The college-preparatory curriculum at ISM teaches mastery of problem solving, critical thinking, and creative expression. This prepares our students to change the world and to prepare them to take the leap to post-secondary university experiences and careers.
We believe that every student has the potential to develop into a well-rounded individual who is capable of mastering the skills that are essential to achieving success in an ever-changing world. We strive to offer students a premier education paralleled with healthy and nurturing environment that will effectively equip them with the tools they need in their pursuit of excellence in college, university, and beyond. Join us at The International School of Minnesota.
About Our High School
ISM is committed to preparing students for success in college, life, and in the global economy of the future. Rigorous academics, robust leadership opportunities, and an inclusive school 
community also prepare students for success in national exams that are vital to college acceptance. In the ISM High School, abstract reasoning and critical thinking skills are emphasized in all disciplines. Our classes include a broad base of traditional academic subjects and reflect the knowledge that college requires. ISM also prepares all students for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), the American College Test (ACT), and the very demanding Advanced Placement® Tests of the College Board.
Our curriculum is structured to provide the prerequisites for our Advanced Placement® (AP®) exams. These standardized exams are subject-specific and are typically taken by fewer than 20% of American High School seniors. At ISM, over 90% of all juniors and seniors are enrolled in AP® courses. Our students take an average of 5 AP® Exams and nearly 50% of ISM students are recognized as AP® Scholars with distinction as compared to the national average of 17%.
2023 AP® Exams Results
100% SENIORS TOOK AT LEAST
ONE AP® EXAM DURING
HIGH SCHOOL
50% SENIORS TOOK
FIVE OR MORE
AP® EXAMS
100% SENIORS SCORED A
THREE OR HIGHER ON AT
LEAST ONE AP® EXAM
28% AP® SCHOLARS
WITH
DISTINCTION
20% AP® SCHOLARS
Advanced Placement Course Offerings
- Biology
- Calculus AB
- Calculus BC
- Chemistry
- Chinese Language & Culture
- Computer Science A
- Drawing
- English Language & Composition
- English Literature & Composition
- Environmental Sciences
- European History
- French Language & Culture
- Government & Politics: United States
- Human Geography
- Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism
- Physics C: Mechanics
- Psychology
- Spanish Language & Culture
- Statistics
New students who need additional academic support are offered additional assistance in the form of peer tutoring, study groups, and/or homework clubs on as-needed basis.
Curriculum Highlights
English
Students are learning to engage in higher-level literary analysis of a variety of genres while also building vocabulary and expanding knowledge of the writing process. Literature is explored through a lens of history and social condition to increase awareness and understanding. Students engage in various modes and strategies of exploration, argumentation, description, and narration. AP® English courses prepare students for AP® exams, while also cultivating reading and writing skills needed for college success.
Math
Our math curriculum includes a foundation of integrated math, which explores equations, radical expressions, geometry, and statistics. This includes instruction on reviewing and analyzing different representations of data. Students also take more advanced courses in pre-calculus, calculus, business statistics, and math. There are several AP® math courses available to challenge students while paving the path to earning college credit and continued academic achievement.
Social Studies
The High School social studies curriculum begins with a detailed study of United States History from the mid-19th century to the 1940’s, moving onto World Civilizations, and then Government and Politics. Students are being taught to examine arguments and controversies over memorizing important dates and names. Further study includes European History, Art History, Philosophy, and Geography. Elective course options in social studies allow students to further explore areas of interest from current affairs to a survey course titled America in WWII.
Science
ISM students take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, and environmental science. Throughout their studies, students apply the scientific method through the broad scope of inquiry. Practical and historical context of a particular discovery are also considered while also evaluating the relationship between science and humanities. Students are encouraged to provide their own perspectives and insights. They are taught both practical and theoretical aspects of science while developing a logical framework and heightened problem-solving skills. Emphasis is also placed on understanding the impact of science on every day activities in the world and in the students’ individual lives.
World Language
The importance of world language is reflected in daily language instruction of Spanish, French, or Chinese, from instructors who are native speakers. As a result, students become functionally bilingual by graduation. Language instruction includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking while also learning about culture.
Computer Science
Our goal for this program is to ensure that all students attain an excellent understanding of computer and network technologies and how to use them. By providing a conceptual understanding of the technology, students are positioned to gain a sustained ability to use current computer applications while also understanding future versions and advancements. Computer science subjects promote and improve important skills and abilities such as critical thinking, planning, problem solving, organization, and communication. Students also have an opportunity to learn web design and programming, Photoshop, and AP® computer science.
To ensure a well-rounded education, students also engage in the following areas of study:
ISM Graduation Requirements
All students at The International School of Minnesota are required to complete 26 credits in grades 9-12 to be eligible for graduation. English, math, and world language are taught daily and are mandatory. In addition, students are required to earn a minimum of 3 credits each in science and social studies during the four years of high school (grades 9-12). Fine arts, music, computer, and physical education courses are also required for graduation.
Graduation Requirement Summary
- 4 years of English
- 4 years of Math
- 4 years of World Language (or completion of AP class)
- 3 years of Science (including Biology)
- 3 courses of Social Studies (Including US History/Government, 2 courses)
- 3 courses of Fine Arts
- 2 courses of Computer Science
- 2 years of Physical Education & Health
