News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: 2/16/2023

Contact Person: Mark Garcia

Contact Information: garcia_mark@aps.edu

San Antonito STEM Magnet School Named Magnet School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America

San Antonito STEM Magnet has been named a National Magnet School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools.

San Antonito STEM Magnet is an award-winning APS school located just east of Albuquerque in the mountains. San Antonito STEM Magnet has earned Magnet Schools of America's Merit Award of Distinction for the past three years. We have also received the STEMY from Air Force Research Labs for School of the Year in STEM Excellence, and National Magnet Certification from Magnet Schools of America.

Teachers implement at least eight hours of STEM integration within each instructional week and a minimum of three project-based learning (PBL) units per year. Students attend Maker Space and technology classes each week, as well as Physical Education, Art, Music, and Library classes. The eleven-acre campus houses gardens, nature trails, an outdoor classroom, a beautiful campus that supports environmental science initiatives, a telescope observatory, and innovative learning through STEM integration.

San Antonito STEM Magnet utilizes local experts, families, and businesses to enhance students' learning using real-world connections. The school's PTA is actively involved and supports students, families, and staff in various ways.

Principal Gallegos shares her thoughts on this very prestigious national award, "I am extremely proud of each and every staff, student, and family member of San Antonito STEM Magnet. We gladly accept this Merit Award from Magnet Schools of America. Year after year the staff continues to come up with innovative ways to incorporate environmental STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) into the weekly curriculum through grade-level project-based learning. I would like to thank Albuquerque Public Schools,  the Office of Innovation, and our community for their continuous support of our STEM focus and goals."

Presentation of Distinction Award

Principal Patricia Gallegos and STEM Coach/Teacher Amy Chevalier will be recognized and receive a National Magnet School of Distinction Award on behalf of the school during an awards ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s 40th National Conference hosted by Dallas Independent School District, April 18-22, 2023.

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 Magnet Schools of America.