6.1 Recreation Programming Plan
Standard:
Leisure and recreation are integral to a community’s social, cultural, and economic development. The agency shall have a Recreation Program Plan (RPP) covering 2-3 years that is updated periodically and shall address all leisure and recreation programs and services.
Show the agency’s program planning model, services management matrix, orientation to those served, including activity development and selection, type and scope of programs and outreach initiatives as well as an organizational chart.
Narrative:
The Shakopee Parks and Recreation Department’s Recreation Program Plan (RPP), approved by City Council on December 16, 2025, aligns program management objectives with the department’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities. The RPP provides a framework to guide program development and service delivery based on community needs, participant feedback, survey data, demographics, program participation trends, and industry best practices. This comprehensive approach supports informed decision-making and ensures that recreational opportunities remain relevant, responsive, and aligned with the evolving needs of the Shakopee community.
Supporting Evidence:
6.1a Shakopee Recreation Program Plan
6.1.1 Program and Service Determinants
Standard:
A systematic and studied approach shall be taken in determining what programs and services shall be provided by the agency.
Narrative:
Shakopee Parks and Recreation uses a systematic and documented approach to determine which programs and services are provided to the community. This approach is outlined in the Recreation Program Plan (RPP), pages 12–13, which establishes the use of six program and service determinants as the foundation for program planning and decision-making.
Programs and services are evaluated based on the conceptual foundations of play, recreation, and leisure; alignment with the department’s philosophy, mission, vision, and goals; constituent interests and desired needs; creation of a constituent-centered culture; experiences desirable for clientele; and available community opportunities. These determinants ensure that offerings are purposeful, mission-driven, responsive to community input, and aligned with available resources and partnerships.
To ensure consistent application of these determinants, staff utilize the Program Determinants Tool (RPP, Appendix E) when assessing new, refreshed, or existing programs. This tool guides staff through a structured review process to evaluate program value, alignment, and viability prior to department investment.
Supporting Evidence:
6.1.1a Program and Service Determinants
6.1.1b Program Determinants Tool
6.1.2 Participant Involvement
Standard:
The development of agency programs and services shall involve participants.
Narrative:
The City of Shakopee Parks and Recreation Department recognizes the value of participant involvement in the development of agency programs and services. The department currently receives participant input through several methods that inform program delivery and overall service direction.
Participant feedback is gathered informally through day-to-day interactions between staff and participants, as well as through post-program evaluations. In addition, broader community input related to recreation priorities and service needs is collected through the Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan process. The department also maintains a robust sponsorship program that allows participants and community partners to support and sponsor recreation programs and special events.
At this time, participant involvement is primarily focused on feedback and sponsorship rather than direct participation in planning activities or recommending policy. While input is considered when evaluating programs and services, there is not a consistent, structured process for engaging participants in program planning, policy development, or program implementation across all areas. These components have been identified as opportunities for future enhancement as the department continues to refine its engagement practices.
6.1.3 Self-Directed Programs and Services
Standard:
The agency shall offer self-directed recreation opportunities for individuals and groups to participate without leadership, under only general supervision. Examples include picnic facilities, tennis courts, roadways in scenic areas, bridle trails, self-guiding nature trails, and open playgrounds.
Narrative:
The City of Shakopee provides a variety of self-directed recreation opportunities that allow individuals and groups to participate without direct leadership, supported only by general supervision through routine maintenance and inspections. These amenities encourage unstructured play, exploration, and community use year-round.
Self-directed recreation opportunities include:
- Archery Park
- Athletic Fields
- Basketball Courts
- Boat Landing
- Dog Park
- Picnic Areas
- Disc Golf Course
- Outdoor Hockey Rinks
- Outdoor Pleasure Skating Areas
- Horseshoe Courts
- Trails and Nature Areas
- Pickleball Courts
- Playgrounds
- Skate Park
- Splash Pad
- Tennis Courts
- Sand Volleyball Courts
- Mountain Bike Trail
These opportunities are open for drop-in or informal use by residents and visitors, ensuring access to meaningful recreational experiences for all ages and abilities. A full inventory of amenities, including maps and locations, is available through the department’s interactive park map on the City of Shakopee website, as well as park inventory list that includes video walkthroughs, location description, and photos.
