RCSS Magnet Schools Receive National Merit Awards
Wednesday, February 4th, 2026
Three Richmond County School System (RCSS) magnet schools received awards from Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools. A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School, C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School, and John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School were awarded a National Merit School of Distinction Award, the second-highest recognition offered by the organization.
Dr. David Hall, assistant superintendent of high school administrative services, says, “These awards are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaborative efforts of our students and staff. We are deeply proud of C.T. Walker, Davidson, and A.R. Johnson for their outstanding achievements and for representing Richmond County and the state of Georgia with excellence.”
C.T. Walker has now received eight merit awards since 2018, while Davidson has a total of 13. Meanwhile, A.R. Johnson celebrates its third consecutive National Merit School of Distinction award.
To qualify for a merit award, Magnet Schools of America members submit a detailed application reviewed by a panel of educators. Schools are evaluated on their ability to raise academic achievement, promote diversity, integrate curricula, and build strong family and community partnerships. Each Richmond County magnet school excels in its unique focus area: C.T. Walker Magnet emphasizes communications; Davidson Magnet specializes in fine arts; and A.R. Johnson Magnet focuses on health sciences and engineering.
The schools will be recognized and receive their awards during a ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s National Conference from April 14-17, 2026, in San Diego, CA.
