increase the technological skills and enhance the classroom learning experiences.

Brown's principal, Latoya Lyons, was also named by MSA as 2026 Principal of the Year for Regional VI, which represents Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

"It takes strong leadership and a willingness to bring everybody together to rally behind the vision and mission, but when your school does well, we know it's the boots on the ground and the teachers and staff who are really driving the change," said Principal Lyons. "It is validating to know that the work is making a difference and making an impact in the lives of both our students and our staff."

Magnet School of Excellence Awards are only given to a select group of magnet schools. Schools of Excellence are eligible for consideration to receive monetary awards and be named the nation's top Elementary, Secondary, or New & Emerging Magnet School. One of the Schools of Excellence will also be selected to win $5,000 and the Dr. Ronald P. Simpson Distinguished Merit Award, which is considered the most prestigious magnet school award in the nation.

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.

To learn more about the national merit awards program, please visit www.magnet.edu.