Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of the study was to identify factors that contributed to, and those that interfered with, the success of three health career magnet high schools. Subpurposes were the following: to generate data that can be used to assist school districts in developing new health career magnet high schools and improving existing schools; to provide useful information regarding their historical beginnings; and, to provide data regarding the unique features and the basic operation of successful health career magnet high schools. Methodology. The research methodology used in the study was the case study approach. Data were collected using questionnaires, focus group interviews, direct observation and a review of archival data at each school. Findings and conclusions. From a historical perspective, the three health career magnet high schools had similar beginnings. Each school involved elected officials, community groups, parents, hospital personnel and other key people in the initial planning and development process. Funding for the planning phase was provided by the school districts. Thirty-two variables related to regulations, policies, and practices that were established by the three school districts, the health career magnet high schools, and the health care facilities helped to shape the character of the three schools and either interfered with or promoted success. The variables that appeared to promote success included: the involvement of hospital personnel and community groups in the planning process, the leadership of the principal, the condition of the facilities, positive race relations, parental involvement in the school, the health career theme, academic competition, high expectations for students, school safety, the location of the school, support from the superintendent and school board members, effective staff development program, and self-motivated students. Among the variables that appeared to interfere with success were the following: the lack of a comprehensive organized sports program, the student selection processes, the teacher transfer policy, and inadequate district funding. Recommendations. In developing health career magnet high schools, a planning team composed of school officials, hospital personnel, and community groups should be formed. Acquiring additional district funding for the schools should be a priority. Efforts should be made to ensure that the best people are selected to fill the positions of principal and magnet coordinator. Strategies should be developed to increase parent involvement. The positive racial climate should be maintained and increased emphasis should be placed on making additional organized sports activities available to students.