An n u a l Re p o r t f o r o u r Co m m u n i t y September 2009 Ou r Mi s s i o n The mission of , working in partnership with the family and the community, is to educate all individuals to be responsible, lifelong learners who possess the skills, knowledge, creativity, sense of self-worth, and ethical values necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing, culturally diverse, global society Su p e r i n t e n d e n t ’s Pe rs p e c t i v e

Annual Report for our Community

In these pages, you will find amazing stories of success. For more than 150 years and by every traditional achievement measurement, Edina Public Schools has defined excellence. We set a bar that few schools in the state, or even in the nation, can reach. From standardized reading, math and Advanced Placement scores to educational program options, from athletics to fine arts, from innovative solutions to fiscal management, Edina Public Schools manages to define excellence in all areas of education. Ric Dressen, Ed.D. A more interesting, complex and evolving picture is also emerging in Superintendent our District — the story of 21st century learning. Our new strategic vision and direction is taking shape. The transformation can already be seen in:

• The brick school becoming more fluid and transparent. Students are going out into the world to learn, and the community is coming into the schools.

• The move from a factory-approach to a student-centered approach to education, one that is more personalized and responsive.

• The sophisticated use of technology. Students and teachers are using technology to communicate, apply and access knowledge in ways that promote deeper understanding.

• The commitment to ensuring our students will be responsible citizens and leaders. We have implemented interdisciplinary themes that are important to the 21st century students’ learning, including global awareness and financial and civic literacy.

A strong partnership between teachers, students, parents, administrators and the community has allowed Edina Public Schools to advance this far. Going forward, this extensive community support is going to be even more crucial as we seek to provide more personalized learning opportunities to prepare students for the world they are entering. We need a village of community members to help engage students with real world data, tools and people. We all have crucial roles to play, and I invite everyone to be a part of the journey. Ou r sc h o o l s a n d o u r c o m m u n i t y : c o n t e x t f o r o u r w o r k

Our Community The 2008-2009 school year at a glance Family Circle magazine (August 2009) ranked Edina one of its top • Enrollment in Edina Public Schools has been growing by 10 towns in the nation for raising a approximately 2% per year for the past several years. family. Edina Public Schools helped Projections suggest an enrollment increase between 0.26% and secure that honor, earning the high- 1.18% per year over the next five years. est school ranking —10 out of 10— of any of the towns recognized. • 1,153 students (15%) attended Edina schools through state- mandated open-enrollment policies (52 fewer students than last year). They brought approximately $7.3 million in state funding Quick Stats to the District. • Edina has a population of 47,425. The population is • 1,296 Edina residents chose to attend other schools (141 fewer projected to increase by 9% than last year). Of these, 1,115 attended private schools, 126 over the next 25 years. attended other public schools, 21 attended WMEP schools, 18 • Nearly 21% of residents are were home schooled, and 16 attended charter schools. The over age 65. District received no student funding for these students. • 24% of Edina’s residents are • 15% of Edina Public Schools students report minority status. under age 18. • Edina’s English Language Learner program serves the 2.5% of • Edina’s median household income is $76,805. students who qualify as limited English proficient. • In 2008, Edina was the only city • Edina students speak 41 different languages other than English in Hennepin County to post an at home, with Somali and Spanish as the most common. increase in home sales over • 6.4% of students qualify for Free and Reduced Price Lunch. 2007. • 9.4% of students receive personalized support from Edina’s • 9% of residents report Special Education Services. minority status and 10% of • Approximately 11% of students receive personalized support residents speak languages other than English at home. from Edina’s Gifted and Talented program.

Sources: “2005-07 American Community Survey” and “Edina Comprehensive Plan Update 2008”

K-12 enrollment by building Concord Elementary 719 Cornelia Elementary 556 Countryside Elementary 544 Creek Valley Elementary 582 Highlands Elementary 544 Normandale Elementary 631 South View Middle School 1,204 Valley View Middle School 1,280 Edina High School 1,819 TOTAL 7,879 St u d e n t ac h i e v e m e n t

In spring 2009, Edina educators administered nearly 16,000 standardized tests. More than 11,000 of these tests were required by the Federal No Child Left Behind Act. An additional 600 writing assessments were required by the State of . The results of these assessments are used mainly for public accountability, although educators also analyze results to help inform curriculum revisions.

An additional 4,000 tests were initiated by Edina Public Schools to help parents and educators track individual student growth, determine student placement, shape curriculum revisions and gauge Edina student achievement nationally.

Standardized testing findings: Edina ranks number one in Minnesota —consistently In reading, Edina has ranked as the number one district in Minnesota for five consecutive years. In mathematics, Edina has garnered the number one ranking for the past three years and is the only district in the state to consistently rank in the top three over the past five years.

