About CCSD Magnet Schools - Clark County School District

Find Your Fit at CCSD Magnet Schools!

Clark County School District (CCSD) magnet schools bring together students from diverse backgrounds and offer specialized programs that ignite their passions and strengths. We challenge students to think creatively and solve problems analytically through innovative themes and unique teaching methods ranging from International Baccalaureate to creative arts to STEM to leadership. This dynamic environment not only helps shape well-rounded individuals but also sparks innovation by allowing students to learn from different perspectives.

Types of Magnet Schools

Magnet Program Within a School

A magnet program within a school model represents a specialized thematic program offered within a comprehensive school. Only a portion of the student body participates in this magnet program, those who’ve applied and been accepted, while the rest follow the standard curriculum, creating a dual atmosphere where the specialized magnet program coexists within the traditional school environment.

Full Magnet School

Full magnet schools are dedicated entirely to a specialized curriculum, meaning all enrolled students participate in the magnet theme. These schools attract a diverse population from various locations. The magnet theme influences the entire school culture, mission, and daily activities. At the high school level, they are referred to as Career and Technical Academies (CTAs).

Magnet School Themes

Creative and Performing Arts

Magnet programs focused on creative and performing arts enable students to explore their artistic interests while building essential skills for their future. Through immersive experiences, from stage performance to film acting and theatrical design, students not only acquire technical skills but also gain confidence. Students become part of a vibrant community of young artists, each contributing their unique voice and vision to the school’s magnet program. Weaving arts into every aspect of the curriculum enriches students’ understanding of core concepts and prepares them to tackle future challenges with creativity.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

The STEM magnet theme, STEAM in some schools with the inclusion of the arts, offers an enhanced curriculum in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, emphasizing innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking. It helps students prepare for the high-demand STEM industry through cross-disciplinary learning and real-world partnerships that link learning to careers. This approach equips learners with essential skills to navigate and succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

The International Baccalaureate (IB) magnet theme is an internationally recognized program promoting rigorous academic standards and international understanding for grades K-12. It includes three programs: the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. IB enables students to direct their own learning pathway and develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive and make a lasting difference as global citizens. For more information about IB, visit www.ibo.org.

Leadership and Communications

In the leadership and communications magnet programs, students can expect to be empowered to meet the challenges of the 21st century through a commitment to academic excellence and the values of diversity, community, and collaboration. The program prepares students for college, careers, and life by enhancing their writing, critical thinking, organization, reading, and leadership skills. By utilizing the real world as a classroom, students will have opportunities to solve problems, work as a team, and address real community needs, all while gaining a deeper understanding of who they are and who they aspire to become.

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs equip high school students with vital skills for the dynamic job market, blending academic study with practical training in fields like Health Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, and Advanced Manufacturing. These programs prepare students for higher education, immediate workforce entry, or military service, emphasizing hands-on learning for high-demand careers. Beyond real-world skills, CTE offers opportunities for dual credit enrollment, industry-recognized credentials, and work-based learning experiences. CTE opportunities are not exclusive to magnet schools. For more information about CCSD’s CTE offerings, visit cteinccsd.org.

Our Philosophy

Clark County School District (CCSD) magnet schools believe in nurturing each student’s unique abilities by providing specialized programs that promote creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Our Principle

Magnet schools are committed to fostering a diverse learning environment where students explore their passions, learn from different perspectives, and are encouraged to innovate and excel.

Key Of Success

Success lies in the dynamic teaching methods and the collaborative spirit among magnet school students, which together cultivate well-rounded individuals prepared for academic and career excellence.

Grade Levels Served

Elementary

Grades K-5

Creative and Performing Arts
International Baccalaureate
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Leadership & Communications

Middle

Grades 6-8

Creative and Performing Arts
International Baccalaureate
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Leadership & Communications

High

Grades 9-12

Creative and Performing Arts
International Baccalaureate
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Leadership & Communications
Career & Technical Education (CTE)

Magnet Schools in CCSD History

Magnet Schools are the single largest form of public school “choice” and represent over 4,340 schools and 3.5 million students nationwide. Magnet schools are visionary, innovative, and offer equal opportunities and access to superior education to students of every race and socioeconomic level.

In 1993, Mabel Hoggard, Clark High School, and the Las Vegas Academy launched the first magnet programs in the Las Vegas Valley to help desegregate the Clark County School District. As of 2024, 45 magnet and Career and Technical Academies (ten elementary, fifteen middle, one K-8, and nineteen high schools) continue to promote diversity and prevent racial isolation.