⭐ District 196 Today | 5.28.26

May 28, 2026 Celebrating Student Leadership Eagan High School, Tessa Marton, earned the 2026 Chuck Denny Legacy Character Award from Youth Frontiers, an organization that inspires character, civility, and community. 🎥 Learn more about this recognition and how student leadership makes a difference in District 196. CELEBRATE 2026 Graduation Ceremonies District 196 is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 with graduation ceremonies recognizing students from across our schools and programs. Join us in congratulating our graduates for their hard work, perseverance, and achievements. Years of Service Congratulations to District 196 employees who are celebrating milestone years of service! View the 2025-2026 honorees. Spring Sports Highlights The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and the stakes have never been higher! As our regular spring sports season officially wraps up, we want to give a massive shoutout to all of our athletes, coaches, and families for their incredible dedication over the last few months. We already have plenty to celebrate, as our amazing Dakota United Hawks teams set the bar high by finishing 1st and 3rd in their respective state tournaments! Inspired by their incredible success, the rest of our squads are officially moving into Sections and State Tournaments. Grab your gear, pump up the school spirit, and let’s cheer our teams all the way to the finish line. Check out the Dakota United Hawks story here.   IN THE NEWS Student Survey Results Show Rebound in Well-being and Engagement District 196 has released its results of the 2025 Minnesota Student Survey, highlighting a promising return to pre-pandemic levels of student engagement and well-being, alongside new insights into the impacts of technology and social media. Read more about the results of the survey. Free Summer Nutrition Programs For Children When school lets out, ensuring our kids stay energized and well-nourished shouldn't stop. We are thrilled to highlight a few fantastic summer nutrition programs designed to keep bellies full and minds sharp all summer long. Read more about the program. K-7 Student iPads To Stay At School This Summer District 196 is making a change in our iPad procedure. Based on extensive feedback from families, teachers, and principals, District 196 elementary and middle schools will collect student iPads (Grades K-7) at the end of the school year and encourage students to enjoy a “tech-free summer.” Read more about this change. New Principals Announced in District 196 Two new principals have been hired in Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools. Alyssa Schultz will replace Tom Idstrom, who is retiring from Rosemount Elementary School. Ann Giardino has been selected as the next principal of Dakota Hills Middle School, with Trevor Johnson retiring at the end of this year. Learn more about our new leaders.   UPCOMING School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., June 8, 2026.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings. Register Now for Summer Sports Camps Your student can build skills and confidence while having fun! Who: Students of all ages and experience levels. What: Basketball, soccer, volleyball, baseball, football, track, wrestling, lacrosse, cheer, and more. Led By: Experienced high school coaches and staff. Register online or call 651-423-7920.     Submit Good News to Share

Thursday, May 28 2026

⭐ District 196 Today | 5.7.26

May 7, 2026   Step inside Falcon Ridge Middle School! 🦅✨ In our latest Unscripted episode, we’re showing off what makes Falcon Ridge Middle School so special. It’s a place where high expectations meet big hearts. Whether it’s collaborating on a project or growing into global citizens, our students are doing big things every day!   CELEBRATE 🍎 Teacher Appreciation Week This week, we celebrate the incredible educators who make a difference in our schools. You inspire curiosity, build confidence and help students feel seen, supported and ready to succeed. This week, and always, we are grateful for all you do! 🩺 School Nurse Appreciation Week This week, we celebrate the caring professionals who help keep our students healthy, safe and ready to learn. Thank you for your compassion, expertise and calm presence. You make a difference in countless moments, big and small. We appreciate you!   IN THE NEWS Students Win Big at State Speech Tournament Students from Apple Valley, Eastview, Eagan, and Rosemount High Schools secured multiple championship titles in the 2026 Minnesota State High School League State Speech Tournament. Read more about the competition. High Schools Honor 2026 Students of the Year District 196 proudly recognizes the 2026 “Student of the Year” award recipients from each academic and elective department in our high schools. Selected by their teachers, this award honors leadership, dedication, and excellence in their respective areas of study. Learn more about the selected students. Plan My Ride Deadline is June 4 To plan transportation routing for the next school year, all District 196 families must complete the Plan My Ride form by June 4, 2026. The form is available in ParentSquare for current students and on our website for new to district students. Fee-for-Service Transportation:  Families who live in their school’s “walk zone” (and are not eligible for busing) can request a bus through the Plan My Ride form. If approved, families will receive an invoice in EduTrack. Payment is due by June 30. Intradistrict & Interdistrict Transportation: Families can request transportation by completing the appropriate forms on the district website. Transportation is based on availability. Intradistrict: Students who live in District 196 but attend a school outside their assigned attendance. Interdistrict: Students who live outside District 196 but attend a District 196 school.   UPCOMING Win a Staff Treat Day! Show your love for our amazing staff by participating in the District 196 Foundation’s "Show Your Appreciation" fundraiser. Donate and Vote: Every $5 counts as 1 vote for your school. Support Students: 100% of funds provide resources for students. Deadline: Voting is open now through May 15. 👉 Cast Your Vote Here! Flexible Summer Swim Lessons Available District 196 Community Education has one-week, daytime swim lessons this summer! These lessons are designed to give families more flexibility and make it easier to fit swim lessons into your summer routine. Lessons are available for all levels! Register online or call 952-431-8777 for more information. Free Heart Screenings for Students The Patrick Schoonover Heart Foundation was created to honor the memory of Patrick Schoonover, who passed away at age 14 from sudden cardiac arrest caused by undetected heart defects. Free heart screenings are available for ages 13–24 on Saturday, May 9, at the Rosemount Community Center. Sign up for a free screening. School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., May 11, 2026.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings.     Submit Good News to Share