Top five Minnesota districts in reading State 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 Rank 1 Edina Edina Edina Edina Edina 2 Stephen-Argyle Wayzata Wayzata Minnetonka Minnetonka Orono Chokio- Minnetonka Wayzata Wayzata 3 Alberta

4 Minnetonka Eden Prairie Orono Orono Westonka Barnesville Minnetonka Delano Westonka St. Croix Prep 5

Top five Minnesota districts in mathematics

State Rank 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

1 Westonka Wayzata Edina Edina Edina 2 Alden Delano Wayzata Wayzata Wayzata 3 Edina Edina Chokio-Alberta Delano Delano 4 Wayzata Orono Minnetonka Minnetonka Westonka Delano Chokio-Alberta Westonka Waconia Minnetonka 5

Method: Rankings are determined by combining MCA-II results across all grades tested and examining the percentage of students proficient or above. What tests does the The details: 2008-09 MCA-II results District administer? Edina students perform well above their Minnesota peers. In reading and Minnesota Comprehensive math, all seven grades tested performed 20-33% above the Minnesota state Assessments II (MCA-II) average. The separation is more drastic in the upper grades, illustrating that All public school students in Minnesota are tested in reading as Edina students build cumulative skills, they widen the gap relative to the and mathematics in grades three state average. through eight and in grade 10 (reading) and grade 11 While the Edina results continue to indicate that some subgroups do not (mathematics). A science succeed as well as others, it is notable that all racial/ethnic/socio-economic assessment is administered in groups have improved performance over time. Black and Hispanic students, grades five and eight and when as well as students eligible for free or reduced price meals, showed students complete high school biology. Results are used prin- especially positive growth. cipally for school accountability, Percentage of students proficient or above but also to shape curriculum revision. on 2008-2009 MCA-II reading 100 .4 0 .3 4.0 9 .0 1 .0 .8 9 9.6 0 9 9 8 90 8 9 8 8 Measures of Academic 5 2 .3 . 2 6 . 8 4 . . 4 80 7 7 2 2 7 Progress (MAP) 7 7 .8 .8 6 4 6 Edina Public Schools administer 70 6 MAP tests to students in grades 60

two through seven to help 50

parents and educators track Percent 40 Edina individual student growth, Percent 30 determine student placement and Minnesota 20 improve curriculum and 10 instruction. Results also help compare the achievement of 0 34567810 Edina students to other students GradeGrade in the nation. Percentage of students proficient or above on 2008-2009 MCA-II math Cognitive Abilities Tests (CogAT) measure individual

student developmental cognitive .0 9 100 .3 . 92 6 .9 93 . 3 88 abilities. Data is used to identify 84 . 85 90 82 .1 2 .9 .4 student learning styles, strengths 8 4 80 7 74 4 and areas for improvement. . .8 5 3 .6 6 6 2 .7 70 6 9 These tests are administered in 5 grades two and four and used for 60

.6 1 instructional program planning. 50 4 Percent 40 Percent GRAD Writing Assessment 30 Minnesota administers this 20 assessment in grade nine. 10 Students must pass this test (as well as a test in reading) to 0 34567811 receive a diploma from a GradeGrade Minnesota public high school. A

similar mathematics test Note: Students who “Meet” or “Exceed” standards are deemed “Proficient” requirement is being phased in. and are performing at grade level or above. MCA-II Science Assessment On the state’s rigorous science assessment, Edina students showed strong growth. The number of Edina students scoring in the proficient range is about one and a half times greater than the state average.

Spring 2009 MCA-II Science Assessment Percentage of Edina Students Proficient or Better

100 90

80 68.1 64.0 70 63.3

60 49.5 45.0 50 42.6

Percent 40 Percent 30 20 Edina 10 Minnesota 0 5 8 HS GradeGrade GRAD Writing Assessment In the three years this test has been administered, the percentage of Edina students passing has increased by a full percentage point, while the percentage of students who pass statewide has dropped by 1.2%.

2009 GRAD Writing Assessment

100 97.9 96.9 96.8

95 90.8 89.5 89.6 90

85

Edina 80 Minnesota PERCENT PASSING

Percent Passing Percent 75

70 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 We excel nationally: MAP results For the past five years, Edina has administered additional reading and math assessments, now known as Measures of Academic Progress (MAP). The results show that Edina students far exceed national averages and expectations. Combined results across all six grades tested in 2008-09 indicate that 77% to 86% of Edina students scored above the national average. In fact, two to three times more students than expected scored in the top 25% of students tested nationally. St u d e n t ac h i e v e m e n t : Ed i n a Hi g h Sc h o o l

Advanced Placement testing Edina High School offers 22 Advanced Placement (AP) classes in a wide variety of subjects. Over the last three years, the number of ex- aminations taken after completing these courses has increased signifi- cantly. Each year, Edina students take more than 1,900 AP exams— making it one of the largest AP programs in the Midwest.

