About Specialty and Magnet Schools
-
Anoka-Hennepin Schools offers 12 schools that provide in-demand educational options, such as the arts, science, technology, math, engineering and biomedical sciences (STEM/STEAM), as well as International Baccalaureate (IB).
Anoka-Hennepin specialty and magnet schools are public schools available to all students at no additional cost. These schools, which are at the elementary, middle and high school levels, are designed to provide family choice. Students who live within the Anoka-Hennepin boundaries may apply to enroll at any of the specialty or magnet schools. The magnet schools are offered to students districtwide in partnership with the Northwest Suburban Integration School District (NWSISD), which provides transportation to those schools. Students may enroll at the specialty schools using an in-district transfer process without transportation.Six sites offer specialty programs, which students can access via in-district transfer, while six sites are magnet schools, which are available through the NWSISD.
Informational Flyers
Specialty school programs offered (open to Anoka-Hennepin students via in-district transfer):
-
Champlin Park High School - International Baccalaureate Program
6025 109th Ave N, Champlin
Are you interested in a dynamic, challenging and supportive course of study? The IB Program is regarded as the international standard of excellence for career and college-bound students. Champlin Park has offers both the IB Diploma and Career Programs. IB DP and CP graduates are some of the most sought-after college students around the world. Students are not required to be straight "A" students to qualify for IB, rather we look for students who are hard-working and dedicated to studying topics in-depth.
Learn more about Champlin Park High School - International Baccalaureate Programme.
-
Jackson Middle School - A Specialty School for Math and Science
6000 109th Ave. N, Champlin
As a specialty school for math and science, Jackson Middle School (JMS) is a caring, innovative and inclusive community that leads the way in developing confident, critical thinkers through integrated, inquiry-based learning experiences. Each grade level has integrated learning themes that provide students relevant connections between their classes and science, technology, engineering and math. JMS offers electives in astronomy, environmental science, engineering and science fiction
Learn more about Jackson Middle School - A Specialty School for Math and Science.
-
Champlin-Brooklyn Park Academy for Math and Environmental Science
6100 109th Ave., Champlin
Through an integrated curriculum, students receive a unique learning experience emphasizing math and environmental science. This is made possible by our on-site nature center, greenhouse and gardens, math lab, and strong community partnerships. All of our students work closely with naturalists from the Three River Park District as well as educators from the Minnesota Arboretum. Fourth and fifth grade students go through the University of Minnesota’s Junior Master Gardener program. Our specialty focus is blended into the core curriculum and all of the learning that occurs at CBPA.
Learn more about Champlin-Brooklyn Park Academy for Math and Environmental Science.
-
Hoover Elementary School - Biomedical, Health Sciences and Engineering
2369 109th Ave. NW, Coon Rapids
Hoover Elementary is a STEM-H School focusing on Biomedical, Health Sciences, and Engineering. Our students focus on human body systems and the biomedical and technological innovations that keep us healthy. Students learn about different body systems and become “experts” each year. Our experts then leave Hoover with a deep understanding of how the human body works and stays healthy. They also learn all about the different medical advances, technology innovations, and career choices that relate to our biomedical, health sciences, and engineering focus. The school offers field experiences and partnerships with Science Museum of Minnesota, Medtronic, Peak Physique Gym, Minnesota Twins, TEAM Chiropractic and Wellness, and many more!
Learn More about Hoover Elementary School - Biomedical, Health Sciences and Engineering.
-
Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts
540 South St., Anoka
Lincoln is the only Arts Specialty elementary school in the Anoka-Hennepin School District, and we value authentic arts integration, diverse arts residencies and field trips, and equitable access to visual and performing arts opportunities for all students. Our staff is dedicated to providing diverse arts experiences for ALL students, from kindergarten through fifth grade. Teachers take part in their own artistic professional development, engaging in and honing arts practices and processes. Additional arts opportunities are available to students during and after the school day, including 4th and 5th grade band, orchestra, and choir, plays and musical theatre experiences, and targeted arts experiences in areas like animation, photography, book arts, interdisciplinary dance, and global drumming.
