Welcome to Kindergarten Together we belong, together we learn, together we thrive
Accepting enrollments starting Nov. 1 for the
2027-28 kindergarten school year
Hopkins
Class of
2040
We are excited to welcome you and your upcoming kindergartener to Hopkins! Welcome to kindergarten in Hopkins! Kindergarten is the beginning of an exciting journey. It is a time to build friendships, explore new interests and develop a lifelong love of learning. In Hopkins, we recognize and build on each child’s unique strengths and interests, creating exceptional learning experiences that help every student discover what is possible. Our caring educators create welcoming classrooms where children feel known, valued and supported as they learn and grow. We also know that student success is strengthened by a meaningful partnership between school and family. As you explore this brochure, I invite you to learn more about the opportunities available in Hopkins and what makes our schools special. We would be honored to welcome your child as one of our newest Royals! Sincerely,
Michael J. Thomas, Ed.D. Hopkins Public Schools Superintendent
About our superintendent Doctorate in educational leadership and bachelor’s degree in social work, University of St. Thomas. Master’s degree in social work, University of Minnesota. Minnesota superintendent and K–12 principal licenses. More than 25 years of experience in education, including serving as an elementary and secondary principal and superintendent.
Meet your principal Behind every great school is an exceptional leader. In Hopkins, our principals are dedicated to centering students in everything they do and are committed to creating optimal learning environments. We invest in their leadership, ensuring they have the tools and support needed to serve our students, staff and families at the highest level.
Melissa Ness
Sabrina Schmidtke
Principal, Eisenhower “I choose Hopkins because Hopkins values each scholar as an individual who brings strengths and brilliance.”
Principal, Alice Smith “I choose Hopkins because we are a district that leans into important conversations to ensure every scholar feels a true sense of belonging, grounded in humility, a commitment to equity, and above all, love.”
George Nolan, Ed.D.
Jeff Radel
Principal, Gatewood “I choose Hopkins because every student who comes through our doors is valued and loved!”
Principal, Glen Lake “I choose Hopkins because we believe that every child deserves a brilliant future!”
Katie Stennes, Ed.D.
Natalie Sawatzky
Interim Principal, L.H. Tanglen “I choose Hopkins because it’s a caring community where relationships are at the heart of learning.”
Principal, Meadowbrook “I choose Hopkins because our district’s values closely align to my personal values. I lead with love, humility and a quest for equity.”
Join us for these important events during your child’s year-before-kindergarten November 12, 2026 — Kindergarten Information Night This fun and interactive event is for families and their incoming kindergarteners. Learn about Hopkins’ exciting vision, meet your child’s principal and explore the many options available to your student. Kindergarten Information Night at Hopkins High School:
Nov. 12, 2026, 5:30-7 p.m.
Register: bit.ly/4z0mQLH
November 17, 2026 — Kindergarten Language Immersion Information Fair Families interested in our Spanish or Chinese immersion programs are invited to a fun and informational event at Eisenhower Elementary focused on answering all of your immersion questions. Kindergarten Language Immersion Information Fair:
Nov. 17, 2026, 6-7:30 p.m.
Register: bit.ly/4hlcu3b
January 20, 2027 — Kindergarten Curriculum Information Session Interested in a deeper look at Hopkins’ elementary curriculum? Join us for this virtual information session facilitated by literacy and math instruction experts from Hopkins’ curriculum team. Kindergarten Curriculum Information Session:
Jan. 20, 2027, 6-7 p.m.
Register: bit.ly/4xWZCW7
Additional 2027 Year-Before-Kindergarten Events Please check our website for upcoming year-before-kindergarten event dates including Kinder Kickoff in the spring, and Kindergarten Playground Nights in August. Learn more at HopkinsSchools.org/kinder.
Need help enrolling? Our enrollment team is here for you! Visit us: Eisenhower Community Center, Room 170 1001 Hwy. 7, Hopkins, 55305
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m. to noon in person; noon to 4 p.m. virtually. Call: 952-988-4110
If you need support outside of these hours, call our office to set up an appointment.
