Center for Geography Assessment

Specialties approved for Scholars of Distinction currently exist or are being developed in Applied Geography, Theater, Science and Mathematics.

Scholars of Distinction specialties are developed through partnerships of educators, businesses and others who know how to apply complex knowledge and skills to the real world. To earn this recognition, students must complete required work in Minnesota's High Standards in the Profile of Learning, demonstrate mastery of complex subject matter and apply their knowledge and skills on challenging projects. Students may choose to pursue one or more of these standards throughout all or part of their PK-12 education.

How does Scholars of Distinction fit with other advanced programs and with the High Standards?

The Scholars of Distinction program is one way for highly motivated students to fulfill some of Minnesota's new graduation requirements and enjoy additional opportunities for learning experiences and personal development not included in the High Standards. Unlike the Basic Standards and High Standards, this program is not required. The additional opportunities offered by Scholars of Distinction traditionally have been part of gifted and talented or honors programs. Unlike some of these programs, Scholars of Distinction is open to all students willing to commit the time, rigorous study and dedication that is required.

Districts, schools and students can choose whether to pursue any of the Scholars of Distinction specialties. Many schools already offer Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), College in the Schools or other advanced programs in areas addressed by Scholars of Distinction. These programs may be very beneficial in helping the students meet some of the requirements for a particular specialty.

Who is eligible to become a Scholar of Distinction?

As mentioned above, the Minnesota Scholars of Distinction initiative is open to all Minnesota high school students willing to commit the time, rigorous study and dedication required. To work towards becoming a Scholar of Distinction in Applied Geography, students should decide no later than the end of their 9th grade year in high school so that they will have enough time to prepare to become a Scholar of Distinction. Students should expect to fulfill the requirements of the Scholar of Distinction in Applied Geography specialty by or during their junior or senior year in high school.

How can students prepare to become Scholars of Distinction?

The handbook for each specialty details the requirements and also suggests ways in which students may gain and build the knowledge and skills necessary to meet those requirements. This handbook for the in Applied Geography lists many resources that foster enriched geographic learning in the PK-12 grades. The resources include school and community-based learning experiences and recommendations regarding practice and study. By successfully participating in a number of meaningful learning experiences over the years, the student builds a "pathway" to achieving the expertise needed to become a Scholar of Distinction.

What is earned by becoming a Scholar of Distinction?

In addition to gaining valuable knowledge and skills, other incentives for becoming a Minnesota Scholar of Distinction include a notation on a student's high school transcript of having achieved this honor and the possibility of receiving scholarships, college credit or advanced standing from colleges and universities. Other possibilities include a paid internship or some kind of reward.

How do students register?

Students seeking to participate in the Scholars of Distinction in Applied Geography program must complete a Declaration of Intent form available on paper or from the Center for Geography Assessment.

Contacts

For more information on the Minnesota Scholars of Distinction initiative, please contact: