Maxfield Elementary Principal Dr. Leslie Hitchens, Superintendent Gothard, and St. Thomas School of Education Interim Dean Dr. Amy F. Smith announced that Maxfield will become a Collaborative Learning School through a new partnership with the University of St. Thomas.

As a Collaborative Learning School, Maxfield will partner with the University of St. Thomas to prepare teachers, develop and apply best practices for teaching and learning, and provide professional development opportunities to create incredible student-centered learning environments starting in the 2023-24 school year. This innovative partnership incorporates promising practices for addressing the needs of all students while preparing and developing effective teachers. 

“Maxfield Elementary has a long history of serving the students and families of Saint Paul’s Rondo neighborhood, and is the perfect school to expand the district’s already strong partnership with the University of St. Thomas,” said Superintendent Gothard. “By working together, we believe this innovative model will enhance our students’ ability to think critically, pursue their dreams and change the world.”

St. Thomas students and faculty members will partner with school staff to provide innovative and engaging educational opportunities for Maxfield students, while St. Thomas faculty and current Maxfield teachers partner to advance the profession through research and implementation of best practices. Saint Paul Public Schools has worked with a number of colleges and universities over the years to enhance student learning and develop highly effective teachers. The Maxfield Elementary Collaborative Learning School is the latest example of how K-12 and higher education can work together to better support the students and teachers of today and the future.

“The beauty of this partnership is how we have from the very beginning come together in a really collaborative way and that we’re all working toward the same main goal: to continually improve outcomes for K-5 learners not just at Maxfield, but at any elementary school,” Interim Dean Smith said. “The collaboration with Maxfield enables us to do that because it’s a vibrant community that has wonderful community support and excellent leadership.” 

“Today is a great day for Maxfield Elementary,” said Principal Dr. Leslie Hitchens. “Maxfield has an amazing staff already, one that will be supported by an amazing group from St. Thomas to enrich our students’ learning.”

Learn more about this new partnership on the University of St. Thomas website and the Maxfield Elementary website.

###