• ⭐ 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

  • District 196 Update for Families and Staff

    An Update from Superintendent Michael Bolsoni District 196 Parents/Guardians and Staff, Yesterday’s threat that led to the closure of our high schools has understandably caused fear, concern, and many questions. Experiences like this can be unsettling for students, families, and staff, and we recognize the emotional impact on our community.  In the days following an incident, it is common to see an increase in similar social media posts or reports in nearby schools. At times, students may make decisions without fully understanding the seriousness of their actions or the stress and disruption they cause for others. We are reaching out today to provide an update on the investigation and to request your assistance in speaking with your children about their social media use and response to information that circulates on the Internet.  Online threats are a violation of our  Student Rights and Responsibilities  and subject to full disciplinary action, including suspension, expulsion, and referral to law enforcement. While individual student disciplinary information is private data that cannot be shared with the public, district and school leaders take all threats seriously and work cooperatively with law enforcement to investigate every threat or rumor we receive. School safety is our top priority.   What follows is a brief timeline regarding the original online threat that closed schools, as well as a subsequent investigation of copycat posts.  On Tuesday, high schools were closed as a result of an online threat. This original post threatening local high schools, not including Eagan High School, was created by a 16-year-old male who has been arrested and is in custody.  According to law enforcement, no guns were found at the home or available to the individual. In response to the original post, many copycat posts, conversations, and threats surfaced across social media in this and other communities. This included a specific Snapchat post referencing Eagan High School with a time reference of “10” that was widely shared on the internet. Law enforcement investigated the matter. The student responsible for the Snapchat post has been identified. According to police, the Snapchat post did not pose a threat to safety, although it caused significant disruption and fear. The Snapchat post continued to circulate overnight Tuesday, leading to additional reports. This recirculation did not pose an additional threat; therefore, school was held as scheduled. To reassure the community, the police have increased their presence at our schools and will continue to do so. We know this is a stressful time for many students, families, and school staff. We want to thank you for talking with your children about their fears related to school violence, and encourage you to discuss the dangers of misinformation and social media. We’re including resources for support. Resources District 196 Safety & Security Mental health resources for youth and adults How to talk to children about difficult news

    Wednesday, Dec 17 2025

  • 2026 Graduation Schedule and Location

    Class of 2026 Students and Families: Thank you for your patience as we navigated the recent graduation scheduling changes at the University of Minnesota. Today, we are pleased to announce that District 196 has secured an alternative venue, allowing us to keep our graduation weekend schedule intact.   District 196 Class of 2026 graduation ceremonies will be held in the brand-new University of St. Thomas, Lee and Penny Anderson Arena. This state-of-the-art facility truly reflects the importance of this milestone for our students. To ensure a memorable and comfortable experience for everyone, the new arena features modern seating, massive screens, and exceptional audio. Additionally, the St. Thomas campus will be closed to other events for the weekend, providing our families with ample parking.  Class of 2026 Graduation Schedule Rosemount High School: Friday, May 29, 7:00 p.m. Apple Valley High School: Saturday, May 30, 10:00 a.m. Eagan High School: Saturday, May 30, 2:30 p.m. Eastview High School: Saturday, May 30, 7:00 p.m.  Each ceremony will be a ticketed event, which St. Thomas requires. More information about the number of tickets available will come from each high school. For those unable to attend in person, a high-quality live stream will be available.   We would like to extend a sincere thank you to the University of St. Thomas for their partnership and efficiency in helping us secure this beautiful space for our community.  Please look for more specific details from your individual high school after January 1. We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2026 with you!

    Tuesday, Nov 25 2025

  • District 196 Today | Sports Highlights, Fall Musical...

