Business Details
Your Trusted Charter School for Grades 9-12 in West Saint Paul
Academic Arts High School is a tuition-free charter public school serving grades 9-12 in West Saint Paul, Minnesota. Founded to provide an innovative educational alternative, we specialize in project-based learning and environmental education, fostering a safe, inclusive community where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our dedicated staff prioritizes personalized instruction through small class sizes, credit recovery options, and restorative practices.With a focus on hands-on, real-world experiences, we empower students to meet state academic standards while exploring individual interests. Our commitment to diversity, mental health awareness, and community engagement distinguishes us as a leader in student-centered education.
Services
Project-Based Learning
Environmental Education
Credit Recovery
Small Class Sizes
Inclusive Community
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized project-based learning tailored to individual student needs.
- Our staff specializes in environmental education and restorative practices.
- Small class sizes ensure individualized attention and academic support.
- Credit recovery programs help students stay on track for graduation.
- Inclusive community promotes diversity, mental health, and student well-being.
What people say
Fantastic teachers
Great environment
Best learning experience
Small class sizes
Inclusive atmosphere
Services
Project-Based Learning
Our project-based learning approach engages students through hands-on, real-world experiences. Tailored to individual interests, this method meets state standards while fostering critical thinking and creativity. Students collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, developing practical skills for academic and personal success.
Environmental Education
Environmental education integrates sustainability into core subjects, teaching ecological stewardship through fieldwork and classroom activities. Students explore natural systems, climate issues, and conservation practices. This interdisciplinary approach builds scientific literacy and environmental responsibility.
Credit Recovery
Credit recovery programs help students who fall behind earn required high school credits. Flexible scheduling and personalized instruction allow learners to progress at their own pace. Qualified teachers provide targeted support to ensure graduation readiness.
Small Class Sizes
Small class sizes enable individualized attention and stronger teacher-student relationships. Instructors adapt to diverse learning styles, providing targeted feedback and support. This environment promotes academic engagement and social-emotional development.
Inclusive Community
Our inclusive community celebrates diversity through cultural programs and anti-bias education. Restorative practices foster conflict resolution and mutual respect. Students from all backgrounds find belonging in a safe, supportive learning environment.
People
Davi Hicks
Administrator
Davi Hicks leads with a passion for learning and education, bringing expertise in ceramics and Sudoku problem-solving to academic leadership.
Earnisa Wilkins
Administrative Manager
Earnisa Wilkins combines administrative expertise with community service, specializing in anime culture and baking while supporting student success.
Ryan Bauer
Social Studies Teacher
Ryan Bauer teaches history through sports analogies and real-world connections, leveraging hockey fandom to engage students in social studies.
Bess Nguyen
Science Teacher
Bess Nguyen integrates environmental science with yoga philosophy, creating experiential learning opportunities that connect classroom concepts to natural world experiences.
Netta Penland
Special Education Coordinator
Netta Penland specializes in student future planning, using travel experiences to inform personalized special education strategies and career preparation.
Questions
Are charter schools real public schools?
Yes, charter schools are public schools authorized by state education departments. Academic Arts follows Minnesota Department of Education standards.
What grade levels do you serve?
We serve grades 9-12 in a tuition-free public charter school setting.
How does project-based learning work?
Students complete interdisciplinary projects meeting state standards while developing practical skills through hands-on, real-world applications.
Do you offer credit recovery options?
Yes, we provide credit recovery programs with personalized instruction to help students stay on track for graduation.
What makes your school unique?
Our combination of environmental education, small classes, restorative practices, and inclusive community creates a distinctive learning environment.
How can families schedule a tour?
Virtual and in-person tours are available through our website's enrollment portal or by contacting our admissions team.