Friday, May 08 2026

⭐ District 196 Today | 4.23.26

April 23, 2026   Pinewood Community School is full of moments you can feel—smiles in the hallway, focus in the classroom, and encouragement all around. Watch the video to experience a day in the life of a Pinewood student! CELEBRATE Students Receive Regional Production Awards A talented group of student media creators from District 196 were recognized at the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Student Production Awards in St. Paul on April 10, 2026. Students from Apple Valley High School and Eastview High School joined peers from across the region to celebrate excellence in high school journalism and media production. Read more about the awards. District 196 Celebrates Isaiah Pritzl as 2026 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Finalist District 196 is proud to celebrate Isaiah Pritzl, a teacher at Eagan High School, has been named one of only 11 finalists for the prestigious 2026 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Award — the state’s highest honor for excellence in the teaching profession. Read more about Isaiah and this award. Teacher Appreciation Week May 4-8 is Teacher Appreciation Week. We want to take a moment to thank the educators who make our district an incredible place to learn and grow. You are building bright futures, fostering community, and showing our students what’s possible. Thank you! Nurse Appreciation Week May 4-8 is Nurse Appreciation Week. We want to thank them for managing our students' medical needs and keeping them healthy. Your expertise is the safety net that allows our students to focus on learning and growing. Thank you!   IN THE NEWS Building Reliable Transportation On Monday, April 13, 2026, the School Board approved new plans to make our bus transportation more reliable. These changes will help make sure every student has a dependable ride to school. Read about the changes. Vaccine Clinic for District 196 Students Tuesday, April 28, 2026, 3:30–6:30 p.m., Falcon Ridge Middle School District 196 is partnering with local health agencies to provide families with a convenient, stress-free opportunity to get vaccinated. Learn more about the upcoming vaccine clinic. District 196 Students Share Powerful Perspectives with Minnesota Senate Education Committee Two District 196 seniors had a rare opportunity to bring student voices directly to state lawmakers on March 16, 2026, when they testified before the Minnesota Senate Education Committee. Read more and watch the video of the students testifying before the committee.   UPCOMING School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., May 11, 2026.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings. Apple Valley High School Presents Night of January 16th April 23, 7 p.m. April 24-25, 7:30 p.m. April 25, 2 p.m. Purchase tickets. Eagan High School presents 2026 Encore! April 30-May 2, 7 p.m. Purchase tickets. Eastview High School Presents "Bravo! 2026 April 23-25, 7 p.m. April 26, 2 p.m.; April 28, ($5 show) 3:30 p.m. April 30, 7 p.m. May 1-2, 2 p.m. Purchase tickets. Rosemount High School Presents Hadestown Wednesday, April 29, 3:30 p.m. (senior preview) Thursday, April 30, 7 p.m. Friday, May 1, 7 p.m. Saturday, May 2, 7 p.m. Sunday, May 3, 2 p.m. Purchase tickets. Starry Night Gala Saturday, May 2 | 6–8 p.m. | $39 per pair ($19 for additional guest) Get ready for a Hollywood-inspired evening at this year’s Starry Night Gala! This special event is designed for children and their favorite adults. Meet stars like Elsa and Spiderman! Enjoy a live DJ, refreshments, fun activities, and a themed gift shop. Register Today: ce.district196.org    Submit Good News to Share

