Center School

What is NAWAYEE Center School?

NAWAYEE Center School was a founding member of the Minneapolis Foundation of Alternative schools in the early 1970's. With a strong commitment to alternative education and serving American Indian youth, Center school evolved from an informal drop-in service to what it is today -- an alternative urban high school focusing on American Indian youth in grades 7 through 12. Since 1981, NAWAYEE Center School has received accreditation through the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges, the recognized governing body of public and private school certification. The majority of the school's Board of Directors are American Indian parents and professionals from the community.

Who attends NAWAYEE Center School?

The school is open to students 12 to 21 years old enrolled in grades 7 through 12 who have experienced problems within the regular school system. Primarily students are American Indian and are considered at risk under MN Statue 126.22. Minneapolis Public School personnel, parents, and community members may refer students. NA-WAY-EE is an Ojibwe term that means 'the center.'