Supporting Evidence:
6.1.3a Recreation Program Plan Self Directed Programs
6.1.3b Online Park inventory
6.1.4 Leader-Directed Programs and Services
Standard:
The agency shall offer leader-directed recreation opportunities that provide recreation opportunities where participant involvement is directed by a leader, including skills instruction classes. Examples include tennis, crafts, dance; synchronized swimming performance; creative dramatics for children.
Narrative:
The City of Shakopee Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of leader-directed programs designed to provide structured recreation experiences for participants of all ages. Programs are available for preschool, youth, adults, and Active Older Adults, with both residents and non-residents welcome to participate. Skilled staff and contracted instructors lead these programs to ensure quality instruction and engaging experiences.
Examples of leader-directed programs include:
- Athletic Classes and Leagues
- Fitness Classes
- Preschool Programs
- Day Camps
- Swim Lessons
- Active Older Adult Classes and Trips
A complete listing of leader-directed programs is outlined in the Program and Service Matrix (Recreation Program Plan, Appendix L).
Supporting Evidence:
6.1.4a Recreation Program Plan, Leader Directed Programs
6.1.4b Program and Service Matrix
6.1.4c Shakopee Website- Program Opportunities
6.1.5 Facilitated Programs and Services
Standard:
The agency shall facilitate assistance to individuals and groups Of individuals that provide or want to provide recreation programs and leisure services independently from the agency. An example of facilitated programs and services is an individual or group that wishes to start a community theater organization; the agency may help initially by providing a meeting place, some administrative help in publicity, and "seed money" with the intent that the organization will become self-sustaining. Demonstration projects may be utilized for this purpose.
Narrative:
The City of Shakopee recognizes the value that community-based service groups provide in enhancing recreation and leisure opportunities. To support these efforts, the City offers free or reduced-rate access to programming space at the Community Center, Log Cabin and fields for designated Shakopee-Recognized Service Groups. These groups are formally listed in the City’s fee schedule, reviewed, and approved annually by City Council.
Recognized service groups represent a wide range of community needs, from youth development to cultural enrichment, health and wellness, and civic engagement. Examples include 4-H, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Alcoholics Anonymous, the Diversity Alliance, Rotary Club, Lions Club, American Red Cross (blood drives), AARP (tax preparation), and many others.
In addition to space usage, these groups may conduct fundraising activities outside City facilities with coordination from City staff, and annual community tournaments hosted by recognized groups have facility fees waived. These supports help organizations establish and sustain their programs, while the City ensures accessibility and equitable use of public spaces.
This partnership model demonstrates Shakopee’s commitment to facilitating community-led recreation opportunities, aligning with CAPRA standards by fostering independent, self-sustaining organizations that strengthen the community fabric.
Supporting Evidence:
6.1.5a City of Shakopee Fee Schedule, page 34
6.1.6 Cooperative Programming
Standard:
The agency shall enter into cooperative agreements with public, commercial, and nonprofit entities to provide programming.
Narrative:
Shakopee Parks and Recreation department enters into formal cooperative agreements with outside entities to expand and enhance recreation programming opportunities for the community. These partnerships allow specialized organizations to deliver programs using agency facilities while maintaining clear expectations related to scope of services, compensation, insurance, and risk management.
The agency utilizes a standardized Independent Contractor Agreement to formalize these relationships. This agreement defines program responsibilities, establishes independent contractor status, requires proof of insurance and workers’ compensation, and includes indemnification and termination provisions to protect both parties.
Current cooperative programming agreements are in place with organizations such as Lynch Pickleball, DASH Sports, and Go Gymnastics. These partnerships support a variety of instructional programs, camps, and clinics that complement the agency’s core offerings.
Supporting Evidence:
6.1.6a Blank Independent Contractor Agreement
6.1.6b Lynch Camps Cooperative Agreement 2026
6.1.6c Go Gymnastics Cooperative Agreement 2026
6.2 Program Objectives
Standard:
There shall be specific objectives established for programs and services that are reviewed periodically. Objectives shall be specific and measurable as to the actual outcome or impact desired by the program or service so that progress on meeting objectives can be evaluated (see standard 10.2 Outcomes Assessment). Objectives shall be defined by program area, such as nature, dance, music, sports, fitness, special events and they can be further defined into levels such as beginner, intermediate and advanced.
