Saint Helena Catholic School is accredited by Minnesota Nonpublic School Accrediting Association (MNSAA) and meets the standards set forth by the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis for Catholic Identity. 

Class Size​
The average class size is 12.  The teacher to student ratio is 1 teacher to every 11 students. 
 

Focus on Literacy

At Saint Helena, we will not be satisfied until all of our students are fluent readers. We have a comprehensive literacy program to ensure that all of our students are skilled in reading, writing, speaking and listening.  We are one of the many Archdiocesan schools who are part of the Believe and Read initiative. Believe and Read is based on the Science of Reading, and all of our K-3 teachers have ongoing coaching and training to implement the Believe and Read program in their classroom. We use the My View/My Perspectives series for Language Arts in grades K-8 and our English Language Students receive Title III services.

Curriculum
All of our classes are standards based with the goal of students meeting or exceeding the standards.  We use NWEA MAP and aimswebPlus to monitor student learning and make adjustments to instruction as needed.  Saint Helena staff works with ANet (Achievement Network) to ensure high quality math education throughout the school, including on-site coaching for teachers and administration.
 

Developing the Whole Child

Saint Helena Catholic School students are offered many opportunities throughout the day to develop the whole child.  In addition to extracurricular activities, all students in kindergarten through eighth grade have Spanish and Art classes.  All students visit our school library weekly and have access to more books in classroom libraries.  Physical education takes place three times a week, and students have music class twice a week.

Catholic Identity 
In addition to the religious education and formation received in the classroom, students have the opportunity to celebrate the Sacraments throughout the year. The celebration of the Holy Mass takes place weekly, with the entire student body gathering in the Church. Students participate in eucharistic adoration regularly along with seasonal prayer services for Advent and Lent.  Students in second grade prepare for the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion, and eighth grade students prepare for their Confirmation.  The Sacrament of Confession is offered twice a year during the school day for children who have already made their first Confession.

Title I Services​

The staff of Saint Helena Catholic School works together to ensure every child is being offered every opportunity to succeed.  Staff and parents collaborate to recognize any areas in which students may need additional help.  Title I services are available for students who are identified as needing extra support in math and reading, and classes are held before school with Saint Helena teachers.

 

City Connects

We have a full time City Connects Coordinator/School Counselor.  Ms. Nicole Derke works with all of our students to support their social and emotional needs.