Saint Paul, Minnesota
American Indian Magnet School
American Indian Magnet School is a PreK-8 with a teaching approach rooted in American Indian culture, traditions, values, history, and art. Cuningham’s remodel and expansion helps the school advance its pedagogical mission and align with a district-wide commitment to culturally aware, flexible learning environments by thoughtfully integrating nature, cultural connections, and community-focused spaces.
Designed to reflect First Nations' connection to nature, each floor in the new school represents an ecosystem—from earth and water on the main level, through prairie and forest, to the sky at the top. As students advance grades, they progress through these evolving ecosystems, mirroring their educational journey. On each level, the incorporation of natural materials, abundant daylight, and outdoor learning areas creates direct connections to nature while fostering well-being and creativity.
The Circle Space, redesigned to resemble a ceremonial lodge, serves as both a cafeteria and a community welcoming area for events and ceremonies. In addition, the school’s main media center is now connected to the remodeled Long House, a cultural heart where the community can gather for ceremonies, song, and dance. This space is further bolstered by a dedicated suite for community partners who provide essential services for the school’s students and families.
Other reimagined program areas include two new media centers, inclusive changing rooms, a dedicated motor room, and a makerspace that provides essential resources for education and cultural preservation, allowing students and community members to engage in both traditional and modern learning practices.
Client: Saint Paul Public Schools
Size: 131,600 Square Feet
Scope: Renovation, Addition
Services: Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Master Planning
Delivery Method: Construction Manager as Adviser
Key Project Contacts:
Immersed in Nature
Located near the culturally significant Mounds Park and Mississippi River, Cuningham’s remodel strengthens the school’s connection between these two landscapes by fostering opportunities for students and staff to engage with and learn from the surrounding nature.
Native plant materials are cultivated by students, staff, and community. Maple trees at the school’s entrance can be tapped by students in the spring, while a grove of birch trees and native prairie plantings—including little bluestem, sweet grass, and sage—extend down the sloped site. Once established, the native prairie will require only limited amounts of water and fertilizers while helping stormwater infiltrate into the ground. Walkways passing through the prairie allow visitors to experience the striking landscape, which also includes a creek that flows from the interior of the school to the outdoor circle classroom.
"More than thirty years ago the district established the American Indian Magnet School at this site, but not until now has its vision been fully realized. At every turn, we see Native culture reflected and respected."
Julie Downwind
Principal, American Indian Magnet School