Narrative:
Shakopee Parks and Recreation has established specific, measurable objectives for its programs and services through the Recreation Program Plan (RPP), pages 28-34. Program objectives are defined by core program area, including Sports, Aquatics, Fitness and Wellness, Special Events and Programs, Active Older Adults, Community Programs and Facilities, and Ice Arena, ensuring that each service area has a clear purpose and intended outcome.
Within each core program area, objectives articulate the desired outcomes and impacts of programming, such as increased physical activity, skill development, social connection, inclusion, safety, and overall community well-being. These objectives provide a measurable framework for evaluating program effectiveness and guide staff in program design, delivery, and assessment. Annual SMART goals are developed to operationalize these objectives and support outcome-based evaluation (RPP Appendix N).
Program objectives are reviewed periodically through the department’s Program Lifecycle and evaluation process, which includes analysis of participation data, registration trends, financial performance, and participant feedback. This review process allows staff to assess progress toward stated objectives and determine whether programs should be maintained, expanded, refreshed, or retired.
Supporting Evidence:
6.2a Shakopee Recreation Program Plan, pages 28-34
6.2b Shakopee Recreation Program Plan, Appendix N
6.3 Scope of Program Opportunities
Standard:
The content of agency programs shall be related directly to stated program objectives and shall provide for individual differences of interests, abilities (mental, social, physical), and backgrounds. Activities selected shall be suited to and contribute toward fulfillment of the basic physical, emotional, social, and intellectual requirements of individuals. The agency should take into consideration the total community offerings; some opportunities may be offered by other organizations, private, public, and non-profit.
Narrative:
The Program and Service Matrix is outlined fully in the Recreation Program Plan (RPP), pages 35-38 and categorizes programs by core program area and multiple service characteristics, including age group, gender, fee structure, delivery type, location, season, and target benefit. This structure allows staff to clearly demonstrate how programs are designed to accommodate varying participants.
By reviewing the matrix annually, staff use the data to assess the balance and distribution of programming across the community, identify service gaps, and determine where adjustments or new offerings may be needed. The matrix also supports coordination with community partners and consideration of programs provided by other public, private, and nonprofit organizations to avoid duplication and maximize available community resources.
The Program and Service Matrix serves as both a snapshot of current offerings and a planning tool to guide future program development, ensuring that Shakopee Parks and Recreation continues to deliver inclusive, objective-driven programs that meet the diverse needs of the community.
Supporting Evidence:
6.3a Shakopee Recreation Program Plan, Program and Service Matrix
6.3b Shakopee Programs and Service Matrix
6.3.1 Outreach to Diverse Underserved Populations
Standard:
The agency shall proactively extend programs and services to residents who may be underserved in the community. To encourage participation in parks and recreation programs and services, agencies shall identify and address barriers that may limit access as demonstrated by the demographic profile of the community. Agencies should offer inclusionary support services to ensure access to programs and services for people of all abilities and all socioeconomic status.
Narrative:
The City of Shakopee Parks and Recreation Department proactively extends programs and services to residents who may be underserved within the community. As part of the City of Shakopee Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan (2019), the department conducted a targeted needs assessment with Shakopee’s minority and underrepresented populations. Demographic research identified South Asian, Latino, Russian, low-income residents, and persons living with disabilities as priority groups for engagement. A full account of Shakopee’s demographic analysis is provided on pages 33-41 of the plan, and the minority populations engagement findings are detailed on pages 71-83.
The assessment highlighted several barriers to accessing parks and recreation services, including safety concerns, lack of restrooms, limited shade, insufficient lighting, and unclear trail connections. Programmatic barriers included the concentration of offerings at the Community Center rather than in parks, as well as limited opportunities for intercultural activities.
Community members identified several program interests and desired services, including:
- Family & Community Focus – Parks should serve multiple generations, support large family gatherings, and foster safe, welcoming spaces.
- Basic Amenities – Restrooms, shade, drinking water, and sanitation are critical to park enjoyment.
- Programs & Activities – Expand organized sports programs (e.g., soccer, volleyball), create inclusive cultural and intergenerational events, and offer informal engagement opportunities like story times and book mobiles.
- Facility Improvements – Provide more traditional park amenities (especially at Southbridge) beyond dog-related features.
To address these population needs, the City of Shakopee provides numerous free events and programs to increase accessibility:
- Fitness in the Park: Free fitness classes for all ages at Huber Park, Scenic Heights Park, and Lions Park.
- Huber Park Concert Series: Free music in the park featuring multiple cultural entertainment options, such as bluegrass and salsa music.
