St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School
General Information
About (Overview)
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School is the high school division (grades 9–12) of the K-12 St. Croix Preparatory Academy, a public charter school located in Stillwater, Minnesota. It emphasizes rigorous academics, leadership development, and classical education through a curriculum inspired by the Trivium methodology. The Upper School strives to prepare students for postsecondary success by offering challenging coursework, character education, and close faculty-student engagement. With a relatively small enrollment, the school fosters a tight-knit community where students receive personalized support and opportunities to engage deeply with their studies and extracurricular interests. The design emphasizes both academic excellence and the development of leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills, aiming to produce graduates who are well prepared not just for college, but for thoughtful, engaged civic life.
Contact Informations
Address: 4260 Stagecoach Trail North, Stillwater, MN 55082
Phone Number: (651) 395-5970
Email Address: The publicly listed contact is generally via the school’s official portal or office; specific departmental email addresses are managed by the school administration.
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | As part of St. Croix Preparatory Academy, charter start date; upper school division created later |
| Type | Public charter high school (grades 9-12) |
| Motto / Mission | Emphasis on academic rigor, character, leadership, classical education |
| School District / Charter | St. Croix Preparatory Academy charter network |
| Grades | 9, 10, 11, 12 |
| Student–Teacher Ratio | Approximately 12.4 : 1 (FTE teachers ~30.22 with 375 students) |
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position / Metric |
|---|---|
| Best Charter High Schools in Minnesota | #4 (of 59) |
| Best Public High Schools in Minnesota | #11 (of approximately 453) |
| College Prep Public High Schools in Minnesota | #15 (of approximately 356) |
| Overall Niche Grade | “A” |
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Academics
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Faculties / Departments
- English / Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Social Studies / History / Government
- Classical Languages / Latin / Humanities
- Fine Arts / Music / Visual Arts
- Physical Education / Health
- Electives / Career & Technical Education
- Writing / Rhetoric / Composition
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses in multiple subjects
- Classical education and Trivium-based coursework (logic, rhetoric)
- Honors-level courses in core subjects
- Electives in art, music, and technology
- Capstone or senior projects emphasizing research and community leadership
- Dual enrollment or college-credit opportunities through partner programs
Online Learning
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School may offer a limited number of online or hybrid learning options for specialized subjects. These include virtual Advanced Placement courses or independent study modules that expand beyond the in-person curriculum. Online learning allows students to pursue courses not available on-site, offering flexibility and enrichment while maintaining the school’s classical education philosophy. Technology integration is encouraged to support student learning while ensuring academic rigor consistent with the school’s mission.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Reported Average / Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SAT | Approximately 1340 (combined) | Based on available student reporting data |
| ACT | Approximately 29 (composite) | Based on student self-reports and survey data |
Retention and Graduation Rates
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School maintains a strong graduation rate of around 95 percent. Its retention rate is consistently high due to its K–12 structure, where students often continue from lower grades through to graduation. The school’s personalized academic advising, small class sizes, and commitment to character and leadership development contribute to this excellent outcome. Students are supported through a rigorous curriculum, mentorship, and a learning environment that promotes responsibility and success in both academic and personal growth.
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
While specific GPA requirements are not published, students entering the Upper School generally maintain above-average academic performance. The typical admitted student’s standardized testing profile includes an ACT composite score near 29 and an SAT score around 1340, reflecting a strong academic cohort.
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Estimated Acceptance Rate | Admission via lottery-based process due to limited capacity |
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Application Requirements
Admission to St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School requires the completion of a charter school enrollment application, which may involve a lottery if demand exceeds available spaces. Applicants may need to submit previous school records and standardized test results. Families are encouraged to attend information sessions to understand the school’s classical curriculum, behavioral expectations, and mission. The school seeks students and families aligned with its educational philosophy of leadership, character, and academic rigor. As a tuition-free public charter school, it provides access to quality education regardless of financial background.
Application Process
- Complete the charter school enrollment application.
- Submit previous academic records and any required forms.
- Attend an informational session if offered.
- Participate in placement assessments (if applicable).
- Await results of the lottery or selection process.
- Confirm enrollment and attend orientation.