Thursday, Apr 23 2026

⭐ District 196 Today | 4.9.26

April 9, 2026 CELEBRATE Students Navigate Their Futures College Fair Our annual College Fair provided students with a valuable opportunity to explore postsecondary options. Students connected with college representatives and attended workshops on topics like financial aid and application essays, helping them take their next steps with confidence.   Six Honored with Outstanding Service Awards District 196 recently honored staff with Outstanding Service Awards. Colleagues nominate recipients for their dedication, care for others, and service to the community. Learn more about the award. Clerical and Secretarial Appreciation Week April 20-24 | We extend our sincere gratitude for the vital role our clerical and secretarial staff play in supporting students, staff, and families every day. Their organization, care, and endless problem-solving help create welcoming and efficient school environments. Thank you! Volunteer Appreciation Week April 20-24 | Our heartfelt thanks to the many volunteers who generously give their time, talents, and support to enhance our students’ educational experience. Their dedication enriches our programs and helps create a supportive and connected community. We are grateful for you! Winter Sports Highlights A remarkable winter sports season has come to a close. From historic achievements and podium finishes to unforgettable state tournament appearances, our student-athletes delivered standout performances across every arena. Read the full article. Apple Valley High School's 50th Anniversary Celebrate Eagle pride with a day of events planned to celebrate Apple Valley High School’s 50th anniversary. Read the program of events. Finalist for 2026 MN Teacher of the Year Eagan High’s Isaiah Pritzl has been named one of eleven finalists for the 2026 Minnesota Teacher of the Year award. Read more about the award.   IN THE NEWS Building Reliable Transportation To improve transportation reliability and efficiency, District 196 is proposing several changes. Updates include an annual opt-in request process, a two-address limit/student, reducing magnet transportation, and shortening ride times in center-based special education programs. These shifts aim to resolve staffing shortages and ensure a stable, predictable system for all families. Learn more about the updates. Apply for District 196 Advisory Council Advisory councils help provide feedback and perspectives that inform district programs, policies and priorities. District 196 is launching a common application to make it easier for families, staff, students and community members to get involved. Complete the application form to be considered. Read more about District 196 Advisory Councils. Graduation Rates Outpace State Average Newly released data from the Minnesota Department of Education shows that the four-year graduation rate for the Class of 2025 rose to 88.7%. This steady improvement marks a 0.6% increase from the previous year and remains significantly higher than the statewide average of 84.9%. Read more about graduation rates. April is National Volunteer Month! Make an impact through two rewarding programs: Adult Basic Education: Support learners in studying English, preparing for the GED or citizenship exams, and building math and literacy skills. Learn more about Adult Basic Education... River Valley Project Explore: Help adults with disabilities build confidence and friendships through group activities, classes, and one-to-one support. Learn more about River Valley Project Explore.   UPCOMING School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., April 13, 2026.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings. Eagan High School presents 2026 Encore! April 22, 4 p.m. (senior preview; no ticket needed) April 24-25, 7:30 p.m., April 26, 3 p.m. April 30-May 2, 7 p.m. Purchase tickets. Eastview High School Presents "Bravo! 2026 April 21 , 3:30 p.m. (senior preview; no ticket needed) April 23-25, 7 p.m. April 26, 2 p.m.; April 28, ($5 show) 3:30 p.m. April 30, 7 p.m. May 1-2, 2 p.m. Purchase tickets. Submit News to Share Engage with us!

Thursday, Apr 09 2026

⭐ District 196 Today | $1 Million in Savings | Pre...

