Minneapolis Communities

University: Schools & District 1

David Olson, RealtorBy David Olson, Realtor · October 25, 2026 · 6 min read
University: Schools & District 1

Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida

Minneapolis Public Schools promises an inspirational education experience in a safe, welcoming environment for all diverse learners to acquire the tools and skills necessary to confidently engage in the global community.

Here’s an overview of the schools. Boundaries can change, so always confirm assigned schools for a specific address with the district.

Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.

Looking at homes in this school district?I’ll show you what homes nearby are really selling for and which streets fit your budget.

Schools serving University

This is the largest district in Minnesota, as it serves the largest city in the state. The teachers are dedicated, passionate and committed to closing the achievement gap and raising the bar for all students. MPS provides the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, College in Schools (CIS), and Career and Technical Education, advanced World Language programs and Advanced Placement (AP) coursework to support our students educational growth. The staff is ready and eager to help families find the right school for their child. They offer popular magnet programs and community schools. Every family has an option to select the school that best meets their needs. This district services 43 elementary schools, 8 middle schools, and 9 high schools.

Hennepin Elementary School is persistently devoted to student accomplishment. They understand that all students can and must attain success. Their expectations are high, and their yearning for success is passionate and assertive. The school uses clear and distinct procedures to define success. They continuously discover new approaches to increase efficiency and the school never embraces educational trends or philosophies that do not work. They know that high and efficient levels of support must match high expectations.

Sanford Middle School is the middle school that services the Phillips community. A wonderful environment for students grades 6-8 of all ability levels, Sanford Middle School strives to promote excellence inside and outside of the classroom. The school is known for its gifted and talented programs, extensive after-school programming, and its focus on encouraging students to have a global perspective. Every student is required to take either Arabic, Spanish, or Ojibwe language classes during their time at Sanford Middle School. Additionally, students in 7th grade get to go on an overnight trip to an environmental center while students in 8th grade go on an international trip. Sanford makes an effort to prepare students for high school and college level courses by offering rigorous coursework, technology in the classrooms, and by fostering strong friendships among the students. With student “teams” that stick together throughout their entire middle school experience, students develop close friendships while engaging in an active and challenging, learning environment.

More about the schools

With around 2,000 students, South High School is dedicated to instructing each of their students in becoming dependable lifelong learners. This means that the students are provided opportunities to achieve academic distinction, unite with positive peer groups and establish the groundwork for a favorable future. The school staff works towards this goal everyday with eagerness, and they strive towards maintaining a positive school culture and climate that promotes a sense of self respect, respect for others and respect of the surrounding school environment and community with integrity. All students can graduate with post-secondary aspirations, which is in all likelihood a reality given the high graduation rate.

Another high school option is Edison High School, where students have the opportunity graduate with the skills necessary to excel in their post-secondary aspirations. Through innovation and personal empowerment, the Edison community partners with students by igniting a passion for lifelong learning, instilling the ideals of international mindedness, and leading their students to succeed at Edison and beyond.

This community is also in the St. Anthony-New Brighton School District, or school district 282. The mission of this district is to educate, prepare, and inspire a community of lifelong learners that will make an impact on the world. They are committed to the success of all learners. The district enrolls over 1,700 students at Wilshire Park Elementary School, St. Anthony Middle School, and St. Anthony High School.

More about the district

St. Anthony Community Services offers Early Childhood programs for students ages three to five years old. Additionally, they provide a before and after school day program for kids in Kindergarten through 5th grade, and family and parent education programs.

At Wilshire Park Elementary School, students in kindergarten through 5th grade will experience curriculum based on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Wilshire Park students will be valued and provided an individualized educational experience. The students will form strong partnerships with peers, parents and families.

St. Anthony Middle School (SAMS) is a school that is committed to providing students with amazing learning experiences in a caring environment. Their goal is to assist students while they begin to grow their academic opportunities and creativity while strengthening their critical thinking, communication and problem solving skills. The middle school provides a strong academic background while still offering students a variety of elective courses. Enhanced learning opportunities, extracurricular activities and clubs are highly valued by SAMS students. Some of these programs include athletics, speech, student council, academic teams, and drama.

Good to know

St. Anthony High School (SAHS) offers a challenging academic program for students in order to prepare them for their post secondary efforts. SAHS has no shortage of awards from the State of Minnesota, Newsweek magazine and US News and World Report. SAHS students typically score well above average on standardized assessments and college entrance exams. Extracurricular activities include athletics, music, drama, speech, student council and the National Honor Society.

A simple plan for your Minneapolis move

I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.

1Get clear on the numbersFor sellers, a realistic value for your specific home. For buyers, what your budget actually buys in the neighborhoods you like.
2Walk it with a builder’s eyeWe spot what an inspector is likely to flag before it becomes a negotiation.
3Prepare or positionSellers get a prep list and a staging plan. Buyers get a short list of homes that truly fit.
4Move with confidenceOffers, inspections and closing, with one steady guide keeping it calm and on schedule.

Getting the house ready, or making it yours

If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Ready to talk? Start a buyer plan or ask what your home is worth.

Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.

Your next step in Minneapolis

Minneapolis homes are priced neighborhood by neighborhood. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in Minneapolis.

Twin Cities market notes

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    David Olson, Broker, Twin Cities Property Finder

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    — David
    University CommunityEdison High SchoolSaint Anthony High SchoolWilshire Park ElementarySaint Anthony MIddle SchoolCity of MinneapolisHennepin CountyMinneapolis

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