Student school board representative connects with schools
Student School Board
Representative Iris Moore is working to amplify all student voices in Hopkins Schools. Moore visited North Middle School and Eisenhower Elementary to gather feedback on their school experiences. Students shared insights on what’s working and what could be improved. Moore's goal is to represent everyone not just high schoolers!
Former student honors high school teacher’s lasting impact
Hopkins High School teacher
David Braaten received a heartfelt surprise from former student Lyn King, who credited his support in 1998 for inspiring her to earn her degree. She shared her story with his class and honored him with her graduation stole, a special North Dakota State University tradition.
The Community’s Guide to the District Winter 2025
Exploring pathways into a successful career
The Career and Technical Education Program (CTE) at Hopkins High School is giving students a head start in exploring their future career possibilities. By offering hands-on experiences and industry relevant curriculum, the program helps students identify where their interests and abilities intersect with a potential career path.
The program is paving the way for the next generation of skilled professionals, while preparing students for the future with the skills they need to succeed whether they go on to college, trade school, or directly into the workforce.
“Our goal is to provide students with opportunities to explore postsecondary options while they are still in high school,” said Kara LeVahn, CTE Coordinator.
Real-world application and hands-on experience
The CTE program offers four distinct pathways: technology education, health sciences, business, and family and consumer sciences (FCS). Each pathway is supported by an advisory board
IN THE DATES COMMUNITY
Kindergarten Roundup 2025
of community and industry partners who ensure the curriculum is aligned to the needs of today’s workforce. Beyond serving on the advisory board, industry professionals are active participants in the classroom, offering students the chance to engage in an environment similar to what they will experience in the workforce. In Jesse Theirl’s business class, students have worked with professionals from General Mills, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Caribou Coffee, and many others. They have had the opportunity to present marketing and business plans directly to industry leaders.
Meredith Burke, a 2023 Hopkins graduate, said she gained valuable skills from the business classes she took in high school. She developed teamwork and collaboration expertise, built confidence in speaking with and presenting to professionals, learned about networking and problem-solving, and mastered time management.
Dates and times vary by school
Exploring pathways into a successful career, inside
Please join us for an in-person Kindergarten Roundup event designed to connect you and your future kindergartners with your school community. This is a family-friendly event! bit.ly/3C15oiB
Royal Bash to celebrate 30 years of HEF! March 1, 5:30 p.m.
Join the Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) at the Metropolitan Ballroom to celebrate Hopkins schools and support HEF grants. Enjoy dinner, entertainment, and fundraising for students and teachers. Tickets available now! HopkinsEducationFoundation.org
Students in Woodworking build tables from scratch (left) and students practice transferring a patient to a stretcher in their Exploration of Medical Careers class (right).
“I think we always try to have an application to work outside of school — that lens — so people get that we are not just doing this to get a grade,” Theirl said.
The practical approach extends beyond business courses. Technical Education teacher Matt Sabin wants his courses to bring academic concepts to life through hands-on projects. For example, in his small engines class, students study the atomic structure of copper to understand how it generates the electrical flow needed for engine operation.
“We take everything taught in the rest of the building and apply it to the real-world,” Sabin said. “Students see how all the pieces of their education come together.”
Health sciences and FCS also offer immersive experiences.
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program has a state-of-the-art lab at the high school designed to simulate a hospital setting. Students receive classroom and clinical training, and have the opportunity to earn a CNA certification by the end of the course. Medical professionals regularly visit the class to introduce them to different roles and career opportunities within the field.
In the FCS program, students showcase their creativity and technical skills through competitions that challenge their mastery of flavor, presentation, and technique. Cupcake Wars puts their baking talents to the test as they experiment with unique flavor combinations and decorative designs before receiving feedback from a panel of judges. The Burger Challenge pushes them to craft custom gourmet burgers tailored to specific tastes, refining their ability
to balance ingredients, textures, and presentation — essential skills for any aspiring chef. For students looking to deepen their skills and interests, each CTE pathway offers an extracurricular club where they can gain additional experience.
Challenges in facilities and transportation
Like many high schools, the learning spaces at Hopkins High School were not designed for career-focused education. The technology education and culinary areas, last remodeled over two decades ago, face challenges with outdated facilities.
The technology education space — the wood shop in particular — was remodeled 27 years ago for modular education, but more specialized spaces are needed now. When students are working on projects, Sabin needs to fit 20 students in a space that is meant for nearly half that number.
Sabin noted that while manufacturing is a growing industry in the community, the learning spaces lack the capacity needed to be as effective as he would like.
“The current spaces are small and inefficient,” Sabin said. “I’ll make it work, but it’s confined and frustrating for the kids.”
