Top two magnet schools in the US are in Wake County

Two Wake County Public School System magnet schools received the highest national distinctions awarded.

Athens Drive Magnet High School in Raleigh won the Dr. Ronald P. Simpson Magnet School of Merit Award of Excellence, given each year to the top magnet school in the country.

“I am so proud of our students, staff, families, and supportive community for earning this recognition as the best magnet school in the nation,” principal Amanda Boshoff said in a news release. “This award reflects our deep commitment to educating future leaders in medicine and global health, and helping all students see how what they are learning in the classroom can be applied to the real world.”

Conn Magnet Elementary School in Raleigh won the organization’s Donald Waldrip Magnet School of Excellence Award. That honor goes to the second-best magnet school in the nation.

"This award reflects our high expectations and the remarkable efforts of our students, who are preparing to be the innovative leaders of tomorrow,” principal Gabriel Chidester said. “It showcases the dynamic, forward-thinking environment that propels both our school and our students toward greatness.”

The awards were announced Saturday at the Magnet Schools of America’s annual conference in New York City.