Family April 2025 Knight Line

As we approach the final weeks of the school year, we know how tempting it can be to look ahead to summer. But this stretch is important—it’s a time to reinforce learning, celebrate growth, and set the tone for a strong start next fall. As Dr. Stephen Covey said, “Begin with the end in mind.” How we finish the year matters—it sends a message to our learners about perseverance, commitment, and pride in their work.

Here are a few ways you can support your child in finishing strong:

• Stick to routines. Keeping a consistent schedule helps maintain focus and energy through the end of the year.
  

• Celebrate small wins. Whether it’s a completed project or a kind gesture, acknowledging progress keeps motivation high.
  

• Talk about goals. Ask your child what they’d like to accomplish before the last day of school—academically or socially.
  

• Encourage reflection. Help them think about what they’ve learned this year and how they’ve grown.
  

• Stay connected. Attend end-of-year events, connect with school staff, and continue showing interest in school life.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we can help our students finish the year with confidence—and begin the next one ready to thrive.

All staff, families, and community members are invited to attend a School Board Listening Session on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the boardroom at STMA Middle School West.

This is a valuable opportunity to share your thoughts, ask questions, and engage in open dialogue with members of the STMA School Board. We believe that strong schools are built through strong partnerships with staff, families, and the community, and your voice is important to us.

We hope you will join us for this time of meaningful connection and conversation.

In May, our learners are focusing on the Character Strong trait of creativity—using your imagination to create something new or solve a problem.

Here are a few simple and engaging ways to explore creativity together:

• Ask your child: How can creativity help you solve problems? Encourage a family discussion to explore different perspectives.

• Model creative thinking aloud: As you work through a task or problem, verbalize your thought process. Share how you brainstorm multiple solutions or think outside the box. This helps children see creativity as a skill that can be practiced and developed.
  
  

By intentionally creating opportunities to think creatively, we help our children build confidence in their ideas and foster a mindset of innovation and problem-solving.

Throughout May, we are honored to recognize and celebrate several remarkable groups of staff whose dedication and service profoundly impact our students and schools. This month, we extend our deepest appreciation to many groups of staff. Their unwavering commitment forms the foundation of our success—both in the classroom and beyond.

Please join us in expressing heartfelt gratitude for all they do—not just this month, but all year long.

Mark Your Calendar:

Let’s take every opportunity to thank and celebrate these exceptional members of our STMA family!

With just three weeks remaining in the legislative session, legislators are working diligently to adopt the biennial state budget. We continue to closely monitor the progress of various budget and policy bills moving through the legislative process.

Unfortunately, with the state facing an approximate $6 billion deficit, our optimism for much-needed revenue is quickly fading. The Governor and Senate have proposed significant cuts to education, while the House has proposed a $40 million increase for the 2026-2027 biennium, followed by flat funding for 2028-2029. Now, we await negotiations between the House, Senate, and Governor as they work toward reaching a final budget framework. Given the significant differences among the three proposals, the 67-67 split in the House, and looming concerns over future deficits, state leaders face a daunting task.

We remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached in time to pass the final budget bills before the May 19 constitutional adjournment deadline. If not, a special session may be required before the June 30 fiscal year-end. Regardless of the outcome, this financial outlook presents serious challenges for our district and school districts across Minnesota. Despite the uncertainties ahead, we are committed to continuing our strong advocacy to ensure our students and schools receive the funding and support they need to thrive.

04-07-2025 Work Session

The Board held a work session regarding the District’s budget.

04-07-2025 Regular Board Meeting

Student and Staff Recognition

Trimester 2 Courtesy & Respect Awards

The Board recognized the following Trimester 2 Courtesy & Respect award winners:

Freshmen: Kylee Brandli, Remington Filzen, Gabriela Zea

Sophomores: Jacob Kwateh, Emily Roth, Brody Bergeron

Juniors: Caleb Lee, Lane Jeffery, Mara Howard

Seniors: Tanner Becker, Paige Herbst, Travis Mokua

Scholastic Arts Awards

Students Kaitlyn Jette, Isabel Petite, and Ismael Robles Quinones were recognized for earning a National Silver Medal in the 2025 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Jacob Goth was recognized for having his artwork showcased at the Annual National K-12 Ceramic Exhibition in Salt Lake City, UT.

The Board took action on the following items:

• K-8 Summer School Cancellation FY2025

• District Policy 522

• FY2026 Substitute Compensation and Building Assigned Certified Substitutes

• High School Senior Appreciation Day

• Set a Work Session for May 5, 2025 at 5:00 pm.

04-21-2025 Regular Board Meeting

Reports:

• Southwest Metro Intermediate District 288 Superintendent Dr. Jeff Horton

• Family and Community Connections

The Board took action on the following items:

• Ratification of the 2024-2026 Master Agreement for Support Staff with SEIU

• Elementary Handbooks

All Board meetings take place at 6:00 pm in the Boardroom at Middle School West, Door N.