Connecticut River Academy at Goodwin University Named National Magnet School of Excellence
February 3, 2020 (02/03/2020) — East Hartford, Connecticut - The Connecticut River Academy (CTRA) at Goodwin University has been named a National Magnet School of Excellence by Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools.
CTRA serves students in grades six to 12 through a sustainability theme that combines studies in environmental science and advanced manufacturing. Students learn about environmental and social issues such as climate change and green energy in the school's state-of-the-art laboratories and on its own research vessel that brings science classes directly out onto the Connecticut River. Students also explore how current developments in technology are shaping the future of our planet with advanced manufacturing. Goodwin has recently added a new,15,000-square-foot annex to its manufacturing center with specifically designed curriculum for high school students.
To receive a national merit award, members of Magnet Schools of America submit a detailed application that is scored by a panel of educators. These schools are judged on their demonstrated ability to raise student academic achievement, promote racial and socioeconomic diversity, provide integrated curricula and instruction, and create strong family and community partnerships that enhance the school's magnet theme.
News of the Magnet School of Excellence recognition has been warmly greeted by CTRA faculty, staff, and administrators. "I could not be prouder to have our school's work recognized by Magnet Schools of America at the national level," said CTRA principal Tara Amatrudo. "I know that this recognition comes as a result of intentional, whole-hearted work on the part of our educators, scholars, and community. We believe deeply in our special mission as a magnet school and will continue to strive for excellence for our scholars every day."
Ms. Amatrudo will accept the National Magnet School of Excellence Merit Award on behalf of the school during a ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America's 38th National Conference in Nevada, April 13-17, 2020.
In the past decade, Goodwin's magnet school system has grown to meet the region's expanding educational needs. This received attention recently as a result of the milestone agreement in the 30-year-old Sheff vs. O'Neill school desegregation case that adds more than 1,000 new magnet school seats and improves the school choice lottery system.
"Our magnet school families have long expressed interest in remaining on our campus from preschool to grade 12, something we've unfortunately been unable to offer because of a gap between grade five and the high school," said David Daye, Director of Goodwin's Magnet School Business Operations. "Recently, Goodwin received approval to create a middle school. After assessing different models, we are pleased that CTRA will serve students from grade six to 12, allowing families to plan differently and develop stronger relationships for their children."
To learn more, visit the Connecticut River Academy website at www.ctriveracademy.org.