Quest was the first gifted/talented high school program approved for Saint Paul Schools as part of a desegregation effort. Designed and written by Central teachers in 1973, Quest is a Humanities honors program offering unique courses in a multigrade setting.

STUDY:
•Analysis and synthesis of ideas from a broad range of readings in literature and history
•College-level materials and a variety of learning styles
•New facts and philosophies to redefine and clarify who you are, what you think, and how you want to live.

SHARE:
•Full participation in classroom discussion and school
•Classes may include students in grades 9 through 12
•Combine group learning with individual pursuit of academic interest and artistic talents
•Celebrate diversity by the inclusion of all peoples and cultures
•Participation of students of color in a variety of ways including achievement of Cameron Blackmore Memorial Award
•Evaluation of idea, themes, and concepts through technology and writing

QUESTION:
•Using the Socratic Method, the interrelatedness and cross cultural implications of history, literature, philosophy, religion, science, and aesthetics
•Develop independence as learners and researchers
•Apply problem-solving, information-gathering, and critical thinking skills to issues, events, and other activities appropriate to an interdisciplinary humanities curriculum

CREATE:
•Emphasizes skills through writing essays, research papers, critical papers, and objective and subjective examinations
•Assess student performances through written and oral expression, art portfolios, dramatic performances, and debate

STUDENT BENEFITS:
•Participation in a humanities program for academically gifted, talented, and highly motivated students.
•Prepares students to take the college achievement tests: PSAT SAT and ACT.
•Fulfills the graduation requirements for English and Social Studies in grades nine through twelve.

HOW TO ENROLL:
There are no entrance requirements for Quest. When registering at Central, select Quest classes.

College in the Schools Program (CIS) is a partnership with the University of Minnesota, offering introductory-level U of M credit courses to advanced seniors and is taught during the regular school day at the students' own high school.

The CIS program at Central began in 1994. Central CIS teachers are specially trained in discussion leadership by University of Minnesota staff. Exams are administered according to University standards and students who do well may earn five credits from the University of Minnesota.

HOW TO ENROLL:
CIS courses are offered to seniors only and to those students who are ranked academically in the top 20% of their class. Exceptions are made for enrollment in the ELLclass. Ask your counselor about enrollment in the CIS classes.