Hello friends welcome to the Tigerjek, in this post we are going to discuss the best schools in Minneapolis Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for any family. Minneapolis, known for its vibrant community and strong focus on education, offers a wide range of excellent schools that cater to diverse learning needs. From top-ranked public schools to prestigious private institutions, the city provides families with opportunities to find the perfect academic environment for their children. In this guide, we highlight the best schools in Minneapolis, recognized for their academic excellence, dedicated teachers, innovative programs, and supportive learning environments that help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Table of Contents
Minnehaha Academy – Elementary and Middle School
At the heart of Minnehaha Academy is a clear mission: to provide high-quality education that integrates Christian faith and learning. The school is dedicated to helping students grow not only in knowledge but also in wisdom, character, and their relationship with God and others.
Minnehaha Academy’s approach is built on four core values that shape daily life on campus—Distinctively Christian, Exceptional Academics, Cultivating Potential, and Caring Community. These values guide teachers, staff, students, and families, creating an environment where faith, curiosity, and compassion come together.
- Distinctively Christian: The school encourages students to follow Jesus Christ and see themselves as individuals created in God’s image, each with unique gifts and talents.
- Exceptional Academics: With a strong commitment to truth and excellence, Minnehaha provides an education that nurtures both intellect and character, preparing students to think critically and serve others.
- Cultivating Potential: Every child is encouraged to discover and develop their abilities across academics, arts, athletics, and leadership. A rigorous liberal arts foundation, paired with hands-on experiences, helps students grow in all aspects of life.
- Caring Community: Minnehaha emphasizes authentic relationships and a welcoming environment. The school values diversity and unity, working in partnership with parents and fostering a culture of love, friendship, and service.
These principles aren’t just words on paper—they come alive every day in classrooms, playgrounds, athletic fields, and beyond. Teachers and staff model these values, inspiring students to grow in faith, learning, and character.
With campuses along the West River Parkway in Minneapolis, Minnehaha Academy serves students from preschool through high school, providing a Christ-centered education that prepares them to impact the world with wisdom and grace.
River Tree School
RiverTree School was founded with a simple but profound conviction—that every child is a person, created in the image of God, and therefore deserving of an education that respects their dignity, awakens their curiosity, and enriches both mind and soul.
This vision was born when Rodney and Marybeth Nelson encountered the writings of Charlotte Mason, a 19th-century British educator whose philosophy transformed their view of learning. After reading For the Children’s Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay, the Nelsons experienced a defining moment: they had finally found an educational approach that aligned with their deepest hopes for their children. Their passion led them first to homeschool, and eventually to establish RiverTree School, so that other families could share in the same experience.
In 2008, RiverTree joined Ambleside Schools International, a network of schools dedicated to advancing Mason’s timeless methods. Since then, the school has been committed to cultivating an environment where students don’t just acquire knowledge but form real relationships—with God, with others, with ideas, and with the world around them.
At RiverTree, children are not seen as incomplete learners, but as whole persons with tremendous God-given potential. Students are invited into a broad and rigorous curriculum where they calculate, explore, recite, sing, and create. They are challenged to pursue excellence, not through competition or rewards, but through the joy of discovery and the satisfaction of growth.
The school’s atmosphere is deliberately different from a typical classroom. Lessons are designed to spark wonder and engagement, and the physical environment feels more like a home than an institution. Teachers act not as distant authorities but as mentors, walking alongside students in their journey of faith and learning. At the heart of it all is Christ, whose love and authority shape the rhythms of daily life at RiverTree—from morning assemblies to weekly chapels.
The Charlotte Mason principles of atmosphere, discipline, and life are woven throughout every aspect of the school. Students are encouraged to develop good habits, especially the discipline of attention, which allows them to truly absorb and reflect on what they learn. They encounter what Mason called “living ideas”—rich, meaningful works of literature, art, music, history, and science that stir imagination and inspire lifelong learning.
