Holdingford High School, located in Holdingford, Minnesota, serves as a central educational institution within the Holdingford Public School District. Catering to students from grades 7 through 12, the school is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement among its student body.
Location and Community
Nestled in Stearns County, Holdingford is a quaint city with a population of approximately 743 residents as of 2020. Known as the “Gateway to Lake Wobegon,” a nod to Garrison Keillor’s fictional town, Holdingford offers a picturesque setting that embodies the charm and close-knit atmosphere of rural Minnesota. The city’s commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in landmarks such as Minnesota’s longest covered bridge, a 186-foot structure built in 2008 along the Lake Wobegon Trail extension.
School Overview
Holdingford High School is part of Independent School District (ISD) No. 738 and proudly bears the nickname “Huskers,” with forest green and white as its school colors. The school is situated at 900 5th Street, PO Box 250, Holdingford, MN 56340-0250.
As of the 2023-2024 academic year, the school serves approximately 513 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 21.83. The school offers a comprehensive educational program aimed at preparing students for post-secondary success, emphasizing both academic rigor and extracurricular involvement.
Academic Performance
Holdingford High School is committed to academic excellence, with state test scores indicating that 40% of students are proficient in math and 50% in reading. The school boasts an average graduation rate of 92%, reflecting its dedication to student achievement. The curriculum is designed to challenge students while providing the necessary support to ensure their success.
Extracurricular Activities
Beyond academics, Holdingford High School offers a diverse array of extracurricular activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Athletic programs include baseball, softball, volleyball, football, basketball, tennis, swimming, track, wrestling, and cheerleading. These programs not only promote physical health but also instill values such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
The school is a member of the Central Minnesota Conference, competing alongside schools such as Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa High School, Eden Valley-Watkins High School, and Kimball Area High School. This affiliation provides students with opportunities to engage in interscholastic competitions, fostering both school spirit and camaraderie.
Community Engagement and Support
The Holdingford community plays an integral role in the success of its schools. The Holdingford Public School District serves over 1,000 students from Holdingford and the surrounding areas, benefiting from a supportive community, highly qualified staff, and a dedicated Board of Education. This collaborative environment ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that extends beyond the classroom.
Conclusion
Holdingford High School stands as a beacon of educational excellence within its community. Through a balanced emphasis on academics, extracurricular involvement, and community engagement, the school prepares its students to navigate the challenges of the future successfully. The unwavering support from the Holdingford community further enriches the educational experience, making Holdingford High School a place where students can truly thrive.