As reported by Baltimore County Public Schools Press Office, four Baltimore County public schools – Patapsco High School and Center for the Arts in Dundalk, Cromwell Valley Elementary Regional Magnet School of Technology in Towson, Halstead Academy in Towson and Lutherville Laboratory in Lutherville — have been recognized with national awards by Magnet Schools of America, Inc.  As reported,

The schools are among more than 300 nationally to apply for recognition from the group. Halstead Academy and Patapsco High each earned “School of Distinction” honors from the group, while Cromwell Valley and Lutherville Lab were awarded School of Excellence designations.

“Team BCPS can be proud of the many magnet programs and schools that offer specialized learning to students. These honors are an indication of the high quality of those programs,” said BCPS Superintendent Dallas Dance. “As with achievements of this level, however, these awards are the result of much hard work, dedication and talent from students, teachers, parents and administrators at each of these schools. They have earned this honor.”

The merit awards, which come with a plaque and optional banner, will be presented at the 2014 National Conference on Magnet Schools in Hartford, CT, in May. Magnet School of Merit Awards recognize member magnet schools or programs that demonstrate a high commitment to academic standards, curriculum innovation, desegregation and diversity efforts, specialized teaching staffs and parent and community involvement.

Magnet Schools of America is a professional association that is driven by its members representing nearly 2000 magnet schools nation wide, as well as members of the community including, parents and families, school district leaders, businesses partners and institutions of higher education.