Magnet schools have developed strong national and local constituencies among parents and educators, who see them as vehicles for bringing equity and academic excellence to all students. Typically, these schools offer innovative programs through a specialized focus or theme. They may emphasize subjects like science or the arts, or they may adopt distinct instructional models, like those of Montessori or International Baccalaureate programs. Magnet schools provide appealing choices for families and students whose neighborhood school may not serve a student's interests, talents, and aptitudes. By offering a specialized curriculum, they attract students from varied backgrounds, creating diversity within learning communities and providing opportunities for beneficial education outcomes.