March 13, 2026 CELEBRATE Decades of Harmony in District 196 For nearly 50 years, District 196 high school choirs have come together for the Dakota Valley Choral Festival, performing with a professional orchestra and guest conductor. Music education helps students build confidence, creativity, teamwork, and discipline—skills that last far beyond the stage. During Music In Our Schools Month, we’re proud to highlight this inspiring event!   Winter Sports Highlights District 196 student-athletes are delivering standout performances across winter sports, earning Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) state tournament appearances, podium finishes and historic achievements that reflect their dedication, teamwork and commitment to excellence. Read more... District 196 Students Earn Top Honors at DECA and BPA State Conferences Students from Apple Valley, Eastview, Eagan and Rosemount high schools earned top honors at two statewide career and technical student organization competitions this month — the Minnesota DECA State Career Development Conference and the Business Professionals of America (BPA) State Leadership Conference — demonstrating District 196’s mission of educating, developing and inspiring students for lifelong success. Read more...   IN THE NEWS Graduation Ceremonies Planned for May–June We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 through graduation ceremonies that recognize students from across our schools and programs. Families, friends, and community members are invited to join us in honoring the hard work, perseverance, and achievements of our graduates. Read more... $1 Million in Savings for Taxpayers We are pleased to announce the successful award and sale of its General Obligation School Building and Refunding Bonds, Series 2026A. This strategic financial move, approved by the School Board on March 9, 2026, will deliver more than $1 million in direct savings to local taxpayers through refinancing existing debt. Read more...   UPCOMING School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., April 13, 2026.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings. Connections Preschool Accepting Applications! Applications for Connections Preschool priority placement for the 2026–2027 school year is open February 13–March 15! If you know families with little learners, now’s the time to share the news. • Full-day and half-day programs at elementary schools for 4-year-olds • Half-day programs at Dakota Valley Learning Center for 3-year-olds 🎥 See our preschool programs in action! Learn more & spread the word! Submit News to Share Engage with us!

Friday, Mar 13 2026

⭐ District 196 Today | Become a Bus Driver, Winter S...

February 26, 2026 It's Teacher and Staff Recruitment Season Help friends or family discover why educators choose to build their careers in District 196. From supportive leadership and a collaborative culture to meaningful professional growth opportunities and strong community support, listen to our teachers talk about what makes District 196 schools a place where they feel valued, inspired, and empowered to make a difference every day. 🚍 Keep Us Moving | Become a Bus Driver! Every school day, bright yellow buses travel through our neighborhoods — driven by caring adults who help students feel safe, supported and ready to learn. District 196 is hiring bus drivers. Whether you’re a parent seeking school-day hours, a retiree looking for flexible work, or someone ready for a new career, this opportunity offers stability and purpose. Competitive pay Excellent benefits (full and part-time) Paid time off School-year schedule Your seat is waiting. Apply today!   CELEBRATE Eastview and Rosemount Competition Cheer Earn 3rd Place at MCCA State Meet On Saturday, January 31, the Eastview and Rosemount Varsity Competition Cheer teams competed at the MCCA State Meet against top programs from across Minnesota. Both teams earned 3rd place finishes in their respective divisions. Eastview placed 3rd in the Varsity Game Day Non-Tumbling Division, while Rosemount earned 3rd in Varsity Game Day Non-Tumbling–Medium and earning Runner-Up honors in the Varsity Non-Tumbling Traditional–Medium Division. Eastview also competed at Nationals, finishing as finalists in the D1 Small Varsity Non-Tumbling Game Day Division. Rosemount became Nationals finalists in the D1 Medium Varsity Non-Tumbling Traditional Division. Eagan also made its first-ever State Meet appearance this year and delivered a strong performance. Congratulations to all three District 196 cheer programs on an outstanding season! District 196 Students Earn Top Honors at 2026 Minnesota Future City Regional Competition Students from District 196 earned top recognition at the 2026 Minnesota Regional Future City Competition, bringing home major awards for innovation, sustainability, research excellence and people-centered city design. Read more... Winter Sports Highlights District 196 student-athletes are delivering standout performances across winter sports, earning Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) state tournament appearances, podium finishes and historic achievements that reflect their dedication, teamwork and commitment to excellence. Read more...   UPCOMING Apple Valley High School Presents Broadway - No Place Like Home Feb. 27, 28; 7 p.m. | March 1, 2 p.m. Purchase tickets today! Special School Board Meeting on Transportation On Tuesday, March 3, 5:30 p.m. at Dakota Ridge, the School Board will hold a special meeting to discuss current transportation challenges. Staffing shortages and operational challenges have resulted in daily bus route cancellations since September. These disruptions have affected students, families, and school schedules.  In District 196, we do not have enough drivers to cover all scheduled routes. Improving transportation services is a top priority for district leadership. We must reduce services in a careful, legal way to provide sustainable and reliable service. The purpose of this meeting is to provide the School Board with an update on transportation performance, staffing efforts, corrective actions, and next steps to improve service consistency.  School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., March 9, 2026.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings. Connections Preschool Accepting Applications! Applications for Connections Preschool priority placement for the 2026–2027 school year is open February 13–March 15! If you know families with little learners, now’s the time to share the news. • Full-day and half-day programs at elementary schools for 4-year-olds • Half-day programs at Dakota Valley Learning Center for 3-year-olds 🎥 See our preschool programs in action! Learn more & spread the word! Summer Registration for Community Education is Open! Summer is almost here, and District 196 Community Education offers programs for all ages! Students can explore STEM, arts, theater, outdoor adventures, leadership experiences and more—including Summer FIRE camps designed just for them. High school sports camps, led by District 196 coaches, help athletes build skills and prepare for the season. We also offer swim lessons, aquatics programs, and a variety of adult fitness and enrichment classes. Spots fill quickly—register early to secure your top choices. View the full catalog and register at ce.district196.org or call 651-423-7920. Submit News to Share Engage with us!

