Alternative Schools and Specialized Programs

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.  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 (*). 

Specialized Programming is designed to meet specific community placement needs or the requirements of a student's individual education plan (IEP). To receive special education services, a student must first be evaluated and meet state criteria. Once qualified, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) is developed for the student. Programs and services are provided to students and their families beginning at birth through age 21 or completion of a secondary education program. Special education is also available for students who live in Minneapolis that attend nonpublic schools.