News & Events

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) annually designates selected charter schools as High-Quality based on school performance.  To be considered for High-Quality designation, charter schools must have testing records from 2022, 2023, and 2024 on statewide assessments, have test participation rates of 90% or higher, and have a consistent attendance rate in 2023 of at least 75%. To receive a High-Quality designation, charter schools must meet performance benchmarks in math, reading, and science proficiency; math and reading growth; and graduation rates (for high schools).  In addition, charter schools must meet financial and compliance benchmarks established by the state.

In 2025, the MDE designated only 15 of Minnesota’s 175 charter schools as High-Quality (or 8.5% of all Minnesota charter schools); while 54.5% of Friends of Education schools (6 of 11) are designated as High-Quality. Friends of Education schools comprise 40% (6 of 15) of the designated High-Quality Charter Schools.  

Friends of Education congratulates its schools on receiving this selective and well-deserved recognition:

Aspen Academy

Cologne Academy

Eagle Ridge Academy

Parnassus Preparatory School

Seven Hills Preparatory Academy

St. Croix Preparatory Academy