For RiverTree, education is not about rushing children through a system or preparing them for the next test. It is about preparing them for life. It is about cultivating wisdom, character, and joy in learning, so that each child grows into the fullness of who God created them to be.
Prodeo Academy – Columbia Heights
Prodeo Academy is a college preparatory school dedicated to shaping students into critical thinkers and reflective leaders. With a strong focus on character, the school works to expand opportunities for students so they can make a positive and lasting impact on their communities and society at large.
The vision of Prodeo Academy is bold and forward-looking: to build an innovative network of schools recognized nationwide for excellence in student achievement and character development. By fostering outstanding educators, closing the opportunity gap, and strengthening communities, Prodeo aims to set a national standard in education.
At the heart of the school are its core values, captured in the acronym P.R.I.D.E.—Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Development, and Engagement. These values guide every interaction and decision, shaping both the academic and personal growth of students.
The name Prodeo, derived from Latin, means “to advance” or “go forward.” True to that meaning, the school believes in nurturing the whole person. Prodeo not only prepares students for academic success but also equips them for their personal and professional journeys beyond the classroom.
As an inclusive community, Prodeo Academy emphasizes respect, collaboration, and empathy. Students and staff alike are encouraged to affirm and learn from the diverse identities, experiences, and beliefs represented in their school community. In doing so, Prodeo advances its commitment to knowledge, justice, and preparing the next generation of leaders.
Edina Public Schools
Edina Public Schools (EPS) is a nationally recognized suburban district that serves approximately 8,500 students in Edina, Minnesota. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation, the district has built a strong reputation as one of the top public school systems in the country.
The district includes six elementary schools (K–5), two middle schools (6–8), and one high school (9–12), along with the award-winning Early Learning Center, which supports children from birth to age five and their families. EPS also offers Community Education programs that provide learning opportunities for all ages, from early childhood to lifelong learners well into their 80s.
Guided by its mission, “to deliver educational excellence and prepare all students to realize their full potential,” Edina Public Schools creates a dynamic learning environment where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking are encouraged. The district’s vision is clear: for each and every student to discover their possibilities and thrive.
In 2020, EPS adopted a seven-year Strategic Plan focused on five key priorities: academic achievement, equitable and inclusive school culture, positive learning environments with whole-student support, leadership development, and strong partnerships with families and the community. This plan reflects the district’s belief in continuous improvement—ensuring that as the world changes, its students are prepared to succeed in it.
Edina Public Schools is proud of its long-standing tradition of excellence. Students consistently excel not only in academics, but also in athletics, arts, and extracurricular activities. Behind this success is a dedicated team of educators and staff who are deeply committed to helping every student reach their full potential.
With a philosophy rooted in consistency, quality, and innovation, Edina Public Schools continues to define what excellence in public education looks like, both in Minnesota and nationwide.
South High School
South High School, located in Minneapolis, is known for its strong academics, vibrant arts programs, and inclusive community. The school offers a wide range of opportunities for students, from advanced studies in engineering, world languages, and visual arts, to dynamic theater and music productions that showcase student creativity and talent.
Diversity is one of South’s greatest strengths, and the school is proud to embrace students from all backgrounds. With a focus on respect, awareness, and community, South High School is committed to preparing students for success as lifelong learners.
The school partners with local colleges and universities—including Augsburg, Minneapolis College, the University of Minnesota, and St. Paul Technical College—to offer dual-credit opportunities through Advanced Placement (AP), College in the Schools (CIS), and Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO). Students also benefit from strong support systems such as English language learning programs, bilingual aides in Somali and Spanish, and a range of special education services, including programs for students with autism and life skills development.
Beyond academics, South High provides specialized initiatives like AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) to strengthen study skills, and TAPPP (Teenage Pregnant and Parenting Program) to support young families. Together, these programs reflect the school’s commitment to meeting students where they are and equipping them for the future.
With its combination of rigorous academics, inclusive culture, and supportive community, South High School truly lives up to its motto: “South, The Place to Be.”
