News & Information

Wayzata West Middle School is proud to recognize Anna Prostrollo as the December
Employee of the Month. Anna has taught middle school science in Wayzata for 10
years, bringing learner-centered expertise, innovation, and enthusiasm to her
classroom every day.

Anna has served as the building Professional Learning Lead and a member of the
instructional leadership team, helping set school goals and leading efforts to
achieve them. She has been instrumental in implementing learner-centered
instructional practices across the building and consistently keeps students at
the heart of her work.

Anna also inspires her colleagues. She has been central to West’s use of the
Ignite, Chunk, Chew, Review framework, facilitating professional learning that
meets staff where they are and supporting both new and veteran teachers. Her
leadership has strengthened instructional practices and contributed to a
positive, growth-oriented culture.

Anna leads with positivity, a solution-focused mindset and strong collaboration.
She plans engaging lessons with her PLC teammate and took the lead on the 6th
grade Eagle Bluff extended day field trip and 6th grade winter ski field trip.
She works daily to build community among students and colleagues.
West colleague Dan Narveson shared:

“Anna exemplifies true dedication. She is committed to her students, colleagues,
and our community, ensuring every student feels they belong and designing
instruction for all learners. Her leadership and professional development work
strengthen our building. We are incredibly fortunate to have her at West.”

Anna models lifelong learning, a team-first approach, and a calm, supportive
presence that benefits everyone around her. Congratulations, Anna for being named
the December Employee of the Month!

Dana Miller has been named Minnesota Community Education Association's 2025 Supportive Administrator of
the Year!

We are proud to share that Dana Miller has been selected as the Minnesota Community Education Association's
2025 Supportive Administrator of the Year! Dana received her award at the MCEA Fall Conference on October
30.

Dana was nominated by her Community Ed colleagues for the award based on her exceptional leadership,
advocacy and unwavering commitment to our youngest learners. Dana’s dedication goes far beyond
expectations. She brings vision, compassion and collaboration to everything she does.

Dana understands that early learning is the foundation of a child’s educational journey. When two of our
elementary schools faced significant space challenges that threatened the loss of preschool classrooms, Dana
immediately used data and insight to partner with district and school leaders to find creative solutions. Because
of her advocacy and persistence, every preschool classroom was preserved, ensuring continued access for our
youngest learners.

Over the past four years, Dana has been instrumental in helping our district truly embrace an E–12 culture.
Early learning staff are now included in professional learning opportunities, and a Building Instructional
Leadership Team meets regularly with district leaders to ensure that early learning has a consistent voice in our
collective work.

Dana exemplifies collaboration. She shares her staff, expertise, and resources in support of all Community Ed
programs. One powerful example is her team’s work to create Professional Learning Communities for our
Wayzata Kids childcare leadership team — a model that has strengthened programs and deepened professional
growth across departments.

Through her thoughtful leadership and steadfast belief in the importance of early learning programs, district-
wide collaboration and shared professional learning, Dana has helped shape a stronger, more connected district.
Congratulations, Dana! This recognition is a wonderful reflection of our collective work to support every
learner in our community.

Ashley Farrington, principal of Birchview Elementary in Wayzata Public Schools, has been named Minnesota’s
2025 National Distinguished Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals.

Ashley was honored this fall in Washington, D.C., for his visionary leadership, commitment to equity, and
transformative impact on school climate and student achievement. Known for his belief that “every kid has a
superpower,” Farrington has redefined Birchview’s culture around the message “You Matter,” boosting both
belonging and academic growth.

Under his leadership, the school has seen a 7% increase in reading growth and launched several leadership
teams to foster shared responsibility among staff. “Principal Farrington exemplifies what it means to lead with
heart, vision, and purpose,” said Michelle Krell, MESPA Executive Director.

Congratulations, Ashley!