As you consider secondary school options for your child, we want you to know about the  Saint Paul Public Schools Student Placement Center, a one-stop information resource for parents. Whether a student is entering kindergarten, moving into the district, or changing schools, the Student Placement Center provides year-round services to help parents explore and select a school or program for their child. The staff also provides excellent service to non-English speaking students and parents.         

What is a secondary school and how do I apply?

Secondary schools vary in their format and subject focus. Some schools include grades 7 and 8 as part of an extended elementary school program (K-8 and 1-8).  Middle schools/junior high schools (grades 7-8) and high schools (grades 9-12) offer a number of program options and specialties. Specialty programs draw students from across the city and are part of the school district’s voluntary desegregation efforts.  Students who live within a school’s attendance area have first preference for acceptance into that school.  Arlington High School has a citywide attendance area.

When is an application needed?

New secondary students or those changing schools must apply for their school of choice.  Download the senior high application. Additional copies of applications are available at your current school or by calling the Student Placement Center at (651) 632-3761.  Students planning on staying at their current school next year do not need to complete an application.

Because many students are expected to apply for a limited number of spaces in Saint Paul high schools during the 2008-2009 school year, it is especially important that high school families apply by the February 29, 2008, application deadline. To increase their chances of securing a place for their child in a Saint Paul public high school of their choice, parents of students entering grades 9-12 are encouraged to indicate their child’s attendance area school as one of their two choices. 

Once accepted, students may choose specialty programs offered at each secondary school. However, all secondary students must register for classes.