Saint Paul Public High Schools offer a variety of opportunities to students seeking rigorous, world-class experiences. Students may select courses of rigor whether or not they have been identified as needing Gifted and Talented services. A variety of academic and arts activities and competitions offer students opportunities to excel in their areas of passion.

All high schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) and/or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. University admissions personnel recognize that students who have taken even one Advanced Placement course are better prepared for success in college and other post secondary institutions. Students may select AP courses in a variety of academic areas. High scores on Advanced Placement exams are accepted for college credit by many universities. International Baccalaureate Diploma or Certificate candidates also have the possibility to earn college credit. The IB Diploma Program engages students in internationally high standards in academics, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS (Creativity, Action, and Service); providing a comprehensive, in-depth preparation for university studies in institutions around the world.

College in the Schools, through the University of Minnesota, offers another option for eligible students to earn college credit. Students are taught university courses by high school teachers who have been trained by University of Minnesota professors. Upon successful course completion, students earn U of M credit. College In the Schools is available at most SPPS high schools.

Departments and Small Learning Communities offer honors courses, mentorship opportunities, and other avenues for students to pursue their interests to an expert level.

SPPS students have done well at the state and national levels in debate, Destination Imagination, History Day, National Honor Society, and a host of other math, science, and arts competitions.

For additional information contact:
Linda Sparling
Gifted Services Coach
Center for Academic Excellence
1001 Johnson Parkway
Saint Paul, MN 55106
(651) 793-5568
(651) 793-5507 - Fax
linda.lee.sparling@spps.org