St. Paul School of Northern Lights is a Reggio-Emilia inspired school in St. Paul’s West 7th neighborhood.

Mission

Exploring our urban ecosystem, St. Paul School of Northern Lights ensures a progressive, relationship-based learning process, educating students to be kind, curious, critical thinkers who are advocating for positive change in their diverse communities.

Vision

St. Paul School of Northern Lights endeavors to model and share best practices in progressive education. We resolve to create an enduring community fully participating in a democratic society that relies on an educated populace, embarking on a lifetime of inquiry and advocacy.

Guiding Principles

Progressive Learning

Students are born curious and ready to learn. We seek to preserve children’s innate knowledge of self and curiosity about the world in which they live. Our teachers use a dynamic and interactive approach that encourages students to explore deeply. We hold space for students to learn to balance work, life, and play.

Relationship-Based Education

Relationships are the essence of St. Paul School of Northern Lights. We understand the value of belonging to and building a strong community. We build community through kindness, valuing all of our members, and sharing our learning across classrooms and grade levels.

Urban Ecosystem Exploration

Learning will happen in the classroom and as we explore our surrounding community and natural spaces, forging meaningful connections between students and their environment.

Diversity and Equity

Respecting and celebrating difference, we will focus on intercultural development as a school for and with the community. We will set cross-cultural goals for understanding, acknowledge challenges, and navigate differences together, empowering all community members to communicate respectfully.

Advocacy

Children are capable citizens who can and do positively contribute to their communities. We recognize and foster students’ individuality and encourage them to use their knowledge and skills for the common good. Our school is intentional about ensuring that all students understand critical concepts around identity, allyship, and social justice. We believe that developing empathy and community engagement can and should be central to the learning experience.