Burroughs Elementary School

Burroughs Community Elementary School is a public K-5 school in Southwest Minneapolis serving the Lynnhurst and Tangletown neighborhoods. Nestled near Lake Harriet and Minnehaha Creek, it emphasizes both academic rigor and social-emotional growth for all students. The school fosters inclusion, valuing the diversity of the city while working to accelerate student learning. In addition to strong instruction in reading, mathematics, science, and social studies, Burroughs enriches education through art, physical education, media, and technology. Teachers provide caring, differentiated support, with before- and after-school care options to accommodate families. With roughly 470 students, Burroughs combines high performance on state assessment tests with a nurturing, engaged school community that encourages partnership between staff, students, and families.

Burroughs has recently released enrollment data for 2024-2025, showing approximately 472 students in grades K-5 and highlighting its strong performance in statewide testing.

The school is continuing its community engagement series in 2025, hosting regular events for families in Lynnhurst and Tangletown to support inclusion and deepen connections among students, staff, and caregivers.

Q1: What are student demographics at Burroughs Elementary?

A: The school has about 472 students in grades K-5. Approximately 81% are White, around 8% identify as “Two or more races,” about 6% Hispanic/Latino, 2% Black/African American, and 2% Asian. Around 1% of students are English Learners, 8% come from low-income households, and about 11% receive special education services.

Q2: How does Burroughs perform academically relative to the state?

A: Burroughs is highly rated: GreatSchools gives it 9/10, and SchoolDigger ranks it among the top elementary schools in Minnesota. Its test scores in reading, math, and science are well above state averages. The school is considered in the top 1% of Minnesota elementary schools in combined test performance.

Q3: What extracurricular and enrichment options are available?

A: Students have access to art, media/technology, physical education, and vocal music within the regular curriculum. There are also before- and after-school care programs. The natural setting (near parks and creek) is used to enrich science, art, and fitness instruction.

Q4: Who leads the school and what is its educational mission or philosophy?

A: The principal is Maggie Vecchio-Smith. Burroughs is a community school whose mission is to accelerate both academic and emotional growth, nurture caring, inclusive staff-student relationships, and support understanding of diversity in the city. Teachers and staff emphasize differentiated instruction and strong engagement with families.

Q5: What is the student-teacher ratio, and classroom size / funding information?

A: The student-teacher ratio is roughly 19:1. The number of students is about 472. Funding and per-student spending are competitive, though specific budget numbers are subject to district allocations. The school’s high performance suggests effective use of available resources.