The meeting opened with Superintendent David Law introducing Molly Bonamin, the coordinator of Minnetonka Preschool, Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE), and Junior Explorers. Bonamin, with nine years of experience in the district, described the program’s robust staffing, including licensed teachers in all classrooms, which she affirmed enhances the learning environment for young children. Parent Mary Cornelius shared her own experiences, emphasizing the integral role the program played in her children’s development, especially during the challenges posed by the pandemic.

A key topic was the program’s structure, which accommodates varying schedules to suit family needs. Bonamin detailed how the program operates from 6:30 AM to 6 PM. This structure aims to provide a seamless experience, avoiding the fragmentation seen in other early education models. The program’s staffing ensures a favorable adult-to-child ratio. In classrooms where children receive special education services, additional adult support is provided.

The meeting also underscored the distinction between ECFE and the preschool program. ECFE, a state-funded initiative, supports parents as their children’s primary educators, offering activities that bolster early learning through play. Cornelius praised the ECFE program for the community and support it provided, particularly during the pandemic’s difficult days. She highlighted the importance of building a network among parents in similar life stages, which the program facilitates through weekly classes designed for different age groups.

In a move to further enrich the preschool curriculum, the Minnetonka School Board announced the introduction of a STEAM-focused class. This new offering will be available three afternoons a week and aims to integrate the core STEAM disciplines into the preschool curriculum, fostering early interest and skills in these areas.

The board addressed the demand for specialized preschool classes, such as true preschool and Spanish immersion, noting their popularity and limited availability. These specialty classes fill quickly, often leading to waiting lists. The new STEAM class is expected to attract similar interest. While efforts are made to accommodate demand by creating additional sections when possible, logistical constraints limit expansion. The board encouraged parents to attend the upcoming open house to learn more about these offerings.

The open house is scheduled for Saturday, January 25th, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. It will include presentations at 9:45 and 10:45 a.m. to provide an overview of the preschool program and answer registration-related questions. Parents are advised to prepare for the online registration process, which begins on Thursday, January 30th, at 7:30 a.m. Due to the competitive nature of securing spots in specialty classes, parents are encouraged to set up their Leo accounts ahead of time to streamline registration.

Additionally, the board discussed the enrichment classes available as part of the preschool and ECFE programs. These classes offer preschool-age students opportunities to engage in activities such as Spanish, art, athletics, dance, and soccer during the school day. Staff facilitate these activities. Parents have expressed appreciation for the Junior Explorers team, noting the consistency and support provided by the staff, which contributes to a welcoming environment for children.

The Minnetonka Community Education Center, located on Vine Hill Road, serves as the hub for the preschool, ECFE, and Junior Explorers programs. The facility, adjacent to Deep Haven Elementary School, includes features that enhance the educational experience, such as designated gym space, a motor room, and an outdoor classroom. The outdoor classroom is particularly beneficial for the nature preschool class, which utilizes the surrounding wooded area for exploration.