Academics
Minnesota North Star Academy is the first charter high school in Minnesota to provide a bilingual and interdisciplinary curriculum for deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing students who communicate and learn using American Sign Language (ASL) and English.
BACKGROUND: North Star is part of a network of excellent small charter high schools that improves graduation rates, academic achievement and enthusiasm for learning. With seed funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, each star school has developed a unique mission and vision that addresses the needs of previously under-served populations of students.
IMPROVED ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT: The bilingual curriculum includes instruction in ASL and English, leading to higher literacy skills. In addition, this instruction in ASL and English incorporates identity and culture that enhances youth self-esteem. Read more about our bilingualism »
ELEVATED STANDARDS: North Star is a public charter high school where students meet or exceed state standards as detailed by the Minnesota Department of Education . In addition to state and federally mandated testing, students at North Star Academy are assessed through a variety of alternative assessments, including portfolios, demonstrations, observations and performance. Read more about how we measure progress »
TEEN FRIENDLY: Students attend 175 school days on a schedule that meets the needs of teens and families. While the doors open at 8:30 am, the school day starts at 9:00 am and ends at 3:30 pm. Students live at home and commute to school like any other student. Students are provided access to state-of-the-art technology to facilitate learning. Learn more about student life at North Star »
FACULTY: The faculty, chosen from a local and national pool of exceptional educators, incorporates a bilingual and interdisciplinary curriculum that meets individual student needs. They apply bilingual techniques in daily lessons. The teachers are licensed by the state of Minnesota and have ASL and English fluency skills. Get to know our faculty »
PARENTS: At North Star, student and parent ideas are more than welcome. They are encouraged to be involved in aspects of the development of the school, and North Star invites parents to share their expertise and skills with the school. Read about our vision and values »
COMMUNITY PARTNERS: North Star partners with many local organizations including the University of Minnesota, Volunteers of America and several Deaf-run businesses, including CSD of Minnesota and The Tactile Mind Press. Read more about our Community Partners »