April 11, 2025
Two Wake County magnet elementary schools on Thursday were named among the best in the nation by Magnet Schools of America.
Millbrook Magnet Elementary in Raleigh received the Donald R. Waldrip Magnet School of Merit Award of Excellence. This award, named for Dr. Donald Waldrip, the founder of Magnet Schools of America, is considered the second most prestigious award for magnet schools in the nation.
Lincoln Heights Magnet Elementary in Fuquay-Varina won the Elementary Magnet School of Merit Award of Excellence, denoting it as the top magnet elementary school in the nation.
The schools attained these top honors from among nearly 600 applicants.
Additionally two WCPSS magnet schools were among six finalists for the New and Emerging Merit Award, which recognizes schools in their third or fourth year of implementing their magnet theme that are already making an impact:
- Centennial Campus Magnet Middle in Raleigh
- Wake Early College of Information and Biotechnologies in Morrisville
Both Millbrook and Lincoln Heights offer the Environmental Connections magnet theme, which delivers instruction through the lens of environmental and life sciences, providing students with hands-on opportunities to investigate and connect with life outside the school walls.
“Thanks to a Magnet School Assistance Program grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Millbrook and Lincoln Heights implemented the Environmental Connections theme beginning in 2018,” says Kimberly Lane, senior director of Magnet and Curriculum Enhancement Programs. “This theme makes learning come alive for students, deepening their understanding of core content while instilling an appreciation for the natural world. These awards are a testament to the thoughtful, effective implementation of this unique approach to learning, and to the power of magnet programs in general to help our students learn, grow, and succeed.”
Millbrook Magnet Elementary Principal James Aldridge says: “We are so excited to receive this national recognition. It reflects our commitment to high-quality environmental STEM education for all students that is innovative, engaging, and meaningful. It celebrates the hard work and support of our staff, students, families and community partners.”
Lincoln Heights Magnet Elementary Principal Kelly Wilson says: “This recognition is a reflection of the hard work, creativity, and dedication of our staff, students, and families. At Lincoln Heights, our Environmental Connections magnet theme empowers students to explore, inquire, and learn through the world around them, helping to create knowledgeable, compassionate stewards of the environment. We’re also deeply grateful for the support of WCPSS leadership and our School Board, who recognize the power of magnet programs to provide all children with access to unique opportunities that spark curiosity, nurture talent, and expand what’s possible.”
