On June 2 and 3, members of the Class of 2026 spent the days leading up to their graduation giving back to the community that supported them during their journeys through Minnetonka Schools. 

Students filled nearly 770 volunteer slots at more than 100 different sites across the west metro, applying their work ethic, creative talents and caring hearts to tackle a wide range of projects. 

“Every year this program reminds me of the power of service in bringing together the community. The Class of 2026 brought their genuine enthusiasm to activities involving younger students and beloved teachers, ” shared Sarah Johnson, Community Service Specialist for Minnetonka Schools, who coordinates Seniors Serve each year and leads the Tonka Serves office for the district. Johnson also expressed gratitude for the community partners who provided the financial support for the event, including Seacole, Minnetonka Rotary, the Skipper Booster Club and Store, MHS Student Government and the Glen Lake Optimists.

Here are a few highlights from the two days of impact:

• Students supported each of the District’s schools and District Service Center with classroom events, organization and special projects.  Teachers and principals at every site shared their observations that the students were eager to serve their teachers, staff and younger students.
  • From an Excelsior teacher: “It was so wonderful to have these amazing kids back to see them and have them help.  They were incredible and helped us accomplish many tasks that we would have had to carry over into the summer.  Thank you for all the work that goes into organizing this event.  They said they loved coming back to their elementary school and had so much fun walking down memory lane for a little while.”
• A group of our seniors worked on the Hope House Garden to help establish plantings for the summer/fall crop. 
  • From Dwight Steege with Hope House: “This was a really special group of kids, mature and so willing to serve. They are a credit to their families and schools. We had them fill and arrange grow bags and plant five lettuce varieties. The space will be called Skipper Garden. They also planted a bunch of onions, string beans and kale. Thanks for the contribution to the Hope Garden. I promised the team to send photos of the eventual harvest.”
• Some Minnetonka Rotary and Glen Lake Optimist members were able to work alongside students at ICA and Minnetonka Fire Department.  They were all so impressed with the Class of 2026 and how focused they were on giving back to the community.  
  • From a Minnetonka Rotarian: “It was great and they were really nice kids. It is an amazing event you provide. Looking forward to 2027!”
• Many students worked at sites that support causes that assist individuals and families in the greater community. They worked at senior citizens' homes, group homes, thrift stores, farms, parks and local municipalities.
  • From Mt. Olivet Rolling Acres: “They were honestly one of the best volunteer groups we’ve had. So hard working and so nice to chat with! Amazing group of seniors!”
  • From Sojourner: “Thank you for coordinating the student service days! The students at Sojourner could not have been more lovely to work with. Hard-working, kind, and willing to jump in with whatever we asked. Many thanks!”

Congratulations again, Class of 2026, and thank you for the incredible ways you’ve made a positive difference in our community, during Seniors Serve and your entire careers in Minnetonka Schools.