The number of students receiving a score of three or higher (the score Edina High School generally needed to receive college credit) is also steadily accolades increasing. The value of college credits granted to Edina graduates as a result of these tests is estimated to be $6.5 • Edina High School won the 2009 million—a strong return on investment! Siemens Award for Advanced Placement (AP). One high school per state is selected in recognition of its ACT testing commitment to students and About 80% of Edina high school students take the ACT test. Edina leadership in AP participation and students posted an average ACT composite score of 26.0—well above performance. the state and national averages and second highest in recent history. • Edina High School was rated as a Silver Medalist (top 2%) by U.S. ACT Composite Averages: 1996-2009 News and World Report and received the highest college readiness score of 28.0 the 13 Minnesota schools recognized 2 . 0 .9 6 . 5 2 6 in the article. 2 2 .3 2 .3 .1 5 . 5 26.0 5 9 2 5 2 .8 7 2 . 2 • Edina High School was rated by .6 4 . 4 4 2 4 4 2 2 2 . 4 2 Newsweek magazine as one of the .8 top 3 .6 2 3 100 high schools in the nation. 24.0 2 • Edina High School’s music program has twice been named a GRAMMY 22.0 Signature School.

• 99% of students graduate and 95% CompositeAverage 20.0 go on to higher education. Composite Average Composite 18.0

16.0 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

U.S. MN EHS

National Merit Scholars Edina High School has had National Merit Semifinalists and Finalists each year the National Merit Foundation has been in existence. In the past year, there were 21 Semifinalists and 25 Commended Scholars. Mo v i n g a b o v e a n d b e y o n d s t a n d ar d i z e d t e s t i n g 21s t Ce n t u r y Le ar n i n g

‘Teaching Personally, Reaching Globally’ for 21st-century learning and success We are proud of the learning that Edina students consistently demonstrate using traditional measures of success. Student mastery of core knowledge has been the foundation of our District’s success for the past 150 years.

But standardized tests can measure only a portion of the knowledge and skills students need to thrive in our complex and changing world. Our District’s strong traditional foundation positions it to move into the future with energy and innovation. We are working to ensure that our students emerge with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive as community members, workers and leaders for the 21st century. The breadth and depth of this vision for 21st century learning is already energizing learning throughout Edina Public Schools.

Global awareness

• Language learning: A French Immersion program is offered at Normandale Elementary, and an extended French program contin- ues at Valley View Middle School. Spanish is taught at all other elementary schools. American Sign Language, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Latin, Russian and Spanish are available at the middle and high school levels. Students can study HOLA! additional languages online.

• Dare 2 be Real: An intercultural student leadership group was piloted at South View Middle School in the spring of 2009. The program is designed to identify opportunities for individual and system-wide growth related to racial and cultural equity. More than

40 students with outstanding leadership potential and character were identified for training to build mentoring skills, facilitate listening and

discussion, and increase participation in cross-cultural learning experiences. I always knew my culture was an “ • Kids Against Hunger: Four schools adopted Kids Against Hunger important part of me, but I never had as a major service learning project. In 2008-09, students raised heard any of my friends in Edina talk $32,146 and packed 385,232 meals for children in Haiti and “about it openly. Being a part of Dare around the world. 2 be Real has really helped me understand my ethnicity.

— Eighth-grade Dare 2 be Real student Civic literacy • Approximately 3,276 Edina students in grades K-nine participated in the 2008 election through Kids Voting Edina, a collaborative program including Edina Public Schools, the City of Edina, the Edina Education Fund and several community business sponsors. Kids Voting Edina promoted voting and civic awareness by educating Edina’s youth on the voting process and giving them the ability to go to the polls to exercise their right to vote in a mock election.

Health and wellness literacy • Normandale Elementary and Edina High School earned a Hennepin County Wellness by Design Award. The award recognizes the school’s efforts to create healthy environments for students and staff, including a fitness club for students, a new birthday recognition policy and refreshed “health break” food guidelines. • A goal of the Edina Public Schools’ Wellness Plan is to ensure that all students eat a nutritious breakfast before school. In September 2008, 200 students per week were par- ticipating in the District breakfast program. By the end of the year, 600 students per week participated in the program. • Licensed school nurses and health services associates work with students, parents and health care providers to promote optimal health and educational success for all students. In a typical year, 100 students receive new glasses or lenses as a result of vision screening and seven students receive treatment for hearing loss as a result of hearing screening. Information, media and technology Technology skills are a crucial component of 21st century learning. Edina Public Schools has many strengths to build on in the area of information, media and technology, and many new initiatives are taking shape.

