Minnetonka Public Schools continues to be a destination for students seeking educational opportunities outside their resident districts, with the latest Open Enrollment Report revealing a substantial net gain in student population. Hundreds of students from neighboring communities have chosen Minnetonka, bolstering enrollment figures across various school levels, most notably at Minnetonka High School and Minnetonka Middle School West.

The report detailed Minnetonka's appeal, particularly to families in nearby districts. A significant 1,367 students opted to open enroll into Minnetonka from Hopkins, while another 1,039 students joined from Eastern Carver County. The district also welcomed students from further afield, including Blue Earth, Fridley, South Washington, Northfield, and Red Wing.

At the elementary level, Minnetonka experienced varied open enrollment trends. Excelsior saw the highest rise in overall elementary enrollment, coupled with a significant increase in kindergarten enrollment. Deephaven and Scenic Heights also reported notable increases in kindergarten open enrollment. Conversely, some elementary schools observed slight decreases in kindergarten open enrollment, including Groveland, Minnewashta, and Clear Springs. Overall elementary enrollment, however, increased at Groveland, Excelsior, and Deephaven.

Growth wasn't limited to specific grades. Minnetonka High School experienced an overall enrollment increase, with its Tonka Online program also seeing growth, including through open enrollment. Immersion programs remained attractive, with a slight increase in Chinese immersion at Minnetonka Middle School East and a slight increase in Spanish immersion at Minnetonka Middle School West. Minnetonka Middle School West saw a significant overall enrollment increase, while Minnetonka Middle School East's enrollment was slightly down.

While Minnetonka gains students, the broader open enrollment landscape shows movement in other districts. For instance, over 2,009 students open enroll elsewhere from Hopkins, and approximately 3,097 school-aged children open enroll elsewhere from Eastern Carver County, illustrating a dynamic environment where families actively seek educational options.

During the same meeting where the Open Enrollment Report was presented, district officials also addressed other significant matters, including the approval of a collective bargaining agreement with Minnetonka Custodial and Maintenance Employees. While not directly related to student enrollment figures, these discussions underscored the district's broader commitment to its workforce, which leaders suggested contributes to the overall positive environment within the schools.