As Minnesota's oldest continuously existing high school, Central has a long and impressive tradition of academic excellence. A national Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, Central stands as a model for public education serving diverse students. The school's rigorous academic program is based on state and national standards.

The academic program is built on a strong foundation of gifted/talented courses, general classes, performing arts, media communications and technology, and academy settings for building technology and teaching.

Central offers students of all interests and abilities the opportunity to achieve individual educational excellence in an energetic environment supported by eight small learning communities, high-quality staff, involved parents and school/business partnerships.

Special Features

• Central has a 9th Grade Academy and upper grade level advisories (10, 11, 12) that connect staff and students in small learning communities. 
   
• Advisories meet daily for the Central Morning News and to participate in curriculum that guide students through projects, activities, and experiences to prepare them for post-secondary success.
   
• Central's academic specialties include International Baccalaureate; Quest; Advanced Placement (AP); six world languages; and College-in-the-Schools courses.
   
• There are also opportunities in Media Communications; Performing and Visual Arts; Auto Technology; and two academy settings: the Building Tech Academy and the Teaching Career Academy.