A Minnehaha education is more than a preparation for college. It’s an education for the whole of life. The Upper School years culminate the Academy’s mission of educating the heart and mind. By surrounding our students with a community of faith, we use every aspect of their school experience to strengthen their character. Students gain self-respect and respect for others through a Christian perspective of service leadership. Of equal importance is the Academy’s deep commitment to each student’s academic growth.

Socially, students are expected to make positive contributions to the school community and to assume personal responsibility for their actions. Spiritually, they are challenged to commit and grow in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Intellectually, they are encouraged to ask their own questions, are guided as they search for answers, and are taught to respect their peers’ opportunity to do the same.

Classes are small – average class size is 18 students – fostering meaningful student-teacher interaction that marks the Minnehaha experience. The Upper School curriculum offers Honors and Advanced Placement courses in 26 subjects for capable students desiring the challenge of advanced academic work. In the junior and senior years, students can select from 95 electives.

Certainly, a most joyful part of the Minnehaha experience is the building of life-long friendships through shared experiences – studying together, playing together, hanging together, eating together, and praying together.

Students are challenged to work hard, explore their interests, and participate fully in their high school years. Minnehaha provides a rich variety of opportunities in the performing and visual arts, athletics, and clubs. Over 90% of Upper School students participate in least one extra-curricular activity.

Nancy Johnson, Upper School Principal