2013-2014 School Guide
When it comes to choosing the right school, one size doesn’t fit all.
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Some students thrive in large schools, where they’re able to enjoy a wide variety of class selections, student organizations, and social options. Other students do well in a small school, where they’ll receive more individual attention, lower student-to-teacher ratios, and opportunities to work closely with the same group of classmates. Some schools are liberal; others conservative. Some are more diverse than others. Students and parents should not only consider tuition, but whether or not a school meets their varied interests, values, and goals. We provide a snapshot of some of the best schools around to help you narrow your search.
Calvin Christian School
2013-14 full-time tuition: Ranges from $4,795 to $9,425.
Our school... is dedicated to partnering with parents to provide quality education, fully integrated with a biblical knowledge of God and his world.
Our students... are recognized as uniquely gifted individuals and are provided the tools to become all that God intended each one to be.
Our instructors... are gifted, licensed educators, averaging more than 10 years of experience. They are trained to integrate a biblical perspective in their classrooms.
Unique programs: K-8 Learning Resource Program (addressing learning difficulties); K-5 Challenge Program (providing enrichment opportunities); Spanish beginning in first grade; 9-12 service learning, independent projects, off-campus learning opportunities, individual laptop computers.
One more thing: We invite you to explore the difference a biblically-based education can make for your children. We hold periodic open houses for prospective families, but are happy to schedule a visit that fits into your schedule. Admission to Calvin Christian is on a first-come, first-served basis, so early application is encouraged.
www.calvinchristian.org
Minnehaha Academy
2013-14 full-time tuition: Ranges from $9,400 to $17,050. A robust tuition assistance program is available. We aim to make it possible for all accepted students to attend, with grants totaling more than $1.8 million/year.
Our students... want to lead and follow, listen, learn, collaborate and discuss... worship, serve, and participate.
Our instructors... are highly qualified leaders and Christian role models who strive to offer excellent educational experiences and mentoring.
Unique programs: Minnehaha’s advisory program provides each student with an adult from whom he or she can seek guidance, support, and help in the areas of academics, spiritual growth, and personal issues. Minnehaha also has a one of a kind cultural immersion program for Upper School students, in addition to leadership programs for lower, middle and upper school students.
One more thing: We recognize that students come to us at different places in their faith journeys. Minnehaha challenges students to grow in thoughts, words, and actions guided by Christian values and principles. School life centers on a Christian viewpoint and servant leadership. Through stimulating classroom discussion, required Bible classes, and weekly chapel meetings, faculty and staff model Christian values and encourage students to think personally about faith and belief.
minnehahaacademy.net
Minnetonka Public Schools
2013-14 full-time tuition: Free
Our students: Minnetonka High School ranks among the top high schools in America based on recent lists published by U.S. News and World Report, Newsweek and The Washington Post. State test scores in the elementary level are No. 1 in reading and No. 2 in math in the metro area, our middle school students are performing at record levels of achievement, and our high school students posted some of the highest ACT scores in the state (the class of 2013 posted an impressive 26.3 ACT composite score, the highest score recorded by a Minnetonka High School class). We have a 99-percent graduation rate, with 93 percent of our students attending college.
Unique programs: Spanish and Chinese immersion in grades K-5, Navigators program to better serve gifted students in grades 3-5, and music and theatre performance opportunities for students in fourth and fifth grades.
Beyond our borders: Highly regarded international programs are establishing the Minnetonka School District as a leader in preparing students for life in the 21st century global community by helping them expand their world reach.
www.minnetonka.k12.mn.us
Totino-Grace High School
2013-14 full-time tuition: $13,275
Our school... is an Archdiocesan co-educational Catholic high school in the Lasallian tradition. Welcoming a student body that is academically, economically, and culturally diverse, we strive for equity and excellence in all programs. Recognizing the key elements of our mission as learning, faith, community, and service, we seek to provide a safe environment that places priority on mutual respect, self-discipline, and acknowledgment of our responsibility in the world community.
Our students... are driven, intellectual, diverse, and supportive.
Our instructors... foster critical thinking, support dialogue and discussion, and care for all students. Our faculty go above and beyond both inside and outside the classroom.
Unique programs: Totino-Grace Engineering Institute; Artist-In-Residence, 1:1 Learning Technology Program, Industrial Arts
Note-worthy awards: Our fine art and athletic programs have won numerous state and national awards. Students are continuously recognized for their academic achievement through the National Merit Scholarship Program. Each year, our students dedicate thousands of hours to service in our community and on national and international service trips.
