The 30 Best High Schools in Minnesota: Top-Ranked Educational Institutions
Minnesota’s education system boasts exceptional high schools that prepare students for future success through rigorous academics, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and supportive learning environments.
These top institutions consistently demonstrate excellence through impressive graduation rates, college acceptance statistics, and innovative teaching approaches.
The 30 schools featured in this ranking represent the pinnacle of secondary education in Minnesota, selected through careful analysis of academic performance metrics, faculty qualifications, and student achievement outcomes.
From the metropolitan areas of Minneapolis-St. Paul to smaller communities throughout the state, these schools have established themselves as leaders in providing quality education that serves as a foundation for students’ future endeavors.
Here are the 30 best high schools in Minnesota:
1. Minnetonka High School
Minnetonka High School stands as one of Minnesota’s premier educational institutions, consistently ranking among the state’s top public high schools. Located in Minnetonka, a western suburb of Minneapolis, the school serves approximately 3,200 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic credentials with a 99% graduation rate and strong standardized test scores. Students at Minnetonka have access to over 30 Advanced Placement courses and the International Baccalaureate program.
Minnetonka High School offers extensive extracurricular opportunities, including award-winning music programs and competitive athletic teams. Their STEM initiatives have gained recognition for innovation and student achievement.
The school’s facility features modern technology throughout classrooms, specialized labs, and performance spaces. Minnetonka’s educators maintain high standards while providing personalized learning experiences that prepare students for college and careers.
2. Wayzata High School
Wayzata High School, located in Plymouth, Minnesota, consistently ranks among the state’s top educational institutions. The school serves approximately 3,500 students in grades 9-12, making it one of the largest high schools in Minnesota.
Academic excellence is a hallmark of Wayzata High School, with students regularly achieving impressive scores on standardized tests. The school offers over 25 Advanced Placement courses, allowing students to challenge themselves and earn college credit.
Wayzata’s extracurricular programs are equally strong, with championship-winning teams in debate, science competitions, and athletics. The school has earned multiple state titles in sports including swimming, tennis, and cross country.
The school’s modern facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, a performing arts center, and comprehensive athletic facilities. Wayzata High School maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 22:1, ensuring students receive appropriate attention.
3. Edina High School
Edina High School consistently ranks among Minnesota’s top educational institutions. Located in the Minneapolis suburb of Edina, it serves approximately 1,300 students in grades 9-12 and maintains an impressive 99% graduation rate.
The school offers a rigorous academic program including numerous Advanced Placement courses and International Baccalaureate options. Students at Edina regularly score well above state and national averages on standardized tests.
Edina High School boasts exceptional extracurricular programs. Their athletic teams have captured multiple state championships across various sports, particularly in tennis, swimming, and hockey.
The arts programs at Edina are equally distinguished, with award-winning band, choir, and theater departments. The school’s commitment to well-rounded education extends to its numerous student clubs and organizations.
Faculty credentials are noteworthy, with over 75% of teachers holding advanced degrees in their fields.
4. Eden Prairie High School
Eden Prairie High School maintains a stellar reputation in Minnesota’s education landscape. Located in the Minneapolis suburb of Eden Prairie, this school serves approximately 3,000 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic achievements with consistently high graduation rates above 95%. Its robust Advanced Placement program offers over 20 courses, with student participation and pass rates exceeding state averages.
Eden Prairie High School provides extensive extracurricular opportunities, including championship-winning athletic teams and award-winning fine arts programs. The school’s debate team and STEM clubs have earned state and national recognition.
The campus features modern facilities including recently renovated science labs, a performing arts center, and state-of-the-art athletic facilities. Technology integration is evident throughout the curriculum with a 1:1 device program supporting student learning.
Faculty members at Eden Prairie are highly qualified, with most holding advanced degrees in their subject areas.
5. Normandale Community College High School
Normandale Community College High School operates as a unique educational institution located in Bloomington, Minnesota. The school functions as a partnership between Normandale Community College and area school districts, offering students a distinctive dual-enrollment experience.
Students at Normandale Community College High School can simultaneously earn their high school diploma and college credits. This accelerated program allows motivated learners to potentially complete an associate’s degree while still in high school.
The school maintains small class sizes and provides personalized attention to help students navigate the challenges of college-level coursework. Academic advisors work closely with each student to develop individualized learning plans aligned with their future goals.
