In a recent government meeting, officials highlighted significant advancements in mental health services and academic assessments within local schools. The discussion began with updates on successful initiatives at Lake Elmo and Affton Lakeland, with plans to expand these services to Brookview, Stillwater Middle, and Oakland Middle schools. This expansion is made possible through additional state funding, marking the second year of enhanced mental health support for students.

The district has partnered with Family Means to broaden mental health services, which will not only benefit students but also provide staff training to better handle challenging situations. Attendance remains a priority as schools continue to address the lingering effects of post-COVID attendance issues.

The meeting also featured an assessment update presented by Elsa Montes, who provided insights into the district's MCA and MTAS results. Montes compared the district's performance to that of similar schools in the east metro area and other districts with comparable demographics, focusing on free and reduced lunch rates and student population sizes. This analysis aims to give the Board and the public a clearer understanding of the district's academic standing.

Further details on these initiatives and assessments are expected in upcoming meetings, as officials continue to prioritize student well-being and educational outcomes.