Edina technology highlights • Edina’s media and technology services team was named the TIES 2008 Minnesota Technology Leadership Team for its significant achievements in marshalling technology to transform learning for students. • District teachers are committed to maintaining and updating technology skills. • Library media specialists collaborate with teachers to

engage students with relevant, real-world information in media and technology contexts. In 2008-09, Edina students

and teachers had access to a collection totalling 160,210 books and checked items out 271,574 times. Teachers use technology to “ Edina technology initiatives engage and captivate students. • Project Lead the Way was successfully integrated into the Students use technology to middle school curriculum in 2008-09, thanks in part to gener- “produce, publish and share their ous support from the Edina Education Fund. Five hands-on knowledge, opening their class- rooms beyond school walls. units—Automation and Robotics, Design and Modeling, Flight and Space, The Magic of Electrons, and Science — Elementary technology and Technology—teach 21st century skills and open career integration specialist paths to a host of interdisciplinary fields that use science, mathematics and technology. In 2009-10, Principles of Engineering, the next course in the sequence, will be added to the ninth-grade curriculum.

• A One-to-One Pilot Program provides a personal laptop to a sample population of eighth-grade middle-school students. Students who participate will have access to online curriculum, educational software and online resources. The program is designed to enhance personalized learning, expand learning opportunities beyond school walls, and develop the 21st century skills students need to compete in a global society. Edina High School Activities: building l i f e a n d car e e r s k i l l s athletic teams

Fall Edina students are developing socially, emotionally, physically and ethically, Adaptive Soccer as well as academically. Athletics and other extra-curricular and co-curricular activities provide crucial opportunities for students to develop life and career Performance Dance skills—skills like leadership and responsibility, initiative and flexibility, social Boys Cross Country Running Girls Cross Country Running and cultural awareness—that are becoming increasingly important in complex Football life and work environments. Student surveys show that 90% of Edina High Girls and Diving School students take part in these activities and that one in three takes one or Girls Soccer more leadership roles. Boys Soccer Girls Volleyball Athletics highlights • 1,672 students Winter participated on one or Adaptive Floor Hockey more Edina High School Alpine Ski athletic teams. An Boys Girls Basketball additional 350 Competition Dance Team students participated in Girls intramural sports. Boys Hockey • To date, Edina Girls Hockey students have won 138 Nordic Ski state championships, Boys Swimming and Diving making Edina number

Spring one among the 500 Adaptive Softball members of the Minnesota State High School League. • In 2008-09, 15 teams advanced to state tournaments. The Boys following teams won state championships: Girls Tennis, Girls Girls Golf Alpine Ski, Boys Swimming and Diving, Boys Tennis, and Boys Lacrosse Competition Cheer Team. The Comp Cheer team went on to place Girls Lacrosse fifth in the nation. Softball Synchronized Swimming • In 2009, 124 seniors were honored as Scholar Athletes, lettering in Boys Tennis at least one varsity sport and earning an “A” average in the Boys classroom. Girls Track and Field Fine Arts highlights • In 2008-09, 1,304 high school students participated in fine arts programs. • 415 students participated in Edina High School Thespians. Their production of “Godspell” earned seven awards, seven honorable mentions and two technical achievement awards from the Spot Light Musical Theatre Program. • 528 students participated in a broad range of bands and ensembles. For more than 50 consecutive years, the High School Concert Band has received a “Superior” rating at the Minnesota State High School competition. 80 Edina soloists and ensembles were given “Superior” ratings and seven achieved “Best in Site” awards. 10 band students were 2008-09 All-State Band members. • 144 students participated in three orchestras. Edina students took four of eight “Best of Site” awards at the Minnesota State High School competition, and three string students participated in the Minnesota All-State Orchestra. • 217 students participated in choirs and ensembles. For more than two decades, choirs and individuals have received “Superior” ratings at the Minnesota State High School competition.

Edina High School clubs

Breakfast Book Club Debate DECA French German Hip Hop Images Latin Clubs and activities Math Mock Trial • Our Youth Serving Youth program is focused on Quiz Bowl leadership, community service and social awareness Ping Pong and has more than 15 groups. Robotics • In 2008-09, 125 students lettered in community Science Club service, completing a combined total of 15,000 Sober Squad community service hours. Spanish Speech Team • 1,140 Edina students invigorated a wide variety of Student Council clubs in 2008-09. Windigo • Sober Squad had 175 members in 2008-09—making Zephyrus it the largest of all the clubs at Edina High School Te ac h i n g Pe rs o n a l l y f o r 21s t c e n t u r y l e ar n i n g a n d s u cc e ss

Personalized Learning is emerging as a major strategic direction to assist Edina Public Schools in its mission to “educate all individuals.” We believe that embracing more tailored approaches to the needs and interests of each individual student—honoring and utilizing the unique gifts, skills, passions and attributes of each child—is the surest path toward real, relevant and rigorous learning to meet the demands and expectations of the 21st century.