Richfield STEM Elementary
Richfield STEM Elementary, often called R-STEM, is a Pre-K through 5th grade magnet school within Richfield Public Schools that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math. The school welcomes families from across the district and is widely recognized for its innovative, hands-on approach to learning.
At the core of the R-STEM experience are immersive projects designed to spark curiosity and critical thinking. Students might explore ancient ruins through virtual reality, design engineering solutions in the lab, or dive into interactive activities that connect classroom learning to the real world. Partnerships with institutions like the Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota further enrich these experiences, giving students access to cutting-edge science and meaningful applications.
One of the school’s most unique features is the W.O.W. Room (Wonder, Observe, Work), a space where students are encouraged to ask big questions, explore ideas, and develop the habits of authentic scientific inquiry. Teachers at R-STEM place a strong emphasis on individualized learning, providing support through gifted and talented programs, academic interventions, and a balance of digital and traditional resources. Year-round learning opportunities, including summer programs, ensure that growth continues beyond the school year.
Beyond academics, R-STEM is deeply committed to supporting the whole child. Family outreach workers, counselors, social workers, and engagement specialists work alongside teachers to meet students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. The school also celebrates its remarkable diversity, with a student body that reflects a wide range of racial, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds. This diversity is seen as a strength, enriching the classroom experience and fostering an inclusive learning community.
Guided by a philosophy of partnership and inclusion, Richfield STEM Elementary equips students not only with academic skills but also with the creativity, confidence, and curiosity they need to thrive as lifelong learners.
Pillsbury Elementary School
Nestled in the Windom Park neighborhood of Northeast Minneapolis, Pillsbury Community School is a vibrant Pre-K through 5th grade school that serves a wonderfully diverse community of learners. Guided by its core values—Perseverance, Responsibility, Integrity, Discovery, and Empowerment—Pillsbury provides a safe, nurturing, and challenging environment where every student is encouraged to thrive.
The school’s mission is simple yet powerful: to educate, motivate, and create opportunities for children to build practical skills, gain real-world knowledge, and grow into lifelong learners and respectful global citizens. Teachers and staff foster creativity, imagination, and problem-solving while ensuring students are well-prepared in reading, math, and other foundational subjects.
Pillsbury offers a wide range of programs that enrich both academics and student life. From citywide Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) services and special education programming to unique experiences like Pedal Power, Minne-Loppet, Disney Musicals in the Schools, and telescope-based math projects, students are continually engaged in learning that is both rigorous and exciting. Specialized music opportunities, student council, and after-school STEM programs (GISE/GEMS) further round out the school experience, ensuring that every child has a chance to explore their passions and leadership potential.
With dedicated educators and a strong sense of community, Pillsbury Community School empowers students to discover who they are, develop the confidence to take on challenges, and embrace their future with curiosity and resilience.
Scenic Heights Elementary School
Scenic Heights Elementary School, part of the Minnetonka School District, is uniquely located on the banks of Purgatory Creek Preserve in Minnetonka, Minnesota. This beautiful natural setting provides students with more than just a backdrop—it becomes an extension of the classroom. From outdoor environmental learning and physical education to the joy of winter recess on the school’s well-known sledding hill, Scenic Heights embraces its surroundings to enrich student life.
The school is recognized for its student-centered curriculum and strong academic performance in reading, math, and writing. A special focus is placed on developing confident, creative writers, celebrated through The Navigator, the school’s student publication. Hands-on instruction in science, health, and social studies ensures that learning is active and engaging, while weekly classes in art, music, media, and physical education allow students to explore their creativity. Young musicians begin orchestra in fourth grade and band in fifth, further enriching the school’s strong arts program.
Scenic Heights also leads in instructional technology. Classrooms are equipped with computers, interactive whiteboards, and a student-run news studio, KRTS, where fifth graders broadcast morning announcements across the school. With strong support from media specialists, students develop early skills in information literacy and communication.
