“Public schools are a great public blessing. I have been impressed with the genuine care and concern the teachers and staff have shown our children at Lake Elmo Elementary and
Oak-Land Junior High. I admit that before coming here I didn’t believe public school teachers were that way. It is a privilege to
volunteer in this noble cause.”

Oak-Land Junior High School is leading Minnesota public schools in the use of technology to improve student achievement. Designated as one of four national demonstration schools for laptop computing, each of it's 1040 students receives a computer for use 24/7 throughout the school year.

Oak-Land's vision of educating students for the digital world is enhanced by a technology-rich environment that includes building-wide wireless internet connectivity as well as a full range of peripheral devices such as digital video and still cameras.

This is a high-achieving school where a unique culture of sharing and mentoring between students and teachers thrives. Word in the community is that Oak-Land "has to be seen to be believed." Students line the hallways before and after school, laptops open, reading, writing and researching.

Prospective students and parents who choose to visit Oak-Land will be amazed and intrigued by the unique learning environment, as they glimpse what is likely to be the model for all secondary schools in the not-too-distant future.

The program of course offerings contains many enrichment opportunities for our students. For example, advanced English for grades 8-9 and advanced math for grades 7-8 help to prepare students for Advanced Placement (AP) courses at the high school. Additional enrichment opportunities include: Chamber orchestra, jazz band, choral group, and summer music camps. A variety of technology-related enrichments are offered, including: Independent Computer Exploration (ICE) for gifted computer users; Powers Users – a class for gifted technology users; and Video Production – advanced digital media study. Computer Independent Study and Video Independent Study, advanced applications for computers and software, are offered for high school students.

The great majority of parents/guardians, staff and students report that our students are cared about, helped and challenged. Great efforts are made to identify and support individual students with special needs. The use of technology is evident throughout the school. Students design and maintain their own website. Parents and students access current grades, daily assignments and daily schedules. Technology produced assignments are published to student websites.

Our students not only excel academically, but are also proficient in many other activities, including fine arts, athletics and after-school activity programs. The Jazz Band, Eagle Band, Camarata Orchestra and Cambiata Choir have earned numerous star ratings in state, regional and national competitions. Stillwater Junior High has Geography Bee, School Stock Market Club and Math League winners. Our school is a recognized International Peace site. Seventy-five percent of our students participate in after-school activities including: sports, drama, and music. Additional enrichment activities include a student news program – created, directed and produced by Independent Computer Study students and Summer Teeth – a literary publication of student poems, short stories and art.

“We moved to Stillwater because we knew the reputation of the elementary schools. What a gift to find that Stillwater Junior High School and the Senior High School were also rich with academic and extracurricular offerings to meet the unique needs and aspirations of our daughter and our son. As a parent, I’ve always appreciated knowing that the teachers and staff really know my children.”