City of Loretto: Schools & District 879 -

Loretto, Minnesota is a school district that is a member of the Delano Public Schools area, district 879. This District states that education is their foremost goal. This smaller district allows for smaller class sizes that contribute to each student’s individual learning habits. This district serves many neighboring cities such as Corcoran, Independence, Loretto, Maple Plain, Medina, Minnetrista, Montrose, Watertown, and the city of Delano. This district is the district of choice because Delano Public Schools are recognized for the quality of their academic programs. The district enrolls around 2,300 students each year. The average ACT test score is at 24.2, which is higher than the state average of 23. Overall, this district manages to remain in the top 1% in the state for average test scores. During the 2014-15 school year, Google Education was implemented. Google Education enhanced the digital learning environment and opportunity by encouraging collaboration between teachers and students. Delano Elementary, Delano Middle and Delano High School, the only three public schools in the district, are located on one campus.

Delano Elementary (DES) serves almost 900 students in grades K-4th. Delano Elementary School’s mission is to educate individuals to be lifelong learners, possessing the skills, knowledge, creativity, sense of self-worth, and citizenship necessary to function and flourish in a rapidly changing society. All of the programs are created to help each child succeed academically, which is the main focus of every school in the district. DES also has integrated technology in ways that enhance the students learning. The school also has no shortage of awards. They were one of six schools in the state to be designated a “2013 National Blue Ribbon School for Educational Excellence” by the U.S. Department of Education. DES was named as a Reward School by the Minnesota Department of Education for performing in the top 15% of elementary schools in Minnesota in 2012 and 2013. This school is trusted by local parents to provide the best education for their children.

Serving 5th-8th graders, Delino Middle School (DMS) enrolls around 750 students. DMS was the only school in the state to receive a “National Blue Ribbon School” in 2003. In 2012, DMS received national recognition for its “Gateway to Technology”. Understanding the importance of this phase of life, Delano Middle School’s mission is to work in partnership with the community to create a climate of success for all learners with a focus on nurturing students’ social and emotional development in addition to continuous academic growth. “Where Everybody Belongs” is a program that makes sure that 5th graders feel welcomed every year, and do not feel like they have no place. Because of programs like this, the unity at this school is outstanding.

Delano High School (DHS) is a 9th-12th grade school with an enrollment of close to 730 students. Delano High School is a caring community committed to achieving academic excellence, responsible leadership, and consistent integrity. DHS also has been named for several rewards in recent years. As the first school in MN to receive the award, Delano High School was named as a “Model School” by the International Center for Leadership in Education in 2007 and again in 2010. Also it was named a 2009 “National Blue Ribbon School for Educational Excellence”. DHS has been recognized as one of the best high schools in the country by U.S. World News and Report and Newsweek magazines. “Link Crew” is a program that makes sure that freshmen feel welcomed each and every year, and much like that of the middle school, this results in a wonderful school community.