Cherry Secondary School
General Information
Overview
Cherry Secondary School is a public school located in Iron, Minnesota, serving students in grades 7 through 12. As part of the Cherry School District (ISD 2142), it provides both middle school and high school education within a tight-knit rural community. The school’s mission emphasizes academic achievement, social development, and community engagement—striving to prepare its students for life beyond graduation with a strong foundation in both core academics and personal responsibility. With a relatively small student population, Cherry Secondary fosters close relationships among students and teachers, allowing more personalized instruction, mentoring, and support.
Academically, Cherry Secondary offers a balanced curriculum that includes college-preparatory classes, vocational pathways, and opportunities for dual-credit or concurrent enrollment. Extracurricular programs such as athletics, clubs, and community service help students develop leadership skills, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. The school also prioritizes post-secondary planning, working closely with students through counseling and guidance services to map out college or career paths. In its rural setting, Cherry Secondary plays a central role in the community—not just as a place of learning but as a hub for youth activity, family involvement, and long-term investment in the region’s future.
Contact Information
Address: 3943 Tamminen Road, Iron, MN 55751
Phone: (218) 258‑8991
Fax: (218) 258‑8993
Counselor / Post‑Secondary Planning Contact: John Zupetz, School Counselor, (218) 258‑8991 (ext. 2306)
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Public middle / high school |
| Grades Served | 7–12 |
| District | ISD 2142 (Cherry School) |
| Enrollment | Approximately 273 students |
| Student‑Teacher Ratio | Approximately 14:1 |
| Location | Rural / distant community in Iron, Minnesota |
| Graduation Rate | About 90% |
Cherry Secondary School Rankings
| Ranking Scope | Rank / Status |
|---|---|
| State (Minnesota) | Receives a B‑ academic grade in state evaluation |
| National | Not widely ranked; primarily evaluated within state-level public school metrics |
Cherry Secondary School Academics
Cherry Secondary School Faculties / Departments
- English / Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physical Science)
- Social Studies / History
- Career & Technical Education (CTE) / Vocational Studies
- Physical Education and Wellness
- Academic Support / Intervention
- Counseling / College and Career Guidance
Cherry Secondary School Courses and Programs
Cherry Secondary offers a curriculum designed to meet diverse student needs and post‑secondary goals, including:
- Core academic courses in English, math, science, and social studies for grades 7–12
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs allowing students to explore vocational pathways
- Dual‑credit or concurrent enrollment options for juniors and seniors to earn college credit while still in high school
- AP-style or college-prep courses, though AP offerings may be limited given school size
- Guidance and counseling coursework to support post-secondary readiness and personal development
Online Learning
While Cherry Secondary primarily operates as a traditional in-person school, students may have limited access to online or blended learning options via the district’s course offerings or via concurrent enrollment arrangements with partner colleges. There is also directed support for academic planning and post-secondary pathways through school counseling services.
Average Test Scores
| Assessment | Average / Reported Data |
|---|---|
| ACT | Average score 21 |
| State Proficiency – Reading | Around 37% of students proficient |
| State Proficiency – Math | Around 27% of students proficient |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Cherry Secondary reports a graduation rate of approximately 90%. Given its rural, smaller-scale environment, the school retains a substantial portion of its students from middle school through high school, supported by its academic programs, counseling resources, and community focus.
Cherry Secondary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a public school, Cherry Secondary does not require a minimum GPA or standardized test scores for admission. Students enroll based on district zoning rather than selective admission, and test scores such as the ACT are used more for college readiness than for school entry.
Cherry Secondary School Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value / Note |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Not applicable in a traditional sense—public school enrollment is based on residency within the district, not competitive admission |
Cherry Secondary School Application Requirements
To attend Cherry Secondary, students generally must reside within the Cherry School District (ISD 2142). Families must complete district enrollment paperwork, provide proof of residency, and supply necessary documentation such as immunization records and prior school transcripts. For students entering upper grades, counseling staff assist with course selection and post-secondary planning.
Application Process
- Families contact the main school office to begin enrollment.
- Complete registration forms, including student registration and residency verification.
- Submit required documents: birth certificate, immunization, previous school records if transferring.
- Meet with school counselor or administrator to discuss course options and grade placement.
- Confirm enrollment and scheduling for the upcoming school year.
Cherry Secondary School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Item | Timing / Note |
|---|---|
| Enrollment / Open Registration | Occurs during the district’s annual registration window; families should check with ISD 2142 for dates |
| Orientation for New Students | Typically held before the start of the school year, coordinated by the counseling office |
Essay Prompt
Cherry Secondary School does not require an admission essay. Admission is based on standard public school procedures, not on competitive or evaluative writing.
Cherry Secondary School Scholarships
As a public school, Cherry Secondary does not offer scholarships. Financial support for its students comes through public funding and district resources. For post-secondary planning, students may explore college scholarships via counseling and career guidance.
Cherry Secondary School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program / Grade | Cost to Students |
|---|---|
| Grades 7–12 | Tuition-free for residents of ISD 2142, as it is a public school |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Cherry Secondary serves approximately 273 students in grades 7–12. About 39% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, indicating that a segment of the student population comes from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Specific breakdowns of race or ethnicity beyond economic diversity are limited in public data, but the student body shows moderate diversity in comparison to rural schools in the region.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A significant portion of Cherry Secondary’s student population is economically disadvantaged, as approximately 39% receive free or reduced meals. The school provides special education services and accommodations according to state and federal laws. Support structures are in place to ensure students with disabilities receive appropriate academic assistance.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Total Students (7–12) | ~ 273 |
| Student‑Teacher Ratio | ~ 14:1 |
School Diversity
Cherry Secondary School demonstrates a moderate level of socioeconomic and racial diversity. Its rural setting contributes to the demographic makeup, but the school strives to be inclusive and supportive of students from different backgrounds. Students engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, from athletics to clubs, which help bridge social and cultural differences. The counseling team and teaching staff emphasize community, respect, and engagement, fostering a sense of belonging and preparation for life beyond school. Interaction across grades and backgrounds enhances the overall learning environment and promotes empathy and collaboration among students.
Average Earnings
As a secondary school, Cherry Secondary does not report average earnings for alumni. Success is measured through post-secondary enrollment rates, college readiness, and long-term career preparation. Many students pursue higher education or vocational training, and the guidance offered through counseling programs equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about career paths and earning potential.
Cherry Secondary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Cherry Secondary School employs a dedicated faculty to support its student body. With a student-teacher ratio of about 14:1, teachers provide individual attention, mentoring, and academic support. The staff includes classroom teachers, counselors, academic support personnel, and extracurricular coaches who collaborate to create a balanced education that addresses both academic and personal growth.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty members are skilled in delivering a range of subjects, from core curriculum in math and English to career and technical education courses. Counselors play a key role in post-secondary planning, helping students navigate dual-enrollment, college applications, and career pathways. Teachers are experienced in rural education and are adept at building strong relationships with students over multiple grade levels, fostering trust and continuity in the school community.
Cherry Secondary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Cherry Secondary operates as a day school with no residential housing. The campus serves both middle and high school students, offering academic clubs, sports teams, student leadership, and community service opportunities. The school emphasizes extracurricular participation to help students develop their talents, engage with peers, and contribute to the wider community. The supportive environment enables students to grow academically, socially, and personally.
Transportation
Students commute via school district transportation, primarily school buses coordinated by ISD 2142. The rural location requires an organized transport system to ensure all students can access the campus safely and efficiently. On-campus mobility is well-structured, with clear pathways and schedules that facilitate smooth transitions between classrooms, common areas, and athletic facilities.