Another challenge that the program is facing is transportation. Many students could have the opportunity to access job shadows and apprenticeships but the sites are 15 or 20 minutes away from Hopkins High School.
“Students can't afford to give up [two classes] of their day,” LeVahn said. To solve the problem, she is looking into alternative transportation and solutions as a way to bridge the gap so students can fully benefit from the opportunities.
Regardless of the challenges, LeVahn and CTE staff are all-in and dedicated to providing robust learning experiences that will continue to evolve to meet current and future employment needs.
SHAPING A CELL PHONE POLICY
This fall, Hopkins surveyed families, students, and staff on how they felt about student cell phone usage during school hours. Survey results showed a strong desire for clear guidelines to reduce distractions and promote learning while balancing the need for communication. This input will help us carefully craft policies that serve students of all ages. Hopkins must complete its policy by March 2025 per the Minnesota legislature.
At a high level, the Cell Phone Policy Survey results revealed:
• Overall, caregivers and staff desired more restrictions on cell phone use at school when compared to students, citing their impact on students' academic success and mental health. Some also expressed that they wanted students to have access to phones in case of an emergency.
• Older students expressed very specific views on the ability to access their cell phones during the day.
See the survey results at bit.ly/3WP20ym or scan the QR code for more information.
ALUMNI CORNER ROYAL SPOTLIGHT
Jen Brandabur
Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher; ProStart Coach
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS)
teacher Jennifer Brandabur is a seasoned educator with a rich blend of experiences that flavor her teaching approach.
Her background includes a career in the hospitality industry where she worked as a sales and catering manager. Then she switched to teaching French until she accepted the opportunity to fill a position in FCS.
“I absolutely love it that our department falls under the Career and Technical Education umbrella,” Brandabur said. “We work in professional kitchens and I can seek out opportunities for my students to experience real-life challenges and expose them to different careers.”
What do you enjoy about working in Hopkins?
Everything we teach in Family and Consumer Sciences is a useful skill. As students learn to cook, balance a budget, or design an interior space, they are developing skills and becoming more competent at things that they will eventually need in their personal lives.
Can you share a proud moment that made you feel good about doing your job?
When I was getting my master’s in education, one of my professors talked about the importance of collaborating across departments and getting out of our classrooms. Hopkins has provided a built-in opportunity for me to do this via Digital Learning Days*. With the extra time, I've been able to collaborate across departments to create extremely valuable experiences for students. This year, I am working on a project with geometry, wood shop, graphic arts, and culinary!
*Digital Learning Days at Hopkins High School give scholars independent learning time at home while staff engage in professional development and collaboration.
Alex Johnson 2008 Graduate
Stats: Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities campus
Alex Johnson has built a dynamic career balancing roles as a finance manager at Amazon’s Devices and Services Organization and as a figure skating coach and choreographer in New York City. While he attained success in the corporate world, it is his passion for figure skating that has been a lifelong journey. Growing up, Johnson honed his skills on a backyard ice rink which led to a competitive career including 10 years as a top-six finisher in the U.S. Figure Skating Championship.
“The ups and downs of this sport taught me so many invaluable lessons that have rolled over into both my career and personal life,” Johnson said. “When put in high-pressure situations, it's amazing what you will learn about yourself.”
After retiring from competition in 2019, Johnson decided to share his expertise and love of skating with the next generation through coaching and choreography.
How did Hopkins prepare you for what you are doing today?
The biggest lesson I took out of my time at Hopkins High School was learning how to advocate for myself. I was deeply invested in a sport that wasn’t affiliated with the school. I learned that my voice in my education mattered and although it was challenging, everyone came together to make it work. I had the best of both worlds with a phenomenal public education that challenged me, and a sport that pushed me to grow as an athlete and human.
STUDENT VOICE
Lucy Lundholm Senior, Hopkins High School
Lucy Lundholm is passionate about a career in medicine and is set to further her education at Carleton College next year, majoring in biology and neuroscience on the pre-med track. Her involvement in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course through the Career and Technical Education program has been instrumental in building a solid foundation for her future studies. The hands-on experience has been invaluable and reinforced her commitment to the medical field.
In addition to her coursework, Lundholm is engaged in extracurricular activities that reflect her leadership and dedication to health care. She serves as the secretary of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA); participates in Pep Band, Women in Jazz, and Marching Band; and is a Link Crew leader. Her recent experience at the Medical Reserve Corps at Camp Ripley, where she trained with paramedics and military medical personnel, further solidified her interest in first aid, CPR, mental health front line support, and bleeding control. These experiences have helped her cultivate the resilience and expertise needed for a future in fast-paced emergency care settings.
How is Hopkins preparing you for the future?
