At the forefront of the meeting was a discussion on the Vantage program, which has grown in recent years and now involves over 620 students. This program is rooted in project-based learning, where students collaborate with local businesses and professionals to tackle real-world challenges. The program’s success was highlighted by student testimonials, which emphasized the value of mentorship and the confidence gained through these collaborative projects. A student remarked, “My mentor has been a huge help,” highlighting the role of professional guidance in enhancing the educational experience.

Another focal point was the Momentum program, which offers students a chance to explore skilled trades such as automotive and construction, fields often overlooked in traditional academic settings. The construction program, for example, integrates practical projects like building ice castles and sheds with mathematical concepts, providing students with tangible skills and a new perspective on career possibilities outside of college. One student shared their motivation for enrolling, stating, “I signed up for this course mainly for the hands-on experience and the real-world applications,” reflecting a growing interest in trade skills.

The meeting also addressed the significance of the Project Lead the Way initiative, which empowers high school students with practical design and engineering experiences. This program encourages students to engage in collaborative learning and explore a wide range of research interests. Through the Minnetonka Research program, students can pursue scientific inquiries, with one student detailing their project on “exploring how extrinsic motivation can help athletes push past their limits,” illustrating the program’s emphasis on student-driven inquiry.

Tonk online was another significant topic, offering students flexible online learning options while maintaining rigorous academic standards. This program, taught by Minnetonka teachers, allows students to accelerate their education, particularly during the summer months. New courses available through Tonk online were introduced, with promises to share detailed information via email.

With twelve counselors available, students receive assistance with everything from academic planning to social-emotional support. A counselor emphasized their role, saying, “We really focus on our number one goal is to be that trusted adult for them,” underscoring the importance of building supportive relationships. Recently, counselors have been conducting individual meetings with seniors to guide them through the post-secondary process and have begun assisting freshmen with their transition into high school.

As the meeting moved towards the topic of course registration, attention was given to the registration website, a vital tool for students and families to navigate course descriptions, eligibility, and graduation requirements. The Skipper Log was emphasized as a key resource, and the registration window was announced to open from February 10 to February 17. It was stressed that this process is not first-come, first-served; rather, staffing decisions will be made based on the requests submitted once registration closes.