Get Pro
Menu

Magnet school

A public school with a special focus, such as STEM or the arts, that draws students from across a district, originally designed to support desegregation.

Used in
United States
Topic
Types of school

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

Classfern Pro: report writer, Ask Fern, forum and jobs – no ads. What's in Pro Join Classfern Pro

Learn how – Glossary: watch the 1-minute video · print (PDF)

Charter school United States
A publicly funded, tuition-free school that operates independently of the local district under a charter granted by an authorizer, with more freedom in exchange for accountability. Similar in idea to an English academy or free school.
School choice United States
Policies that let families choose schools other than their assigned public school, such as charter schools, magnet schools, open enrollment or vouchers.

More terms: Types of school

Boarding school · Early college high school · Montessori school · Parochial school · Private school · Public school (US)

More terms starting with M · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.