Phalen Lake Hmong Studies Magnet

Phalen Lake Hmong Studies Magnet is a regional magnet and an official Core Knowledge school. Hmong Studies encompasses culture, language and literacy development. Through in-depth units of study, students learn about the culture, history, traditions, literature and art of the Hmong people. Students develop a framework for learning about cultures and grow in their capacity for cross-cultural understanding. Students acquire critical skills needed to become full participants in a global society. The Core Knowledge Program offers an interdisciplinary approach for students to learn by teaching specified curriculum in history, geography, science and the arts. Through topics in this rigorous curriculum, students learn about the many cultures of the world, from ancient civilizations through the cultural diversity represented here at Phalen Lake and within our greater St. Paul community. Phalen Lake's partnerships with the East Side Arts Council, The Hmong Cultural Center, Center for Hmong Studies, and Hmong Archives provide a culturally diverse group of guest artists and resources to further enrich Core Knowledge and Hmong Studies topics.

Phalen Lake will be a Minnesota Reading Corps site for the 2009-10 school year. Parents are valued as partners and serve in a variety of leadership roles at Phalen Lake. Furthermore, additional resources and tutors are provided by community partnerships including the University of Minnesota, 3M, Hill Murray High School, Metropolitan State University, Hamline University, and Century College. These tutors and volunteers are organized through our Americorps VISTA Volunteer Coordinator.

Phalen Lake's Mission: Phalen Lake Hmong Studies Magnet provides a premier education for all students focusing on:

• High achievement
• Meaningful connections
• Respectful environment

Phalen Lake's Vision: At Phalen Lake Hmong Studies Magnet, we will:

• Inspire, challenge and care for all students
• Engage the community in active learning and thoughtful reflection
• Create an environment that welcomes, respects and values all families