Beyond academics, the school places a strong emphasis on social and emotional development. Programs like Kids Count, peer mediation, and service learning teach students responsibility, empathy, and problem-solving. Scenic Heights is proud to be designated as an International Peace Site, with its annual celebration held in the school’s Peace Garden—underscoring a culture of respect and global citizenship.
Parent involvement is another cornerstone of the school’s success. Through an active PTA, families play a vital role in goal setting, volunteering, and creating a supportive learning community. Together, teachers, families, and students ensure that Scenic Heights remains a place where every child feels valued and inspired.
Serving families from Minnetonka and Eden Prairie, Scenic Heights is more than a school—it’s a community. Set within family-friendly neighborhoods, surrounded by lakes, trails, and parks, the school reflects the values of the area: education, family, and connection. With a tradition of excellence and a commitment to innovation, Scenic Heights Elementary School stands out as a place where children truly thrive.
Emerson Dual Language School
Emerson Dual Language School is committed to providing a high-quality, anti-racist, and culturally responsive education for every student. With a mission centered on equity and academic excellence, Emerson’s unique Dual Language program gives students the opportunity to learn in both Spanish and English—starting with 90% instruction in Spanish and gradually moving to a 50/50 model by fifth grade. This bilingual approach strengthens literacy, builds cross-cultural understanding, and prepares students to thrive in an increasingly global society.
For the 2024–2025 school year, Emerson’s School Improvement Plan focuses on four key goal areas: Academic Achievement, Student Well-being, Effective Staff, and School & District Climate.
- Academic Achievement: Teachers will implement district-provided math and literacy curriculum with fidelity while incorporating biliteracy strategies such as bridging, Diario Duo, and cross-linguistic connections. These approaches help students transfer skills across languages and deepen their learning.
- Student Well-being: Emerson will strengthen social-emotional support by using responsive classroom practices, community norms, positive recognition systems, and morning meetings. The goal is to increase the number of students in grades K–5 who feel safe and welcomed in their classrooms by at least 10% from fall to spring.
- Effective Staff: Grade-level professional learning communities (PLCs) will create academic goal cycles and receive dedicated time for collaboration. Teachers will also share and lead professional development on effective biliteracy practices, ensuring that strategies are consistent and impactful across classrooms.
- School & District Climate: Emerson is committed to strengthening family and community partnerships. The school will provide opportunities for families—especially African-American, Latino, Native American, Asian, and other minority groups—to engage and lead within the school community. Attendance at family events is expected to increase by 50%, supported by more inclusive communication practices and intentional spaces for BIPOC families to connect with administrators.
Through these efforts, Emerson continues to build a safe, inclusive, and thriving school environment where every child is seen, supported, and celebrated. The plan reflects the school’s deep belief that academic excellence and cultural responsiveness go hand in hand, preparing students to be confident, compassionate, and bilingual leaders in the future.
St Paul Public Schools
Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) stands as Minnesota’s second-largest school district, serving more than 33,000 students across 69 schools. Known for its diversity, SPPS students represent over 115 languages and cultural backgrounds, creating a learning environment rich in perspectives and experiences. Nearly 77% of the student body are students of color, making it one of the most diverse districts in the state.
The district’s mission is straightforward yet powerful: to inspire students to think critically, pursue their dreams, and change the world. To achieve this, SPPS offers high-quality academic programs, dedicated staff, and strong community partnerships. Families can choose from neighborhood community schools that provide a close-knit, supportive environment or explore magnet programs specializing in areas such as STEM, International Baccalaureate, language immersion (Spanish, French, Hmong, and Mandarin), arts, and aerospace.
SPPS continues to make strides in student success. Graduation rates have been steadily rising, reaching 76.5% in 2024, with significant progress across student groups. In addition, students have access to dual credit courses, career and technical education, and rigorous pathways that prepare them for college and future careers.
From full-day Pre-K programs that focus on foundational skills and social-emotional learning to innovative high school opportunities, SPPS ensures that every student is supported from the very beginning of their education journey. The district remains committed to providing a welcoming, culturally responsive, and equitable learning environment where every student can thrive.