Episode Details

It's graduation season across Minnesota, and for many students, walking across the stage represents years of hard work, support and perseverance.

At North High School in Minneapolis, Friday's commencement comes with another reason to celebrate. Just a few years ago, the school's graduation rate lagged more than 20 points behind the state average. Today, according to Minneapolis Public Schools, North is on track to meet or may even exceed state benchmarks. It’s a dramatic turnaround that school leaders say reflects years of investment in students and staff. North High School’s principal, Mauri Friestleben, talked to MPR News host Nina Moini about the change.