Normandale Community College High School is particularly known for its strong STEM offerings and comprehensive support services. The school’s location on a college campus gives students access to advanced facilities and resources not typically available in traditional high school settings.
6. Brooklyn Center High School
Brooklyn Center High School serves a diverse student population in the northern suburbs of Minneapolis. The school maintains a strong focus on college preparation while addressing the unique needs of its multicultural community.
With approximately 450 students, Brooklyn Center offers a personalized educational experience with a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1. The school has implemented several innovative programs including STEAM initiatives and college-level coursework options.
Students benefit from comprehensive support services, including academic advisors and mental health resources. The school’s graduation rate has shown steady improvement over the past five years.
Brooklyn Center High School emphasizes cultural competency through its curriculum and extracurricular activities. Their athletics program includes basketball, soccer, and track teams that compete in the Tri-Metro Conference.
The school building underwent significant renovations in 2023, adding modern science labs and technology infrastructure.
7. Apple Valley High School
Apple Valley High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Apple Valley, Minnesota. Established in 1976, the school has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and diverse extracurricular offerings.
The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 18:1, allowing for personalized attention while serving around 1,700 students. Its curriculum includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools options for those seeking college credit during high school.
Apple Valley High School is known for its STEM programs and has received recognition for its robotics team and science olympiad achievements. The school’s athletic program has produced multiple state championships in wrestling, basketball, and track.
The campus features modern facilities including recently renovated science labs and a performing arts center. Students consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests, with over 85% of graduates pursuing post-secondary education.
8. East Ridge High School
East Ridge High School, located in Woodbury, Minnesota, has established itself as one of the state’s premier educational institutions. Founded in 2009, the school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12 within the South Washington County School District.
The school boasts impressive academic credentials with consistently high graduation rates hovering around 97%. Their advanced placement program offers over 20 AP courses, with student participation rates and exam pass rates exceeding state averages.
East Ridge’s STEM programs have gained recognition for their innovative approach and strong outcomes. The school’s robotics team regularly competes at state and national levels, demonstrating the strength of their engineering programs.
Athletic excellence complements academic achievement at East Ridge. The Raptors have claimed state championships in several sports including swimming and soccer in recent years.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 22:1, allowing for personalized attention while preparing students for collegiate success.
9. Rosemount High School
Rosemount High School, located in Rosemount, Minnesota, serves approximately 2,300 students in grades 9-12. The school has established itself as a strong academic institution within Independent School District 196.
Students at Rosemount High School benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools opportunities. The school maintains an impressive graduation rate of 96%, with over 85% of graduates pursuing post-secondary education.
Rosemount’s extracurricular programs have garnered statewide recognition, particularly in music and athletics. Their marching band has won multiple state championships, while their sports teams regularly compete at the highest levels.
The school emphasizes STEM education through specialized programs and state-of-the-art facilities. Faculty members at Rosemount are highly qualified, with more than 70% holding advanced degrees in their teaching fields.
10. Shakopee High School
Shakopee High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the growing suburban community of Shakopee, Minnesota. The school has established itself as a strong academic institution with approximately 2,400 students enrolled.
The curriculum at Shakopee High School is organized around five academies: Business & Entrepreneurship, Engineering & Manufacturing, Health Science, Arts & Communication, and Science & Technology. This academy model helps students explore career interests while completing rigorous coursework.
Students at Shakopee benefit from a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools options. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 22:1, allowing for personalized educational experiences.
Shakopee High School boasts strong athletic programs and numerous extracurricular activities. The school’s facilities were recently expanded and renovated to accommodate the growing student population and provide state-of-the-art learning environments.
11. Maple Grove Senior High School
Maple Grove Senior High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the Osseo Area School District. Located in Maple Grove, this institution has consistently maintained high academic standards with impressive graduation rates above the state average.
The school offers a robust selection of Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools programs, allowing students to earn college credits while in high school. These challenging academic opportunities have contributed to strong college readiness scores among graduates.
Beyond academics, Maple Grove Senior High boasts exceptional extracurricular programs. Their athletics department has won numerous state championships, while their arts programs regularly receive recognition for excellence.
The school maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio, enabling more personalized instruction. The diverse student body benefits from modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes that support comprehensive development.