- Special Events: Free community gatherings including the Egg Hunt and Candy Grab, Picnic with Police, Spooky Family Fun, and the Happy Birthday America Parade.
- Free Programs: Opportunities to come together and learn like Park Passport program and Storybook Stroll
Barriers to communication were also identified, with email and Facebook ranked as the most effective outreach methods. Respondents also expressed a strong preference for multilingual communication and resources that identify which amenities are available at each park.
As part of Shakopee's effort to be as accessible in its communication as possible, language barriers are removed through the integrated language tool on our website, ShakopeeMN.gov. Any user can access a built-in translation service that translates webpage content into over 100 languages. The parks and trails inventory is fully accessible through this tool, offering listings of park amenities, photos, and video walkthroughs for prospective visitors. In addition, the City leverages UserWay to provide options for residents with visual accessibility needs, including contrast adjustment, larger text, dyslexia-friendly text, line height adjustments, custom sizing, and more.
Supporting Evidence:
6.3.1a Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan
6.3.1b Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan, pages 33-41
6.3.1c Parks, Trails, and Recreation Master Plan, pages 71-83
6.3.1d Shakopee Snapshot (Fitness in the Park)
6.3.1e Shakopee Snapshot (Huber Park Concert Series)
6.3.1f Special Events Examples 2025
6.3.1g Storybook Stroll Program
6.3.1h Shakopee Website Accessibility Menu
6.3.1i Shakopee Website Translation Services
6.4 Community Education for the Leisure Process
Standard:
The agency shall have a process to educate the general citizenry about the use of leisure time and the outcomes, benefits, values, and positive impacts of leisure and recreation services. The process shall be periodically evaluated for effectiveness. Educating the public about leisure and recreation shall be ongoing and systematic and should be done in cooperation with the community, e.g., schools, other leisure agencies, business, industry, and commercial recreation establishments.
Narrative:
The City of Shakopee Parks and Recreation Department maintains an ongoing and systematic process to educate residents about the benefits, values, and positive impacts of leisure and recreation. Community education is delivered through a combination of print, digital, and in-facility communication methods, including seasonal activity brochures, a monthly e-newsletter, quarterly city publications, social media and video campaigns, the City website, printed materials, and digital signage within recreation facilities. Together, these tools inform both participants and non-participants about recreation opportunities, park amenities, facility updates, and the role of leisure in supporting health, wellness, and social connection.
- Quarterly Snapshot Publication: Includes in-depth articles about city happenings, new initiatives, environmental programs, staff highlights, and park amenities and offerings. This publication educates residents on broader recreation trends, city projects, and program opportunities while highlighting the value of leisure in daily life.
- Parks and Recreation E-News: A monthly email newsletter that provides overviews of recreation opportunities, upcoming programs and events, park openings and updates, and reminders. This initiative keeps residents informed and engaged with timely updates to encourage participation in programs and activities.
- Activity Brochure: A seasonal publication (released 3 times per year) providing a comprehensive overview of recreation programs, events, facility hours, and availability. This offers a centralized resource for residents to plan participation in structured programs and spontaneous leisure opportunities throughout the year.
- Social Media: Daily posts and updates about recreation happenings, program reminders, and community engagement opportunities. This provides accessible, real-time information to residents and encourages interaction with city programs and facilities.
- Social Media Video Campaigns: Offers engaging, visual content that educates residents about recreation opportunities and city amenities, while appealing to diverse audiences.
- Don’tcha Know – Educational videos showcasing amenities around Shakopee, such as parks, park features, or free programs.
- Court and Mason in the Morning – Fun and lighthearted videos providing specific recreation insights to parks, facilities, programs, and events.
- The Dig – Technical videos highlighting ongoing construction projects, including recreation and park facility updates.
- Website: A comprehensive, navigable resource for residents. It provides program registration, facility hours, park maps, detailed descriptions of events and programs, and news updates.
- Print: Includes flyers, posters, rack cards, and other physical marketing materials distributed throughout the community and at city facilities. These print resources highlight upcoming programs, special events, registration deadlines, and facility updates. They serve as a tangible reminder for residents, particularly those who may not access digital channels regularly, ensuring a broader community reach.
- Digital Signage and Facility TVs: Displays recreation facilities provide dynamic, on-site information to residents and visitors. Content includes program schedules, event reminders, facility updates, registration information, and community announcements. This real-time, visual communication tool supports resident awareness and engagement, while also enhancing the experience within city facilities.
