Minneapolis Public Schools provides a variety of educational programs designed to meet the needs of diverse learners. Alternative Schools provide families with the opportunity to choose the learning environment that meets the specific needs of their students. Specialized Programming is designed to meet specific community placement needs or the requirements of a student's individual education plan (IEP).
Alternative schools are choice-based programs whose mission is to serve those students who've not found success in the traditional school model. These programs may include contract alternative programs which are run by community agencies who hire staff and provide the facility. Students attending Contract Alternative schools continue to be Minneapolis Public Schools students during their enrollment. Contract alternative schools are denoted with an asterisk (*).
Longfellow Alternative High School provides teenage girls who are pregnant or are already parenting with the special attention and resources needed to ensure students will graduate and be able to provide for their child. 3017 East 31st St. Minneapolis, MN 55406 612.668.4700
Loring Nicollet provides a safe environment for a diverse student population including GLBTQ students. Diversity, Equity, and Health & wellness is highly valued and is addressed throughout the curriculum.
1925 Nicollet Avenue S. Minneapolis, MN 55403 612.872.3626
2421 Bloomington Ave. South Minneapolis, MN, 55404 612.721.1655
Nawayee is an Ojibwe word that means “the center” and at NaWayEe Center School we work with students to find their center and find our collective center in the Indian community. Nawayee is open to students in grades 7-12, ages 12-19.
MERC is a structured school with an emphasis on respect, accountability and responsibility. MERC works closely with students to help change past behaviors which might have resulted in their getting behind in credits. MERC is a safe environment with small class size, a committed staff and a determination to help students make plans and set goals for their future.
800 West Broadway Minneapolis, MN 55411 612.668.1450
PYC Arts and Technology High School is a contract alternative school with the Minneapolis Public Schools, serving up to185 students in North Minneapolis. PYC offers a wealth of ways for students to earn credit toward graduation including online opportunities, seat-based plans and other creative options.
2210 Oliver Ave N. Minneapolis, MN 55411 612.522.6501
Takoda Prep focuses on helping all students make advancements in reading, writing, and mathematics while maintaining a strong connection to American Indian culture.
1845 East Franklin Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55404 612.341.3358
VOA High School (VOAHS) is a state-approved, contract alternative program serving Minneapolis Public School (MPS) students. This program allows for credit make-up and student success by offering flexible scheduling, small class sizes, extra credit earning opportunities, an on-site independent study program and substantial student support.
924 19th Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55404 612.375.0700