Welcome to Saint Paul Public Schools

  • At Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS), our mission is both bold and simple: to inspire students to think critically, pursue their dreams and change the world.

    SPPS is one of Minnesota's largest school districts serving more than 37,000 students. Highly trained and deeply dedicated staff, cutting-edge academic programs, and strong community support are among the district’s hallmarks. At SPPS, our student population is diverse. Our students speak more than 125 languages, sharing their ideas and cultures with their classmates and teachers every single day.

     56 Schools/ Programs

    • PreK-5 Schools: 30
    • PreK-8 Schools: 4
    • K-5 Schools: 7
    • 1-8 School: 1
    • Dual Campus Schools: 4
    • 6-8 Schools: 5
    • 6-12 Schools: 4
    • 9-12 Schools: 5

     

    More Student Demographics

    • Approximately 34% of students are English Language Learners
    • 15% of students require special education services
    • 70% of students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch

     

    Academics 

    • Four-year comprehensive graduation rate: 74.9%*
    • The SPPS graduation rate is higher than the state average for six student groups: American Indian students, Hispanic students, Black students, English Language Learners, homeless students and students receiving free/reduced lunch

    * AGAPE High School, Bridge View School, Focus Beyond, Gordon Parks High School, Journeys Secondary School and LEAP High School included in SPPS average

  • Leadership

    Dr. Joe Gothard headshot

    Dr. Joe Gothard
    Superintendent

    School Board members:

    • Jeanelle Foster, Chair
    • Jim Vue, Vice-Chair 
    • Zuki Ellis, Clerk
    • John Brodrick, Treasurer
    • Chauntyll Allen, Director 
    • Jessica Kopp, Director
    • Steve Marchese, Director

    Senior Executive Leadership Team:

    • Cedrick Baker, Chief of Staff
    • Jackie Turner, Chief Operations Officer
    • Dr. Kate Wilcox-Harris, Chief Academic Officer
    • Marie Schrul, Chief Financial Officer
    • David Watkins, Chief of Schools
    • Kevin Burns, Director of Communications