Our Authorizer

Held to the highest standards — independently authorized and evaluated by Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center.

Our Authorizer

Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center

Higher Ground Academy is authorized by Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center — Charter School Division. As a Minnesota public charter school, HGA is independently overseen by an authorized chartering organization that evaluates academic performance, financial health, and organizational quality. Osprey Wilds ensures that every school in its portfolio delivers a high-quality education, manages public funds responsibly, and operates with strong governance — so families can trust the school they choose.

2025–2030

Current contract

Since 1999

Continuously authorized

K–12

Full continuum

Understanding Authorization

What Is a Charter Authorizer?

In 1991, Minnesota became the first state in the nation to pass a charter school law, creating a new model of public education: charter schools receive the freedom to innovate in exchange for rigorous accountability for results. Every public charter school in Minnesota must be approved and continuously overseen by a state-approved authorizing organization.

The authorizer acts as the public's independent watchdog — evaluating whether the school is delivering on its promises to students, families, and the community. Osprey Wilds has served as HGA's authorizer since the school's founding in 1999, providing over 25 years of expert oversight, site-based evaluation, and partnership in continuous improvement.

The authorizer is responsible for:

  • Evaluating and approving the school's charter application and contract
  • Monitoring academic performance and student outcomes
  • Reviewing financial health and governance

Authorizer Contact

Osprey Wilds Charter School Division

Address
1730 New Brighton Blvd, Suite 104 PMB 196
Minneapolis, MN 55413
Phone (612) 331-4181
Email csdadmin@ospreywilds.org
Web ospreywilds.org/charter-school-division (opens in a new tab)

Authorizer documents — including the charter contract, renewal evaluation, and academic performance data — are available in the Document Library.