Wayzata highlights early learning, transition program partnership and student-run clothing closet

The Wayzata Public Schools board heard a combined school‑spotlight presentation on early learning and the Transition program on Monday, where staff outlined enrollment, staffing, program goals and a cross‑program partnership that uses a student‑run clothing closet to meet family needs and provide workplace experience for transition students.

Michelle Bedor, director of the early learning school, reported enrollment figures and staffing levels: "We have 360 students in our part day preschool, [and] 178 in our full day," and said approximately 125 staff work across early learning programs. Bedor described school growth goals focused on early literacy and social problem‑solving and a district aim that every child meet age expectations by spring.

Alana Walsh, supervisor of the Transition program, described the program’s mission (serving young adult learners ages 18–22 who are working toward independent living and employment) and growth since 2019 (from 14 students at founding to over 40 now, with about 50 expected next year). Walsh and transition staff detailed hands‑on partnerships with early learning staff, including a clothing closet where transition students learn inventory, customer service and organizational skills while helping families obtain clothing, diapers and food at no cost.

Presenters said the closet was established to accelerate distribution of donated items directly to families rather than routing donations through external partners; in its first year the program reported hundreds of donated items and dozens of essential goods distributed. The board asked about employment outcomes; staff described the closet as a "stepping stone" toward community partnerships and employment opportunities rather than a guaranteed job placement, and said students are meeting individualized goals.

The board thanked presenters and encouraged expansion of the model districtwide. No formal action was required.