International Admissions

SCLA offers the following AP courses:

• AP Precalculus
• AP Calculus AB
• AP Calculus BC
• AP Chemistry
• AP English Language & Composition
• AP Physics 1
• AP Physics 2
• AP Psychology 
• AP U.S. History

Three levels of English Second Language Courses are offered, as well as ESL U.S. History. ESL classes are part of the school day and available for no extra cost.

Students are placed in ESL classes by ability level.

Many new students choose to come early to the ESL summer and bridge camp. 

• College counseling begins in grade 10 and includes course planning and college preparation.
• Students are introduced to college options through campus visits and college fairs.  Assistance with transportation is provided (see the guidance counselor for more information).

Dormitory Features

• 152 beds, three floors, six secure, gender-specific houses
• Secure access to dorm entrances, houses, and rooms
• Fully-staffed dormitory cafeteria
• Student lounge and kitchenette in each house
• Laundry facilities
• Indoor and outdoor recreation center

Student Rooms

• Two-person accommodations
• Furniture for each student includes a bed, desk, chair, wardrobe, and storage space
• One mini-fridge included per room

Wireless Internet

The strong wireless internet system connects students to important educational resources and to family and friends via email and Skype^®.

On Campus Facilities

Dorm students have regular access to the school's:

• gymnasium
• library
• weight room
• track
• tennis courts
• lake
• commons
• auditorium
• and the many events going on at SCL each day.

Local Events

Resident students are encouraged to take advantage of the many recreational and cultural opportunities available in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area.

Nearby Conveniences

The campus is within walking distance of a variety of shops and restaurants, and shuttle transportation is available for weekly trips to the mall. 

Weekend Outings

Weekend activities include ski trips, concerts, sporting events and cultural offerings.

Supervision and Reporting

Student activities are monitored according to parents’ wishes, and an online report of student weekday activities and weekend plans is emailed to parents and supervisors.

SCL’s Junior Boarding Program allows students in grades 6-9 to become part of a diverse community and provides them the support they need either during their middle school years or for their initial high school year. Students grow in social skills, organizational habits, and self-reliance, and are gradually able to take on more responsibility and leadership.

Dorm supervisors provide a safe and nurturing environment that emphasizes a family atmosphere, emotional development, spiritual growth, and prioritized study time.

Dorm residents receive a standard lunch, with add-on a la carte options for purchase.

Daily Lunch Service

St. Croix Lutheran Academy partners with Pioneer College Caterers to provide lunch service. Pioneer has served faith-based institutions for over 50 years, providing great food and service on campuses across the country. The lunch program offers daily hot, nutritious meals prepared on-site, along with options for fresh salads, sandwiches, soup, and dessert.

MN Free Lunch Program 

SCLA does not participate in the Free Lunch Program sponsored by the State of Minnesota. To qualify for the free lunch program, SCLA (and other private schools) are required to confirm the eligibility of ALL enrolled students; even parents who do not wish to participate are required to provide eligibility paperwork. As our student body originates from multiple districts, states, and countries, complying with the state’s requirements is extraordinarily difficult. SCLA takes great care choosing food service providers and works hard to keep costs down for families. We appreciate the feedback that we receive from parents, and we continue to seek out ways to reduce costs for our families.

Dorm Meals

Breakfast, evening, and weekend meals as well as after-school snacks are provided in the dorm residence dining room.

Noon lunches on school days are provided through the school's hot lunch program. Dorm residents are provided one full entree OR a combo. Anything added a la carte will be charged to the student's account.

The menu varies each week and includes dishes from around the world (currently Asian, Hispanic, Italian, American and Mediterranean influences) and is constantly expanding to meet the needs and preferences of our students.

On-Site Care Team

Adult supervisors live onsite full time, and help students with daily habits, and social and emotional growth. 

Academic tracking and support

Dormitory staff monitor student academic progress and provide needed supports such as device counseling and monitored study time. 

Regular parent communication 

Parents receive regular automated emails on student academic progress, medical and discipline concerns, and off campus activities. 

Counseling Services

Licensed, on-site counselors help students with social and emotional concerns, homesickness, and cultural adjustment.  

Student Mentors

Each new student is paired with an American student mentor, and a co-national mentor. Dormitory student leaders model and teach healthy living habits. 

International Student Alumni Mentors

Each student has the opportunity to learn in a large group and individual setting from St. Croix international alumni on topics such as university applications/guidance, social/emotional, intercultural, and career options.