About Highland Park Senior High

A World Class Education In A Nurturing Urban Environment!

Our school offers the rigor of International Baccalaureate (IB) studies in a quiet, approachable setting. Highland Senior has a strong academic culture, and IB students are evaluated with their peers worldwide. Highland Senior is the only SPPS high school in which all ninth and tenth grade students participate in the IB Middle Years Programme; IB Diploma classes in all subjects are open to grades 11-12. We are the high school for the district Spanish Immersion program and for Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented (G/T) students, who receive enhanced G/T instruction and support. The smaller size of our school makes it easier for students to forge connections – with teachers, coaches, and other young people who share their interests. Over 30 enrichment opportunities are available to students in music, theater, dance, student government, clubs and athletics.

We have strong traditions of excellence in academics, arts, athletics and service. A rigorous curriculum in college preparation and regular education classes is built on state and national standards, and carried out by an energetic and committed staff and community. The school's commitment to excellence has paid off and was recognized as one of the countries top high schools by Newsweek and the Washigton Post. Highland Park was the only St. Paul School to receive the honor.

Our History
Vision, Mission & Collective Commitments

Our History

Mattocks Schoolhouse

When this small limestone school was completed in 1871, it stood on Randolph Avenue at Snelling Avenue, and the area it served was outside the city limits of St. Paul. Not until 1887, when Reserve Township was annexed to the city, did the school become a part of the St. Paul system.

The pioneer schoolhouse, with its gray limestone walls 20 inches thick, was built at a cost of $1,800. It contained one room with desks for thirty children and a continuous blackboard along the walls. Its square bell tower is about 40 feet from the ground.

When it was completed, it was named “Webster School Number Nine”. In 1887 its name was changed to “Mattocks School” in honor of Reverend John Mattocks, a prominent Presbyterian clergyman, who was Secretary of the Board of Education and ex-officio Superintendent of St. Paul’s schools.

The building served as the educational center for much of the Highland Park district until 1922. It was then used for special classes until 1929, and for some 30 years after that, it was maintained by an American Legion Post. It was moved from its original location to this site in1964 and is currently being used as a Spanish class room.

Vision, Mission & Collective Commitments

Vision:

Highland Park Senior High students graduate as global citizens prepared for college and careers.

Mission:

Highland Park Senior High School will achieve its vision by:

Delivering excellent instruction based in rigor, international mindedness, and inquiry.
Providing academic supports and interventions.
Creating a safe environment that meets students’ needs, supports their interests,and respects their individuality.
Engaging every student, family, and the community, in their educational experience.

Collective Commitments:

The Staff of Highland Park Senior High School will:

Be intentional about connecting learning and curriculum to students’ lives.
Create a positive environment where relationships matter.
Work collaboratively to align curriculum that is relevant, rigorous, and engaging.
Respect and welcome differing beliefs, opinions, and perspectives.
Be culturally and racially proficient.
Communicate professionally and consistently with each other, students, and families.
Be committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Highland Park Senior High
1015 Snelling Ave S.
Saint Paul, MN 55116

Phone: 651-293-8940
Attendance: 651-744-3803

School Hours: 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Staff Directory

GO SCOTS!

We are the Highland Park Senior High School Scots.