Early Childhood Screening
Kindergarten Early Entrance
Screenings are required before the start of kindergarten and recommended between the ages of 3-4. Schedule a screening appointment at HopkinsSchools.org/screen.
If your child will turn 5 after Sept. 1, and you are interested in early entrance to kindergarten, please email EarlyEntrance@HopkinsSchools.org or call 952-988-5000 to learn more about our process.
For more information on all of our year-before-kindergarten events, and to register online, scan the QR code.
Elementary curriculum The elementary years spark curiosity, build confidence and help children discover what they love about learning. Our curriculum gives students opportunities to ask questions, explore new ideas, build essential skills and grow as learners. Through engaging experiences across subjects, students develop creativity, problem-solving skills and a lifelong love of learning.
Literacy
Math
Kindergarteners build a strong foundation as readers, writers, listeners and speakers. They learn letter names and sounds, use phonics to read words, explore fiction and nonfiction texts and express their ideas through writing and conversation.
Kindergarteners build number sense through counting, sorting, comparing and recognizing patterns. Using hands-on tools and activities, they explore shapes, measurement, data and number relationships while developing confidence as problem solvers.
Science
Social Studies
Kindergarteners learn science by wondering, observing, exploring and testing ideas. They investigate plants and animals, weather, materials and motion while looking for patterns, creating simple models and explaining what they discover.
Kindergarteners learn about themselves, their communities and the world around them. They explore traditions, roles and relationships, practice what it means to be a good citizen and begin using maps and directions to understand places near and far.
Hopkins elementary school offerings • A staff of specialists supports students at every elementary school, including social workers, counselors, special education teachers, paraprofessionals and restorative practices specialists.
• 1:1 iPad program uses technology intentionally to support learning while balancing screen time with play, movement, hands-on experiences, collaboration and meaningful human connection.
• Social-emotional learning and self-regulation strategies create environments where students can thrive. Flexible classrooms give students agency over the physical space they need to support their learning.
• Orchestra and band begin in elementary school.
• Before- and after-school care is offered through our Kids & Company program: HopkinsSchools.org/kids.
Learn more about our curriculum at HopkinsSchools.org/academics/elementary.
Elementary schools at a glance Alice Smith Elementary 801 Minnetonka Mills Road, Hopkins, MN 55343 Rooted in community, invested in student success Alice Smith Elementary is a neighborhood school with a strong sense of community where all families are valued and supported. Our school provides rich opportunities for students to explore, create and grow through weekly specialist experiences and inquiry-based learning. We also offer a Juntos Spanish immersion option. We are committed to helping every learner develop the academic, social and problemsolving skills needed to thrive in school and beyond, while fostering curiosity, confidence and a lifelong love of learning.
Eisenhower Elementary 1001 MN-7, Hopkins, MN 55305 Developing global citizens who will make the world better Eisenhower Elementary is home to Eisenhower Community School, XinXing Chinese immersion and Juntos Spanish immersion. We offer students a unique opportunity to develop language and cultural proficiency in all our learning pathway programs. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, Eisenhower Elementary develops inquisitive, knowledgeable and caring young people who will help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
Gatewood Elementary 14900 Gatewood Drive, Minnetonka, MN 55345 Sparking curiosity through nature Gatewood Elementary seamlessly connects the classroom to nature. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) school with an outdoor learning model, our curriculum fosters critical thinking, problem-solving and a deep connection to the environment. Through hands-on experiences and a focus on environmental stewardship, we equip students with the skills and values to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Glen Lake Elementary 4801 Woodridge Road, Minnetonka, MN 55345 Connecting, learning and growing together At Glen Lake Elementary, students have opportunities to connect with others through shared interests and experiences beyond the classroom. Through the House system and High Interest Lunches, students build relationships, explore their passions, and learn from the knowledge and experiences of faculty and staff. These opportunities help students feel a stronger sense of belonging while encouraging curiosity, confidence and connection within the school community.
