Moorhead Area Public Schools have a reputation for excellence. The high expectations of parents, the dedication of the teachers and staff, the visionary leadership, and the influence of three four-year colleges in the area have made the schools among the best in Minnesota, a state with a highly regarded educational system.
The district is best known for three things: the superior academic achievement of its students, its far-reaching extracurricular activities, and its efficiency in operating costs.
The mission of Moorhead Area Public Schools is to develop the maximum potential of every learner to thrive in a changing world. Each day approximately 6,400 students learn and thrive in the classrooms, hallways and playgrounds of Moorhead Area Public Schools.
Dorothy Dodds Elementary School, Ellen Hopkins Elementary School, Robert Asp Elementary School and S.G. Reinertsen Elementary School serve students in grades K-4, Horizon Middle School West Campus serves grades 5-6, Horizon Middle School East Campus serves grades 7-8, and Moorhead High School serves grades 9-12. The Red River Area Learning Center offers an alternative school setting and independent study options for middle school and high school learners.
Besides addressing the needs of K-12 students, the district also provides educational, social and recreational opportunities for learners of all ages.
Learning in Moorhead begins at birth with a wide range of popular Early Childhood Family Education classes for parents and children, birth though age five. Early Intervention Services provides special education services to children, birth through age five, in the district.
Each year, Community Education, a program of Moorhead Area Public Schools, offers approximately 900 enrichment courses to thousands of area residents. GED preparation and instruction in basic skills are offered through Adult Basic Education.
Moorhead Area Public Schools, which covers 216 square miles along the Red River, is 34 miles long and 9.5 miles wide. The district includes the cities of Moorhead, Georgetown and Sabin. The district's budget exceeds $50 million.
Examples of Excellence
High Student Achievement: Moorhead students consistently score above national averages on the ACT exam and at or above state averages on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments. In 2012-2013, Moorhead High School students earned scholarships of more than $1.5 million.
Quality Educational Environment: Students learn from quality teachers in child-centered schools that are rich in providing opportunities and support for children. Small learning communities at the elementary, middle and high school levels provide students with personalized learning environments.
Educational Opportunities: The district provides educational opportunities for learners with many interests and abilities. Students entering kindergarten and first grade can enroll in the Spanish Immersion Program. Beginning in fifth grade, students can participate in the district's top-rated elementary orchestra program. Learners of all ages can take advantage of Community Education classes and programs.
Accessible Technology: The district has an average of three students to one networked computer. The addition of tablet devices at all levels has further expanded the use of technology for instruction. A progressive infrastructure provides Internet and e-mail access in every classroom.
Secondary Education Options: Advanced Placement courses at the high school and post-secondary options offered through local colleges allow students to earn college credit while still in high school.
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