Thursday, Feb 26 2026

💬 Don't Miss a Message - How to Make ParentSquare Wo...

Don’t Miss a Message Getting Comfortable With ParentSquare This year, District 196 launched ParentSquare, a new two-way communication tool for families. A quick review of the tips below will help ensure you’re receiving important messages. #1 - Log In to Stay Connected Sign in using the email address or phone number on file with your school; your email or phone number must match our school records to connect you to your student. You will create your own password. Access your account through the ParentSquare app or online at www.parentsquare.com. Being logged in allows you to: Complete forms and permission slips Sign up for activities and field trips Direct Message teachers and staff Participate in two-way conversations by commenting on posts View this video in Spanish   2. Choose How and When You Receive Emails and Texts To stay informed without feeling overwhelmed, we recommend these settings for most families. You can adjust these options at any time in Notification Settings under Manage My Account. 💬 Text - Digest: A text and/or an app notification once a day in the evening with all posts from that day. 📰 Email/App - Digest: One daily summary after 5:00 p.m. with school and classroom updates. 🔔 Urgent, time-sensitive messages like school closings are sent immediately. This setting is automatic and cannot be disabled. Learn more about notification settings (View video in Spanish) If you think you may be missing messages, please check the following: App: In your phone settings, confirm that ParentSquare app notifications are enabled. Text: If you previously texted STOP, text START to 66458. Check your phone's blocked numbers to ensure 66458 isn’t blocked. Email: Check your spam or junk folder and make sure your email address on file is correct. Add school email addresses to your contacts. If issues persist, contact helpdesk@district196.org. View this video in Spanish   3. Connect With Teachers and School Staff Use the Directory to find teachers, coaches, office staff, and more.  Send Direct Messages (DMs) for questions or follow-ups. Engage with posts to ask questions and get quick responses from staff (A ❤️ or 👍 is also a great way to show appreciation!). Learn More About ParentSquare

Sunday, Feb 15 2026

⭐ District 196 Today | Top Magnet Schools, Student A...

