While our current reality is undefined and uncertain, our objective is to stay centered and rooted in our mission. The 2020-25 strategic plan was built with a vision for racial equity transformation. It allowed the district to build internal structures and controls for us to see, inspire and empower each student to live in their brilliance, and we will continue to lean into this work. I have experienced many ways our staff demonstrates care for each of our students, and though this care is incredibly important, it is also important to elevate our students to high expectations. 

After reviewing our student achievement data, it became clear to me that something would need to change. One of the changes I am making is within the operations of Instruction and Learning (formerly Teaching and Learning). This is being reorganized to improve the district’s effectiveness in providing a high quality education to each student. The I&L department plays a critical role in shaping academic programs, supporting teachers, and implementing instructional strategies that align with state and district goals. Through the budget feedback listening sessions, we heard a need for more support and accountability for teachers and staff to use student data in a way that improves outcomes that align with state standards.

What is Instruction and Learning and what do they do?

I&L brings together the curriculum, assessment and research, and student services teams under one umbrella with a goal to unite teaching practices, professional development, special education, support services, and performance data. This team works to provide teachers and staff with necessary tools to succeed. There are five major areas the team works on to provide support: 

1. Observe school and classroom observations
2. Review and provide overviews of data to teachers and staff
3. Organize and support ongoing design team curriculum reviews
4. Support site implementation teams
5. Lead professional development 

Why does St. Louis Park Public Schools need instructional leaders?

An instructional leader is an educator, often in a leadership role such as a principal, instructional coach, or district administrator, who focuses on improving teaching and learning within a school or district. Instructional leaders prioritize curriculum development, teacher support, and student achievement, instead of primarily managing operations.

Who is a part of the I&L leadership team?

These are the members of the I&L leadership team:

• Assistant Superintendent
• Executive Director of Assessment, Research and Evaluation
• Executive Director of Student Services
• Executive Director of Information Services
• Executive Director of Community Education
• Director of Instruction and Learning
• Principal of Aquila Elementary School
• Principal of Park Spanish Immersion
• Principal of Peter Hobart Elementary School
• Principal of Susan Lindgren Elementary School
• Principal of St. Louis Park Middle School
• Principal of St. Louis Park High School

View the organizational chart.

What are the roles within our instructional leader model?

• Assistant Superintendent: The assistant superintendent collaborates closely with principals, district leaders, and staff to analyze data, develop professional development opportunities, and align practices with district goals. Additionally, they play a key role in budget planning, policy development, and compliance with state and federal regulations. Their leadership is essential to the success of the district’s educational mission.

• Directors: The Director of Instruction and Learning, and Executive Directors of Student Services, Assessment, Research and Evaluation, Information Services and Community Education play a specialized role in supporting student achievement and continuous improvement. Together, these directors collaborate with site implementation teams, and district leaders to align instructional goals, promote best practices, and support systemic improvements that enhance student outcomes across the district. They are essential to the success of all schools.

• Principals: Principals set the vision and direction for the school that is in alignment with the district strategic plan, fostering a culture of academic rigor, equity, and continuous improvement. They lead instructional practices by supporting curriculum development, evaluating and coaching teachers, and promoting professional growth for staff. Principals manage school operations and also build strong relationships with families, staff, and the wider community, fostering collaboration and clear communication. Ultimately, a principal’s leadership shapes the school’s climate, culture, and academic outcomes, driving continuous growth and improvement for both students and staff. They are essential to the success of their school.

• Assistant Principals: Assistant principals provide instructional leadership by managing behavior, addressing disciplinary issues, and promoting positive behavior interventions. They oversee school operations and support staff supervision and development through mentoring, coaching, hiring, and performance evaluations. They engage with the school community to foster strong relationships. They are essential to the success of their school.

• Instructional Coaches: Instructional coaches work directly with teachers to model effective instructional strategies, guide teaching, observe classroom instruction, and offer constructive feedback focused on continuous growth. They bridge the gap between professional development and classroom practice, ensuring that research-based strategies and data-driven decision-making are implemented effectively to meet diverse student needs. They are essential to the success of our teachers.

The reorganization of Instruction and Learning is a critical step in our continued commitment to ensuring that each student in St. Louis Park Public Schools is seen, inspired, and empowered to reach their full potential. By aligning our leadership structures, strengthening support systems, and fostering a culture of accountability, we are creating the conditions necessary for both educators and students to thrive. Instructional leadership at every level—whether through district directors, principals, assistant principals, or instructional coaches—plays a vital role in driving academic excellence, equity, and continuous improvement. Teachers who are interested in applying to be an Instructional Coach, should apply by February 7, 2025.