Personalized Learning involves choices • Edina parents can choose half or full-day Kindergarten. • Elementary school choices include neighborhood schools, French Immersion learning and multi-age “Continuous Progress” learning. • Middle school students choose from elective classes including world languages, technology, family and consumer sciences and physical education as well as performing and visual arts. Students may also choose enriched or accelerated sections. • Over 140 course choices are offered at Edina High School including extensive enriched and AP courses. • Alternative Learning Experiences include Cyber School, Independent Study, Mentor Connection, Post Secondary Options Program, Technical Career Education, Performing Arts Center and more.

Personalized Learning uses data effectively • In 2008-09, Countryside, Creek Valley and Valley View schools piloted Response to Intervention (RTI), a method for using data to accelerate learning for all students. Students who participated in RTI achieved stronger growth compared to students not involved in the pilot. The program will expand in 2009-10. eMath, a new class at Edina High • Personalized Learning Profile (PLP) is a data tool the RTI sites School, helps struggling students piloted that will be available at all schools in 2009-10. This learn how to learn math. summary of student performance across domains—including Frequent assessments determine attendance, behavior, grades and test scores—gives a point-in-time an individual student’s strengths snapshot of a student’s current status and efficiently communicates and needs. Software allows performance on specific measures within each domain, allowing students to learn at their own quick attention to student needs. pace and creates customized plans for success. Personalized Learning for all students builds on the longstanding successes of Edina’s Special Services and Gifted Education programs

We believe that diversity in all its forms enhances education for all students, and that instruction is most effective when student differences are addressed, when respect is given to the uniqueness of every child and when all children are able to develop to their fullest potential and can demonstrate all that they know. Special educators provide a continuum of services for learners with special needs, including individualized learning plans and customized teaching methods and strategies to maximize each student’s progress.

Special Education highlights • In 2008-09, Edina’s Special Education Services program served 886 students ranging in age from birth to 21. • Edina is the only district in the Twin Cities metro area to sponsor Special Olympics and the only metro-area district to provide support for children through eighth-grade to participate in community education enrichment programs—ensuring that all students can participate extracurricular and community activities. • Edina offers Adapted Athletic programs sanctioned by the Minnesota State High School League in soccer, floor hockey and softball.

Gifted Education highlights • Approximately 11% of Edina students in grades 3-12 are identified to receive Gifted Education services. • Curriculum for the elementary-level Gifted Education program comes from the Center for Gifted Education at the College of William and Mary. • A half-time Gifted Resource Teacher serves students at each elementary building. • There is a full-time Gifted Resource teacher at each middle school and a .4-time Gifted counselor acting as a resource at the high school.

My kids have different needs

and learning styles. I am confident, even in this “complex and changing world,“ that each is getting a high- quality education that is innovative and personal enough to meet their needs for the future.

— Edina parent Pe rs o n a l i z e d Le ar n i n g f o r Te ac h e rs ‘Al t Co m p ’ c o m e s t o Ed i n a

What is Alt Comp? Edina’s version of the state’s Q Comp plan, Alt Comp is a personalized professional development plan for Edina’s teachers. The program was adopted into the 2008-09 Quick Stats school year and resulted in more than 7,000 one-on-one meetings between teachers and Edina Teachers instructional coaches to set goals, • 577 teachers were gather data and have focused, employed in the 2008-09 school professional discussions. The year. overall goal of Alt Comp is to • 140 are men (24%); enhance student learning and 437 are women increase student achievement. (76%). Edina will receive more than $2.5 • 3% have minority million in state aid to fund the plan. status. • 80% hold a master’s degree or above. After the first year, teacher survey results • Average years of indicate: experience in Edina • 95% of teachers believe their instructional coaches is 8.82 years. • Average salary: support their professional growth. $58,834 (includes • 72.1% of teachers say that they are “more intentional extended year pay, with instructional practices” due to Alt Comp. national certification • 76.4% of teachers say, “I am more aware of my site’s and overload improvement plan and site goal due to our District’s assignments). participation in Alt Comp.” • 91% of community • 63.3% of teachers agree with the statement, “My survey respondents rank Edina teachers participation in Alt Comp has had a positive effect on positively. About 7% student achievement” (29.3% are neutral, only 7.3% were “unsure,”—the disagree). lowest percentage of “unsure” respons- es in the metro

area.