L.H. Tanglen Elementary 10901 Hillside Lane W, Minnetonka, MN 55305 Growing character, curiosity and community At L.H. Tanglen Elementary, every child has strengths and talents to discover. Through Schoolwide Enrichment, students explore their interests, ask questions and learn through hands-on experiences. They build confidence, creativity, collaboration and problem-solving skills while developing kindness and a strong sense of community. Tanglen staff know each child as an individual, creating a welcoming school where every student feels seen, valued and encouraged to grow.
Meadowbrook Elementary 5430 Glenwood Avenue, Golden Valley, MN 55422 Building skills and confidence for a changing world Meadowbrook Elementary’s project-based learning approach provides dynamic, student-centered experiences tailored to each child’s unique needs. Through hands-on projects that tackle real-world challenges, students explore issues that matter to them and their communities, empowering them to take ownership of their learning while building confidence and developing critical thinking skills. Meadowbrook’s dedication to individualized learning equips students to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Every child deserves to feel known, valued and understood. We’re proud that 93% of our elementary students say people at their school understand them as a person. This sense of belonging is at the heart of our community and helps every student grow with confidence.
Technology with purpose Using technology to support learning, creativity and meaningful connection In kindergarten, hands-on exploration, conversation and play are essential to learning. Technology is used thoughtfully to support a learning goal, alongside books, art materials and other classroom tools. Hopkins has eliminated unstructured technology use and blocked YouTube on K–8 student devices to help keep technology use focused on learning. Technology is used intentionally to enhance learning, increase accessibility and support multilingual learners. As one of many tools used throughout the day, it is balanced with movement, hands-on experiences, collaboration and meaningful human connection. Student safety, well-being and privacy remain at the center of our approach.
International Baccalaureate Nurturing learners who are curious, confident and empathetic The International Baccalaureate (IB) program builds on the belief that children are naturally curious and learn deeply when they are engaged in relevant topics. Children ask questions that guide their desire for knowledge, lead to discovery and make education an adventure! The International Baccalaureate (IB) program provides a rigorous curriculum framework that encourages students to think critically, ask questions and solve problems. Eisenhower and Gatewood elementary schools offer the IB program, providing students with engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences that foster curiosity, exploration and a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Learning through IB The IB approach encourages students to ask questions, make choices about their learning and connect ideas across subjects. Through IB, students: • Explore different perspectives. • Develop empathy and responsibility. • Build confidence and work with others. • Think critically and apply learning to real-world problems.
Chinese and Spanish language immersion Language immersion pathways Hopkins offers Spanish (Juntos) and Mandarin Chinese (XinXing) immersion programs that prepare students to thrive in an interconnected world. Students learn core academic content in a second language, with English literacy instruction introduced in third grade. Both programs offer opportunities for cultural exchange and travel, and are led by native-speaking educators.
Chinese immersion XinXing is Hopkins Public Schools’ all-day Chinese immersion program located at Eisenhower Elementary School. Chinese immersion students can reach an advanced level of proficiency by the end of grade 12 and will develop biliteracy in Chinese and English. Our teachers are native Chinese speakers who create a positive and authentic immersion experience for your child. In kindergarten through grade 2, students receive language arts/reading, math, science, social studies and health instruction in Mandarin Chinese. In all grade levels, music, art and physical education are delivered in English, with Chinese cultural components infused throughout these classes. Chinese immersion courses continue at Hopkins West Middle School and Hopkins High School. Students who complete the full Chinese immersion track will be prepared for advanced coursework in Chinese at the college level and can earn up to 16 college credits by the time they graduate high school.
GLOBAL LEARNING
Spanish immersion The Juntos Spanish immersion program encourages students to be globally minded, with the goal of developing empathy, confidence, curiosity and proficiency in Spanish during their elementary years. In kindergarten, 90% of instruction is in Spanish and 10% is in English. Students learn to read and write in Spanish first, and English literacy instruction is increased gradually as they progress through the program. Juntos scholars can continue their Spanish immersion journey at Hopkins North Middle School and Hopkins High School, where they can earn up to 16 college credits for advanced Spanish coursework, and may earn Minnesota Bilingual and Multilingual Seals. Students who speak Spanish are strongly encouraged to apply.
