35:10The meeting opened with a serious matter concerning an incident that occurred after the Wayzata High School graduation ceremony on May 30th. A shooting took place outside the 3M Arena at Maruchi, though the chairperson clarified that no evidence linked the incident to the graduation event or involved current or former Wayzata High School students. Superintendent Chace B. Anderson and Principal Scott Gangler had communicated with district families and staff to address the situation. The parent injured in the shooting was reported to be recovering, and graduates were commended for their conduct during the ceremony. The board acknowledged community concerns about certain behaviors during the event and assured that the high school administration would consider feedback for future improvements.

57:50Superintendent Anderson highlighted the Wayzata Education Fund’s efforts during the meeting, praising the volunteer board’s success in raising over $600,000 since its inception in 2003 to support educational enhancement through teacher grants. Co-chair Kelly Rean elaborated on the fund’s mission to enrich Wayzata public schools, noting that the current year’s grants, totaling over $80,000, marked the highest amount provided to date. The grants funded various projects, including new fitness equipment, specialized technology for special needs students, and even table tennis tables at Wayzata High School.

01:07:26Recognition of the Wayzata Inclusive Education Awards followed, with over 70 nominees acknowledged for their role in promoting inclusive education for students with disabilities. Director of Special Services Jenny Nyas spoke about the awards, which were established by the Wayzata Special Education Parent Advisory Committee. The awards honor staff members who contribute to fostering inclusive educational environments.

Several educators received individual recognition for their remarkable contributions to the district. Michaela Weiss, a developmental adaptive physical education teacher at West Middle School, was celebrated as a “trailblazer for inclusion,” having expanded a unified program from a single class to an initiative involving nearly 200 students. Her efforts in adapting equipment and modifying games for students with disabilities were particularly noted. Additionally, Weiss’s community involvement, including raising over $17,000 for the Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics Minnesota, was commended.

Lindsay Iikinlab, a special education teacher at Northwoods Elementary, was praised for her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and providing personalized support to students and families. Her dedication to adapting lessons and creating resources for families navigating educational transitions was highlighted by parents who described her as a crucial support system.

01:16:54The meeting also honored Chad Bartles, the athletic director at Wayzata Central Middle School, recognized as the Athletic Director of the Year by the Classic Lake Conference for his leadership in enhancing student opportunities and supporting coaches.

Sarah Gamik, named June Employee of the Month, was acknowledged for her student-centered approach at Meadow Ridge Elementary. Gamik expressed gratitude for the recognition, attributing her success to the supportive environment fostered by her principal and district leadership.

01:30:54Principal Karen Keler and students from Tamara Schultz’s fifth-grade class at Meadow Ridge Elementary shared a project reflecting on challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Students contributed stories, poems, and illustrations to a book project, expressing their experiences during remote learning. The project underscored the importance of storytelling and collaboration, with students reflecting on personal growth and resilience during the pandemic.

01:59:01Public comments included a middle school teacher voicing dissatisfaction with a new schedule, citing burnout and concerns about its impact on student learning. The teacher questioned the administration’s decision-making process and called for more transparent communication regarding teacher feedback.

02:02:14Concerns about the recent graduation ceremony were also raised by a parent, who advocated for changes to enhance security and organization. Suggestions included limiting ticket availability, implementing security checks, and closing venue doors 20 minutes after the ceremony begins.

02:04:10Financial discussions covered a report on the district’s financial health, with the director of finance noting fluctuations in federal funds and an increase in donations and student activity fees. A pre-sale report for a $5.5 million general obligation capital facilities bond was presented, highlighting the district’s favorable AAA credit rating and the absence of new taxes for property owners.