FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tampa, Fl. (January 23, 2026) –Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to announce that 21 of our magnet schools have been recognized by Magnet Schools of American (MSA) as National Merit Award winners. Lennard High School Collegiate Academy received the highest designation of 2026 Top Magnet School of Excellence.
National merit awards are presented to magnet schools for demonstrating a commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, 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.
HCPS Magnet Schools That Were Honored:
Top Magnet Schools of Excellence Award winner:
Lennard High School Collegiate Academy
Magnet Schools of Excellence Award winners:
Armwood High School Collegiate Academy
Progress Village Middle Magnet School of the Arts
York Innovation Academy, International Baccalaureate
Boys Preparatory Academy at Franklin Middle Magnet School, A Cambridge School
Magnet Schools of Distinction Award winners:
Orange Grove Middle Magnet School of the Arts
Spoto High School Collegiate Academy
Roland Park K-8 Magnet School, International Baccalaureate
Dunbar Elementary Magnet School, Math and Medical Academy
Stewart Middle Magnet School, STEM School
Middleton Pre-Collegiate STEM Academy High School
Ferrell Middle Magnet Girls Preparatory Academy, A Cambridge School
Macfarlane Park Elementary International Baccalaureate Program
Tampa Bay Technical High School
Sligh Middle Magnet School, Medical and Sports Sciences
Rampello K-8 Downtown Partnership Magnet School
Lincoln Elementary Magnet School, International Baccalaureate
Marshall Middle Magnet IB World Community School
Williams Middle Magnet School, International Baccalaureate
Dowdell Middle Magnet School, Environmental and Animal Science
Walker Middle Magnet IB World School
“This recognition speaks to the quality of our magnet programs across the district,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “I am thankful for the collective efforts of our teachers, administrators, and support staff who are committed to delivering innovative educational opportunities for each student, every day.”
To learn more about HCPS Magnet Programs, visit: hillsboroughschools.org/magnet.