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Board approves ZEAL signature program for Loretta Zumbro Elementary
Summary
After parent forums and a successful family night, the board approved Loretta Zumbro Elementary’s signature program 'ZEAL' (Zumbro Engineering and Aerospace Learning), endorsing community-driven program elements and modest initial professional-development costs.
The board unanimously approved Loretta Zumbro Elementary School’s proposal to adopt a signature program called ZEAL (Zumbro Engineering and Aerospace Learning).
Principal-level staff and presenter Bruce Niminsky told the board that three parent forums and an on-site family night drew input from about 46 attendees and produced suggestions for program features: badges and year-round achievements, differentiated pathways for different learner levels, partnerships with local high schools and industry, after-school extension clubs, and a vertical pathway to prepare students for high-school STEM programs.
Niminsky described cost estimates: a full integration package quoted at about $7,200–$7,500 for one year of Defined Learning with two hours of professional development; a computer-science/engineering component quoted at about $2,500; and virtual professional development at $1,500. The presenter said a scaled option of about $4,000 should meet initial needs.
Board members praised the outreach approach and asked administration to work with the school on targeted purchases and partnerships. A motion to approve the signature program passed 5–0, making ZEAL Loretta Zumbro’s official signature program.