12. Stillwater Area High School
Stillwater Area High School serves approximately 2,100 students in grades 9-12 in the eastern Twin Cities metro area. The school maintains strong academic credentials with a graduation rate exceeding 95% and offers a comprehensive Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses.
Students at Stillwater excel in mathematics and science, with test scores consistently ranking above state averages. The school’s STEM programs have gained recognition for innovative approaches and student achievement in regional competitions.
Extracurricular opportunities abound with more than 30 athletic teams and 50 student organizations. The school’s debate team and music programs have earned state honors, while its robotics club has qualified for national competitions.
Stillwater’s college preparation resources include dedicated counselors and a robust college and career center. The school maintains partnerships with local businesses offering internship opportunities and real-world experience for students exploring future career paths.
13. Lakeville North High School
Lakeville North High School consistently ranks among Minnesota’s top educational institutions. Located in the suburban community of Lakeville, the school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools opportunities. Students at Lakeville North routinely score above state and national averages on standardized tests and college entrance exams.
Athletic programs at Lakeville North have gained recognition statewide, particularly in football, volleyball, and hockey. The school has captured multiple state championships across various sports over the past decade.
Beyond academics and athletics, Lakeville North boasts strong fine arts programs including award-winning band, choir, and theater departments. The school’s commitment to well-rounded education extends to numerous clubs and activities catering to diverse student interests.
14. Chaska High School
Chaska High School, located in Chaska, Minnesota, serves approximately 1,500 students in grades 9-12. The school is part of Eastern Carver County School District and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, allowing for more personalized attention.
The academic program at Chaska High School offers a robust selection of Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools options. Students consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests, with notable achievements in mathematics and science.
Beyond academics, Chaska High School provides numerous extracurricular opportunities. Their athletic programs have earned state recognition, particularly in baseball and girls’ hockey.
The school features modern facilities including a state-of-the-art performing arts center and updated science laboratories. Their commitment to technology integration is evident through their 1:1 device program for all students.
Chaska High School maintains strong community partnerships that enhance real-world learning experiences for students.
15. Prior Lake High School
Prior Lake High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools district. Located in Prior Lake, Minnesota, the school maintains a strong academic reputation with comprehensive course offerings including Advanced Placement and College in the Schools programs.
The school boasts excellent facilities including a performing arts center, multiple athletic fields, and updated technology throughout classrooms. Prior Lake High School maintains a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention while serving a sizeable student population.
Students at Prior Lake participate in numerous extracurricular activities spanning athletics, arts, and academic competitions. The school’s sports teams, known as the Lakers, compete in the South Suburban Conference and have earned several state championships.
The school emphasizes college preparation with dedicated counseling resources and career readiness programs. Prior Lake High School consistently achieves above-average graduation rates and college acceptance statistics compared to state averages.
16. St. Louis Park High School
St. Louis Park High School serves approximately 1,400 students in grades 9-12 in the western Minneapolis suburb of St. Louis Park. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with an impressive 94% graduation rate and offers a diverse curriculum.
Students have access to 20 Advanced Placement courses and several College in the Schools options through the University of Minnesota. The school’s International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme provides additional academic rigor.
The STEM program at St. Louis Park is particularly notable, with specialized courses in engineering, computer science, and biomedical sciences. Their robotics team has achieved regional recognition in recent competitions.
The school boasts strong fine arts programs, with award-winning band, choir, and theater departments. Athletic programs are competitive in the Metro West Conference, with particular strength in swimming and soccer.
17. Breck School
Breck School stands as a prestigious independent college preparatory school located in Golden Valley, Minnesota. Established in 1886, the school serves students from preschool through grade 12 on its 52-acre campus.
With approximately 1,100 students, Breck maintains small class sizes averaging 17 students per class. This allows for personalized attention and strong student-teacher relationships.
The school boasts a rigorous academic curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement offerings. In recent years, Breck has maintained a 100% college matriculation rate with graduates attending prestigious universities across the country.
Beyond academics, Breck offers comprehensive arts programs and fields competitive athletic teams in the Independent Metro Athletic Conference. The school’s facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, a performing arts center, and multiple athletic fields.
Breck emphasizes character development through its Episcopal tradition while welcoming students of all faiths and backgrounds.
