2016 SOE Validations
2016 Minnesota School of Excellence Validations
Six elementary schools validated as 2016-2017 Minnesota Schools of Excellence:
Cuyuna Range Elementary School, Crosby-Ironton Public Schools, Principal Kurt Becker
Eagle Creek Elementary, Shakopee Public Schools, Principal Josie Koivisto
Hiawatha Community School, Minneapolis Public Schools, Principal Deb Regnier
Howe Community School, Minneapolis Public Schools, Principal Kevin Oldenburg
Kenny Community School, Minneapolis Public Schools, Principal William Gibbs
Randolph Elementary School, Randolph Public Schools, Principal Matt Rutledge
The Minnesota School of Excellence Program promotes excellence through a rigorous evaluation process that showcases dynamic schools of the 21st century. Established by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association (MESPA), the program is recognized by the Minnesota Department of Education, as well as the National Association of Elementary School Principals, and was nominated for the Brock International Prize in Education – which "recognizes particular innovations and achievements in the field of education."
Sam Richardson, chair of the School of Excellence Committee, said of the School of Excellence process, "It takes hard work and commitment to thoroughly assess areas of strength and at the same time plan for continual improvement. The SOE process provides an opportunity for the entire school community to reflect on the collaborative work being done and to celebrate these accomplishments. Schools that receive validation have had the important data-driven conversations about what a high quality 21st century learning experience should be for all students. Honoring the important work of dedicated staff, eager students and supportive communities is an essential component of becoming a School of Excellence."
Congratulations to our 2016 validated School of Excellence principals!
Click school names below to read all SOE Press Releases
Cuyuna Range Elementary
Josie Koivisto
Eagle Creek Elementary
Deb Regnier
Hiawatha Community School
(Press Release with Howe)
Kevin Oldenburg
Howe Community School
(Press Release with Hiawatha)
Bill Gibbs
Kenny Community School
Matt Rutledge
Randolph Elementary School
Want to become validated as a School of Excellence?
Letter of intent due October 3, 2016
Application (parts 1 & 2) due June 5, 2017
The Minnesota School of Excellence (SOE) program promotes excellence through a rigorous 1 or 2 year-long, self-directed evaluation process that showcases dynamic schools of the 21st century. The schools earn validation by completing a school community self-study, developing a plan to build on evident strengths & address areas needing improvement, and assessing ongoing results from implementing the plan. SOE also enables to principals to earn CEU's. Learn More