Minnesota is home to many outstanding middle schools that focus on academic excellence, student support, and well-rounded development. Parents searching for the best middle schools in Minnesota often consider factors such as class size, teacher quality, academic performance, and enrichment opportunities. This curated list highlights top-ranked middle schools across the state, giving families reliable insights to make confident school choices.
Comparison Table – Best Middle Schools in Minnesota
| Rank | School Name | City | Grades | Students | Student–Teacher Ratio |
| #1 | Anthony Middle | Minneapolis | 6–8 | 334 | 21:1 |
| #2 | Sanford Middle | Minneapolis | 6–8 | 235 | 18:1 |
| #3 | RPS Online Middle School | Rochester | 7–8 | — | 9:1 |
| #4 | Global Arts Plus Upper | Saint Paul | 5–8 | 284 | 15:1 |
| #5 | Willow Creek Middle | Rochester | 6–8 | 336 | 18:1 |
| #6 | Anwatin Middle | Minneapolis | 6–8 | 93 | 13:1 |
| #7 | Farnsworth Aerospace Upper | Saint Paul | 5–8 | 220 | 13:1 |
| #8 | Franklin Middle | Minneapolis | 6–8 | 291 | 12:1 |
| #9 | Olson Middle | Minneapolis | 6–8 | 308 | 11:1 |
| #10 | Middle School Right Fit | Rochester | 6–8 | — | 7:1 |
1. Anthony Middle – Minneapolis
Address: 5757 Irving Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Ranking: #1 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 6–8
Students: 334
Student–Teacher Ratio: 21:1
Link: Visit this school
Anthony Middle is a public middle school serving grades 6–8 in Minneapolis. The school offers a balanced curriculum focused on core academics, critical thinking, and student engagement. With a structured learning environment and supportive staff, Anthony Middle helps students build strong foundations for high school success.
2. Sanford Middle – Minneapolis
Sanford Middle School serves students in grades 6–8 and is known for steady academic performance and a supportive school culture. The school emphasizes literacy, math, and science while encouraging creativity, collaboration, and responsible decision-making.
Address: 3524 42nd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Ranking: #2 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 6–8
Students: 235
Student–Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Link: Visit this school
3. RPS Online Middle School – Rochester
RPS Online Middle School is a district-run online school serving grades 7–8. The school offers flexible learning options, personalized instruction, and small class sizes, making it a great option for students who thrive in virtual environments.
Address: 2435 20th St SE, Rochester, MN 55904
Ranking: #3 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 7–8
Student–Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Link: Visit this school
4. Global Arts Plus Upper – Saint Paul
Global Arts Plus Upper serves grades 5–8 and combines strong academics with arts-focused learning. Students explore visual arts, music, and performance alongside core subjects in a creative and supportive environment.
Address: 810 Palace Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55102
Ranking: #4 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 5–8
Students: 284
Student–Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Link: Visit this school
5. Willow Creek Middle – Rochester
Willow Creek Middle School is part of Rochester Public Schools and serves grades 6–8. The school emphasizes academic growth, student responsibility, and extracurricular involvement to support well-rounded development.
Address: 2425 11th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904
Ranking: #5 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 6–8
Students: 336
Student–Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Link: Visit this school
6. Anwatin Middle – Minneapolis
Anwatin Middle School offers a close-knit learning environment with small class sizes. The school focuses on personalized instruction, academic success, and building positive relationships.
Address: 256 Upton Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55405
Ranking: #6 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 6–8
Students: 93
Student–Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Link: Visit this school
7. Farnsworth Aerospace Upper – Saint Paul
Farnsworth Aerospace Upper integrates aerospace and STEM themes into its curriculum. Students engage in hands-on learning, problem-solving, and project-based activities.
Address: 1000 Walsh St, Saint Paul, MN 55106
Ranking: #7 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 5–8
Students: 220
Student–Teacher Ratio: 13:1
Link: Visit this school
📚 Historical & Interesting Facts
- Minnesota has a long tradition of strong public education.
- Many middle schools emphasize STEM and arts integration.
- Online and alternative middle schools are growing in popularity.
8. Franklin Middle – Minneapolis
Franklin Middle School provides strong academic programs and supportive teaching. The school focuses on preparing students for high school through consistent instruction and enrichment activities.
Address: 1501 Aldrich Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Ranking: #8 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 6–8
Students: 291
Student–Teacher Ratio: 12:1
Link: Visit this school
9. Olson Middle – Minneapolis
Olson Middle School offers a nurturing environment with small class sizes. Teachers emphasize academic growth, student engagement, and positive behavior.
Address: 1607 51st Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55430
Ranking: #9 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 6–8
Students: 308
Student–Teacher Ratio: 11:1
Link: Visit this school
10. Middle School Right Fit – Rochester
Middle School Right Fit serves a small number of students and offers highly personalized instruction. The school focuses on individualized learning plans and strong teacher support.
Address: 1200 Broadway Ave S, Rochester, MN 55904
Ranking: #10 Middle School in Minnesota
Grades: 6–8
Student–Teacher Ratio: 7:1
Link: Visit this school
Conclusion
The best middle schools in Minnesota provide high-quality academics, supportive teachers, and engaging programs that help students thrive. This list can guide families in selecting a school that best matches their child’s needs.
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FAQs
Anthony Middle currently ranks #1.
Ratios below 20:1 are generally considered good.
Yes, for students who prefer flexible learning environments.
Many schools integrate STEM and arts into their curriculum.
Consider academics, class size, location, and school culture.