-
Monroe Elementary School: Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering
901 Brookdale Dr. N, Brooklyn Park
Monroe Elementary School: Mathematics, Science and Children’s Engineering is an amazing kindergarten through 5th grade specialty school in Brooklyn Park in a highly diverse community. Project Lead the Way Launch allows students to explore engineering, computer programming and science concepts in a fun, engaging and collaborative way.
STEM education encourages students to use creative problem solving strategies to plan and design new technologies using the Engineering Design Process. As engineers, we define technology as a product or process that is designed and created to solve a problem. Students are encouraged to work with others to communicate findings and share results in inquiry based STEM lessons. STEM lessons present students with real world challenges that require students to use higher level thinking skills. Monroe STEM units are integrated into multiple content areas throughout the curriculum.
Learn more about Monroe Elementary School: Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering.
Magnet schools are part of Anoka-Hennepin Schools the NWSISD consortium:
-
Anoka High School - Center for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM)
3939 Seventh Ave. N, Anoka
The Center for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math at Anoka High School is designed for students who want to explore the connections between the arts, sciences, engineering and math while further developing technology and computer skills. STEAM uses project-based learning and the design thinking model to engage students. The classes in the STEAM program will strengthen students abilities to be creative and flexible problem solvers, explore different ideas, and communicate well with others! Students have the opportunity to delve into 3D modeling, design and fabrication, dance, engineering and robotics, sculpture, photo/video/digital media, music, and more! We encourage a collaborative approach to learning that embraces technology, encourages unique solutions, welcomes creative and inventive thinking as well as problem-solving to prepare for careers in computer science, the arts and engineering.
-
Blaine High School - Center for Engineering, Mathematics and Science
12555 University Ave., NE, Blaine
Center for Engineering, Mathematics, and Science (CEMS) is a specialty/magnet program within Blaine High School for students who want an integrated and rigorous, in-depth mathematics, science and engineering program. Students will increase academic skills as well as critical thinking, problem solving and interpersonal skills.
The program will help students develop the academic, communication and interpersonal skills necessary to be lifelong learners and provide them with opportunities to explore careers in mathematics, science and engineering. It will prepare them for accelerated academic programs and for advanced work at the post-secondary and technical levels.
-
Coon Rapids High School - Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering
2340 Northdale Blvd. NW, Coon Rapids
The Coon Rapids High School Biomedical Sciences and Engineering program is designed to expose students to STEM-related careers including those in the medical, engineering, manufacturing, and technology fields. The hands-on, real-world courses actively engage students in their learning through the use of cutting-edge laboratory and engineering techniques, peer collaboration, and opportunities to interact with professionals in the field. Students in our program are inspired by the relevant and engaging curriculum as they develop foundational tools for their future college and career success.
Learn more about Coon Rapids High School - Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering
-
Anoka Middle School for the Arts - Fred Moore Campus and Washington Campus
Fred Moore Campus - 1523 Fifth Ave., Anoka
Washington Campus - 2171 Sixth Ave., Anoka
Anoka Middle School for the Arts offers a learning environment that emphasizes the integration of core academics with the arts. In addition to rigorous core classes, the arts curriculum provides students the opportunity to explore the following art courses in depth through advancing levels: Ceramics, Drawing, Fabric Arts, Painting, Band, Choir, Dance, Music Composition, Orchestra, Theater, Digital Productions, and Creative Writing.
AMSA students work with professional guest artists, visit live performances, participate in educational field trips, and engage in public showcases (certain art classes). These experiences create collaborative and creative environments, build student confidence, and engage them in learning.
AMSA has been recognized as Top 20 Magnet School of America in 2020, and received numerous awards as National Magnet School of Excellence and Distinction.
-
Evergreen Park Elementary: STEM School of Innovation
7020 Dupont Ave. N, Brooklyn Center
Evergreen Park Elementary STEM School of Innovation strives to empower students to design, create, and implement new ideas using our Innovation Design Process. Our STEM innovation programming is integrated into multiple content areas throughout the Anoka-Hennepin core curriculum. Each grade is an expert in specific areas that supports our Innovation focus. Our priority is to use Innovation to help students know themselves, grow themselves, build community, and seek solutions. The STEM program and design process provides opportunities for students to think critically while involving hands-on learning.
