Diamond Path, Cedar Park Named Magnet Schools of Excellence

District 196's two Apple Valley elementary magnet schools are two of 54 nationwide to receive the Magnet School of Excellence award from Magnet Schools of America, according to a press release.

and were two of the three Minnesota schools to receive the school of excellence award, the highest honor from the organization.

The award recognizes magnet schools that show "a commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful desegregation/diversity efforts, specialized teaching staffs, and parent and community involvement," the release says.

Schools submit several application materials to be considered for the award.

District 196's other elementary magnet school, Glacier Hills Elementary School of Arts and Science in Eagan, was selected to receive a Magnet School of Distinction award for 2012.

Magnet Schools of America is a national association that advocates for school desegregation, specialty education and school choice.