Krop has been awarded a “2024 Magnet School of Excellence,” the highest recognition for a magnet school. 

The work of magnet students from the strands of specialization: Chorus, Dance, Band/Orchestra, Theatre, Visual Art, and Photography have made this achievement possible, with the help of the Magnet teachers and Magnet Lead Teacher Michelle Russell.

The Magnet Schools of America, a national organization that incorporates all magnet schools, gives out awards based on how magnet schools are operating. Schools can receive no award, School of Distinction or the highest award, Magnet School of Excellence. 

An extensive application has to be filled out containing letters of support, an explanation of what the magnet program consists of, the education magnet students are receiving, and how the magnet program is incorporated into the school as a whole. 

As Magnet Lead Teacher, Russell was in charge of completing the application.

“Our teachers are extremely talented in the areas they’re teaching, so that is a big help,” Russell said. “They are intentional about helping our kids be the best versions of themselves in whatever strand they’re in, and as a whole too.”

For students, the first step for getting into the magnet program is to audition, and once they are accepted, our teachers help get their skills to a professional level.

“By the time they finish, they’re masters at their craft, and it helps them for college and beyond,” Visual Arts teacher Julie Shakher said.