Any time I receive feedback about my teaching and engage in “ “conversation with a fel- low teacher, I grow. This growth has a direct, positive impact on student learning in my classroom.

— Elementary teacher Co m m u n i t y Su p p o r t

Ensuring the success of all students requires the sustained attention and commitment of the entire community. The community is proud of Edina Public Schools—in a 2008 resident survey, 95% of Edina residents ranked Edina Public Schools as “excellent” or “good”— and the community has a strong tradition of supporting its schools in many ways.

Edina Education Fund The Edina Education Fund raised over $618,000 in private donations in 2008-09 and allocated funds totaling $460,000 to support teachers and learners at every level and at every school in the District. Recent budget cuts have made this support more important than ever.

Parents Parents contribute to student and teacher success every day in many ways, ranging from site councils and booster clubs to chaperoning field trips and supporting and enhancing classroom learning. In a spring 2009 survey, 87% of parents indicated that an adult in their household had volunteered at school one or more times.

Community members Community members play critical roles in supporting students as they begin their journeys from their families through the schools and out Edina Events Card into the wider community. • The Edina City Council appoints students to serve terms on a Edina Public Schools offers adults, age 60 or better, free variety of City Boards and Commissions. general admission to school • In 2008-09, the Edina Resource Center established three pilot events. The Edina Events Card programs staffed by community volunteers; 125 new volunteers allows the card holder and one contributed over 1,250 hours of volunteer time to build guest a free pass to theatrical, relationships and enrich academics. Look for more community musical or home-played athletic volunteer opportunities in 2009-10. events. To qualify for this benefit, • Community businesses hosted 21 Edina seniors for May Term you must live in the EPS District and be 60 years of age or older. internships, giving students hands-on, real-world experience in For more information, visit the their fields of interest. Web site (www.edina.k12.mn.us) Ed i n a Co m m u n i t y Ed u ca t i o n Se r v i c e s : A Co m m u n i t y o f Li f e l o n g Le ar n e rs

An active, engaged community of lifelong learners is both a defining characteristic of Edina’s history and an important aspect of its future. Making meaningful connections through lifelong learning is vital in our rapidly evolving, increasingly knowledge-based world. Edina Public Schools supports a comprehensive program of lifelong learning opportunities.

Early education • Over 75% of all brain development occurs in the first five years of life. The Edina Family Center supports learning in these crucial early years with high-quality, cutting-edge information for families and caregivers as well as learning through play opportunities for young children. • Edina Partners for Early Education is a community-wide ad- vocacy group working to ensure that early childhood education becomes key to planning our future. In 2008-09, the Minnesota Community Education Association awarded Edina Partners for Early Education its Outstanding Project Award.

Care and enrichment for school-aged children • Kids Club (grades K-three), Wise Guys (grades four-five), and Surge (grades six-nine) provide quality curriculum enrichment and care before and after school, on school release days and during the summer. All programs are accredited by the National Afterschool Association. • Youth Enrichment options include fun and flexible camps, classes and activities for ages pre-K through grade 12 year-round. • Curriculum Resources and Programs (CRP) matches volunteer speakers with classroom learners. In 2008-09, com- munity volunteers made 1,281 presentations for our students, connecting classroom learning to larger contexts, enhancing curriculum and supporting student achievement. Quick Stat According to a 2008 community survey, 99% of community members who participated in Edina Community Education Programs were “very satisfied” with their experience—the highest approval rate in the state!

Adult Programs <_dZ Adult community education programs are flexible and creative, responding to changing community needs, interests and trends. • In 2008-09, we launched a number of “camps” for adults. Out of Work Camp— a free series of meetings with expert speakers, chips and soda provided by Tejas restaurant—was very popular. A second Out of Work Camp is scheduled for late fall 2009.

• A Women’s Golf Camp at Braemar filled early, and aWomen’s Running ro t P gra ul m d s Camp launched 59 new runners into the sport in the spring. A Yoga Food • Our Look Who’s Talking speaker series, now in its second year, featured Travel Wellness Kevyn Burger of FM 107.1 and former U.S. Congressman Jim Ramstad. Friends PflMore • A series of discussions and workshops in 2008-09 focused on post-career Edina Center for Adult Education/Fall 2009 adults remaining active and engaged in our community.

Connections to community information and community support • The Edina Resource Center is a collaborative effort between Edina Public Schools, the city of Edina and the community. Its staff and community partners facilitate a wide range of connections—everything from phone numbers to connections to support services including food shelves, healthcare, and volunteer opportunities. School registration and information for newcomers is provided through the affiliated Edina Public Schools Welcome Center. Quick Stat Over 100 community members volunteer their time to serve on seven different community education advisory councils, ensuring that programs run smoothly and both reflect and serve the entire community. Fu n d i n g a n Ex c e l l e n t Ed u ca t i o n

Edina is committed to delivering an excellent education for its students, despite uncertain economic times and budget challenges. We remain responsible and flexible stewards of the community’s tax dollars.

