MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Eight Marion County public schools–the most ever–are enjoying national spotlight attention in the latest round of awards handed out by the Magnet Schools of America organization.
“Merit Award of Distinction” honors were announced Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, for these six schools:
- Belleview Middle (first-time winner)
- Dunnellon High (five-year consecutive winner)
- Howard Middle (repeat and second-consecutive year winner)
- Madison Street Academy (repeat winner)
- North Marion High (repeat winner)
- North Marion Middle School (repeat winner)
Belleview High, a repeat winner, received another Merit Award of Excellence, and–in its first time applying–Vanguard High captured a Merit Award as a Top School of Excellence, the highest award possible.
These results reflect the exceptional dedication of school teams and their commitment to provide innovative, high-quality magnet programming to their 10,000-plus combined students.
School representatives will be recognized and receive their awards at the annual Magnet Schools of America conference in mid-April in San Diego.