St. Paul Public Schools Welcome Students Back with New Changes
As the new school year begins, students and parents in St. Paul Public Schools can expect to see several changes, including new district buildings, updated technology policies, and expanded programming options. The district has been working hard to improve the educational experience for its students, and these changes are just the beginning.
One of the most notable changes is the completion of two major construction projects: the remodeled Barack and Michelle Obama Montessori and Middle School and the new Bruce Vento Elementary School. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on September 25 for the Obama Montessori and Middle School, and on October 2 for the Bruce Vento Elementary School. The new buildings feature state-of-the-art facilities, including general learning spaces, gyms, cafeterias, media centers, art rooms, and administration offices.
New Construction and Technology Updates
The district has invested heavily in new construction, with 37 projects currently underway. The finished Obama Montessori and Middle School houses both the pre-kindergarten through 5th grade Montessori program and a new middle school, which will add a grade each year. The Bruce Vento Elementary School features a new 160,000-square-foot building, which will include an Early Childhood and Community Hub, offering childhood programming and community services.
In addition to the new buildings, the district has also adopted a district-wide cellphone policy, which states that personal electronic devices, such as cellphones and smartwatches, will not be permitted during school hours. High schools can have individualized plans, with some allowing cellphone use during non-instructional time. The district is also providing 38,000 new iPads to students and staff, and parents can now track the status of their students’ school bus using a GPS tracking app.
Expanded Programming and Leadership
The district is also expanding its programming options, including the Karen Language and Culture Program at Wellstone Elementary, which will now include first grade. The East African Magnet School has added a seventh grade and is expected to add eighth grade in a year. High school seniors will have the opportunity to earn credits toward an apprenticeship through a partnership with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49.
Eight St. Paul schools will have new principals this school year, including Amanda Herrera Gundale at Obama Middle School and Andrew Barter at L’Etoile du Nord French Immersion. Superintendent Stacie Stanley, who started last May, will be serving in her first full school year. Stanley, who grew up in St. Paul, previously was the superintendent for Edina Public Schools.
For more information on the changes and updates in St. Paul Public Schools, visit Here
Teacher Holly Souza high-fives a student on the first day of classes at the Barack & Michelle Obama Montessori and Middle schools in St. Paul on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025. (John Autey / Pioneer Press)
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