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Academic Excellence: Building Strong Foundations for Success
A new school year brings fresh opportunities to learn and grow and we are already starting the year strong! At Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools (PLSAS), our mission is to inspire and empower each student to reach their full potential. A key part of that mission is ensuring students gain the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in life, with a strong foundation in academics at the center.
This year, there are some important updates in math, reading and writing as we align to new state standards and legislation:
- Math: Minnesota has adopted new math standards, and PLSAS has been updating resources across all grades. K–8 already has new materials in place, and this year 8th grade Algebra 1 students, along with Prior Lake High School students, are field testing resources for Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry.
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Reading and Writing: The Minnesota Reading to Ensure Academic Development (READ) Act became law in 2023, with a goal of helping every child read at or above grade level each year—starting in kindergarten. As a result, our teachers have been taking part in professional development, and elementary schools are piloting new reading and writing curriculum this year.
Families are encouraged to review the materials and share feedback at the District Services Center (4540 Tower Street SE, Prior Lake) now through November 25, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (please note the lobby is closed from 11:30–12:00 each day). After the first semester, curriculum committees may recommend a decision to the School Board, with full implementation planning starting for 2026–27, if approved.
These efforts align with one of the key priorities of our Strategic Plan: Academic Excellence. Written with community input, our Strategic Plan calls for us to deliver challenging, rigorous and relevant instruction tailored to students’ unique learning needs and goals, while developing essential skills for success in life.
Our theme for the 2025–26 school year, “Growing to Succeed,” also reflects this commitment. We recognize that success is not just about grades, but about developing essential skills, deepening understanding and making meaningful progress over time. Whether mastering a new concept, overcoming a challenge or discovering a passion, every step forward is growth.
And when we grow together, we become even stronger. This theme reminds us that learning is a shared journey—one that builds confidence, fosters connection and prepares all students to reach their full potential.
Thank you for your partnership in helping our students grow and succeed!
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