Edina’s careful stewardship of tax dollars is consistently recognized • The August 2008 resident survey found that 92% of residents feel they get a good value from their investment in Edina Public Schools. • Edina Public Schools has earned the Minnesota Department of Education’s School Finance Award for fiscal health seven years in a row. Edina is one of only two districts to be consistently recognized every year since the award’s inception. • Edina enjoys Moody’s Aa1 rating—the highest rating awarded to any school district.

Support Systems • In 2007, the community overwhelmingly voted to re-authorize operating levy support for our schools, enabling us to meet student learning needs. • Approximately $1.7 million in Federal Stimulus Funds will be coming to the District over the next two years. Some of the dollars have restricted uses and all are available for only two years, so the District will use these funds for one-time purchases and program and services areas that do not require ongoing revenue support. • Strong community partnerships and resources, including the Edina Education Fund and school PTO and PTA groups, provide private funding to support innovation and broader programming. • While 87% of Minnesota school districts are experiencing declining enrollment and the concomitant funding drain, Edina has enjoyed a steady enrollment increase of 1-2% per year.

Funding Challenges • Due to state funding cuts, Edina Public Schools has had to make budget reductions in five of the last six years. In spring 2009, Edina cut approximately $1.6 million from its 2009-10 budget. • According to the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits’ Minnesota Budget Project, per-pupil spending in Minnesota is steadily declining. In 1987, Minnesota per pupil spending was 11% above the national average. By 2006, per pupil spending was equal to the national average. • A major Minnesota tax reform in 2003 transferred about $1 billion in school funding from local property taxes to statewide funding. One aim of the reform was to ensure that all school districts could afford to provide schools of comparable quality. However, the state had trouble maintaining this commitment once fiscal challenges began, and E-12 funding has steadily declined since 2003. • Increased testing required by No Child Left Behind laws and other unfunded mandates mean that districts including Edina have less control and flexibility in other spending. • A portion of State payments will be deliberately delayed in coming months and years, requiring the District to short-term borrow to meet cash flow demands. This will cost the district approximately $300,000 over the next two years. Co m b i n e d St a t e m e n t o f Bu d g e t Re v e n u e , Ex p e n d i t u r e s a n d DISTRICT #273 Pr o j e c t e d Ch a n g e s in Fu n d Ba l a n c e COMBINED STATEMENT OF BUDGETED REVENUES, EXPENDITURES, AND PROJECTED CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2010Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2010

Projected Projected Balance Budget Budget Balance June 30, 2009 Revenues Expenditures June 30, 2010

General Fund Reserve Severance $ 880,763 $ - $ 71,255 $ 809,508 Designated Severance/Health Benefits 887,879 - 7,116 880,763 Reserve Learning & Development - 1,804,900 1,804,900 - Reserve Basic Skills - 279,663 279,663 - Reserve Career & Technical - 31,497 31,497 - Designated Q Comp - 2,072,980 2,072,980 - Federal Stimulus - 876,000 876,000 - Designated WMEP & Integration (2,898) 1,828,544 1,811,055 14,591 Designated Carryover - - - - Unreserved - Undesignated 6,788,320 69,701,197 69,481,061 7,008,456 Total General Fund 8,554,064 76,594,781 76,435,527 8,713,318

Transportation Unreserved - Undesignated 197,254 3,228,221 3,182,869 242,606 Total Transportation 197,254 3,228,221 3,182,869 242,606

Total Unreserved - Undesignated 6,985,574 72,929,418 72,663,930 7,251,062

Capital Reserve Health & Safety (1,700,000) 680,000 250,000 (1,270,000) Designated Lease Levy 50,000 350,000 350,000 50,000 Designated Carryover - - - - Reserve Operating Capital 500,000 2,050,000 2,350,000 200,000 Total Capital (1,150,000) 3,080,000 2,950,000 (1,020,000)

Food Service Unreserved - Undesignated 287,215 3,205,000 3,268,000 224,215 Total Food Service 287,215 3,205,000 3,268,000 224,215

Community Services Reserve Community Ed 556,584 4,450,513 4,428,948 578,149 Designated All Day Kindergarten 68,392 947,805 1,006,150 10,047 Reserve ECFE 275,423 1,136,571 1,181,055 230,939 Reserve School Readiness (4,780) 50,404 51,570 (5,946) Unreserved - Undesignated 63 176,000 176,000 63 Total Community Services 895,682 6,761,293 6,843,723 813,252