18. Mounds View High School
Mounds View High School, located in Arden Hills, continues to be one of Minnesota’s academic powerhouses. The school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12 and maintains an impressive graduation rate of over 95%.
Students at Mounds View benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement and honors courses. The school’s strong STEM program has produced multiple science competition winners and research scholars over the years.
Mounds View’s extracurricular offerings are equally robust, with championship-caliber athletic teams and award-winning fine arts programs. Their debate team consistently ranks among the top in the state, while their music ensembles regularly receive superior ratings at competitions.
The school fosters a supportive environment through various student support services and peer mentoring programs. Community engagement remains a priority at Mounds View, with students completing thousands of volunteer hours annually.
19. Plymouth High School
Plymouth High School stands as a respected educational institution in Plymouth, Minnesota. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, the school has consistently ranked well among Minnesota’s top high schools since its establishment.
The school serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12, maintaining a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for more personalized education. Its rigorous curriculum includes numerous Advanced Placement and honors courses across various disciplines.
Beyond academics, Plymouth High School offers extensive extracurricular activities. Students can participate in competitive sports programs, arts productions, STEM clubs, and community service organizations.
The school’s facilities include modern science laboratories, a performing arts center, and updated athletic fields. These resources support both classroom learning and extracurricular achievements.
Plymouth High School boasts strong college preparation programs, with counselors dedicated to guiding students through the college application process. Its graduates regularly attend prestigious universities across the country.
20. Robbinsdale Armstrong High School
Robbinsdale Armstrong High School, located in Plymouth, Minnesota, serves approximately 2,000 students in grades 9-12. The school is part of the Robbinsdale Area Schools district and maintains a solid academic reputation in the Minneapolis suburban area.
Armstrong High School offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools options. Their four-year graduation rate exceeds the state average, with over 85% of students receiving their diplomas on time.
The school boasts strong extracurricular programs, particularly in music, theater, and athletics. Their robotics team has qualified for state competitions multiple times in recent years.
Armstrong emphasizes college and career readiness through its advisory program and partnerships with local businesses. The school’s diverse student population represents more than 20 different languages and cultural backgrounds.
21. Hopkins High School
Hopkins High School, located in Minnetonka, serves approximately 1,600 students in grades 10-12. The school is known for its rigorous academic programs and diverse course offerings.
Hopkins offers numerous Advanced Placement courses and has consistently high AP exam pass rates. Their International Baccalaureate program provides students with globally recognized credentials.
The school maintains strong performing arts departments, including award-winning music, theater, and visual arts programs. Their STEM initiatives have gained recognition for innovation and student engagement.
Athletics are also a point of pride at Hopkins, with competitive teams in basketball, swimming, and track among others. The school’s basketball program has produced several Division I athletes.
Student diversity is celebrated at Hopkins, with active cultural clubs and inclusion programs. The school maintains partnerships with local businesses and colleges to provide real-world learning opportunities.
22. St. Michael-Albertville High School
St. Michael-Albertville High School serves approximately 1,650 students in grades 9-12 in the growing communities of St. Michael and Albertville. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate of 96%, exceeding the state average.
The curriculum offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools options, giving students opportunities to earn college credit while in high school. Their STEM program has gained recognition for its innovative approach to science and technology education.
Athletic programs at STMA High School have achieved significant success, particularly in wrestling, where the team has won multiple state championships. The school also boasts strong fine arts programs in music, theater, and visual arts.
Community involvement is emphasized through various service learning opportunities and partnerships with local businesses. The school’s modern facilities include well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and updated athletic facilities.
23. Tartan Senior High School
Tartan Senior High School, located in Oakdale, Minnesota, serves students in grades 9-12 within the North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with its comprehensive curriculum and diverse program offerings.
Tartan boasts strong Advanced Placement course participation, with students regularly scoring well on AP exams. The school’s mathematics and science departments have received recognition for their quality instruction and student achievement outcomes.
Beyond academics, Tartan offers numerous extracurricular activities including competitive athletic programs, music ensembles, and various student clubs. Their debate team has achieved notable success at regional competitions.
The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio that facilitates personalized learning experiences. Tartan’s college readiness initiatives provide students with resources for post-secondary planning and career exploration.
Community engagement remains a priority at Tartan, with numerous service learning opportunities available to students throughout the academic year.
