The Citizens Academy is designed for community members who want to better understand Minnetonka Public Schools and play a more informed role in the life of the district.

Participants will:

• Go behind the scenes of district programs, schools and operations
• Meet district leaders, staff members and other engaged community members
• Learn how decisions are made and how resources are used to support students
• Explore the programs and services that make Minnetonka unique
• Gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing public schools
• Build connections and discover ways to stay involved

Each session will focus on a different part of the district, giving participants a broad view of how Minnetonka Public Schools supports students from early learning through graduation.

Participants will meet one day a month from September 2026 through May 2027.

The first half of the program will focus on District operations and the systems that support students, staff and families. Topics may include technology, finance and operations, human resources, communications, Community Education, curriculum and instruction, MTSS, well-being and belonging.

The second half of the program will focus on academic programs and student opportunities across Minnetonka Public Schools. Topics may include MOMENTUM Design and Skilled Trades, Minnetonka Research and STEM programs, literacy and global language programming, middle school offerings, excellence in co-curriculars and VANTAGE Advanced Professional Studies.

The Citizens Academy is open to community members who are interested in learning more about Minnetonka Public Schools and becoming more connected to the district.

This program may be a good fit for:

• Parents and caregivers
• Residents without children currently enrolled in the district
• Alumni and grandparents
• Community partners and local business leaders
• Volunteers or prospective volunteers
• Anyone who wants a deeper understanding of public education in Minnetonka

No previous experience with the District is required. Participants should simply bring curiosity, an interest in learning and a willingness to engage in thoughtful conversation.

To be eligible for the Citizens Academy, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Not be a current student in Minnetonka Public Schools
• Be a current resident of the Minnetonka Public School District, be a parent/guardian of a current Minnetonka Public School District student, or be an alumnus/a of the District
• Commit to attending (nearly) all nine monthly sessions (September 2026 through May 2027)
• Complete the application by July 31, 2026
• Pass a criminal background check
• Have no undisclosed conflicts of interest with the district

Community members interested in participating in the Minnetonka Citizens Academy are invited to complete a brief application. Because space is limited, participants will be selected with the goal of creating a well-rounded cohort that reflects a variety of perspectives, backgrounds and connections to Minnetonka Public Schools. Applicants will be notified of their status before the first session begins.

• Applications open: mid-to late May 2026
• Application deadline: end of July 2026
• Applicants evaluated and selected: mid-August 2026
• Acceptance notifications: late August 2026
• Program begins late September 2026