Educational Equity

Every three years, South St. Paul Public Schools develops an Achievement and Integration (A&I) Plan in partnership with students, staff, families, and community members.

The purpose of Minnesota's Achievement and Integration program is to:

• Increase student achievement
• Expand equitable educational opportunities
• Reduce opportunity and achievement disparities
• Promote meaningful integration and inclusion

Our A&I Plan helps guide district initiatives that support student belonging, engagement, achievement, and access to opportunities.

View the South St. Paul Public Schools Achievement and Integration Plan (coming soon)

We believe students should see themselves reflected in their schools and have opportunities to share their experiences and perspectives.

Student Affinity Groups

Student affinity groups provide spaces where students can build connections, celebrate identity, develop leadership skills, and foster a sense of belonging within the school community.

These groups support student engagement while helping schools better understand and respond to student experiences.

Student Advisory Opportunities

Students participate in advisory groups and leadership opportunities that provide input on school climate, student experiences, district initiatives, and educational opportunities.

Student voice is an essential part of continuous improvement and decision-making throughout the district.

Strong partnerships with families and community members are critical to student success.

Cultural Liaisons

Our Cultural Liaisons help build relationships between schools and families by:

• Supporting communication between home and school
• Assisting families in navigating school systems
• Providing translation and interpretation services
• Reducing language and cultural barriers
• Connecting families with resources and support

Translation and Interpretation Services

South St. Paul Public Schools provides translation and interpretation services to ensure families can fully participate in their child's education and district programs.

Family Advisory Opportunities

Families have opportunities to provide feedback, share perspectives, and partner with district leaders through advisory groups and engagement opportunities.

American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC)

The American Indian Parent Advisory Committee provides guidance and recommendations regarding programs, services, and educational experiences that support American Indian students and families.

The committee serves as an important partner in promoting student success, cultural responsiveness, and meaningful family engagement.

We celebrate the linguistic and cultural assets that students and families bring to our schools.

Programs and services include:

• English Learner services and support
• Translation and interpretation services
• Spanish-speaking classes and learning opportunities
• Family education programming
• Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)
• Community Education programs that support lifelong learning and family engagement

These opportunities help strengthen connections between families, schools, and the broader community.

We are committed to ensuring all students have access to challenging, engaging, and supportive learning experiences.

Equity and Instructional Coaches

Equity and Instructional Coaches work alongside teachers and school leaders to strengthen instructional practices, support culturally responsive teaching, and improve outcomes for all students.

Federal Programs (Title Programs)

Federal Title programs provide additional resources and support to ensure students have access to high-quality educational opportunities.

These programs support:

• Academic achievement
• Literacy development
• Multilingual learners
• Family engagement
• Professional learning for educators

Creating equitable learning environments requires ongoing learning and reflection.

District staff engage in professional learning focused on:

• Inclusive and culturally responsive practices
• Building strong relationships with students and families
• Supporting belonging and engagement
• High-quality instructional practices
• Understanding and addressing barriers to student success

South St. Paul Public Schools is committed to maintaining learning environments that are safe, welcoming, and free from discrimination and harassment.

District policies and procedures guide our work in promoting equity, access, inclusion, and educational opportunity for all students.

Board Policies

The School Board establishes policies that support:

• Educational equity
• Nondiscrimination
• Student rights and responsibilities
• Family engagement
• Cultural responsiveness
• Safe and inclusive learning environments

Assurance of Compliance

The district complies with all applicable federal and state civil rights laws and educational requirements designed to protect students and ensure equitable access to educational opportunities.

View district policies and compliance information (coming soon)