24. Cretin-Derham Hall High School
Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul combines strong academics with Catholic values and serves approximately 1,000 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains an impressive 99% graduation rate with over 95% of graduates continuing to higher education.
The curriculum offers 20 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors options across all subject areas. Students consistently score above state and national averages on standardized tests.
Athletics are a cornerstone of the Cretin-Derham experience, with the school claiming numerous state championships in various sports. The school also places strong emphasis on service learning, requiring students to complete community service hours each year.
Fine arts programs at Cretin-Derham Hall are equally robust, with award-winning music, theater, and visual arts opportunities. The school’s diverse student body benefits from a 12:1 student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention.
25. Blake School
Blake School has established itself as a prestigious independent college preparatory school in the Minneapolis area. Founded in 1900, it maintains three campuses serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12.
The school is known for its rigorous academic curriculum and commitment to developing well-rounded students. Blake’s average ACT score consistently ranks among the highest in Minnesota, with students regularly accepted into top-tier universities across the nation.
With a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 9:1, Blake offers personalized attention that fosters academic excellence. The school provides over 100 courses, including numerous Advanced Placement and honors options.
Beyond academics, Blake excels in athletics, arts, and community service. Their championship-winning sports teams and award-winning fine arts programs demonstrate the school’s dedication to holistic education.
Blake’s diverse student body benefits from extensive resources, including state-of-the-art facilities and technology. Admission is competitive, reflecting the school’s reputation for excellence.
26. Minneapolis South High School
Minneapolis South High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the Minneapolis Public Schools district. Located in the Corcoran neighborhood, South High offers a diverse learning environment with approximately 1,900 students.
The school operates three academic programs: Liberal Arts, All Nations, and Open. Each program provides different educational approaches to meet varied student needs and learning styles.
South High boasts strong AP course offerings and college readiness programs. Its graduation rate has shown improvement in recent years, reflecting the school’s commitment to student success.
The school emphasizes diversity and inclusion, with students representing many different cultural backgrounds. South High’s extracurricular activities include competitive athletics, debate, robotics, and various cultural clubs.
Faculty members at South High focus on creating supportive relationships with students while maintaining high academic expectations.
27. Burnsville High School
Burnsville High School stands as a notable educational institution in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The school serves approximately 2,400 students in grades 9-12 and is part of the Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School District 191.
Academically, Burnsville High offers a robust curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and College in the Schools options. The school’s STEM program has gained recognition for its innovative approach to science and technology education.
Burnsville High School boasts strong athletic programs competing in the South Suburban Conference. Their facilities include a recently renovated stadium and modern performance spaces for the arts.
The school emphasizes college and career readiness through its Pathways program. This initiative allows students to explore potential career interests while still in high school through specialized coursework and community partnerships.
28. White Bear Lake Area High School
White Bear Lake Area High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the northeastern Twin Cities metro area. The school boasts a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for college and careers.
With approximately 2,000 students, White Bear Lake offers a diverse range of academic programs including Advanced Placement and College in the Schools options. Their STEM initiatives have gained recognition for innovative approaches to science and technology education.
The school maintains a strong athletic tradition with competitive teams in numerous sports. Their facilities include recently renovated science labs and a performing arts center that supports their robust music and theater programs.
White Bear Lake emphasizes community involvement through service learning opportunities and partnerships with local businesses. The faculty consists of experienced educators committed to student success.
Student support services include career counseling, tutoring programs, and mental health resources to ensure holistic development.
29. Southwest High School (Minneapolis)
Southwest High School serves students in the Minneapolis Public School District with a strong tradition of academic excellence. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with Advanced Placement courses and International Baccalaureate programs.
Located in the southwest area of Minneapolis, the school maintains a diverse student population of approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12. Its well-rounded educational approach includes strong arts programs, athletics, and various extracurricular activities.
Southwest consistently achieves above-average graduation rates and college acceptance rates. The school’s teachers are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees in their fields.
The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a theater, and athletic fields. Southwest High School has been recognized for its commitment to preparing students for post-secondary success through rigorous academics and supportive student services.
30. Washburn High School
Washburn High School serves students in Minneapolis, providing education for grades 9-12. Located in the Tangletown neighborhood, the school has been part of the Minneapolis Public Schools district since 1925.
