Magnet Programs

 
The Tucson Unified School District is thrilled to have all parents and guardians as partners in their child’s education.  In Magnet schools, we embark on an educational journey that promises to be innovative and transformative. Magnet schools play a crucial role in providing students with rigorous, thematic, and exciting learning experiences. These specialized schools offer unique curricular opportunities and environments designed to nurture individual talents and interests. As we strive for academic excellence, our Magnet programs open doors to endless possibilities, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for learning. We invite you to explore the boundless opportunities TUSD Magnet schools have to offer and join us in shaping a brighter future for our students.
 
Magnet Awards
Certification
Magnet Schools of America Certified Magnet School SealMagnet Schools of America’s national certification process is designed to recognize the hard work of the best magnet schools in the nation and to help them as they grow. The following schools have been Certified: Bonillas, Borton, Carrillo, Davis, Holladay, Mansfeld and Tucson High.
Merit Awards
Magnet Schools of America School of Excellence Award logo

National merit awards are given to magnet schools that demonstrate a commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful desegregation and diversity efforts, and strong parent and community involvement. To be considered for a merit award, member schools must submit an application that is scored by a panel of educators.

There are two categories of merit awards: (1) Magnet Schools of Excellence, the top merit award given to only a select group of magnet schools and (2) Magnet Schools of Distinction, the second highest award of recognition.

The following schools have recently received awards: Borton, Carrillo, Drachman, Holladay, Mansfeld and Tucson High.

Demonstration
Magnet Schools of America Certified-Demonstration Schools sealMagnet Schools of America designates schools that exceed the Standards of Excellence as Nationally Certified-Demonstration Schools. These schools serve as learning models for magnets across the country to replicate. 

The following schools have earned Certified-Demonstration designation: Borton, Carrillo and Holladay.
 
Themes
Dual Language Programs

Mariachi playing violinAre you ready to give your child the gift of a multicultural educational experience? Davis Bilingual Elementary Magnet and Roskruge Bilingual K-8 Magnet are not just award-winning schools, but a place of cultural and educational adventure. Imagine your child embracing the world through the beauty of the Spanish language and the joy of music with a world-renowned Mariachi program. Picture them cultivating a green thumb and a love for nature in a vibrant gardening program. Enroll your child today and watch them flourish in an environment that celebrates diversity, creativity, and a deep connection to the world around them, setting them on a path to success and cultural appreciation.

Fine and Performing Arts

Girl playing keyboardAre you ready to nurture your child's artistic talents and provide them with a top-notch education at the same time? Look no further than Tucson Unified School District’s Arts-Based Magnet Schools! While TUSD offer an arts-based curriculum that inspires creativity and self-expression, parents and students should be prepared for a challenging and rigorous learning environment. Our talented teachers and comprehensive programs provide an exceptional education that not only encourages artistic growth but also fosters critical thinking skills. Enrolling your child at Carrillo K-5 Magnet, Holladay Elementary Magnet and Tucson High Magnet means giving them the opportunity to excel in both the arts and academics, setting them on the path to a bright and promising future.

S.T.E.M.

Students in a labAre you ready to ignite your child's passion for learning and set them on a journey of discovery? Borton Elementary Magnet, Mansfeld Middle Magnet, Palo Verde High Magnet, and Tucson High Magnet are not just incredible schools, but exhilarating adventures waiting to happen. At these award-winning schools, your student will dive headfirst into the captivating world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, where every day is an opportunity to innovate, explore, and create. With state-of-the-art digital tools, dedicated teachers, and hands-on projects, these incredible STEM and Project-Based Learning/Systems Thinking Magnet schools are places where your child's imagination will soar, and their future will take shape. Schedule a tour today so your child can embark on a transformative academic voyage that will prepare them for college and career!

Traditional

Student working on Paper
Our academically rigorous Traditional Magnet Schools are not just any school; they are a gateway to boundless opportunities and unmatched intellectual growth! Your child will be immersed in an environment where innovation, critical thinking, and a thirst for knowledge are not just encouraged but celebrated. At Bonillas Traditional Elementary Magnet and Dodge Traditional Middle Magnet, students will be equipped with the skills they need to excel in a rapidly changing world. Schedule a tour today and watch them thrive in a challenging and stimulating educational atmosphere that will prepare them for a future filled with endless possibilities.

Montessori

Student working on project
Drachman Montessori K-8 Magnet
is Tucson’s answer to an incredible Montessori Magnet School! At Drachman, we don't just educate – we inspire young minds to explore, discover, and thrive. With an innovative curriculum rooted in the time-tested Montessori philosophy, students will be encouraged to embrace their natural curiosity, fostering independence, creativity, and a deep sense of self-confidence. Our dedicated staff create a dynamic and rigorous learning environment where every child's unique potential is celebrated. From hands-on learning experiences to personalized education plans, our school ensures that each student flourishes, both academically and emotionally. Enroll your child today and let them embark on an extraordinary journey of growth and discovery.

Gifted and Talented

Student working on experiment
Tully Elementary Magnet
is Tucson Unified School District’s Magnet School for Gifted and Talented students! Tully’s program offers an academically-rigorous environment designed to challenge and empower exceptional young minds. With a unique focus on engineering design and cutting-edge technological tools, Tully provides an unparalleled opportunity for hands-on exploration and innovation. Our knowledgeable educators foster a culture of intellectual curiosity, where students not only excel academically but also have the chance to turn their ideas into reality. Enrolling your child in Tully means equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and creative thinking abilities that will set them on the path to a future of limitless possibilities.