June 16 Special School Board Meeting summary
The meeting was preceded by a study session. The board reviewed progress on goals it set for 2004-05 and discussed the many which were met by Dr. Peterson and the district; one item discussed was the district's comprehensive written vision and how staff, administration, board and public awareness of it are helping to shape district progress. This discussion continues June 30 when the board meets for the Superintendent's annual review.
Mini-School Discussion
Dave Adney, Principal at MHS answered questions about Mini School (a school within MHS for students unable to succeed in typical classroom settings). Mr. Adney emphasized that Mini School students are not academically deficient; they are different learners. He also pointed out that by high school, educators are reactive to kids' learning issues; reaching kids in grades 5-8 would be proactive. Discussion about some of the ways the board can support students served by Mini School; more discussions and plans to follow.
Review of parts of the 2004 Student Survey
The Board reviewed the 2004 MN Student Survey data on issues such as school climate, truancy, health, activities, computer use (6th, 9th & 12th graders) and sexual behavior (9th & 12th graders). The data on alcohol/drug use and attitudes was reviewed earlier this year. Some numbers: 99% girls/96% boys of Minnetonka 6th graders expect to go on to college and/or graduate school. Bill Wenmark said all the percentages were interesting, but were there any numbers for pregnancies and abortions or kids who identify themselves as homosexual? The answer was No, and Mr. Wenmark didn't say why he was asking. The Board will discuss the data further; no timeline has been set. The survey seemed to show Minnetonka kids are generally healthy, happy and productive. More information on the survey is available from Imogen Davis or the Minnetonka Family Collaborative.
The Pier student center at MHS
Tim Litfin and Meg Low of MCES talked about changes at The Pier, the after-hours student center at MHS; the Board affirmed their support for it, and for students taking a greater part in running it.
End of study session.
Board Meeting: All members present except Dave Eaton, who was on vacation.
Aa1 Bond rating
Tom Berge, district finance director, explained the district's AA1 Bond rating. A roomful of applause at this announcement! The district built the budget without counting on an increase in state aid (as of this writing, the special session has not produced a state budget).
New Elementary Report Card
Claudia Risnes, district director of teaching, presented the new elementary report card. There were many comments written by teachers in support of the changes, and it's expected that this will better communicate progress to parents, as well as point out weaker areas sooner.
Student/Parent Handbook
The Board reviewed the almost-completed new Student/Parent Handbook, but decided to wait until July 7 to vote for adoption of it; board members suggested several clarifications. Once approved, the entire document will be on the district web site, with links, and hard copies will be available to those who need them. Expected vote: July 7
World Language Texts adopted
The Board voted unanimously to adopt World Language textbooks for Grade 8 after some discussion. Mr. Wenmark said he missed something when the books were presented and did this line up with the pre-IB curriculum? Claudia Risnes explained that pre-IB is not a curriculum, but a term educators sometimes use to mean students will be capable of rigorous assessments in high school; World Language teachers at MHS requested these texts for 8th grade because they will prepare students for very focused second language skills - speaking, writing, reading literature.
Science texts
The Board had a first look at science textbooks for 6th grade and for 9X Physical Science. These books are on view at the District Service Center during normal business hours through July 7.
To contact members of the School Board with comments or questions, e-mail schoolboard@minnetonka.k12.mn.us
Check the district web site www.bb.minnetonka.k12.mn.us for information to contact individual board members.