Business Details
Your Charter High School in West Saint Paul
Academic Arts High School is a tuition-free charter public school dedicated to serving students in grades 9-12. Our mission focuses on empowering students through project-based learning, environmental education, and a supportive, inclusive community. We prioritize personalized growth plans, smaller class sizes, and hands-on experiential learning to ensure students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our team of experienced educators fosters a safe environment where students explore individual interests while meeting state academic standards. We offer credit recovery options to help students stay on track for graduation and provide Chromebook laptops and WiFi assistance to support equitable access to technology.Mental health resources, including a full-time school social worker, ensure holistic student well-being. Our restorative practices and off-campus lunch options promote student autonomy and responsibility. With a commitment to innovation, we prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success through real-world learning experiences. Our community values diversity, collaboration, and the unique potential of every student.
Services
Project-Based Learning
Environmental Education
Credit Recovery
Restorative Practices
Mental Health Support
Personalized Growth Plans
Chromebook Provision
Experiential Learning
Highlights and features
- Smaller school and class sizes for personalized attention
- Project-based learning empowers student-driven education
- Environmental education integrated into core curriculum
- Credit recovery options help students stay on track for graduation
- Supportive community with full-time mental health resources
What people say
Fantastic teachers
Great environment
Personalized support
Inclusive community
Effective credit recovery
Services
Project-Based Learning
Our curriculum utilizes teacher-designed projects that align with state standards. Students demonstrate mastery through hands-on learning and quarterly exhibitions. This approach develops critical thinking and real-world problem-solving skills while fostering student autonomy and creativity in their educational journey.
Environmental Education
We integrate environmental awareness into core subjects through outdoor experiences and sustainability projects. Students explore ecological concepts through fieldwork and community partnerships. This program cultivates environmental stewardship while meeting academic requirements through practical, place-based learning opportunities.
Credit Recovery
Designed for students needing to complete missed credits, our program offers flexible, targeted support. Qualified students work with teachers to create personalized recovery plans. This initiative helps 11th and 12th graders stay on track for graduation through structured, individualized academic interventions.
Restorative Practices
We prioritize community-building and conflict resolution through restorative circles and peer mediation. This approach addresses behavioral issues through dialogue rather than punishment. Our practices foster accountability, repair relationships, and maintain a positive school climate that supports emotional and social development.
Mental Health Support
A full-time school social worker provides counseling and mental health resources. Our AHA Days promote mindfulness and emotional well-being through structured activities. We implement evidence-based strategies to address stress management and create a supportive environment for students' psychological and emotional needs.
People
Davi Hicks
Administrator
Passionate about learning and education, Davi enjoys ceramics and Sudoku. As administrator, they focus on making a difference in students' lives while fostering a supportive educational environment.
Earnisa Wilkins
Administrative Manager
Specializing in helping others, Earnisa manages administrative operations. She enjoys anime and baking, bringing organizational expertise and a commitment to student support services.
Ryan Bauer
Social Studies Teacher
Connects with students through shared interests in hockey and outdoor activities. Implements project-based learning strategies while emphasizing community connections and personalized academic support.
Bess Nguyen
Science Teacher
Combines passion for environmental education with yoga and swimming. Focuses on differentiated instruction and real-world science applications that engage students through hands-on learning experiences.
Netta Penland
Special Education Coordinator
Dedicated to student future preparation, Netta coordinates special education services. She builds meaningful relationships while implementing personalized growth plans for students with diverse learning needs.
Questions
What is a charter school?
Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that operate independently while meeting state standards. They offer specialized educational approaches like our project-based learning model.
What grades do you serve?
We serve students in grades 9 through 12, providing a comprehensive high school education with personalized support and college/career preparation.
Do you offer special education services?
Yes, we provide special education services through certified staff and individualized education plans tailored to each student's specific needs.
How does credit recovery work?
Our credit recovery program allows qualifying students to complete missed credits through personalized plans developed with teachers and academic advisors.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer athletics, student ambassador programs, mental health initiatives, and community service opportunities that complement our academic programs.
Is transportation provided?
Transportation options are available for eligible students. Please contact our office for specific details about transportation services and eligibility.
Reviews (3)
Greg Prince
Jan 23, 2018
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A very good fit for many students who face challenges in a traditional school environment. The curriculum offers the flexibility and creativity to keep kids engaged and fosters accountability and achievement. The teachers and administration go the extra mile in helping kids achieve where other schools would give up on them. The project based curriculum isn't a good fit for everyone, but works very well for many.
Destani Hemmer
Jun 16, 2017
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I graduated from AAHS in 2014. I attended 2 public high schools and tried online schooling before finding my place at Academic Arts. I was a good student at other schools, but socially felt like an outcast and I was never encouraged to be my best. I was a little fish in a big ocean of creatures with not enough teachers to cater to individuals. However, when I found Academic Arts, I became an incredible student. The school had less than 100 students at my time of attendance. The division of 9th-12th graders was non existent. Every student knew one another and treated each other with respect as equals
Tatyna Hootman
Jan 10, 2017
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Super good school, super great environment! Teachers are absolutely fantastic, and the work is really great.
