Expand the Role of Magnet Partners
Magnet partners play flexible support roles dictated by the unique needs of each site. A magnet partner may provide a service to an entire site, a grade level, a content area, an academy, or even a single teacher. For example:
- Students can shadow employees at a nearby STEM-related company to gain a better understanding of careers in STEM.
- A watershed restoration expert collaborates with a teacher at an environmental studies magnet school to plan a student-centered project in the community and offer expertise to students.
Encourage teachers to talk with external partners about programs or opportunities they can offer for students (e.g., experiential labs or field work, field trips, guest speakers, mentorships, exhibitions, externships or internships) and teachers (e.g., professional development, expert advisory, externships, conferences, workshops).
LEADERSHIP TIP
Advise site staff to define the magnet partnership goal prior to bringing in experts or other consultants. Once the goal is known and articulated, then external resources can be involved throughout.
LEADERSHIP TIP
Partnerships with professional organizations and institutions of higher education can help your school get information on real-world skills and knowledge that students should have.
