04-30-12-R - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—APRIL 30, 2012 2 high expectations and inspire outstanding achievement. The visions statements were then described noting that instructional technology was becoming key in the classroom. Superintendent Hoverman discussed the strategic directions of the district stating that financial stability, academic excellence and a safe learning environment were crucial. The priority goals for 2011-2012 were reviewed in detail. Demographics of the district were outlined showing how the demographics had shifted over the past 20 years. Free and reduced lunch trends were reviewed. Superintendent Hoverman explained the district used to have approximately 12,000 students. The district has been seeing an enrollment decline over the past several years, but this decrease has since subsided. The district was now holding at 9,600 students. The dollar investment per student was noted showing the Mounds View District was near the top of all districts in the metro area with $7,676 per year in each student. Superintendent Hoverman discussed the financial stability and management efforts on behalf of the district. He explained 770 of every dollar went to students while the remaining portion of a dollar went to transportation, staff, administration and fixed costs. It was noted the district was working diligently to maintain class sizes and programs. Superintendent Hoverman commented the programs and services in place will ensure that race, class, and disability will not dictate a student's success in the Mounds View school district. In addition, student achievement results will not fall into patterns. The ACT scores from 2008 through 2011 were reviewed. He commented all juniors took the ACT this year at school, with funding for the test provided by the Mounds View Education Foundation. He indicated this was key to opening secondary education doors for students. He noted Mounds View and Irondale were among only 11 Minnesota High Schools ranked in the silver category by U.S. News and World Report. Superintendent Hoverman provided further information on the STEAM initiative, which focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and math. A great benefit was found by placing value in arts within the district. A new magnet arts program was discussed and it was noted Edgewood Middle School would begin a new STEAM magnet program in the fall of 2012. Superintendent Hoverman stated the district would continue to work to close the gaps surrounding opportunity, expectation, aspiration and achievement with an emphasis on post- secondary success planning. He indicated the high school diploma was no longer enough to land a high quality job. A chart reviewing income based on education was reviewed. In the future, 70% of the jobs are going to require some post secondary training or education. Superintendent Hoverman indicated the district was working to help students navigate their education through career and post-secondary planning. The district was working to increase opportunities for students to pursue post-secondary credit while in high school, which has led to the creation of an early college high school. He noted the district has partnerships with Anoka Ramsey and through a clear early college hybrid curriculum, a student could complete a two year associate's degree while in high school.