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South Washington County Schools board hears year‑end athletics and activities highlights
Summary
Activities directors and coaches from Eastridge, Park and Woodbury high schools presented state finishes, record-setting relay times, new student clubs and leadership initiatives; presenters said participation increased in 2025–26 and praised booster and coach support.
At the June 25, 2026 meeting of the South Washington County Schools board, activities leaders from Eastridge, Park and Woodbury high schools presented year‑end highlights that included state placings, individual championships and expanded student leadership programs. The presentations emphasized both competitive results and academic recognition across athletics and fine arts.
Sarah Paladichuk, activities director for Eastridge High School, told the board the boys lacrosse team finished third in the state after an overtime quarterfinal and a 15‑8 win in the third‑place game. She credited “an incredibly talented roster,” team culture and booster support for the run. Head coach Aaron Peterson said the team’s success came from players across all grade levels and singled out senior Bradley Johnson, who was named Mr. Lacrosse Minnesota.
Student Parker Pocheski, a member of Eastridge’s state‑placing 4x8 relay, described the experience as a highlight of his senior year and reported his split time (1:59) and his team’s school record of 7:53.
Phil Kimmel, Park High School’s activities director, described Park’s approach as “education‑based athletics,” and spotlighted participation and academic recognition: administrative intern Lander Hicks reported that roughly 61% of male students and 55% of female students took part in at least one Minnesota State High School League activity this year, and the district fielded more than 60 clubs and organizations.
The Woodbury presenter (speaking on behalf of outgoing activities director Jodie Leland) highlighted similar programmatic strengths: increased participation (an uptick of 44 students at Woodbury), successful state qualifiers across multiple sports, and a leadership council that trains student captains and club leaders. The board also heard about performing‑arts awards and a growing slate of clubs, including DECA and a new Just Serve student group focused on community service.
Board members praised coaches, volunteers and students for the breadth of activities and high community turnout for events. The presentations noted a high number of home events (near 300 across athletics, activities, music and theater) and repeated examples of students earning both athletic and academic honors.
The board did not take any formal action on the presentations; the session moved on to policy and budget items after a period for board comments.
