Leadership
Nathan Slinde
Principal
slinden@district112.org
952-556-6910
Welcome to Clover Ridge Elementary! My name is Nate Slinde and I am proud to serve as the building principal! This will be my 10th year serving in this role. Prior to Clover Ridge, I spent three years as the assistant principal at Chaska Middle School East. My education includes a Bachelor's Degree from Gustavus Adolphus College in Elementary Education, a Master’s Degree in Teacher Leadership from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, and an Educational Specialist and Principal’s Licensure from the University of St. Thomas.
I began my teaching career at Bluff Creek Elementary before moving to Clover Ridge in 2001 where I served as classroom teacher, Lead Teacher, and various other roles. I have worked for Eastern Carver County Schools for my entire career. I am proud of this community, where my wife and I have raised our three children, and invested our time and energy in developing our young learners.
I believe that relationships are at the center of teaching and learning and our responsibility is fostering those relationships so that each learner can achieve their personal best. Our building’s mission is to develop self-directed, responsible, lifelong learners and that is evident each day.
As we embark on our 23trd anniversary as a building, we remain committed to the social, emotional, and academic growth for all learners. We have a great staff that is highly invested in our building and eager to welcome you to another school year. You are a valued partner in this educational journey. Please reach out with questions, concerns, or suggestions on how we can make the most of this important experience!
Elizabeth Johnson
Administrative Dean
johnsone@district112.org
952-556-6911
Hello Clover Families,
My name is Lindsey McConnell, and I’m honored to serve as the Instructional Coach at our school. With 18 years of experience in education, including the last 10 years in Eastern Carver County Schools, I bring a deep passion for learning and teaching. I earned my degree in Elementary Education and Middle School Science (Grades 5-8) from the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Additionally, I hold a Master’s degree in Reading Instruction and an Educational Specialist degree with K-12 Principal Licensure.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of teaching a wide range of grade levels, from kindergarten to 6th grade, as well as 8th grade. As an instructional coach, my focus is on supporting our teachers and administrators to enhance student engagement, improve academic achievement, and foster professional growth. I am truly excited to work alongside this wonderful community!
When I’m not at school, I love spending time with my husband, who is also an educator, and our two children, ages 8 and 12. I enjoy reading a variety of books, staying active, and exploring the outdoors.
Lindsey McConnell
Instructional Coach
McConnellL@District112.org
952-556-1963
Jennifer Shinn
Social Worker
shinnj@district112.org
952-556-6912
Hello Families!
My name is Jenna Brouse and I am honored to be serving our community as Clover Ridge Elementary’s Specialized Education Services Coordinator. I have worked in education for 13 years as a specialized services educator. After obtaining my initial teaching license, Academic Behavioral Strategist, I continued my education by earning a Masters in Arts with a focus on Special Education, both through Augsburg University. I am currently working towards my K-12 Principal and Director of Special Education licenses through Minnesota State University - Mankato.
One of my top priorities as an educator is to help build spaces that allow students and staff to feel safe and welcome in their school. When people feel seen and understood, their limits are boundless! I look forward to helping build foundations of positive relationships and high expectations to best serve our amazing students this year!
Jenna Brouse
Special Education Coordinator
brousej@district112.org
952-556-6660
The mission of Clover Ridge Elementary School is to develop self-directed, responsible, lifelong learners.
Clover Ridge Elementary School is a welcoming community that inspires the excitement of learning. Children and adults are engaged in exploration, problem solving and the practice of newly gained knowledge and skills. Achievement for all is developed through personalized learning experiences supported by curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Partnerships among students, parents, teachers, staff and community members play an essential role in each learner’s success. Clover Ridge Elementary School is a focal point in creating the future of the community it serves.
We believe that:
- each person has the ability to learn and be successful
- successful learners are motivated and accountable
- collaboration, teamwork and high expectations ensure success
- parents/guardians are valued partners in his/her child’s education
- students, staff, and families thrive in a safe learning environment that upholds the community values and promotes social, emotional and physical well-being
- staff, students, parents, and community partnerships enhance community service, foster connections across the curriculum and link learning to real-life experiences
- clear, honest and continuous communication among all stakeholders is essential to the learning process
- technology is a tool to help learners acquire, create and apply knowledge and skills
- a variety of assessment tools will provide needed feedback for continuous improvement
- celebration of effort and learning encourages future success