Ten steps are described for planning and development of magnet schools: identifying needs; establishing desegregation and education objectives; developing district program strategy; selecting leaders; identifying and allocating resources; designing individual magnet schools; developing curriculum around magnet theme; publicizing the program and…

In this guide, the results and findings of a major survey of magnet schools are organized into a practical manual for school districts to use in planning, developing, and implementing new magnet programs or improving those already in existence. The guide is divided into three sections: (1) key steps in magnet program development (an outline of…

This policy guide draft pulls together information on the types of public school choice plans being implemented or debated across the nation. The guide describes six different kinds of plans that involve a choice among public schools: interdistrict, postsecondary options, second-chance, controlled-choice, teacher-initiated schools, and magnet…

Explores issues faced by designers of school choice systems as numbers and types of choice arrangements proliferate and become more complex. Defines elements of a successful system of choice. The system developed will depend on the intentions, assumptions, and commitments present in the initial design. (SLD)

Magnet school programs require careful planning. Originally designed to achieve voluntary desegregation, magnet programs attract students of all races and backgrounds by offering special curricular themes and instructional approaches not offered in neighborhood schools. Outcomes of a successful program include the following: (1) desegregation; (2)…