Willow River Area School ISD #577

Willow River Area School District has a long history of serving the educational needs of its community, dating back to 1890. Over the years, the district has changed locations and ISD numbers, constructed new buildings, and consolidated several times with other small schools in neighboring communities. We take pride in representing the communities of Willow River, Sturgeon Lake, Rutledge & Denham.

In 1984, Moose Lake and Willow River school districts consolidated athletic teams to ensure that both districts had enough student-athletes to remain competitive in high school sports. The relationship between the two districts continues today and the Moose Lake-Willow River Rebels have become the longest-running athletic cooperative in the state of Minnesota.

• PreK-12 in one building
  

• Average Preschool Class Size: 15
  

• Average Elementary Class Size:
  

• Average High School Class Size:
  

View Willow River Area School's MDE Report Card Here.

Willow River is located one hour South of Duluth and 1 1/2 hours North of the Twin Cities along I-35. Our school focuses on setting high standards for student success in academics, athletics, community service and human development. We strive to accomplish this by providing opportunities for students to generate ideas and be involved in interactive lessons; thus allowing them to practice skills that will help them to become life long learners.

We often hear from incoming families that the culture in our school, "just seems different," but they can't specify what exactly "it" is. We think this has a lot to do with the Top 20 Social and Emotional Learning mindset that is implemented throughout our building. It’s no secret that the power of thought plays an essential role in everything from personal success and happiness to global outcomes. We strive to demonstrate this Top 20 mindset through example to our students, while also utilizing Restorative Practices to better communicate with peer groups.

To learn more about the use of Restorative Practices and group talking circles in schools, please go here.