Borg Report August 15, 2022

I am excited to welcome you to another year in Westonka Public Schools! 

As we look toward fall, I want to provide a brief update on some of our school district's areas of focus for the 2022-23 school year. As always, if you have questions or concerns about the district's direction, please feel free to contact me directly.

District Facilities Review

Over the summer, Westonka Public Schools continued its extensive review of facilities needs across the district. More information about this review, including the results of a community survey on possible facilities maintenance/improvements, will be shared at the September 12 Westonka School Board meeting.

Comprehensive Mental Health Review

Last school year, the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) at the University of Minnesota completed a comprehensive review of Westonka's implementation of the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework and school mental health services. The goal is to establish a more coordinated district approach and compare Westonka’s current practices to research and best practices to identify strengths and areas for improvements. Over the summer, Westonka staff worked to prioritize the needs identified in the review and have already begun to address them. During the 2022-23 school year, we will also be developing a district MTSS process guide to support implementation and holding professional development for all staff.

Campus/Building Security

Security is top-of-mind as the school board and administration continue to review our district facilities and mental health services. We are continually thankful for great collaboration with our local police departments as our district works to incorporate best practices into safety/security plans. Westonka’s small school community allows us to truly know our families, which helps us to recognize concerning behaviors and intervene. If you have thoughts or ideas for how we can create safer learning and working environments in Westonka, please share them with your school principal or directly with me.

COVID-19 Situation Monitoring

I wish to again express my appreciation for your collaboration and support as we have worked to protect in-person learning experiences for Westonka Public Schools students throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Families can expect to receive email communication outlining our health and safety procedures for the 2022-23 school year prior to the start of school. All COVID-related updates will also be posted on the district website: www.westonka.k12.mn.us/covid19.

We look forward to welcoming our students back to school on Tuesday, September 6!

Sincerely,