Wellstone International High - SWS

Wellstone International High School, located in the Central neighborhood of Minneapolis, is a unique public school specifically designed to serve immigrant and refugee students, primarily those aged 17 to 21. Unlike traditional high schools, Wellstone focuses on students who are new to the United States and are working toward earning their high school diploma while simultaneously acquiring English language proficiency. The school creates a supportive, multicultural environment where students from various backgrounds can navigate the complexities of adjusting to a new country while meeting rigorous academic requirements.

The school is widely recognized for its trauma-informed approach and its commitment to social-emotional learning, acknowledging the diverse and often challenging experiences that its students bring with them. By offering a curriculum tailored to English Language Learners (ELL) and providing robust wrap-around services—including academic counseling, social work support, and connections to community resources—Wellstone aims to remove barriers to success. It serves as a vital bridge, empowering newcomer students to graduate, develop critical life skills, and transition into post-secondary education or the workforce with confidence.