Spectrum High School

Spectrum High School is a public charter school, located in Elk River, Minnesota, in its 13th year of operation. This comprehensive high school enrolls approximately 400 students in grades nine through twelve. The school is authorized by Volunteers of America. Spectrum High School is often recognized for its excellence in education.
US News and World Report recognized Spectrum High School in its Best High School rankings awarding a silver medal. Spectrum was the 7th highest ranking out of
Minnesota’s 164 charter schools. Spectrum was voted Best Public School in 2017 by readers of the Star News, a local publication. Spectrum also received recognition as a High Quality Charter School by the Minnesota Department of Education for 2017-2018.

Mission Statement

The mission of Spectrum High School is to encourage students in attaining their maximum potential through a 3-dimensional strategy emphasizing:

• College preparatorycurriculum;
• A technology integrated environment;and
• Community-basedoutreach.

Vision Statement

The vision of Spectrum High School is to be a leader in fostering academic and personal excellence through programs emphasizing high academic standards in a small–school setting.

Curriculum

When students choose Spectrum, they accept the challenge of rigorous college-level coursework (see CaSH program/Concurrent Enrollment). They engage in the educational process through classroom activities that effectively integrate one-to-one technology, Students also participate in service learning that benefits the student, the school, and the larger community. Additionally, Spectrum High School utilizes the AVID college preparatory program andstrategies.

Faculty

Spectrum’s faculty is committed to excellence, as they prepare our students to achieve their future educational and career goals. Of the 28 faculty members, 39% hold a Master’s degree. One hundred percent of SHS courses are taught by teachers certified in the subject area by the Minnesota Board of Teaching. SHS faculty are committed to a growth mindset, seeking ways to continually improve instruction and meet students’ needs.

Graduation Requirements

ACT Test Score Results
Spectrum’s 2018 graduates’ average composite score exceeded Minnesota and National Averages. As per MN state requirement, all 2018 seniors were provided the option to take the ACT on a state test date. In 2016, seniors were required to take the ACT test on a state test date. Prior years the test was optional.

Class of 2018 Successes

• Spectrum High School’s class of 2018 earned 1,537 college credits. This represents an approximate cost savingsof
• $499,000, based on the avg. tuition cost per credit of a four-year public college in the United States.

• 79% of students graduated with at least some college credit.
• Nine students completed an Associate of Arts Degree through Anoka-Ramsey Community College.
• One senior completed the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum.
• Eight additional students completed 40 college credits. ormore.

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