    November 13, 2025   Tech Levy Approved. Thank you, District 196! Voters in District 196 approved the District’s technology levy renewal and increase by a margin of 12,370 Yes votes (68%) to 5,823 No votes (32%). View results. This investment ensures our students and staff have the essential tools, systems, and support to provide innovative learning experiences that prepare students for lifelong success.   IN THE NEWS Incumbents Elected to the School Board On Nov. 4, voters elected four incumbents to continue their service on the School Board. Robin Cerio, Leah Gardner, and Sakawdin Mohamed were elected to four-year terms, and Catherine Diamond was elected to a two-year term. The new terms begin Jan. 5, 2026. Read more... Glacier Hills Elementary Celebrates Opening of New Outdoor Classroom Glacier Hills Elementary School of Arts & Science opened its new outdoor classroom on Friday, Nov. 7, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by students, staff, and families. Read more... Rosemount and Eastview High School Marching Bands Finish Top Two in State As the 2025 marching band season comes to a close, both Eastview High School and Rosemount High School have much to celebrate after a series of outstanding performances and achievements at state and regional competitions. Read more... District 196 Fall Sports Highlights District 196 athletics is marked by teamwork, talent, and state-level success! We saw state tournament honors and top finishes in Soccer, Tennis, Cross Country, Volleyball, and more! Congratulations to all the athletes and coaches on an incredible season! Read more...   CELEBRATE 2025 Community Educator of Excellence The Minnesota Community Education Association (MCEA) is thrilled to announce Khia Bruse, Community Education Director for District 196 - Rosemount-Apple Valley- Eagan Schools, as the recipient of the 2025 State Community Educator of Excellence Award. Read more... National Community Education Day - Nov. 13 Today we’re celebrating the incredible District 196 Community Education team — the people who make lifelong learning fun and accessible! They do it all, from preschool and parent classes to dance and cooking, swim lessons, financial fitness, sports camps, and more! You make learning fun, our community strong, and the possibilities infinite. Thank you! Maintenance Support Week Nov. 17-21 Next week, we’re recognizing our amazing Maintenance Support team — the people who keep our schools safe, clean, and running smoothly every day. From early mornings to late nights, they clear sidewalks, deliver supplies, and ensure every space is ready for students and staff. Let’s take a moment to show our appreciation for this hardworking crew!   UPCOMING Apple Valley High School Presents: Hadestown A powerful reimagining of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, Hadestown: Teen Edition invites young performers into a soulful, jazz-infused world where love battles fear and hope defies the underworld. Nov. 14, 7 p.m. | Nov. 15, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Buy tickets Eagan High School Presents: Frozen the Musical Adapted from Disney’s beloved film, Frozen: The Musical brings the story of sisters Anna and Elsa to life with breathtaking music, heartfelt emotion, and a message of courage, love, and self-acceptance. Free Senior Citizen Preview: Dec. 3, 4 p.m. Dec. 5 & 6, 7 p.m. | Dec. 7, 1 p.m. Dec. 11, 12, & 13, 7 p.m. | Dec. 14, 1 p.m.  Buy tickets Eastview High School Presents: Newsies Inspired by the true story of the 1899 Newsboys Strike, Newsies: Teen Edition bursts with high-energy dance numbers and an empowering call to stand up, speak out, and seize the day. Free Senior Citizen Preview: Dec. 3, 3:30 p.m. Dec. 5 & 6, 7 p.m. | Dec. 7, 2 p.m. Dec. 11, 7 p.m. | Dec. 12 & 13, 7 p.m. Buy tickets Rosemount High School Presents: I Wish Experience the enchantment as we create our own once upon a time! Don’t forget your glass slipper as you adventure into the magic and uncover the happily ever after within yourself. Free Senior Citizen Preview: Dec. 4, 3:30 p.m. Dec. 5 & 6: 7 p.m. | Dec. 7 p.m. Dec. 11, 12, & 13, 7 p.m. Buy tickets School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., Dec. 8, 2025.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings.   Submit Good News to Share Engage with us!

