In the warm glow of the Wayzata Public Schools meeting room, excitement filled the air as Principal Mary Macassie and her team from Gleason Lake Elementary took center stage to share their innovative approaches to education. The evening was dedicated to showcasing the school’s growth plan, emphasizing a commitment to enhancing student experiences and academic achievement.

Principal Macassie opened the presentation by highlighting two strategic goals: ensuring a high-quality daily experience for every student and delivering top-notch instruction that fosters academic success. With her were dedicated educators and enthusiastic students eager to share their insights and experiences.

Among the presenters was fourth-grade teacher Lakshmi, who has been refining her instructional practices to better support student learning. She, along with her students, illustrated how they have been implementing a model known as "Building Thinking Classrooms." This approach encourages students to engage deeply with their learning, promoting collaboration and critical thinking.

Sarah Winans, a district resource teacher, elaborated on the framework of Building Thinking Classrooms, which shifts the traditional teacher-led instruction to a more student-centered model. In this environment, students are encouraged to explore concepts first, collaborate with peers, and reflect on their learning. This method not only enhances academic skills but also nurtures social-emotional development, allowing students to learn from one another in a supportive setting.

The presentation also touched on the importance of culturally responsive teaching. Emily Lewis, the family partnership lead, emphasized the need to honor diverse cultural backgrounds in the classroom. By incorporating culturally responsive protocols, teachers can better engage students, recognizing the unique experiences and learning styles each child brings to school.

As the evening progressed, students shared their personal experiences with the new teaching methods, illustrating how these strategies have made learning more interactive and enjoyable. They spoke about the joy of working in diverse groups and the thrill of tackling challenging problems together.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and commitment to continuous improvement. The efforts at Gleason Lake Elementary reflect a broader mission within Wayzata Public Schools to create an inclusive and effective learning environment for all students. As the community looks ahead, the focus remains on fostering a culture of collaboration, engagement, and academic excellence.