Eight elementary schools validated as 2019-2020 Minnesota Schools of Excellence:

Battle Lake Elementary School, Battle Lake Public School District, Principal/Superintendent Darren Kern

Breckenridge Elementary School, Breckenridge School District, Principal Corinna Erickson

Hermantown Elementary School, Hermantown Community School District, Principal Debra Reynolds

Mora Elementary School, Mora School District, Principals Randy Qual and Brenda Spartz

Shannon Park Elementary School, Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools, Principal Erik Davis

Viking Elementary School, Pelican Rapids Public Schools, Principal Derrick Nelson

Washington Elementary School, Cloquet Public Schools, Principal Robbi Mondati

Winfair Elementary School, Windom Public Schools, Principal Jamie Frank

“Through the Minnesota School of Excellence (SOE) program, grounded in national research on high-performing schools, MESPA has created the premier opportunity in the state for validating excellence and a commitment to continual growth in a school community,” said Jon Millerhagen, MESPA Executive Director. “This school improvement program examines the entire school community through six national standards, ensuring there is a holistic approach to creating a plan for future achievement and celebrating the unique accomplishments of each School of Excellence.”

Tami Staloch-Schultz, chair of the Minnesota School of Excellence Committee, said, “It takes commitment and teamwork to honestly and thoroughly assess areas of strength and at the same time identify a plan for continual growth. The SOE process asks the entire school community – parents, students, staff, administration, and more – to reflect on and celebrate the collaborative work being done in school communities. Schools that receive validation have had important data-driven conversations about what a high-quality, modern learning experience should be for all students and have plans to make that learning experience a reality for many years to come. Honoring the important work of dedicated staff, eager students, and supportive communities is an essential component of becoming a School of Excellence.”