Greenway High School, located in Coleraine, Minnesota, is a public secondary institution serving students from grades 5 through 12. As part of Independent School District 316, it caters to a diverse student body from various communities, including LaPrairie, Coleraine, Bovey, Taconite, Marble, Calumet, Pengilly, Trout Lake Township, Iron Range Township, Greenway Township, Lawrence Lake Township, and Nashwauk Township.
History and Campus Development
Established in 1919, Greenway High School was named after John Campbell Greenway, a notable mining engineer and U.S. Senator. The original building, completed in 1922, featured advanced facilities for its time, including a pool, cafeteria, hospital rooms, and a motion picture room. Over the years, the campus underwent significant expansions:
- 1957: Addition of a new gymnasium and music rooms.
- 2012: Integration of grades 6-9 from the closing of Connor-Jasper Middle School, leading to the construction of a new cafeteria that doubles as a gymnasium.
These developments reflect the school’s commitment to adapting to the evolving educational needs of its community.
Academic Programs
Greenway High School offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for both college and vocational pursuits. The school provides Advanced Placement (AP) courses and opportunities for post-secondary enrollment at nearby institutions like Itasca Community College. Recent initiatives have introduced classes focusing on career pathways in education, healthcare, and business, emphasizing practical skills and real-world applications.
Student Demographics and Performance
With an enrollment of approximately 320 students in grades 9-12, Greenway High School maintains a student-teacher ratio of 14:1. State test scores indicate that 37% of students achieve proficiency in math, while 67% are proficient in reading. The school is ranked 156th within Minnesota, with a total minority enrollment of 20%, and 57% of students identified as economically disadvantaged.
Extracurricular Activities and Athletics
The school’s athletic teams, known as the Greenway Raiders, don the colors green and white. They participate in various sports under the Minnesota State High School League, fostering school spirit and community engagement. The school song, “Hail Greenway,” echoes the pride and tradition of the institution.
Community and Culture
Greenway High School serves as a central hub for its surrounding communities, offering educational and cultural events that unite residents. The school’s mission emphasizes creating a safe, diverse educational environment that equips learners with lifelong skills, encouraging independent thinking and respectful actions in a changing society.
Conclusion
Greenway High School exemplifies a dedication to academic excellence, community involvement, and the holistic development of its students. Through its rich history, diverse programs, and commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment, it continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of its students and the broader community.