StoryOpening of School Report (Enrollment and Staffing Update)October 23, 2026

Minnetonka Schools Report Strong Enrollment Growth, Key Staffing Investments for New Academic Year

The Minnetonka Public School District welcomed students with increasing numbers across several schools and solidified commitments to its dedicated staff as classes resumed.

Published Oct 23, 2026

Minnetonka Public Schools has commenced the new academic year with a report of overall enrollment growth across several levels and a renewed commitment to its staff, as detailed in a recent district update. While some schools experienced minor shifts, the district noted significant increases in student numbers at the high school and specific elementary and middle school locations, further solidifying its position as a destination for area families.

High school enrollment saw an increase at Minnetonka High School, accompanied by growth in the Tonka Online program and Chinese/Spanish immersion courses. At the middle school level, Minnetonka Middle School West recorded a significant enrollment increase, contrasting with a slight decrease at Minnetonka Middle School East, though the latter saw a minor uptick in Chinese immersion students. Elementary schools presented a varied picture, with Excelsior Elementary experiencing the highest rise in enrollment and a significant increase in kindergarten students. Groveland and Deephaven also reported elementary enrollment increases, with Deephaven noting a notable surge in kindergarten open enrollment. Scenic Heights welcomed more kindergarteners, including open enrollment students, while Minnewashta and Clear Springs saw slight decreases in kindergarten numbers and open enrollment.

Staffing Updates and Support

Alongside student enrollment, the district also highlighted efforts to ensure adequate staffing. A new paraprofessional was hired at the SAIL program, and new teachers were welcomed with a dedicated event at MCE. A significant development included the unanimous approval of a new collective bargaining agreement for Minnetonka Custodial and Maintenance Employees, reflecting the district's ongoing investment in its workforce and ensuring competitive compensation.

The teams really came together to do some intentional work on this contract, and that is reflected with a necessary market adjustment for this group.

— Angie Flower, Executive Director of Human Resources and General Counsel

I think I speak for the board when we say that we appreciate all the work that everyone's done, and that we're recognizing the investment that we need to make in our employees to make this the great place to work that it is.

— Minnetonka School Board Member

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Votes (1)

Approval of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Minnetonka Custodial and Maintenance Employees

Approved Unanimously

Dissent: None

Moved by Sally [01:16:44] · Seconded by Mike [01:16:47]

The Executive Director of Human Resources presented a summary of the tentative agreement reached with the custodial and maintenance employee group. The agreement includes step movement, a significant market adjustment of 13.72% in year one, and 3.21% in year two, based on market data and comparators. It also provides increases to insurance and certain licensed positions. Approval of this agreement concludes the district's negotiation round for the summer of 2026.

Notable Quotes (2)

The teams really came together to do some intentional work on this contract, and that is reflected with a necessary market adjustment for this group.

— Angie Flower / Executive Director of Human Resources and General Counsel [01:16:32]
Approval of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Minnetonka Custodial and Maintenance Employees

I think I speak for the board when we say that we appreciate all the work that everyone's done, and that we're recognizing the investment that we need to make in our employees to make this the great place to work that it is.

— Unknown [01:17:15]
Approval of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Minnetonka Custodial and Maintenance Employees

Ordinances & Resolutions (8)

MCAOther

Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments for reading, math, and science; state-mandated standardized tests.

NWEA / MAPOther

Measures of Academic Progress; national assessment used to monitor individual student growth and compare to national means.

FastBridgeOther

State-approved screener for literacy, also used for SABRS and early math; provides leading instructional data.

ACTOther

College readiness assessment.

AP ExamsOther

Advanced Placement exams for college-level course credit/placement.

IB ExamsOther

International Baccalaureate exams for college-level course credit/placement.

IEPsOther

Individualized Education Programs; referenced in the context of special education service needs and funding.

Collective Bargaining AgreementOther

Contract for Minnetonka custodial and maintenance employees.

Source document

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Other Topics from This Document

  • Open Enrollment Report

  • Academic Progress Update (Standardized Assessments)

  • Review of Financial Components of 2027 Legislative Position Statements

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