April 9, 2025 | Stories and News from St. Louis Park Public Schools

Attend the Strategic Plan Family Share Out Tonight at 6 p.m.

Pink Consulting will share key findings from the district’s strategic planning process. They will highlight themes and insights gathered through feedback sessions, focus groups and conversations with students, staff, and families.

Wednesday, April 9 | 6–7:30 p.m.
District Office – Room 21
6300 Walker Street, St. Louis Park, MN 55426

We look forward to sharing how your input is shaping the future of St. Louis Park Public Schools.

Park and Learn: Centering Student Voice with Teacher Deb Cornelius

At Susan Lindgren Elementary, Deb Cornelius is creating a classroom culture where students feel seen, heard and empowered. With a strong background in education and a deep belief in the power of student voice, Ms. Cornelius fosters an environment where learners lead with curiosity, collaboration, and confidence. She often reminds students:

“With curiosity, focus, a positive attitude, and hard work—amazing things can happen.”

In her classroom, they do! Watch the video and learn how Deb instills student voice along with academic progress in her classroom.

Who’s on Board? How Decisions Get Made at SLP

Ever wonder how decisions get made in St. Louis Park Public Schools?

Meet the School Board – your elected community members who partner with the superintendent to shape the future of our schools. The board sets the direction, the superintendent handles the day-to-day, and together, they bridge the gap between staff, students and families.

Watch to learn how this partnership powers SLP!

School Board Listening Session on April 22

Educational leaders from across Minnesota have shared feedback with the Minnesota Department of Education about the U.S. Department of Education letter. The letter details information on Title VI and SFFA v. Harvard. While next steps are still being determined by MDE and the Attorney General’s office, we’d like to provide an opportunity for the SLP community to share their voices on this matter. Please attend this listening session to share your thoughts! The listening session will be held in the school board meeting room (Room 21) at 6300 Walker Street on April 22 from 5-6:30 p.m.

Former Peter Hobart Student, Paige Bueckers Wins NCAA Title – and Continues to Inspire Students at Peter Hobart

Big congratulations to Paige Bueckers, former Peter Hobart student and St. Louis Park native, on leading UConn to a national championship win in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament.

In 2022, Paige gave back to her roots by helping renovate the Peter Hobart/Nelson Park basketball court with fellow athlete Jamad Fiin and Project Backboard. The court’s vibrant design celebrates both athletes’ backgrounds and includes Paige’s favorite motto: “Be You. Be Great.”

One of the 5th-grade classes gathered on the court to celebrate Paige’s win – a full-circle moment for a community that continues to be inspired by her journey. We’re so proud of you, Paige!

Middle Schoolers Bring “Beauty and the Beast Jr.” to Life in Student-Produced Show

They’re running the show – literally.

Over 100 middle school students recently took the stage in a magical production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. – a fully student-directed, designed and produced show that enchanted audiences of all ages.

Take a peek inside how the performance came together! We can’t wait to see even more student-driven performances light up the stage at St. Louis Park Middle School.

Meet the student creators

Two More High School Students Join Rep. Ilhan Omar’s Youth Advisory Council

We recently learned that two more St. Louis Park High School students will be joining U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar's Youth Advisory Council. Sophomore Hannah Levitt and junior Landon Goelz will be joining junior Otoha Masaki who was announced earlier this spring.

Through this experience, they will engage in civic action, develop leadership skills, and gain understanding of the legislative process – all while shaping policies that affect young people across Minnesota.

Special Recognitions in April

Celebrating National Assistant Principals Week – April 7-11

Your dedication, leadership and commitment to our students and staff help make our schools shine every day!

Kelsey Clark, Peter Hobart Elementary
Megan Paulis de Rangel, Park Spanish Immersion
Olivia Tolzin, Aquila Elementary
Cam Muata and Jason Boll, SLP Middle School
Alonzo Parks and Alyssa Gardner, SLP High School

Thank you for everything you do!

Arab American Heritage Month

With roots tracing back to 22 diverse countries, Arab Americans have shaped the U.S. through art, science, education, business and public service. April is a time to honor the culture, history, and contributions of Arab Americans.

Autism Acceptance Month

The month of April celebrates neurodiversity and embraces the unique strengths of every individual. Earlier this week, our Central Early Learning Center students showed us what true acceptance looks like: bubbles, giggles, and boundless joy. 🫧💙

Check out the joy in action on Instagram.

Free Upcoming Immunization Clinic for Children

SLP is partnering with Hennepin County Public Health to host a free walk-in immunization clinic on Wednesday, April 30, from 2 - 6 p.m. at St. Louis Park Middle School. This event is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend!

Minnesota law requires all K-12 students to be up to date on immunizations or have an exemption on file to attend school. This clinic provides an opportunity for students to meet these requirements, and keep the community healthy.