Celebrating Student Learning: A Month of Honoring Growth & Support

An article written by Kristi Peterson, Shakopee Public Schools Board Chair

Student growth and learning go hand-in-hand. Acknowledging that all students learn in unique ways while being able to quickly identify those learners who need extra support is critical to achieving such growth.

During the month of November, many days and weeks were set aside, both locally and nationally, to honor the various individuals and programs that play a vital role in the development of our students.

Engagement is the secret sauce to every child reaching their greatest potential. As part of National Parent Involvement Day, parents, grandparents and caregivers were honored not only for their support outside the classroom, but inside our schools. Nearly 1,400 registered volunteers and 800+ businesses support the Shakopee school community, and such commitment has a tremendous impact on the overall educational experience.

While November also included Substitute and Education Support Professionals Day, it's important to recognize the impact that such individuals have on student learning each and every day.

There are 120 substitutes in Shakopee that ensure our nearly 8,000 students can continue to thrive when extra support is needed. With 1,000+ staff members, the district is the third largest employer in Shakopee and it's critical that such positions remain filled so that learning can continue, uninterrupted.

With approximately 40 vacant substitute positions and 20 paraprofessional positions, the district is still facing the same staffing shortages as our peers across the nation, but the Talent Engagement team continues to find creative ways to fill such roles.

In Shakopee, the essence of National STEM/STEAM Day is captured every single day. From Stepping Stones Preschool to the Academies of Shakopee and every grade in between, students explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, arts and math while integrating comprehensive literacy skills every step of the way. Recent LinkedIn articles on the annual Career Fair and Teacher Externships are just a few examples of #realworldlearning that is brought into daily staff and student activities.

With a theme of "Let's Grow Together," National School Psychology Week highlighted every aspect of student growth and the role of school psychologists in supporting student well-being and learning. The National Association of School Psychologists created the theme around four aspects of student growth, two of which are directly aligned with our School Board's vision and priorities.

Engagement and interaction with others–being part of a vibrant community–supports our growth.

Diversity is a powerful ingredient in our growth.

Perhaps the most culturally significant item during November, was the ongoing celebration of American Indian Heritage Month. Justyne Vogel, Shakopee's American Indian Education Coordinator, said it best during a recent board meeting when she shared:

"There is a transformative power in showcasing American Indian Education and emphasizing its pivotal role in fostering meaningful relationships with students and families of Native heritage."?

Together, with the help and guidance of various groups, Shakopee has remained focused on objectives that extend beyond the classroom, striving for post-secondary preparation, academic support, intercultural awareness, positive reinforcement of self-image and relevant curriculum that aligns with the diverse needs, interests and rich cultural heritage of Indigenous students. ?

And the list of student growth supporters and initiatives goes on….

So as we turn another page on the calendar and work towards a successful second quarter, it's important to share our gratitude for the various members the Shakopee education team - teachers, staff, families, community members and partners. Together, we can continue to support student learning, and our future.

Kristi Peterson was elected to the Shakopee Public Schools Board in November of 2018 and re-elected in November 2022. Chair Peterson also presently serves on the Minnesota State High School League's (MSHSL) Board of Directors and as the President-Elect of the Minnesota School Board Association (MSBA).