Hopkins has prepared me for the future by providing classes like CNA and clubs like HOSA. Being able to take classes like CNA and participate in HOSA events has helped me decide that medicine is the correct field for me before spending loads of money. Rigorous classes offered at Hopkins like AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Psychology helped to develop my curiosities as well.
How do Career and Technical Education courses benefit students in high school? It is very valuable and beneficial to students as it allows students to gain valuable experience while in high school and explore their interests. The support that I have received from my Hopkins counselors, like Dr. Kuhl, and my incredible teachers have been the biggest contributors to my success and getting into my dream school. I am so grateful for them.
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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
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Hopkins Public Schools
January 29
Glen Lake Elementary students had a fun winter adventure ice fishing at Shady Oak Lake! Many tried it for the first time, learning to bait hooks, cast lines, and check ice thickness. The trip was part of the “10,000 Ice Anglers” project, led by Karl Erickson and sponsored by Elpis Enterprises, with support from the DNR, Hopkins VFW, and community volunteers.
Educational excellence and equity: a collective responsibility
At Hopkins Public Schools, excellence is inseparable from equity and inclusion. We believe that every student and staff member deserves to feel safe, valued, and empowered to be their full selves. This is not just a belief — it is embedded in our policies, our partnerships, and our daily actions. We remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a welcoming environment where all students can thrive academically and socially, regardless of race, income, background, or identity. In times of uncertainty, our schools will continue to be places of belonging, where every learner is affirmed, supported, and prepared for a future of limitless possibility.
Hopkins Schools
January 27
Meadowbrook Elementary’s Student Showcase Night featured amazing projects, presentations, and performances! Families explored classrooms and celebrated student achievements through project-based learning.
Hopkins Public Schools
December 18
Sixth grade Earth science students at West Middle School explored how Earth's shifting plates cause earthquakes and the unique challenges of building in high-risk areas. They teamed up to design, plan, and construct their own earthquake-resistant buildings. Then, they tested their structures with a simulated quake. Their creativity and innovative thinking was nothing short of impressive!
Hopkins Schools
November 15
VirtualEDU and the University of Minnesota have teamed up to bring hands-on learning to students! This week, they launched a hydroponics project, planting arugula, bok choy, collard greens, and microgreens. An exciting example of VirtualEDU’s project-based learning in action!
As a district, we are also planning for a sustainable future. Schools across the state, including Hopkins, are navigating a difficult budget climate. Now more than ever, we must be strategic and focused as we align our resources with the future we believe in. With looming budget reductions, we have difficult decisions ahead. We will work hard to protect classroom teachers and class sizes while identifying ways to be more efficient within programs and services.
Last spring, we sent Hopkins families a Facilities and Learning Environment Survey. The results will guide plans for a potential bond referendum aimed at improving safety and security, modernizing outdated learning spaces, and expanding opportunities for Career and Technical Education (CTE). You can view the results of this survey on our website.
We want to hear from you
Hopkins is committed to transparency and collaboration. Throughout this spring, we will be holding three different types of engagement opportunities designed to keep our community informed and involved.
• State of the District sessions will be held virtually, providing an accessible way for families to hear updates on the district's vision and ask questions.
• Soup with the Supe chats will be informal, in-person gatherings where you can engage in open dialogue with district leadership and enjoy soup!
• Facilities for the Future sessions will be interactive focus groups that give families, students, and staff the opportunity to shape the future of our schools.
You can find more information about these efforts on our website. I deeply appreciate our partnership as we work together to create a future where every member of our community is seen, valued, and supported. I invite you to stay engaged — join the conversation, share your perspectives, and be part of the work ahead. Together, we will continue building a school community where all students can thrive. Thank you for being an essential part of Hopkins Schools — we are always stronger together.
Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed Superintendent
BUILDING BRIGHT FUTURES
Preparing future innovators through hands-on learning
HOPKINS SCHOOLS BY NUMBERS
Residential Postal Patron ECRWSS
2025 MINNESOTA TEACHER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Alison Rubbelke, Language Arts, North Middle School
Mykenna Yesnes, Social Studies, North Middle School
Kyle Stark, Social Studies, North Middle School
Julie Dearring, Special Education, West Middle School
Dee Den Hartog, Guidance Counselor, Glen Lake Elementary School
Andy Jensen, Band, Meadowbrook Elementary School
Yuqi Li, Grade 5, Eisenhower Elementary School
Nicole Mittelstaedt, Spanish, Glen Lake Elementary School
Mitchell Schank, Science, Hopkins High School
Jitka Sebek, Adult Basic Educator, Eisenhower Community Center
Katie Trembley, Grade 1, Tanglen Elementary School
Nora Tycast, Band, Hopkins High School
Sara Vanhove, Special Education, Tanglen Elementary School
Katie York, Kindergarten, Meadowbrook Elementary School