Learn more about Evergreen Park Elementary: STEM School of Innovation.
-
University Avenue Elementary School: Aerospace, Children's Engineering and Science (ACES)
9901 University Ave., NE, Blaine
Students who attend our school will receive approved Anoka-Hennepin curriculum, but have an added focus on aerospace, engineering, and science.
To assist in the planning and implementation of our program, we have established partnerships with the Anoka County Airport, Jackson Middle School Observatory, NASA, The Space Foundation, STARBASE MN, and the Civil Air Patrol.
Students learn about aerospace, engineering and science in and outside of school. Field trips are designed as hands-on learning experiences that increase background knowledge and enrich the learning happening at school as well as connect to our families and community.
In-district transfers and open enrollments
NWSISD Registration
-
Students must apply on the Northwest Suburban Integration School District (NWSISD) website. The priority application deadline is December 31, 2024.
2025-26 Open House Schedule
-
Anoka High School - STEAM Information Night
Oct. 15 - 6:30-8 p.m. - STEAM Information Night
Nov. 13 - 6:30-8 p.m. - STEAM Showcase and open house
Dec. 11 - 6:30-8 p.m. - STEAM Information Night
Families can sign up for a tour on the STEAM website.
-
Blaine High School - CEMS Tours
Nov. 12 beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Link to apply and sign up for tours will be located on CEMS website.
-
Champlin Park High School - IB Information Night
Dec. 10 - 6-7 p.m. - IB Family Information Night
Jan. 9 - 6-7 p.m. - IB Family Information Night
Virtual option will be available as well. Contact ashley.brown@ahschools.us for details.
-
Coon Rapids High School - Biomedical Sciences and Engineering Information Night
Dec. 11 - 6:30 p.m. - Incoming ninth-grade registration night. Contact Lana.Rice@ahschools.us with questions.
-
Anoka Middle School for the Arts - Magnet Information Night
In-person tours per request.
Email: Jolanda.Dranchak@ahschools.us or call 763-506-5025
-
Jackson Middle School - Specialty School Information Night
In-person tours per request.
Email: Christy.Gilbertson@ahschools.us or call 763-506-5226
-
Champlin-Brooklyn Park Academy for Math and Environmental Science - Specialty School Information Night
Specialty night Thursday, May 15 from 5-7 p.m.
In-person tours by request.
Contact Casey Wiedenman at 763-506-6083 or casey.wiedenman@ahschools.us.
-
Evergreen Park Elementary - Magnet School Information Night
In-person tours by appointment.
Contact: Caitlin Meyer at 763-506-2579 or Caitlin.Meyer@ahschools.us.
-
Hoover Elementary School - Biomedical, Health Sciences and Engineering
Specialty school information and tours by appointment.
Contact Matt Thompson at 763-506-2800 or matthew.thompson@ahschools.us.
-
Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts
Specialty school information and in-person tours by request.
Contact Andrea Whitcomb at 763-506-3180 or andrea.whitcomb@ahschools.us.
-
Monroe Elementary School: Mathematics, Science and Children's Engineering
Specialty school information and in-person tours by request.
Contact Kristin Contons at kristin.contons@ahschools.us.
-
University Avenue Elementary School
Nov. 12 from 6-7 p.m. - Information meeting for prospective families.
School day tours by appointment, contact Kate Watson at 763-506-4560 or kate.watson@ahschools.us.
Student Services Contacts
-
Tom Shaw
Director of Student Services
-
Denise Collins
Assistant Director of Student Services
Denise Collins
Assistant Director of Student Services for Academic Guidance and Intervention
763-506-1120
denise.collins@ahschools.us -
Kathy Schulz
Health Services Coordinator
-
Mindy Meyers
American Indian Education Coordinator
-
Ross Giles
Student Services Coordinator