The school offers a well-rounded curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, International Baccalaureate options, and career-focused programs. Students have opportunities to participate in various clubs, activities, and athletics that complement their academic experience.
Washburn maintains a diverse student population with approximately 1,600 students. The school has worked to create an inclusive environment where students from different backgrounds can thrive academically and socially.
The faculty at Washburn focuses on preparing students for college and career readiness. The school has partnerships with local businesses and higher education institutions to provide students with real-world experiences.
Washburn’s graduation rates have shown improvement in recent years, with many graduates continuing to post-secondary education.
Key Factors That Define a Top High School
Minnesota’s leading high schools distinguish themselves through several critical elements that contribute to student success and development. These institutions create environments where academic rigor combines with comprehensive support systems and diverse opportunities.
Academic Excellence and Curriculum
Top Minnesota high schools offer rigorous academic programs that challenge students while providing appropriate support. Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses are typically abundant, allowing students to pursue college-level work while still in high school.
STEM education receives particular emphasis in leading schools, with specialized courses in robotics, engineering, and computer science. Many elite institutions maintain partnerships with local universities, enabling qualified students to earn college credits.
Teacher quality represents a crucial component, with the best schools employing educators holding advanced degrees and specialized certifications. Student-to-teacher ratios remain low in top schools, typically under 20:1, ensuring personalized attention.
Innovative teaching methods incorporating technology and project-based learning help students develop critical thinking skills beyond standardized testing requirements.
Extracurricular Opportunities and Student Life
The most distinguished high schools offer extensive extracurricular activities that complement academic programs. These include competitive athletics spanning multiple divisions and seasons, with well-maintained facilities and experienced coaching staffs.
Arts programs thrive at top institutions, featuring theater productions, musical ensembles, and visual arts studios. Students regularly participate in regional and state competitions, often earning recognition for their talents.
Key clubs and activities commonly found in top Minnesota high schools:
- Debate and speech teams
- Model UN and mock trial
- Robotics and STEM-focused clubs
- Community service organizations
- Student government and leadership programs
These schools foster inclusive environments where diversity is celebrated and student voices matter in school governance. Mental health resources and counseling services ensure students receive comprehensive support.
College Readiness and Graduation Rates
Minnesota’s premier high schools maintain graduation rates exceeding 95%, significantly above the state average. College matriculation statistics typically show 80-90% of graduates continuing to four-year institutions.
Students receive dedicated college counseling beginning in freshman year, with particularly intensive guidance during junior and senior years. Counselor-to-student ratios remain low, often 1:150 or better, compared to the national average of 1:470.
Average ACT scores at top Minnesota high schools generally range from 26-30, compared to the state average of approximately 21.5. SAT scores similarly exceed state and national averages.
College preparation extends beyond academics, with programs teaching financial literacy, time management, and independent living skills. Strong alumni networks provide mentorship opportunities and connections to universities across the country.
Understanding Minnesota’s Educational Landscape
Minnesota’s education system stands out nationally with its commitment to high academic standards and innovative teaching approaches. The state’s diverse educational offerings reflect regional characteristics and a mix of public and private institutions.
Public vs. Private High Schools
Minnesota hosts approximately 400 public high schools serving over 270,000 students across the state. These schools receive state funding and must adhere to Minnesota Department of Education standards and guidelines.
Private high schools number around 90 in Minnesota, educating approximately 28,000 students. These institutions often have smaller class sizes, with student-teacher ratios averaging 12:1 compared to 16:1 in public schools.
Tuition creates a significant difference between these options. Public schools are tuition-free, while private high schools charge between $8,000 and $24,000 annually depending on location and prestige.
Regional Differences Across Minnesota
Educational opportunities vary considerably across Minnesota’s regions. The Twin Cities metropolitan area contains the highest concentration of top-performing schools, with 18 of the state’s 30 best high schools located in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region.
Northern Minnesota schools often emphasize technical education and natural resource management programs, reflecting the region’s economic needs. These schools typically serve more rural, less densely populated communities.
Southern Minnesota features strong agricultural programs alongside college preparatory curricula. Schools in Rochester benefit from proximity to Mayo Clinic, offering robust STEM and healthcare pathway programs.
The achievement gap remains a challenge across regions. Urban schools show a 29% disparity in graduation rates between white students and students of color, while rural schools face challenges with teacher recruitment and retention.