Interested in language immersion? Register to attend our Language Immersion Information Fair on Nov. 17!
Learn more about our language immersion programs at HopkinsSchools.org/immersion.
Se les anima a los estudiantes que hablan español a aplicar.
Continuing your child’s journey as a Hopkins Royal At Hopkins, you’ll find a rigorous academic curriculum and an inclusive school community that enables every student to learn through trial and error, instilling confidence and creating opportunities for innovative thinking to emerge. When your child graduates, they will have developed the skills and qualities needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
The Hopkins Promise Hopkins promises an educational experience for students ages 0-21 that prepares them to succeed in our increasingly complex, rapidly changing world. Our students are recognized as global scholars who work collaboratively, disrupt the status quo and solve some of the world’s most complex problems. They are the best and brightest citizens of tomorrow. Together, we are creating a better world by inspiring each student to reach their full potential.
Hopkins Public Schools at a glance Our schools
Elementary highlights
7 Preschool locations 6 Elementary schools 2 Middle schools 1 High school 1 6-12 Online & blended school
6 Schools helping children discover their strengths and interests 2 International Baccalaureate schools (Gatewood and Eisenhower)
2 Language immersion programs (Spanish and Chinese)
1 school with an outdoor learning focus
High school highlights 24 AP classes offered 55+ Athletic teams, student clubs and activities offered
How to prepare your child for kindergarten Starting kindergarten is an exciting milestone! There are many simple ways families can help their child feel confident, comfortable and ready for this new adventure.
Build independence
Practice social skills
• Practice putting on and taking off a coat, backpack and shoes.
• Encourage sharing, taking turns and listening to others.
• Practice using the bathroom independently.
• Help your child practice using words to express their feelings and needs.
• Encourage your child to help with simple tasks like cleaning up and packing their backpack.
• Provide opportunities to play with other children and practice working together.
• Practice opening lunch containers, water bottles and other school items.
• Talk about how to ask an adult for help when they need it.
Create a routine
Explore and learn together
• Establish consistent bedtime and morning routines before school begins.
• Read books, tell stories and talk about what you see around you.
• Practice getting dressed, eating breakfast and getting ready for the day independently.
• Practice recognizing and writing their name, and encourage drawing.
• Create daily routines that help your child practice independence, follow directions and build confidence.
• Count everyday objects, sort items by color or size, and look for numbers in your community. • Encourage curiosity by asking questions and exploring together.
Check out our video for more information on preparing for kindergarten!
Hopkins Public Schools ISD 270 1001 Hwy. 7 Hopkins, MN 55305
Presorted First Class Mail U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 161 Hopkins, MN 55343
Get to know us by attending Kindergarten Information Night! Nov. 12, 5:30-7 p.m. at Hopkins High School
Scan the QR code to register
Enroll beginning Nov. 1, 2026 All incoming kindergarteners must submit a K-12 student enrollment form, including Hopkins School District residents and Hopkins preschoolers.
Application deadline is Jan. 15, 2027 for: • Chinese and Spanish language immersion students • Open enrolling students • In-district transfer students
Hopkins Public Schools key contacts:
Visit HopkinsSchools.org/enroll or email Enrollment@HopkinsSchools.org to connect with the Hopkins enrollment team.
Enroll online
Get email updates
Schedule a tour
HopkinsSchools.org/enroll
HopkinsSchools.org/ybkmsg
HopkinsSchools.org/tour
For more information on Hopkins kindergarten, visit:
HopkinsSchools.org/kinder Connect with us!
HopkinsPublicSchools
District Enrollment Center 952-988-4110
Early Childhood Screening Appointments 952-988-5017, required for kindergarten
Transportation Services 952-988-4115
Early Childhood Programs & Preschools 952-988-5000
Student Nutrition Services 952-988-4060
Kids & Company School-Age Care 952-988-4080
Special Education Services 952-988-4042
Health Services HopkinsSchools.org/District/Health
Get language support Hopkins Public Schools partners with Weaving Cultures for translation services. If you need an interpreter, please contact the Eisenhower Community Center front desk at 952-988-4000.
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