Total Operating Funds 8,784,215 92,869,295 92,680,119 8,973,391

Building Fund Technology Down Payment Levy (1,279,451) 1,000,000 1,000,000 (1,279,451) Alternative Facilities - Levy - 500,000 500,000 - Alternative Facilities - Bond 387,232 - 387,232 - Total Building Fund (892,219) 1,500,000 1,887,232 (1,279,451)

Debt Service Unreserved - Undesignated 232,987 10,016,805 9,961,565 288,227 Total Debt Service 232,987 10,016,805 9,961,565 288,227

Internal Service Fund Dental Unreserved - Undesignated - 1,070,000 1,070,000 - Total Internal Service Fund - 1,070,000 1,070,000 -

Total All Funds $ 8,124,983 $ 105,456,100 $ 105,598,916 $ 7,982,167

8/21/20092:38 PM Original FY10 Co n t ac t In f o r m a t i o n

El e m e n t a r y Sc h o o l s Se c o n d a r y Sc h o o l s

Concord Elementary (K-5) South View Middle School (6-9) 5900 Concord Avenue S. 4725 South View Lane Edina, MN 55424 Edina, MN 55424 952-848-4300 952-848-3700

Cornelia Elementary (K-5) Valley View Middle School (6-9) 7000 Cornelia Drive 6750 Valley View Road Edina, MN 55435 Edina, MN 55439 952-848-4600 952-848-3500

Countryside Elementary (K-5) 5701 Benton Avenue S. Edina High School (10-12) Edina, MN 55436 6754 Valley View Road 952-848-4700 Edina, MN 55439 952-848-3800 Creek Valley Elementary (K-5) 6401 Gleason Road Edina, MN 55439 952-848-3200 Di s t r i c t Of f i c e

5701 Normandale Road Highlands Elementary (K-5) Edina, MN 55424 5505 Doncaster Way 952-848-3900 Edina, MN 55436 Fax: 952-848-3901 952-848-4500 [email protected]

Normandale Elementary (K-5) Su p e r i n t e n d e n t French Immersion School Ric Dressen, Ed.D. 5701 Normandale Road 952-848-4000 Edina, MN 55424 [email protected] 952-848-4100 Web site: www.edina.k12.mn.us St u d e n t Re g i s t r a t i o n Welcome Center Room 171 Edina Community Center 5701 Normandale Road Edina, MN 55424 952-848-3934 Co n t ac t In f o r m a t i o n

De p a r t m e n t s /Se r v i c es

Business Services Activities Edina Family Center Jay Willemssen, Director John Soma, Director Laurie Denn, Coordinator 952-848-4004 952-848-3816 952-848-3968 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Edina Resource Center/Curriculum Community Education Buildings & Grounds Resources and Programs Services & Community Val Burke, Coordinator Relations Steve Bristor, Supervisor 952-848-3999 952-848-3938 Douglas Johnson, Director [email protected] [email protected] 952-848-3960 [email protected] Sc h o o l Bo a r d Gifted Education Services Debra Richards, Coordinator Human Resources & Randy Meyer, Chair Administrative Services 952-848-4935 952-920-4373 Gwen Jackson, Ph.D., Director [email protected] [email protected] 952-848-4946 [email protected] Health Services Idith Almog, Vice Chair Betty Elliott, Coordinator 952-920-9423/9421 Media & Technology Services 952-848-4890 [email protected] Michael Burke, Ph.D., Director [email protected] 952-848-4800 Bert Ledder, Clerk [email protected] Transportation Services 952-941-9083 David White, Supervisor [email protected] Research & Evaluation 952-848-4979 Thel Kocher, Ed.D., Director [email protected] Jeff Johnson, Treasurer 952-848-4944 952-941-3799 [email protected] Co m m u n i t y Ed u c a t i o n [email protected]

5701 Normandale Road Special Services Peyton Robb, Asst. Treasurer Edina, MN 55424 Penny Kodrich, Director 612-669-2488 952-848-3952 952-848-4960 [email protected] [email protected] Youth Services/KIDS Club Cathy Cella, Asst. Clerk Teaching & Learning Meg Barrett, Coordinator 952-829-5302 952-848-3961 Jenni Norlin-Weaver, Ed.D., Director [email protected] [email protected] 952-848-4951 Brian Hedberg, Asst. Clerk [email protected] Adult Enrichment 612-466-7370 Administrative Services Marsha Buchok, Coordinator [email protected] 952-848-3956 Mary Manderfeld, Asst. Director [email protected] 952-848-4961 [email protected] 5701 Normandale Road Edina, MN 55424 952-848-3900 www.edina.k12.mn.us [email protected]