As you know, Humboldt Junior and Senior High School are in the midst of reforming toward an environmental and college and career prep theme.  Our ultimate goal is to prepare students for life beyond high school.  We expect all of our students to continue their education, formally or informally, after high school.  Whether it’s by continuing to college or through formal or informal job training, we recognize that a high school diploma rarely is enough to for an individual to earn a living wage.

We are setting the stage to provide our students college and career preparation exceeding any high school in St. Paul.  We have seven college access programs to prepare our students for college; 68% of students are involved in one of these programs.  In addition to these support programs we are expanding the number of staff trained in the AVID program and Advanced Placement program.  In addition to these traditional academic supports, we also are developing our career preparation program. 

Next year, students will be able to take advanced technical classes at St. Paul College which may be applied toward earning a certificate in various areas.  Some of the certificate programs include electronic technology, auto mechanics, welding, Linux Systems, accounting, culinary arts.

We are also expanding our internship opportunities.  Yesterday we had a representative from Genesys Works here interviewing prospective 11^th graders this program which students will receive training in all aspects of computer repair and maintenance over the summer.  As seniors these students would be employed by large corporations throughout St. Paul and Minneapolis as IT techs.  We are also working to develop a mentorship program with the Allied Brick and Tile Layers Union which we hope will lead in to full apprenticeships for selected students. 

Within the school wall of Humboldt, we plan to expand the Urban Journalism program from the Junior to the Senior High, increase our video production opportunities and re-open our updated culinary arts café. 

We recognize the need to prepare our students for careers in the 21^st century.  We are enhancing existing programs, expanding others and forging new partnerships to effectively prepare our students for life.  If you have any questions about these or other programs, please stop by or give me a call (651.293.8600 ext. 1017).