Open World Learning Secondary

Open World Learning Secondary (OWL), located on Humboldt Avenue in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a unique public school within the Saint Paul Public Schools district that serves students in grades 6 through 12. The school is widely recognized for its small, tight-knit community and its commitment to a "expeditionary learning" model. This approach emphasizes hands-on, project-based education where students frequently step outside the traditional classroom to engage in real-world experiences, community service, and intensive field studies. The school culture is intentionally designed to foster strong relationships between students and staff, often keeping students with the same core teachers for multiple years to build trust and academic continuity.

Academically, OWL is known for its rigorous standards and a focus on critical thinking, collaboration, and character development. Rather than relying solely on standardized testing, the school evaluates student progress through "public exhibitions of learning," where students present their research and projects to peers, families, and community experts. This structure is intended to prepare students for the demands of higher education and professional life by emphasizing mastery of content and effective communication. By blending a challenging curriculum with a focus on social-emotional growth and community responsibility, Open World Learning aims to graduate students who are not only academically prepared but also socially conscious and active citizens.