Welcome to Minnewashta Elementary School!

Dear Minnewashta Families,

Welcome to a new school year! It is an honor to serve as your principal and partner in your child’s education. At Minnewashta, we are deeply committed to nurturing a warm, inclusive, and academically rich environment where every student feels known, supported, and inspired to thrive.

We are proud to share that our families affirm the strong community we’ve built together:

• Families recommend Minnewashta to others, reflecting high satisfaction and confidence in our school.
• Families shared that teachers care deeply about students, treat them with respect, and inspire them to high academic achievement.
• Parents agree that students enjoy school and are appropriately challenged, and our curriculum is viewed as rigorous and meaningful.

Additionally, families shared a strong belief that their children are learning kindness and how to give back—core values that guide our daily work. We are equally proud that parents feel their children are safe and nurtured at school, with trusted adults who care about their well-being.

Your feedback also helps guide our growth. In response to areas highlighted for improvement, this year we will:

• Enhance communication through consistent use of Seesaw and Schoology.
• Clarify technology use in classrooms and ensure meaningful, balanced screen time.
• Increase principal visibility with coffee chats, family updates, and more informal ways to connect.

At Minnewashta, we believe relationships are the foundation of great learning. This year, we will continue our focus on belonging, developmental relationships, and student-centered instruction. We are also expanding professional learning for staff in the areas of trauma-informed practices, cultural responsiveness, and well-being—because supporting adults supports kids.

Thank you for being an essential part of our community. We are stronger because of our partnership with you. Here's to a joyful and successful school year ahead!

Warmly,

Cindy AndressPrincipal, Minnewashta Elementary School