North Star Academy (NSA) was established as an alternative high school in 1994 and became a Public School Academy, chartered by Northern Michigan University in 1997. Today NSA serves students of all academic abilities in grades k-12. Despite operating in a region of declining enrollment, school enrollment continues to grow and the school is seen as a viable ‘school of choice’.

The school is built on the Principles of the Coalition of Essential Schools (CES) and became an accredited member of CES in 2002. “Essential schools” share a set of ideas known as principles and seek to lower teacher’s student loads, personalize teaching and curriculum, and make students’ work the center of classroom activity. They award diplomas based on curriculum mastery not seat time. They aim to create an atmosphere of trust and respect for the school, faculty, students, and parents, and to model democratic practices and honor diversity.

In 2006, North Star Academy moved into a brand new facility located in Marquette. The building was designed and decorated by students-for students. It features classrooms whose size can be manipulated, wireless internet, and a colorful scheme. The building compliments the school’s goals to promote project based learning, teamwork and technology skills.