Wayzata High School highlights experiential learning success and future goals

The Wayzata Public Schools Board meeting on April 14, 2025, highlighted significant educational initiatives and student achievements at Wayzata High School. The meeting focused on two primary goals: improving ACT scores and enhancing student experiences through experiential learning.

Assistant Principal Tyler Shepherd opened the discussion by outlining the school's goal to increase the percentage of students achieving a minimum ACT score of 21 from 71.5% to 78.6%. He emphasized that while this benchmark is crucial for college acceptance, the school's average ACT score currently stands at 25.3, indicating that many students exceed the target. Shepherd also noted efforts to address disparities among underserved populations to ensure equitable access to college readiness.

The second goal centers on providing meaningful and equitable experiences for students across all classes. This initiative is supported by annual surveys that gauge student perceptions of their teachers' engagement and concern for their well-being. The focus on experiential learning was a key theme of the meeting, with students presenting various programs that foster hands-on learning.

Senior Matthew Adams introduced the concept of experiential learning, emphasizing its importance in preparing students for post-secondary success. He and fellow students showcased several programs, including academic mentoring, career and technical education (CTE), and the Compass program, which connects students with local businesses for real-world learning experiences.

Students shared personal stories about their involvement in these programs. For instance, Ryan Oswald and Grama Arora discussed their experiences in academic mentoring, where they assist teachers and support younger students. They highlighted the positive impact of mentoring on both their own skills and the confidence of those they help.

The CTE program was particularly noted for its focus on workforce skills and real-world applications. Students like April Klein shared their internship experiences, which not only provide academic credit but also valuable job training. The certified nurse aide program was also highlighted, with students discussing its success in preparing them for careers in healthcare.

The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on the importance of these programs in shaping well-rounded graduates ready for future challenges. The board expressed support for continuing to enhance these initiatives, ensuring that all students have access to quality educational experiences that prepare them for success beyond high school.