Site Council History 

Since 1994, Minneapolis Public Schools has embraced the belief that the most effective decisions are made closest to the students they impact. Through site-based decision-making, schools and the district work in partnership—combining clear guidance and shared best practices with the flexibility for schools to design plans that meet their students’ and communities’ unique needs. This approach aims to strengthen student achievement by empowering schools while fostering strong collaboration with the district. 

While site-based decision-making may look different from school to school, each school typically brings together a diverse group of representatives to serve on a council or team. These teams include principals, parents, students, teachers, specialists, support staff, business partners, and community members. Guided by the site-based decision-making philosophy, councils review anything that may impact student success—whether school policies, practices, or cultural and environmental issues—and recommend continuing what works while changing what does not.