What Makes the Magnet Difference? A Qualitative Exploration of School-Level Factors Driving High-Performing Magnet Schools

• In Event: Poster Session 12
  In Poster Session: Division L Section 9 Poster Session

Abstract

Magnet schools have been one of the most common school choice options in the United States for decades. In a recent national study, this research team used a multi-level random-effects meta-analytic framework to identify high-performing magnet schools in districts across the U.S. After identifying those with the highest levels of student achievement, this qualitative case study was designed and will be conducted in the highest performing magnet school in five districts, to identify through school leader and teacher interviews what sets apart such schools from their peers. The results will reveal to what degree high-achieving magnet schools share common traits that perhaps might go unnoticed by large-scale, quasi-experimental studies.

Authors

• Jia Wang, University of California - Los Angeles

• Rolf Straubhaar, University of Georgia