Waite Park Elementary School

Waite Park Elementary School is a public K-5 community school in the Northeast neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota, serving around 270 students. Under Principal Rochelle McGinness, it combines academic rigor in reading, mathematics, science, and language arts with a deep emphasis on social-emotional learning, character development, and student leadership. The school offers Gifted & Talented programming, English Learner support, and specialized services including emotional, behavioral, and academic interventions. Shared green space with Minneapolis Parks offers outdoor learning. Waite Park is a hub for its families, with strong volunteer, PTA, and site-council involvement. Before- and after-school care, community education, and enrichment (like GEMS/GISE STEM Academy) strengthen its programming. The school values respect, responsibility, safety, and strives to ensure each child develops intellectually, socially, and personally.

On 03 June 2025, Waite Park released its school supply list for the upcoming year via its website.

In the summer of 2025, Waite Park is running its GEMS/GISE STEM Academy, a four-week program for grades 1-5, held Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Q1: What specialized academic and support programs does Waite Park Elementary offer?

A: Waite Park provides Gifted & Talented programming, services for English Learners, and a strong special education component that includes highly specialized emotional, behavioral, and academic interventions. Inclusion models are employed so students receive the support they need.

Q2: What is the demographic makeup of Waite Park’s student body?

A: As of 2024, there are about 273 students. Approximately 70% identify as White, 14% Black/African American, around 6% Asian, 6% Hispanic/Latino, and 3% Native American. About 7% are English Learners, and roughly 25-28% qualify for Free or Reduced Price Lunch.

Q3: How does Waite Park perform relative to state or district standards?

A: Waite Park performs above average according to GreatSchools, and proficiency rates are roughly 52% in math and 62% in reading (state test data). It has positive ratings for its teachers and academics on platforms like Niche.

Q4: What facilities and physical features support learning at Waite Park?

A: The school building (built in 1950) includes its own kitchen, air conditioning, safe and welcoming entrance, natural lighting, outdoor green spaces shared with parks, classrooms with attached restrooms, elevator/lift, and several rooms dedicated to special education and emotional regulation.

Q5: How does Waite Park engage its community and families?

A: Waite Park has a strong partnership with its PTA and site council, shares its building with Parks & Recreation, holds frequent family-oriented events, offers after-school enrichment and care through Rec Plus and Community Education, and involves families in decision-making and school life.