Strong schools act as foundational community infrastructure that drives local economic growth, social stability and long-term prosperity
In short, strong schools build strong communities.
So, September, Minnesota School Board Recognition Month, is an appropriate time to recognize the elected board members who work behind the scenes to secure our district's future: from L-R above, vice president Ryan Ponwith, director Andy Jindra, director Molly Stoffel, treasurer Kevin McCabe, president Scott Miller and clerk Nancy Heldberg.
This year’s statewide theme, “Minnesota School Boards Help Minnesota Kids Rise,” capitalizes on the state’s new campaign and celebrates the essential role locally elected school boards play in helping students achieve their highest potential.
Their leadership provides a steady foundation that allows our educators to teach, our students to learn, and our entire community to grow together.
Here is a look at the major impacts made across our school and community this year:
Ranked in the top 20 percent for overall proficiency among Minnesota school districts, as well as in the top 20 percent for individual school scores in both reading and mathematics.
Maintained a higher than 90 percent graduation rate.
Expanded the student body across key grade levels—attracting new open-enrollment families drawn to our strong academic performance while maintaining our small-class atmosphere.
Passed an operating levy and optimized budgets to achieve a surplus, putting the district in solid financial shape for the future. This stability allows us to preserve elective offerings and maintain a broad range of programs.
Partnered with the FOCP Backpack Food Program to expand food access, providing weekly and weekend food packs for enrolled PreK–12 students.
Retained top-tier teaching and support staff, ensuring low educator turnover and consistent instruction.
School board members volunteer countless hours to lead one of our community’s most important responsibilities: providing students with a high-quality public education that prepares them for success in college, careers and life. Their leadership helps create learning environments where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to grow.
The Cleveland School Board continuously provides opportunities for Cleveland Public Schools to move forward.