At Minnetonka Schools, the Explorers program supports students and their families every day with care before and after school. Our outstanding Explorers staff create an engaging and supportive environment where students are able to develop socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. From April 17-21, the District is celebrating MCE Explorers Staff Appreciation Week and the impact these staff members make in our community.

Minnetonka offers both before and after school Explorers for elementary school students, as well as Junior Explorers, which serves as full-time childcare for kids ages 3 to 5. In both programs, staff members are responsible for a wide variety of tasks ranging from organizing group projects and activities, supervising students during indoor and outdoor play time and assisting with meal times. 

In honor of Explorers Staff Appreciation Week, Minnetonka Schools is highlighting two of our very own Explorers staff members: Sarah Davis, Junior Explorers Supervisor at the Community Education Center, and Patrick Wood, Site Supervisor at Excelsior Elementary School. Read on to learn more about Sarah’s and Patrick’s experience and role in the Minnetonka Public Schools District. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your job! How long have you worked for the district? 

SD: My name is Sarah Davis. I am the Junior Explorers Supervisor at MCEC. I oversee our littlest Explorers ages 3-5. I have worked for Minnetonka for 15 years.

PW: Hello!  My name is Patrick Wood and I have been a Program Leader, Assistant Site Supervisor and Site Supervisor for the past 25 years.

What’s your favorite part of your job? 

SD: My favorite part of my job is being able to provide a loving and educational childcare environment for the preschoolers that need full day childcare. It is so much fun to be able to see all the learning and fun the students are having everyday. I also enjoy knowing I can provide a safe and nurturing environment that parents can feel comfortable sending their young children to on a daily basis.

PW: I just want to say that it has been a pleasure working with all those wonderful Excelsior students I've got to know while working at Explorers. I got to see so many happy faces exploring all the awesome projects that were being offered. My favorite projects to do with the kids are STEAM and Science activities. If you asked me what my favorite part of the job would be, I would always say just hanging out with the kids and providing a safe and fun atmosphere!  

Do you have a favorite memory from your time in your role at Minnetonka? 

SD: My favorite memories are all the new experiences we are providing for our preschoolers, whether that’s going on their first field trip on the big bus or learning how to cross the monkey bars for the first time. I love creating memories with the students and families.

PW: My favorite memories of Explorers always involve the simple things, like when a child simply says, "You’re my favorite teacher!" or when parents give me positive feedback about how well the program is running and how much fun their children are having at Explorers.

Explorers staff truly make a positive impact on our community. Make sure to reach out to an Explorers staff member this week and thank them for their dedication to supporting Minnetonka students and families!