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date / Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lottery Application Deadline | Early spring for fall entry | Subject to change annually |
| Lottery Results Notification | Following application deadline | Applicants are notified via email or mail |
| Enrollment Confirmation | Within designated registration window | Required to secure placement |
| Orientation / Course Selection | Summer prior to start of school year | Mandatory for new students |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
“Why do you want to attend St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School, and how will its classical approach help you grow academically and personally?” This optional prompt encourages applicants to reflect on how the school’s values align with their personal goals.
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Scholarships
As a public charter institution, the school does not charge tuition, and therefore, scholarships are not necessary for attendance. However, the school supports equitable access by offering need-based assistance for activity fees, field trips, and extracurricular programs. Community donations and local grants may provide funding for enrichment opportunities or student recognition awards.
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Amount / Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | None | Public charter school; tuition-free for residents |
| Fees | Minimal | Activity, materials, or elective course fees may apply |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
- Gender Split: Approximately 174 male, 201 female
- Race / Ethnicity Breakdown: Asian: 40; Black: 12; Hispanic: 19; White: 285; Two or More Races: 19
- Age Range: 14–18 years, corresponding to grades 9–12
- Grade Distribution: 9th – 102 students; 10th – 95; 11th – 89; 12th – 89
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 11 percent of students at the Upper School qualify for free or reduced-price lunch programs, indicating the presence of low-income students. The school provides individualized education plans and inclusive classroom settings for students with disabilities, ensuring accessibility to academic and extracurricular opportunities. Staff members collaborate with parents and specialists to provide tailored support that promotes student success within the classical education framework.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 375 (Grades 9–12) |
| International Students | Minimal or none reported |
| Students per Grade | 9: 102, 10: 95, 11: 89, 12: 89 |
University Diversity
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School fosters a moderately diverse learning environment. While the majority of students identify as White, representation among Asian, Hispanic, Black, and multiracial students contributes to a more inclusive campus culture. The school values equity, respect, and character development, providing spaces for dialogue and collaboration among students from different backgrounds. Diversity initiatives within clubs, student leadership programs, and classroom discussions encourage understanding and civic engagement. This balanced cultural mix supports a respectful and enriching educational environment aligned with the school’s mission to develop students as thoughtful citizens and future leaders.
Average Earnings
As a secondary school, St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School does not track alumni earnings directly. However, graduates typically continue on to four-year colleges and universities, where their academic foundation leads to successful career paths. With strong emphasis on college readiness, AP coursework, and leadership skills, graduates often pursue degrees in business, engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts—fields associated with above-average income potential. The school’s comprehensive education model builds a foundation for lifelong achievement and responsible citizenship.
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School employs approximately 30 full-time equivalent teachers, with a student-teacher ratio of around 12:1. Faculty members are dedicated professionals specializing in a variety of disciplines, including mathematics, science, literature, history, and the arts. The school also employs counselors, administrative staff, and academic advisors who collaborate to support each student’s educational and personal development. The small faculty size allows for strong mentorship relationships and personalized academic guidance.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty members at St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School are selected for their subject expertise and alignment with the school’s classical education philosophy. Many hold advanced degrees and bring years of teaching experience in both public and private educational settings. Teachers often participate in professional development programs focused on leadership, character education, and student-centered learning. Their achievements include guiding students to success in Advanced Placement exams, leading extracurricular clubs, and mentoring students in community service initiatives. Faculty collaboration and dedication are central to maintaining the school’s tradition of excellence.
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
As a public charter day school, St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper School does not provide residential housing. Students commute daily from surrounding communities. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, a library, athletic fields, and fine arts spaces that support a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities. Campus life is enhanced through student government, performing arts, athletics, and community service clubs. Students are encouraged to develop leadership skills, teamwork, and character through participation in these activities, which are designed to complement the school’s classical academic foundation.
Transportation
Transportation options include district school buses, carpooling, and private transportation. Many families coordinate shared rides due to the school’s suburban location. The campus is easily accessible via major roadways in Stillwater, and parking facilities are available for students and staff. Within the campus, walkways and bicycle paths ensure safe movement between classrooms, athletic fields, and recreational areas. The school’s size and layout promote easy mobility and encourage an active, community-oriented environment for all students.