These communication channels are regularly monitored for reach and effectiveness through measures such as participation trends, social media engagement analytics, and resident feedback. The multi-channel approach ensures that information is accessible to a wide range of community members, reinforcing the department’s mission to demonstrate the outcomes and lifelong benefits of leisure and recreation.
Effectiveness of these educational are evaluated regularly at department Social Media meetings and through the City of Shakopee Communications division.
Supporting Evidence:
6.4a Snapshot Article example 1
6.4b Snapshot Article Example 2
6.4c Don'tcha Know Video Campaign
6.4d Court and Mason in the Morning Video Campaign
6.4e The Dig Video Campaign
6.4f 2025 Shakopee Activity Brochure
6.4g Social Media Analytics
6.4.1 Community Health and Wellness Education and Promotion
Standard:
The agency shall have policies, procedures, or programs to educate and promote health and wellness in the community.
Narrative:
Shakopee Parks and Recreation promotes community health and wellness through established programs, facilities, and operational practices that support physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and overall well-being. Health and wellness priorities are embedded within the department’s core program areas and reflected in both structured programming and informal recreation opportunities.
The department’s Fitness core program area provides accessible opportunities for physical activity for residents of all ages and abilities. This includes group fitness classes at the Shakopee Community Center, access to weight training and cardiovascular equipment, and free outdoor fitness options such as the Fitness Court at Scenic Heights Park and the seasonal Fitness in the Park program. These offerings are designed to support physical health, encourage social connection, and promote lifelong healthy habits.
Implementation of these efforts occurs through year-round program delivery, inclusive facility access, outdoor recreation amenities, and intentional messaging that encourages residents to engage in active, healthy lifestyles. Collectively, these policies, procedures, and programs demonstrate the department’s ongoing commitment to educating and promoting health and wellness across the Shakopee community.
Supporting Evidence:
6.4.1a Recreation Program Plan
6.4.1b Shakopee Activities Brochure, page 14
6.4.1c Shakopee Website (Fitness) 6.4.1c Shakopee Website (Fitness)
6.5 Code of Conduct
Standard:
The agency shall have “code of conduct” guidelines for appropriate participant and spectator conduct at programs and events, and the agency shall proactively inform and remind staff and all users about the code of conduct.
Narrative:
The City of Shakopee Parks and Recreation Department has established a formal Code of Conduct that defines expectations for appropriate participant and spectator behavior at all programs, events, and activities conducted or sponsored by the department. The Code of Conduct emphasizes respect for participants, officials, staff, and facilities, promotes safe and inclusive environments, and outlines consequences for failure to comply, including possible suspension of participation.
The Code of Conduct is proactively communicated to users through multiple channels. It is publicly accessible on the City of Shakopee Parks and Recreation website as part of the department’s policies and procedures, ensuring transparency and easy access for participants, parents, and spectators. In addition, program instructors and supervisors provide in-person reminders of behavior expectations during programs and events, reinforcing the Code of Conduct at the point of participation. These combined communication methods ensure that staff and users are consistently informed and reminded of conduct expectations, supporting a safe, respectful, and positive recreation environment.
Supporting Evidence:
6.5a Shakopee Code of Conduct (RPP page 57)
6.5.1 Concussion Protocol
Standard:
The agency shall have an established policy and procedures for potential concussion injury in any agency program or any authorized third-party program that use the agency’s facilities.
Narrative:
The City of Shakopee Parks and Recreation Department has an approved Concussion Protocol that establishes procedures for identifying, responding to, documenting, and managing potential concussion injuries in department-led programs. The protocol is guided by American Red Cross training standards, consistent with staff CPR and First Aid certification requirements, and incorporates Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations for safe return to activity.
The protocol requires immediate removal from activity when a concussion is suspected, continuous supervision, medical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider, completion of an incident report, and written medical clearance prior to return to participation. These procedures ensure a consistent, evidence-based approach to participant safety.
This concussion protocol applies specifically to Parks and Recreation staff and City-operated programs. Associations, leagues, and other third-party users of City facilities are responsible for maintaining and enforcing their own concussion policies and return-to-play procedures in accordance with applicable laws and best practices.
Supporting Evidence:
6.5.1a SOP 18, Concussion protocol