Frequently Asked Questions

• How many students attend Minnehaha and what is the class size?
  In the 2012-2013 school year, we have 900 students in grades PK-12.
  
  Minnehaha Academy is committed to class size levels where teachers can teach and learners can learn. There is clear evidence that a teacher’s ability and effectiveness are the most influential determinants of student achievement. To ensure that students make steady academic progress, Minnehaha Academy is committed to hiring high-quality subject-matter experts who provide exemplary instructional programs.
  
  Minnehaha Academy considers student demographic information, grade level, and subject matter when making class size decisions.
  
  Minnehaha Academy uses a formula recommended from the National Association of Independent Schools to show average class size. In PreK-grade 5, the total number of students in each core classroom is divided by the total number of classroom teachers. In grades 6-12, the cumulative total number of students in all sections is divided by the total number of sections. Based on this formula, average class sizes for 2012-2013 are as follows:
  PreK: 11
  K-5: 20
  6-8: 16
  9-12: 18
• What is the admission process?
  The admission process ideally begins in the fall of the academic year prior to desired enrollment. Applications for the first round of admission decisions must be completed by the end of January for the upcoming school year. Applications received after January are evaluated on a rolling basis, with qualified students accepted for enrollment until the grade level is filled. A campus visit and a tour can be scheduled at any time during the admission process. For students applying for Grades 6-12, we require exam results to help us in course placement. Testing is scheduled on several Saturdays during the winter and spring months.
• What is the tuition at Minnehaha Academy?
  The rate varies by preschool program and grade level. See our listing of tuition rates.
• Do you offer financial aid?
  Yes. Demonstrated economic need is the major criterion for receiving financial aid. To apply for financial aid, check the box on the admission application; instructions for applying will be sent to you in early January. Decisions for financial aid are made beginning in early April and continue until all funds are distributed.
• How diverse is the student body?
  Minnehaha Academy desires to reflect the body of Christ. Our school board has set the goal that our student body would statistically match or exceed the racial diversity of the seven county Twin Cities metro area. Students of color make up 21% of our student body. We continue to seek a balanced representation of students from many cultures.
• Are all students Christians?
  No. Students of other religious faiths and backgrounds are welcomed at Minnehaha Academy. All students are taught to model principles of fairness and service to others, in preparation for their full participation in the world.
• Do you have a preschool program?
  Yes. Students must be three or four years old by September 1 for the preschool program. The preschool emphasizes social development and readiness activities both as preparation for kindergarten and as the foundation for future learning.
• Do you have full-day kindergarten?
  Yes. Minnehaha offers kindergarten programs at our South Campus. Kindergarten applicants must be five years old by September 1. Like all Lower School students, our kindergarteners benefit from our Lower School specialists: music, art, foreign language, computers, library science, and physical education.
• Do you provide transportation?
  Minnehaha schedules bus transportation for full-day preschoolers through Grade 12. Bus services for St Paul and the Twin Cities suburbs have five rider fee categories to suit most family situations. Those living in Minneapolis are provided a very reduced transportation rate by Minneapolis Public Schools.
• What extra-curricular activities are available?
  Minnehaha Academy's Fine Arts program has long been recognized as one of the best in the state. We have over 20 performing groups at every age and experience level. Students in Middle School and Upper School can select organized athletics and activities including 25 varsity sports (12 for boys, 13 for girls), drama, band, string groups, and vocal groups.
• Do students wear uniforms?
  No, students do not have uniforms. We do ask that our students are appropriately dressed for a Christian school setting.
• What are the school hours?
  North Campus: 8:35 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.
  South Campus: 8:45 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
• Do you have after school child care?
  Yes. The before and after school child care program in the Lower School is called Fun and Friends. It is available at the South Campus beginning at 7 a.m. and after school until 6 p.m. The program also runs during most of the non-school days. For detailed information about this program, please call 612-728-7745.
  
  In addition, for Middle School students, the Yellow Lounge runs from 3:15-6:00 on school days and all day on release days. Email Vicky Carey for fee and other information.