Emma Conn Elementary School, part of the Wake County Public School System, opened on January 3, 1955. The school was named after Emma Conn, a teacher and principal for 50 years.   

In the fall of 1982, Emma Conn Elementary School became Emma Conn GT Magnet, part of the WCPSS Magnet Schools Program.  A new wing, including the Norma Wall Haywood Media Center, new classrooms and administrative offices, was added to the school and was dedicated on November 18, 1990. In July 1998, the school's magnet theme changed to Global Communications and Technology with a focus on "preparing students to be productive, responsible citizens in an ever changing global society."

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At the start of the 2004-05 school year, Conn's theme changed to Active Learning and Technology and has recently been named a National Magnet Schools of America "School of Excellence" and "School of Distinction."   At Conn Active Learning and Technology Magnet Elementary, students engage in hands-on, project-based activities that enhance academic performance. Active learning occurs throughout the day, integrating traditional core subjects, the arts and technology.​  The Conn Active Learning and Technology (CALT) model prepares its students for personal, academic, social, and career success in the future. By creating a learning environment that is active, integrated, thought-provoking, and rich in technological, written, and human resources, CALT's program will prepare students who are equipped with process/problem-solving skills for all future learning, and who care deeply about the community and the world in which they live. 

Conn currently serves students in grades K-5 and operates on a traditional school calendar. 

Conn's Mission

To engage students in an active learning environment so that they may achieve their maximum level of performance.

Conn's Vision

To work collaboratively as a professional learning community and to partner with parents and community members in order to provide students with "21st Century" learning opportunities.