Magnet Cluster

  • History of Magnet Programming

    In 2016-2017, the Enrichment Study Group recommended that the BAS Magnet Program be reorganized. The reorganization was intended to best support our high achieving learners and to reflect the district's commitment to a growth mindset versus a performance learning orientation. With Board of Education approval, the district's elementary Magnet Program moved from Spencer Elementary to the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades in all four elementary schools beginning in 2017-2018. Qualifying students received differentiated instruction and participated in Academic Enrichment and/or Magnet Math. Maltby magnet students continued to be clustered in general education classrooms.

    Identifying Students for Magnet Clusters

    Qualification for the Magnet Cluster program is based on the district's universal screener. The test is administered every year so all students have an opportunity to qualify for the program. Historically, students who score in approximately the top 3 to 5% of each grade level on the district’s universal screen qualify for magnet programming. Each spring, students who score in this range are considered for the following school year. The district does not accept outside testing; participation in an accelerated program in another district does not guarantee transfer students participation in the BAS Magnet Cluster program. Students who qualify for the program are placed on a Magnet Cluster team within their current school. Parents are notified by letter if their student has been selected. Acceptance letters are mailed in June. Continued exceptional academic performance, both on classroom and national assessments, must be demonstrated for the student to remain in programming for that school year.

    If you have questions about the program, please contact your building's Academic Enrichment Coach: