Star of the North

The ninth and tenth grades at Star of the North focus on character and community as well as the skills needed to succeed in the larger, comprehensive high school. Ninth and tenth grades are each in self-contained learning communities staffed by highly qualified teachers, who serve as instructors and advocates for the students. These teachers also instruct in grades 11 - 12 and rotate through the classrooms to deliver instruction. We have approximately 20 students in each classroom who receive district curriculum, but in a single classroom setting.

Primary consideration for this program is reserved for students entering their first semester of ninth or tenth grade. It is no secret in our community that only 66% of ninth graders leave ninth grade on track to earn all their credits in four years. For that reason, we work very hard to ensure that every ninth grader leaves ninth grade with six credits.

Instruction in the ninth and tenth grades stresses:

• successful completion of six high school credits by the end of the school year
• proficiency on state mandated assessments
• collaborative learning
• community based activities
• integrated learning activities
• choice within the academic goal areas
• leadership training

We are currently accepting applications through the district lottery system for the 2025-26 school year. See our Application Process page to the left for more information.

Eleventh and twelfth graders make up a vibrant community with self-directed learning, small-group instruction and individualized tutoring. Teachers and students work closely together to meet curriculum goals. Students seek help from their teachers as they need assistance and frequently assist others in need of help. Every student is matched with a staff member who serves as an adult advocate who intervenes in areas of academic or behavioral difficulties, monitors attendance, follows up on class work and sees to the student’s overall well-being. The atmosphere is friendly and collegial.

This high school program places a strong emphasis on student independence, adult guidance and advocacy, as well as individual achievement. Students at Star of the North Secondary spend over half of their time in school doing independent learning. Time spent in school is for intentional, concentrated work. Star of the North expects students to cover and master the educational material in order to earn the high school credits. Students who graduate from Star of the North Secondary are self-sufficient, able to realize satisfaction and success, and are prepared to participate in the world around them.

The high school program emphasizes:

• flexible scheduling
• academic achievement
• proficiency on state mandated assessments
• individual responsibility
• peer cooperation
• peaceful resolution of conflict
• school-wide community building
• leadership training

In addition, high school students:

• learn in a specialized educational setting where students come first
• have the opportunity to learn at their own pace through flexible scheduling
• work with teachers on a one-on-one or small group basis
• communicate freely with teachers and fellow students
• meet high academic standards
• earn a FNSBSD high school diploma
• develop a life plan for education beyond secondary school with career, college, and personal counseling 

As some of our students graduate mid-year, applications are accepted throughout the school year and vacancies are filled from the waitlist as they become available. See our Application Process page to the left for more information.