School Initiatives

COMMUNITY GARDEN
In the spring of 2010 Pilot Knob received a Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) grant from the State of Minnesota and Dakota County to build a community garden. In total, there are 16 raised beds that students and parents have used to plant vegetables, herbs and flowers. The gardens are open at any time to families interested in harvesting fresh vegetables.  

Watch a video on how the garden was built. 

MR. BENSON'S BOOK CLUB

Pilot Knob STEM Magnet School has a Family Book Club that meets once or twice each month  to discuss award winning literature. Many families with students across grade levels participate, gathering to discuss the book's themes and do fun activities related to the literature. The books are selected from the Maud Hart Lovelace award nominees.

SNACK CART
As part of an school-wide initiative to encourage healthy food choices, Pilot Knob offers a Smart Choices Snack Cart for students in grades 1-4. The carts features a variety of fruit and vegetable options such as apples, bananas, raisins, string cheese, whole grain crackers and more. Each snack is just 35¢. The Snack Cart is open every morning from 7:30-7:45 a.m.

STEM SPARKS
STEM Sparks is an enrichment initiative which offers authentic, interest-based, student-driven learning experiences in which students apply advanced content and methods to develop products and services for real audiences. MN State Educational Standards are addressed when planning for electives and rigorous academic standards are a part of this program.

The purpose of STEM Sparks is to develop task commitment, self-confidence, feelings of creative accomplishment, and the ability to interact effectively with other students and adults who share common goals and interests. Pilot Knob students LOVE their STEM Sparks time! 

SUSTAINABILITY
LIVEGREEN is the district wide sustainability program that promotes energy saving and recycling initiatives. Each school throughout the district has a LIVEGREEN team. Learn more about LIVEGREEN.

WELLNESS
To actively engage students, staff and families in physical activity and healthy eating, the District has implemented a Wellness program. Representatives from throughout the district work together on the Wellness Committee to promote nutrition and exercise initiatives. Learn more about Wellness in School District 197.

Learn about more school initiatives connected to Pilot Knob's STEM Magnet Theme.