Magnet schools and academies are specialized public school programs focused on areas like STEM, fine arts, culinary arts, and skilled trades, open to students from across district boundaries. This page explains how magnet programs, charter schools, and school choice work in Texas public education, and includes an FAQ covering eligibility, cost, admissions, and how magnet schools differ from academies.
Where passions find their place
What are Magnet Programs?
Some public schools offer specialized programs, known as academies or magnet schools, that focus on specific areas of study. These programs-ranging from digital arts and coding to culinary arts and skilled trades-may be school-wide or part of a larger campus, providing students with immersive, interest-based learning.
A magnet school is the largest form of school choice within traditional public schools, drawing students from both inside and outside district boundaries. Magnet schools offer specialized academic programs within a public school setting. Examples include:
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
International Baccalaureate, International Studies
World Languages (immersion and non-immersion)
Fine and Performing Arts
Magnet schools and academies are open to all children, from all socio-economic backgrounds and interests. They are free, but many hold a lottery system for student enrollment due to the demand. Magnet schools exist within a school district and adhere to state regulations.
Available Across Texas
From San Antonio to Houston, Dallas, and beyond, school districts throughout Texas offer Magnet and Academy programs. These programs are open to students based on interest, and they often include transfer or open enrollment options.
Explore what your local Independent School District (ISD) offers by visiting their website and program pages.
Why Choose a Magnet School?
Customized Curriculum: Students explore advanced subjects in greater depth.
College and Career Preparation: Many academies offer dual credit, certifications, and real-world experience.
EngagedLearning: Students thrive in interest-based environments with like-minded peers.
What is a Charter School?
Charter schools can have magnet schools within their system, but there are differences between magnet charters and traditional public school magnets. While both magnet programs are free and part of their school district or system, charter schools can be for-profit and are not required to adhere to state requirements. In traditional public schools, the district's administration provides oversight. In charter schools, other private entities might be involved in oversight.
What is School Choice?
School choice allows public education funds to follow students to the schools or services that best fit their needs. This includes public schools, which offer various educational options and individualized opportunities.
School choice includes much more than school vouchers or charter schools. There are a variety of ways for families to choose the best educational setting for their kids. Learn more about the different educational choice options in your school district today!
Magnet schools and academies are specialized programs within public schools that focus on specific areas of study, such as STEM, fine arts, or career and technical education. These programs may be offered across an entire campus or as part of a larger school.
Magnet programs offer a variety of focus areas, including:
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
International studies and International Baccalaureate
World languages
Fine and performing arts
These programs allow students to explore subjects in greater depth.
Yes. Magnet schools exist within public school districts and follow state standards and regulations, just like traditional public schools.
Magnet schools and academies are open to all students, regardless of background or location. Many programs allow students to attend from outside their assigned school zone.
Yes. Magnet schools and academies are part of the public school system and are free to attend.
Because these programs are often in high demand, admission may be determined through:
A lottery system
Application processes
Other selection methods depending on the program
Both offer specialized learning, but:
A magnet school may be an entire campus with a specific focus
An academy may be a program within a larger school
Both provide focused, interest-based learning opportunities.
Magnet schools and academies are available in school districts across Texas, including major areas like San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas.
Magnet programs offer:
Customized curriculum with deeper focus in specific subjects
College and career preparation, including certifications or dual credit
Engaged, interest-based learning environments
Yes. Magnet schools and academies often include hands-on, real-world learning experiences connected to their focus areas.
School choice allows families to select educational options that best fit their child's needs. Magnet schools are one of the largest forms of school choice within public education.
Families can explore magnet and academy programs by visiting their local school district's website to learn about available options and application processes.
Check out this quick video of what students learn in Magnet Schools and Academies. Magnets offer a focus within an academic curriculum such as: STEM, Fine and Performing Arts, and Career and Technical Education (CTE). These schools provide students with hands-on learning, diversity, and engagement in the community. They are open to all children, from all socio-economic backgrounds and interests.
