I think the chief benefit is flexibility. If you have a child talented in the arts for example, a magnet school that focuses on the arts is a good match. Likewise, if you have a child good at math, a magnet school focusing on math & science would be good for the child. It’s all about matching students with the best learning environment for their indivual makeup. Kind of like selecting a college later in life… you need to consider what the college specializes in, the sizes of classes, contact time with professors, etc. Let’s face it… all these choices are there for a reason… and the reason is demand for what parents consider is a better opportunity for their children.