February 12, 2026   A Day At Deerwood Elementary Turn the volume up! Deerwood Elementary students are taking you inside their school to share what it feels like every day: safe, helpful, and kind!   IN THE NEWS Magnet Schools and Top Teacher Honored Nationally Two District 196 elementary magnet schools have been selected for recognition in Magnet Schools of America’s 2026 Merit Awards program. Echo Park Elementary School of Leadership, Engineering and Technology and Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental and Health Sciences will be recognized at the Magnet Schools of America conference this spring. Read more... Sixteen District 196 students nominated for State High School League Awards District 196’s four comprehensive high schools have nominated a total of 16 students for 2025-26 leadership awards sponsored by the Minnesota State High School League.  Read more...   CELEBRATE Teacher of the Year Candidate at Eagan High School Congratulations to Isaiah Pritzl, teacher at Eagan High School, on being named a candidate for Minnesota Education's Teacher of the Year award. This prestigious recognition celebrates excellence in teaching across Minnesota, and we are proud to see Isaiah’s commitment to students and learning honored at the state level. Read more about the award... Eastview's VOICES Magazine Earns Recognition Congratulations to EVHS 2025 Voices Literary Arts magazine for receiving a Superior rating by the National Council of Teachers of English in the 2025 NCTE Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary magazines (REALM) program. View the magazine online.     UPCOMING Connections Preschool Accepting Applications! Applications for Connections Preschool priority placement for the 2026–2027 school year is open February 13–March 15! If you know families with little learners, now’s the time to share the news. • Full-day and half-day programs at elementary schools for 4-year-olds • Half-day programs at Dakota Valley Learning Center for 3-year-olds 🎥 See our preschool programs in action! Learn more & spread the word! Apple Valley High School Presents Broadway - No Place Like Home Free Senior Preview: Feb. 19, 3:30 p.m. Feb. 20, 21; 7 p.m. | Feb. 22; 2 p.m. Feb. 27, 28; 7 p.m. | March 1, 2 p.m. Purchase tickets today! School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., March 9, 2026.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings. Submit News to Share Engage with us!

Thursday, Feb 12 2026

District 196 Today | 1-29-26

January 29, 2026 DISTRICT UPDATES Safe Schools and Student Supports District 196 remains committed to creating an environment where every student is respected, valued, and can thrive. The diverse backgrounds and cultures of our students and families strengthen our district. Regardless of immigration status, all children in the U.S. have the right to attend public schools, and we are committed to serving each of our students. With increased targeted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) efforts in the Twin Cities area, district leaders have been asked to provide timely, transparent information on enforcement actions and school safety. Schools will notify families and staff of any incidents involving ICE on school property. Notices will also be posted here for the public. Temporary Learning Support Option In recent weeks, our community has been navigating fear, anxiety, and disruption. District 196 remains committed to maintaining safe, welcoming, supportive schools. In response to family requests for short-term flexibility, the district is offering a temporary option for students to access instructional materials from home. This is not an online school or virtual learning program; in-person instruction remains our primary learning model. Our goal is to help students stay connected to learning while supporting safety and well-being in our community. Community Resources Learning and living our core values, many of our staff and students are supporting local food shelves and community organizations. District 196 Foundation is focusing on the Every Meal program. If you would like to help or need help, here is a list of Community Resources. Transportation Update An ongoing shortage of bus drivers, due to an aging workforce, illness, and winter weather, is impacting school districts across the region, including District 196. When a route has no driver, the route must be canceled or delayed. Improving transportation reliability is a top priority for district leaders. Reliable transportation is essential for students’ access to school and for families’ ability to manage work, childcare, and daily routines. We regret the impact these interruptions have had; we are working to make it right. Read more   CELEBRATE 🎥: 196 Sings! This exciting, districtwide fifth-grade singing event connects students with their pyramid high schools. Students experience firsthand how vocal skills grow and evolve over time—reinforcing that music is not just for today, but a lifelong skill. 🎥 Echo Park Elementary School Celebrates Magnet Schools of America Teacher of the Year! Brian Hurley, a magnet specialist at Echo Park Elementary—known to many as Mr. Magnet—has been named a Magnet Schools of America Teacher of the Year for Region VI. He is one of just six educators nationwide now in the running for the Magnet Schools of America National Teacher of the Year Award. Mr. Hurley exemplifies the very best of Echo Park’s values, including achievement, inclusion, integration, community partnerships, and a deep commitment to curiosity and critical thinking. Watch this video! Nutrition Services Featured on CBS News District 196’s own Ross Larson (also VP of the Minnesota School Nutrition Association!) was featured on CBS News sharing how school nutrition teams follow food trends and use ingredients like protein across multiple meals to keep food both nutritious and affordable. We’re proud of the expertise feeding our students every day! You can watch the segment here: WCCO SES Selected for NASA TechRise Challenge Congrats to the School of Environmental Studies students and staff for being selected as one of only 60 winning teams nationwide in the 2025–26 NASA TechRise Student Challenge. Led by SES science teacher Eric Colchin, the team will design and build a student-created science experiment that will fly on a NASA-sponsored suborbital mission with Virgin Galactic in summer 2026. This year’s competition drew a record number of schools from across the country, making this a significant national honor and a great example of the creativity and dedication of SES students and staff!   Debate Association Coach of the Year Eastview's Greta Thomas has been named the 2026 Minnesota Debate Association Coach of the Year! Thomas serves as co-head coach of the Eastview High School Debate Team, leading the Classic and Public Forum divisions. Under her leadership, Eastview has earned back-to-back state championships in Classic Debate, with students advancing to elimination rounds at both state and national competitions. A 2012 Eastview graduate herself, Thomas began coaching in 2013 and became co-head coach in 2021. Read more... Eastview's Zach Prax Recognized with NFHS Award for Speech and Debate In more than two decades as a Speech and Debate coach, Zach Prax believes there really is no discussion about where credit should be directed when looking at the success of his student participants. Read more... In more recent news, Eastview educator Zach Prax was selected the Section 5 recipient of the NFHS Outstanding Educator of the Year Award for Speech and Debate, making him one of eight finalists for the national award. Dakota Hills Middle School Earns National Blue Ribbon School Honor Dakota Hills Middle School has been recognized as a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School, a prestigious designation that distinguishes it as an Exemplary High-Performing School. This honor places Dakota Hills among the nation’s top educational institutions, celebrated for its long-standing commitment to academic excellence and community dedication. Read more...   UPCOMING School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., Feb. 9, 2026.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings. Eagan High School Presents Soundscapes This creative and engaging production explores how sound, silence, and storytelling shape the way we experience the world. Through a series of powerful scenes, Soundscapes invites audiences to listen closely and see performance in a new way. Don’t miss this unique showcase of Eagan students’ talent, creativity, and collaboration on stage. Feb. 4; 4 p.m. free senior preview, Feb. 6 and 7; 7 p.m. Buy tickets The Dangers of Non-Prescription Medications Starting the Conversation: The Dangers of Non-Prescription Medications is a free workshop for parents and youth (grades 6–12). Join experts to learn about the risks of non-prescription medications, opioids, and fentanyl, along with current trends and practical prevention strategies. Feb. 2, 6:30–7:45 p.m., Rosemount High School. Register at ce.district196.org Parenting in the Digital Age: Reducing Childhood Anxiety Join us for a workshop based on The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. Learn how smartphones and technology affect children’s mental health and gain practical strategies to reduce anxiety. Dates: Feb. 9, Feb. 19, Feb. 24, March 4 Time: 6–8 p.m. | Cost: $10 (fee assistance available) Register: ce.district196.org 2026 College Fair at Eastview High School Students are invited to visit with representatives from colleges, universities, community colleges, technical colleges, and specialty schools during this free event. For a complete list of schools at each fair visit www.MN-acac.org. Feb. 25, 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.   Submit News to Share Engage with us!

