North County High School has been named a 2025 National Merit School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America (MSA), the national association for magnet and theme-based schools.
North County, the only 2025 Magnet School of Distinction in Maryland, has operated a STEM magnet program since 2008. The school’s STEM program has active community organization, government, higher education, and parent stakeholder groups that support STEM pathways, community challenge work and capstone courses, field trip and job shadow opportunities, guest speakers, internship/mentorship placements, and summer camp experiences for students.
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized as a National Merit School of Distinction by MSA and I am honored to work alongside such talented students and educators like STEM Site Coordinator Natasha Alston and STEM Department Chair Lynn Voss,” North County Principal Sara Thomas said. “This honor reflects the hard work and dedication of our students, staff, and community in fostering a dynamic and innovative learning environment that prepares students for success beyond the classroom.”
North County is also an AVID National Demonstration School where teachers have a common bank of research-tested equitable instructional practices to help move students toward independence in reading, writing, and critical thinking skills across disciplines. There are many classroom and community opportunities offered throughout the school year for students to engage in healthy activities where diversity is a central element and all students can belong, grow, and succeed.
To receive a national merit award, members of Magnet Schools of America must submit a detailed application that is scored by a panel of educators. These schools 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.
Ms. Thomas and Ms. Alston will formally receive the honor at an awards ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s National Conference in Nashville in April.