    Thursday, Nov 13 2025

  • Native American Heritage Month

    American Indian Education Newsletter | November 3, 2025      November is Native American Heritage Month Tahecapṡuŋ Wi  - Deer Break Off Antlers Moon - Dakota Gashkadino-Giizis - Freezing Moon - Ojibwe November - English   Celebrate by Rocking Your Mocs! Nov. 10th-14th, District 196 American Indian students will be rocking our moccasins as part of a national event. Students are encouraged to wear moccasins all week! Monday: Veterans Day - ROCK YOUR MOCS and thank a veteran Tuesday: Native Jewelry Day - Bling it up! Wednesday: Native Design Day - Wear a shirt or item of clothing with a Native American design. Thursday: Land Back - Represent your tribal nation or our South of the River Powwow! Friday: Ribbon Skirt/Shirt - Li li li li li! To learn more, visit: rockyourmocs.org   What is Native American Heritage Month & WHY do we celebrate it? National Native American Heritage Month celebrates the traditions, languages and stories of Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and affiliated Island communities to ensure their rich histories and contributions continue to thrive with each passing generation. Designated in 1990 by President George H. W. Bush, the month honors the unique contributions of Indigenous peoples to the United States and educates the public about tribal nations. It serves to celebrate the achievements of Native peoples, recognize their resilience and acknowledge historical challenges. Native American Heritage Month coincides with America's Thanksgiving holiday which famously re-tells the story of a harvest feast shared between the Wapanoag people and English colonizers in 1621. Learn what really happened from historians in this article: What you always wanted to know about Thanksgiving (but were too afraid to ask).... Why are these narratives harmful? Although many Potawatomi and others across the United States celebrate Thanksgiving, the factual history behind the holiday is something to be less than thankful for. While communing with loved ones and showing appreciation for the bounties and gifts provided is one positive aspect of the national holiday, teaching a false narrative of its beginnings perpetuates colonialism and ignores more than 400 years of atrocities committed against Native Americans and First Nations’ people. Read more... How do we move forward knowing what we know now? Article: Rethinking Thanksgiving Celebrations: Native Perspectives on Thanksgiving Videos: PBS Books interviews with Indigenous authors Lesson Plan Ideas: Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month Books: Book list that showcase the diversity of Native children’s books   Book Lists!   History Lesson for Children   District 196 Land Acknowledgement We want to acknowledge that District 196 resides within Mni Sota Makoce - A Dakota Place and that this land has been the homeland of the Dakota people and the Očhéthi Šakówiŋ (Seven Council Fire) for every generation since their creation at Bdote. Mni Sota Makoce- the land where waters reflect the skies - is Dakota land. Mni Sota is also the home of the Anishinaabe and many other Indigenous Peoples who have and do contribute to the overall foundation of this region. We encourage all members of the District 196 community to join us in learning more about the people, contributions, sovereignty and treaty rights of the Dakota and Anishinaabe People. District 196 will continue to strengthen our relationship with Mni Sota’s eleven sovereign nations and Indigenous communities, families and students.   District 196 American Indian Education Visit our website to learn more!

    Wednesday, Nov 05 2025

  • Class of 2026 Graduation Location Change

    Dear Class of 2026 Students and Families: Yesterday, the University of Minnesota announced that it will no longer host high school graduation ceremonies on their Minneapolis campus. Four of our District 196 high schools, Apple Valley HS, Eagan HS, Eastview HS, and Rosemount HS were scheduled to have their graduations on the U of MN campus this Spring on Saturday, May 30 at the 3M Arena at Mariucci. We are disappointed because Mariucci was an excellent venue, with expert staff, and it allowed unlimited tickets for families to attend. After learning of this decision, we asked the University to delay the change one year to allow 2026 graduations to take place as planned. The University denied that request. Our administrative team is already working to secure new venues and is in contact with several large sites across the Twin Cities. We remain fully committed to providing a safe, meaningful, and memorable graduation experience that allows families and guests to celebrate our students’ accomplishments. We understand how important this milestone is for our seniors and their families, and we will share an update with specific venue information as soon as plans are finalized.

    Wednesday, Oct 29 2025