Friday, Jan 30 2026

Community Resources & Assistance

Community Resources Supporting our Neighbors and Community Learning and living our core values of community, empathy, and wellness, students across District 196 support local food, clothing, and gift drives. It’s one way our students, staff, and families can give back to the community that supports them so much. For help with food, housing, transportation, utilities, and emergency assistance: 360 Communities 952-985-5300 www.360communities.org/resources/food-shelves/  The Open Door Pantry  651-686-0787 https://theopendoorpantry.org/get-food/ Hastings Family Service 651-437-7134 www.hastingsfamilyservice.org  Hunger Solutions Map Food HelpLine: 1-888-711-1151 Isuroon Family Center 1-833-437-3463 www.isuroon.org  La Vina 612-615-9294 https://iglesiavina.org/despensa-gratis   Mission Outpost 952-898-9311 www.popmn.org/mission/mission-outpost  Neighbors Inc. 651-455-5000 www.neighborsmn.org  United Way 211 651-291-0211  Energy Assistance (CAP Agency) 651-322-3500 www.capagency.org  For urgent concerns related to student mental health and well-being, contact:  Care Solace for Mental Health (support in any language) 888-515-0595 caresolace.com/district196 Dakota County Crisis Response: 952-891-7171 988 Lifeline: call or text 988 https://988lifeline.org/ Community Resource Guide Dakota County [Spanish] [Somali]

Monday, Dec 22 2025