Nerstrand Elementary School

The Little School by the Big Woods in Nerstrand, Minnesota

Nerstrand Elementary School, is a k-5 Charter School located in the rural community of Nerstrand, MN, a short distance from the Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. Geographically situated within the triangle formed by the communities of Faribault, Northfield, and Kenyon, our story is unlike that of any other Minnesota charter school. After a unanimous vote of the entire staff in March of 1999, we became the first official "Conversion Charter School" in our state. Having been established in 1887-88, Nerstrand School has celebrated its 125th year of operation -- first as its own district, then as part of the Faribault District, and now as our own Charter District #4055.

A strong sense of tradition continues to thrive at Nerstrand School, where we celebrate relationships with our community members and take great pride in what makes our school special. We are very proud of the academic accomplishments of our students over a long period of time. We have strong programs in reading, language arts, and mathematics that help our students realize success in the curricular areas of science, social studies, and technology – just to name a few. We also embrace a strong commitment to the teaching and appreciation of the visual arts.

Our Mission: Nerstrand Elementary School will empower students to be self-directed, lifelong learners by providing a nurturing, multiage environment which fosters cooperation and character development.

The possibilities are limitless and are sure to infuse enthusiasm and excitement for learning in our classrooms.  Thank you for any donation you might be able to make to support the teaching and learning at our special school – The Little School by the Big Woods in Nerstrand, Minnesota!