Watershed High School is pleased to announce that Tim Nelson has been elected to the Board of Directors following the Special Board Election held on December 1, 2025. Tim will serve as a community member on the Board, with his term running from December 16, 2025 through June 30, 2026.
We appreciate the engagement of our Watershed community throughout this election process. The Board values transparent governance and community involvement, and this election reflects that commitment.
Tim brings a strong community perspective to the Board, and we look forward to his contributions as Watershed continues its mission to foster advocacy, resiliency, inclusivity, and creativity in all students.
Thank you to all candidates and voters for supporting an open and collaborative Board selection process.
For more information about Board meetings, policies, and membership, please visit the School Board section of the Watershed High School website.

As enrollment in schools continues to decline statewide, our small school with a niche community of artistic, resilient, neurodivergent, and LGBTQIA2S+ students remains committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment. Teachers know each student individually and adapt instruction to help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Every contribution makes a difference. Give to the Max Day is November 20th, and every donation can be doubled. Your support helps us continue to provide a place where students are seen, valued, and celebrated.
Donate now
Watershed High School: A small school with a big heart. Help us continue the work we love.

For nearly 30 years, Watershed High School has been a place where students are known, valued, and supported. Since 1996, we have worked to create a community where every learner can thrive, and where families feel they are truly part of something special.
Like many schools across the state, we are facing real challenges with enrollment. These challenges impact our ability to continue offering the programs, care, and stability that make our school such an important place for so many children.
We are reaching out with sincerity and hope: if you believe in the mission of our school, the community we’ve built, and the future of our students, we ask for your support. Whether through spreading the word, enrolling, volunteering, or contributing to our fundraising efforts, every act of support helps keep our doors open.
We have been a school for almost 30 years. With your help, we can remain a school for the next 30 and beyond.

We’re excited to host a special Students-Only Potluck & Clothing Drive on Friday, November 21, during the school day! This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to come together, share a meal, and support one another as a community.
🌟 What’s Happening?
Students are encouraged to bring a dish to share for our schoolwide potluck. It’s a great chance to enjoy a variety of foods, try something new, and celebrate the diverse tastes in our school community.
👕 Clothing Drive
We’re also collecting gently used clothing items. Students can bring in clothes to donate—everything collected will go directly to supporting peers and families who may need a little extra help as the weather gets colder.
✨ Event Details:

• 📅 Friday, November 21
• ⏰ During school hours
• 🎒 Open to students only
• 🍽 Bring a dish to share

Let’s come together to celebrate, connect, and care for one another. We can’t wait to see the kindness and community spirit our students bring to this event!

Watershed High School will hold a special election for two community member seats on the Board of Directors on December 1, 2025. This election is being held because two board seats are expiring. The Board opted to hold special elections rather than simply appointing new members.
A general election for one- and two-year terms will take place in March 2026, with terms beginning July 1, 2026. The Board values community input in selecting Board members.
Purpose of Election:
To elect two Directors to the Board, each serving a term from December 16, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
Eligible Voters:
• All staff employed at the school, including licensed teachers
• All parents or legal guardians of enrolled students
• Current members of the Board of Directors
Notice & Election Procedures:
• Election procedures are published on the school website under School Board → Policies.
• Notice of the election date and procedures is being provided at least 30 calendar days prior to the election.
Candidate Information:
Candidate names, biographies, and statements will be emailed to eligible voters and posted on the website by November 14, 2025.
Voting Details:
• Voting will occur on a school day during the school year.
• Ballots must be received in the Watershed High School office by 4:00 PM on December 1, 2025.
Results:
Election results will be announced by 4:00 PM on December 5, 2025, with winners beginning their terms on December 16, 2025.
Interested in Running?
Nomination forms are available in the school office or by emailing Elizabeth Kneip. Forms must be submitted by November 12, 2025.
For questions about eligibility, candidate information, or election procedures, contact Elizabeth Kneip.​
Links

​Download the full notice (Word)
2.10 Board Election Process

Big schools aren’t for everyone—and that’s okay.
If you're looking for a smaller, more supportive high school environment, Watershed might be the right fit for you or your student.
We invite you to join us for an Open House to explore what makes Watershed High School different.
📅 Open House Details
Date: Thursday, June 19
Time: 5:00–7:00 PM
Location: Watershed High School, Richfield, MN
During your visit, you can:

• Tour our school and see our learning spaces
• Meet our dedicated teachers and staff
• Learn about our academic approach and student support
• Ask questions and discover if Watershed is the right fit

Why Choose Watershed?
Watershed High School is a free public charter school serving grades 9–12. We’re known for our:

• Welcoming and inclusive school culture
• Small class sizes and strong student-teacher relationships
• Creative, individualized learning experiences
• Supportive environment where every student is known and valued

Whether you’ve already reached out, are still considering your options, or just want to learn more, you are welcome at this event.