For all of Duluth’s “small city” vibes (I haven’t left the house in three years without bumping into someone–or many someones!–I know), when it comes time to enroll our littles into school for the first time, we do not lack for educational options. In fact, it can be a downright overwhelming process to research the many area schools and settle on which one will be the right fit for our families.
It’s one of the most talked about topics in the Duluth Moms Blog community group; mamas are always looking for information and guidance on schooling. When my husband and I were getting ready to enroll our oldest daughter in Kindergarten, I spent a ton of time on school websites and bugged all my friends who had older children to give me their advice. My four year old was a creative little soul and I antagonized over what would be her ideal school community.
The Duluth Edison Charter Schools
The Duluth Edison Charter Schools is comprised of two schools: North Star Academy, which supports students in grades K-8 and Raleigh Academy, for students K-5. The schools are public, so there is no fee to attend, but there is an enrollment process that differs slightly from that of a typical public school (read more about it below).
The schools have extended hours programing–which is great for working parents, they offer bussing services for students, and classroom sizes are typically low-to-average for the Northland area with sizes being around 25 for Kindergarten. Of course, as parents, we want to know more than the basic statistics, and DECS makes their philosophy transparent from the get-go.
Creative Curriculum
Because the school days are extended, the DECS academies can place extra emphasis on student exploration and expression. Alongside their robust core curriculum of reading/writing, math, science, and history, there is more time for early exposure to language, connecting to cultures through music and movement, and cultivating creativity with art. Young students learn through guided play and importance is placed on recess and and free time. They learn critical thinking and social skills while having fun and moving their bodies.
DECS commitment to providing their students with well-rounded academics also carries over into their extracurricular offerings. The schools boast of sports teams–from basketball to Nordic skiing–jazz band and a vocal ensemble, and even a robotics team. They also provide aftercare for students through their Eagle’s Nest programming, a collaboration with the Duluth YMCA.
Open Enrollment
Edison Schools are currently accepting enrollment applications, with a deadline of February 22nd, so if you are considering North Star Academy or Raleigh Academy for your kiddos, don’t delay. Students are admitted via a lottery draw, which will be held on March 1st. The schools do accept applications year round, and students are added to a waitlist to be admitted on a first come, first served basis, but your best bet for securing a spot for your school-aged children is by filling out and submitting the application before the 22nd.
