Welcome to St. Cloud Area Schools. Whether you are a longtime member of our school community or new to our district, we are glad you’re part of the 742 family. Here, we care for one another and nurture the unique gifts of each student. We are committed to ensuring your child is successful academically and well prepared for life in a global society.

At St. Cloud Area Schools, students enjoy the widest variety of options and opportunities available in central Minnesota. We are proud to offer K-12 Spanish and Chinese Language Immersion and an elementary Talent Development program. These early learning pathways lead to middle-level honors programming, over 20 Advanced Placement courses and more than 20 College in the Schools classes for grades 9-12. We provide a rigorous, relevant high school education through Career and College Academies. Students can explore career options in partnership with local employers or concentrate in an area of their choice, graduating with a certification in the business, healthcare, food service or trades industry.

We take great pride in our music and fine arts programs and the wide range of activities available beginning in middle school. Leaders of tomorrow require a well-rounded education, and we offer opportunities in visual, media and theater arts, dance, band, orchestra, and choir. Our athletic and activities programs are robust, and we encourage every student to join one or more extracurricular opportunity. 

St. Cloud Area Schools provides unparalleled global learning experiences, from multiple languages to innovative technology, preparing students with the skills employers—and the future—demand. We also believe that the greatest level of individual success is achieved through shared ownership, and we are committed to partnering with families and community to provide the highest quality education for our students.

I invite you to join me this year at one of my monthly Coffee and Conversations, school events, or a community gathering. Let’s get to know one another! I also encourage you to take a personal tour of our schools to see all that we have to offer.

We are 742 Together!

Dr. Laurie Putnam
Superintendent, St. Cloud Area School District 742