Our Schools
Our schools create an environment that fosters positive teacher-student-parent relationships, allowing for individualized attention. Small class sizes help create an opportunity for all students to participate in activities and in their communities.
Our District
Independent School District 2687, serving the communities of Winsted, Waverly, and Howard Lake, provides a high-quality education for its youth. With that commitment, we strive for excellence and opportunity for each student in every offering and activity.
Our Community
Located just west of the Metro, Howard Lake, Waverly, and Winsted have a strong sense of pride and accomplishment. Our schools are at the center of many things our communities celebrate.
Welcome to Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted Public Schools
Minnesota School Board Recognition Month
The Minnesota School Boards Association has designated September as Minnesota School Board Recognition Month, a time to honor the dedicated leaders who serve as the guiding light for student success in public schools across the state.
This month, Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted schools proudly joins school districts throughout Minnesota in recognizing the elected board members who commit their time, talents, and leadership to ensuring all students receive a high-quality public education.
“Strong schools help build strong communities and our school board members are the compass of our district—they set the direction, ask the tough questions, and keep our focus squarely on what matters most: student success,” said Dr. Dan Edwards superintendent of Howard Lake-Waverly Winsted. “They serve countless hours to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive in school and in life.”
School board members are responsible for governing local schools, managing multimillion-dollar budgets, approving curriculum, overseeing facilities, and ensuring compliance with state and federal education laws. In Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted, the school board oversees a budget of $20 million, supports approximately 1300 students, leads 200 employees, and stewards 4 buildings—a responsibility they approach with care, integrity, and deep commitment.
According to Edwards, the board’s work plays a vital role in guiding student success by:
- Setting a clear vision that prioritizes learning and opportunity for all students;
- Establishing high standards for academic success and well-being;
- Holding the system accountable by tracking progress and outcomes;
- Fostering a safe, supportive environment where students can grow;
- Partnering with families, staff, and the broader community to solve challenges;
- Committing to continuous improvement in pursuit of educational excellence.
“These leaders may not seek recognition, but their work deserves it,” said Superintendent Edwards. “Their year-round service ensures that local control of education remains strong and that our schools continue to reflect the values and hopes of our community.”
We are proud to recognize the seven members of the School Board and their years of service:
- Allie Bauman-first year
- Ben Borrell (Current Board Chair)-two years
- Josh Borrell-first year
- Katie Koch-(Current Clerk)-six years
- Brian Marketon-four years
- Shannah Mulvihill (Current Board Vice-Chair)-two years
- Kelsey Puncochar (Current Board Treasurer)-five years
To learn more about the work of the School Board, visit https://hlww.k12.mn.us/board/.
Introduction
I am extremely honored and humbled to be chosen as the Superintendent of the Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted School District. I’m excited to work alongside the dedicated communities of Howard Lake, Waverly, and Winsted in service of our students, families, and staff.
With 32 years of experience in education—as a teacher, coach, principal, and district leader—I bring a deep passion for student-centered learning, collaborative leadership, and building strong school-community partnerships.
At the heart of this district is the recently adopted vision of “Every Laker, Every Day.” This vision not only aligns with my professional philosophy, but also reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring every student is seen, supported, and inspired—every single day. It means fostering a safe, inclusive environment where students are challenged academically, nurtured socially and emotionally, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Throughout my career, I have prioritized equity, innovation, and accountability, always keeping students at the center of every decision. I believe meaningful progress happens when we listen to one another, work together, and lead with shared purpose.
I am looking forward to working with the outstanding staff across the district—teachers, support staff, administrators, and everyone who contributes to all schools each day. Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion are the foundation of our success. Together, we will continue to uphold the district’s strong tradition of excellence and make the vision of “Every Laker, Every Day” a lived reality.
It is a privilege to join a district with such a proud legacy of educational excellence and community engagement. I look forward to listening, learning, and partnering with all stakeholders to ensure every student in Howard Lake, Waverly, and Winsted is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to succeed—both in school and beyond. I also look forward to leading with integrity, fostering strong relationships, and championing our shared commitment to every student, every staff member, every day.
Transition Team Work Leads to Board Approval of Grade-Level Building Plan
Since January, a dedicated Transition Team of teachers, staff, and leaders has worked together to plan for the shift to grade-level elementary buildings in our district. The team met monthly to analyze data about our students, staff, and community. They explored many options and focused on how to best support student learning and meet the needs of our families.
Their hard work and collaborative spirit have moved us forward. On Monday night, the School Board approved the team’s recommendation:
- Grades K-2 to Humphrey Elementary
- Grades 3-4 to Winsted Elementary
This change will take effect starting in the 2026-2027 school year. It will not impact the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.
It is important to clarify that the Herald Journal recently reported this change will occur next year. That information is incorrect. Our district will take the next year to prepare and ensure a smooth and successful transition in 2026-2027.
We thank the members of the Transition Team for their careful study and thoughtful recommendations. Their work reflects the best of what can happen when we come together to plan for our students’ future.
Stay tuned for more updates as we move forward with this important work.
