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imagine…

Imagine attending a public high school in the heart of downtown St. Paul, unlike any other in the country. Learn the skills and techniques to become a professional artist from current working artists. Receive a college conservatory level arts education under the guidance of current professional artists. Prepare for college academically in on-level, advanced or AP classes.

No audition. No tuition


arts + academics

SPCPA provides authentic arts training taught by current professional artists using the conservatory model while delivering rigorous academics aligned with Minnesota state standards in English, math, science, social studies, and world languages. Students engage in a comprehensive educational experience that integrates college-preparatory academics with intensive arts instruction in a supportive, creative community.

ENGLISH • MATHEMATICS • SCIENCE • SOCIAL STUDIES • WORLD LANGUAGES • AP and ADVANCED COURSES

at-a-glance

we are a diverse,
focused student body.

SPCPA students come from over 40 different school districts.

90-95% of SPCPA students graduate on time.

we are prepared.

99-100% of SPCPA graduates are accepted into college or conservatory.

50% of graduates pursue arts in some fashion after high school.

ON ACT TESTS

SPCPA students score 4.3 points higher than the MN average.

ON MCA's

SPCPA students score 20% higher than the state average in reading, 15% higher in science, and are typically at or above state average in math.

2026 Niche Best Schools

OUR ALUMNI SAY IT BEST

I had an amazing experience at this arts school! From the moment I walked through the door, I felt inspired by the creativity and talent all around me. The faculty and staff were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, always pushing me to be my best and never giving up on me. Not only did I develop my artistic skills in ways I never imagined, but I also made lasting friendships with fellow students who share my passion for the arts. The resources and opportunities available at this school are unparalleled, and I feel so grateful to have been a part of such a vibrant and welcoming community. I would highly recommend this arts school to anyone looking to grow their talents and discover their potential as an artist.

Maria Briggs, Broadway actor/dancer/singer, Class of 2009

CONNECTED

An important part of SPCPA’s purpose is to connect the students and the school to the Twin Cities professional arts community in a number of ways.

what's happening

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SPCPA NHS Spirit Week is almost at an end ☹
Thursday was Iconic Picture of Little You. Students took a stroll down memory lane, found their most iconic pic, and recreated it for the world to see. Staff icon Ms. Reinhardt also got in on the fun.

We are looking forward to see how creative students get with their Halloween costumes today! 👻💚🖤🎃

#SPCPA #theworldneedsmoreartists #weholdeachotherup
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SPCPA NHS Spirit Week continues! Wednesday was "Favorite Pop Culture Moment." Though we cannot confirm, we are pretty sure that Tom Holland was not being carried around under the hat of a student. That seems to just be a wild internet rumor. We are looking forward to the iconic pictures of our artists today!💚🖤

Thursday- Iconic Picture of Little You
Friday- Halloween Costumes
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SPCPA NHS Spirit Week continues! Tuesday was "Dress Like a Teacher Day" and the students did not disappoint. Students' creativity was once again on display with 16 dancing Daniels, THE science wizard, twin Mr. Mais, a clone of Chris, the Lohman meter, and so much more. We are excited to see what Pop Culture Moments students will mirror today!

Wednesday- Favorite Pop Culture Moment
Thursday- Iconic Picture of Little You
Friday- Halloween Costumes
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Hey true believers! SPCPA is starting its very own Comic book club! Come to Ms. Lohman's Room every other Wednesday starting TOMORROW, October 28th, to hang out and talk about comic books/your favorite comic book related media and more.

Excelsior! 🦇💚🖤🕷
#spcpa #weholdeachotherup
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Hey true believers!

SPCPA NHS Spirit Week is here!👻👻👻

Yesterday we kicked things off with Pajama Day. Students were comfy yet still creative! We are all looking forward to a fun "spirited" week.

Tuesday- Dress like a teacher.
Wednesday- Favorite Pop Culture Moment
Thursday- Iconic Picture of Little You
Friday- Halloween Costumes

🎃💚🖤🎃
#spcpa #theworldneedsmoreartists #weholdeachotherup
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A school favorite returns!

At SPCPA, creativity doesn’t stop when class ends. Our D&D Club brings students together to build worlds, tell stories, solve problems, take risks, and, occasionally, roll a very unfortunate number. D'oh!

New adventurers welcome.
Experienced players welcome.
Imagination required.

The club gathers Thursdays in the Science Wizard's Lair after school.
🎲🧝‍♀️🐉💚🖤
#spcpa #theworldneedsmoreartists #weholdeachotherup
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A school favorite re

Welcome to SPCPA Tommy Jacobs!

Mr. Jacobs is an accomplished percussionist with over 20 years experience in the professional world, having worked with ensembles across the Twin Cities including the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra, the Brooklyn Big Band, Bria Skonberg, the JCC Orchestra, Haywyre, and the Dur Dur Band in addition to extensive clinic work. He is a graduate of Augsburg University, as well as a twice-named Hognander Scholar from the institution. Tommy has performed internationally with a heavy focus on jazz, utilizing global influence to inform each performance for every audience. Additionally, he is an Air Force veteran having served 6 years, reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. Through his myriad of experiences, Tommy tailors his education to the younger generations by providing real-world guidance for the classroom and beyond with professional applicability being the ultimate goal. Currently, he works as a clinician and teacher throughout the Twin Cities, as well as an on-call performer with the Governor’s Estate.

#spcpa #theworldneedsmoreartists #weholdeachotherup
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Last week, our Asian Student Union, ASU, held its first meeting! Students came together to connect, share ideas, celebrate Asian cultures and experiences. Students even tried some sweet treats.

ASU meets on Wednesdays in room 274. All students are welcome to attend.💚🖤
#SPCPA #weholdeachotherup #youbelongatspcpa
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“All the world’s a stage.”

And this week, our Shakespeare Text and Performance students got to take the stage with a true expert.

Rodney Cottier, Professor of Shakespeare and Early Modern Drama at LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art), joined our students for a master class exploring Shakespeare.

There’s nothing quite like getting into the work with someone who has spent a career bringing Shakespeare to life. Thank you Professor Cottier!💚🖤

#spcpa #theworldneedsmoreartists #weholdeachotherup #youbelongatSPCPA
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