McKissick Academy of Science & Technology (MAST) has been named a 2023 Magnet School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools. The Magnet Schools of America Merit Awards are given to magnet schools that demonstrate a commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful desegregation and diversity efforts, and strong parent and community involvement. MAST is one of only five elementary schools in South Carolina to receive a Merit award in 2023.
To receive a national merit award, Magnet Schools of America members submit a detailed application scored by a panel of educators. Applicants are judged and scored 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. In addition to its recent awards, in 2022, MAST received the Magnet School of Excellence award. The Magnet School of Excellence is the top merit award category and is only awarded to a select group of magnet schools. The Magnet School of Distinction is the second-highest award of recognition.
McKissick Academy of Science & Technology (MAST) serves Pre-K through to 5th grade through a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) theme that combines traditional learning with a Project-Based Learning focus that leads students to Ask, Explore, Model, Evaluate, and Explain at all grade levels. In addition to the project-based learning in all classrooms, students have access to the “Shark Tank,” and maker-space in which students will have the opportunity to showcase their innovations. MAST has a unique partnership with the Pickens County Career & Technology Center, Clemson University College of Engineering, and Clemson University College of Education, as well as clubs for robotics, coding, gaming, and more.
National merit awards are given to magnet schools that demonstrate a commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful desegregation and diversity efforts, and strong parent and community involvement. 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.
Learn more about the McKissick Academy of Science & Technology (MAST).
Magnet School Merit Awards Program
