• 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

  • District Statement Regarding Eagan High School Media...

    Eagan High School Families, We are communicating with you in response to recent media stories about a former band teacher at Eagan High School. You may have read that District 196 reported the matter to the Eagan Police Department and the Minnesota Department of Education on March 30, 2022, and placed the teacher on paid leave of absence by District 196 on the same day. He did not return to teaching.  Following the investigation, an Eagan High School graduate came forward to share her story and advocate for greater awareness of grooming behaviors and inappropriate relationships . We have met with Hannah and want to thank her for her advocacy. We share her goals of educating and protecting our students.    While state and federal privacy laws don’t allow us to comment further on this specific situation, we want to assure you that we work directly with local law enforcement and state agencies to immediately respond to any complaints and concerns relating to alleged criminal misconduct or maltreatment by employees. We take all reports seriously and will take action related to employee discipline and employment status based on the outcomes. In District 196, we are committed to student safety. We encourage staff, students and/or families to talk to a trusted adult in our schools, use our  confidential tip line  (found on secondary school websites), or contact local police to report any suspicious behavior.  We continue to review our practices around student safety and update our policies and practices. Recent changes in District 196 include adopting and disseminating a more specific regulation on  Employee-Student Relationships , increasing staff training, and implementing a new communication technology to replace the need for staff to use personal cell phones for communication.  If you or your teen has additional questions or needs additional support, the following resources may be helpful: 6 Ways to Reduce Your Kid’s Risk of CSA Get the Facts About Grooming District 196 Mental Health Supports Your School Counselor The safety and protection of our students is our most important value and practice. Eagan High School and District 196

    Tuesday, Oct 21 2025

  • District 196 Today | 10.16.25

    October 16, 2025   🎥 Experience Eagle spirit in action! We’re excited to share a special highlight featuring Apple Valley High School students participating in a Unified flag football game at the Minnesota Vikings’ TCO Stadium practice field! This incredible event brought together students of all abilities to compete, connect, and celebrate inclusion through teamwork and sportsmanship. The energy, smiles, and school pride on the field made it a day to remember!   IN THE NEWS Eagan High School Named Performing Arts School of Excellence The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has selected Eagan High School in Eagan, Minnesota, as the 2025 NFHS Performing Arts School of Excellence. Eagan becomes the 10th high school in the United States to receive the award. Read more... Magnet School Application Window Now Open for 2026-27 Enrollment District 196 will begin accepting applications Monday, Oct. 6 for our magnet school lotteries for attendance in the 2026-27 school year. Learn more... School Board Candidate Forum Available to View The League of Women Voters of Dakota County held a candidate forum Sept. 30 featuring Robin Cerio, Leah Gardner, Sakawdin Mohamed, and Tracey Plante the candidates seeking to fill three seats on the District 196 School Board in the upcoming general election. Read more...   GOOD TO KNOW Stay Informed: Sign up for Weather Notifications! Community members (not a parent or staff member) can get weather updates by joining our Weather Notification Group in ParentSquare (you will need to create a ParentSquare account). Parents and staff do not need to join the weather notification group — they will get these messages automatically. Sign up here. What Should Community Education Offer Next? District 196 Community Education is conducting a short survey to help plan future classes, programs, and services—and we’d love your input! Whether you’ve taken a class before or are just thinking about it, tell us what you’d like to see offered for youth, families, and adults. Complete the survey at Community Education by Oct. 31 for a chance to win a Visa gift card.   CELEBRATE Transportation Appreciation Week: Oct. 20–24 Next week, we’re celebrating the professionals who keep our students moving — our bus drivers, mechanics, dispatchers, routers, trainers, and aides! This team ensures thousands of students arrive safely and on time every day. To our transportation team: your care and commitment make a daily difference for our kids and community. We appreciate you!   UPCOMING Apple Valley High School Presents Hadestown Senior Preview Thursday Nov. 6, 3:30 p.m. (free) Nov. 7, 8, 14, 15: 7 p.m. Nov. 9, 15: 2 p.m. School Board meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., Nov. 10, 2025.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings.   School District Election District 196 is seeking voter approval to renew and increase the Technology Levy, originally approved by voters in 2015. Without voter approval, the funding will expire this year, and the district will face $9.1 million in budget reductions. Learn more at www.district196.org/techlevy Four of the seven at-large positions on the District 196 School Board will be decided in our local election on Nov. 4, 2025. Because school district elections are the only ballot questions, polling places have been combined and may be different from those in 2024. Visit mnvotes.org to find your polling location. Submit Good News to Share Engage with us!

    Thursday, Oct 16 2025

  • Don’t Wait Until Election Day — Vote Early!

    Don’t Wait Until Election Day — Vote Early! Early voting is open for the 2025 District 196 Technology Levy, which funds essential tools like cybersecurity protections, classroom technology, digital curriculum, and more. If the levy is not approved by voters, the district will lose more than $9.1 million in annual funding.  🗓️ Thu., Oct. 16, and Fri, Oct. 17, are no-school days — a great opportunity to bring your student(s) along for a real-life lesson on voting! Learn more at www.district196.org/techlevy Voting Information Vote Early through Nov. 3 at: District 196 District Office – 3455 153rd St. W., Rosemount Dakota County Western Service Center – 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley Dakota County Administration Center – 1590 Hwy 55, Hastings   www.district196.org/techlevy

    Tuesday, Oct 14 2025

  • ⭐District 196 Today | 10.2.25

    October 2, 2025   🎥 3 Minute Watch: The Future of Work Local business leaders share why technology skills are essential for the workforce of tomorrow. As industries evolve at a rapid pace, students need more than access to devices—they need opportunities to create, innovate, and collaborate with technology. Leaders from our community explain how schools must prepare students not just as tech users, but as creative problem-solvers ready to thrive in modern manufacturing and beyond.   IN THE NEWS District 196 Students Recognized by the National Merit and College Board Thirty-five District 196 seniors are receiving special recognition this fall for scores they achieved on a national standardized test they took last year as juniors. Eleven students are semifinalists in the 2025-26 National Merit Scholarship Program, 17 are National Merit commended students, and seven were selected for recognition in the College Board’s First Generation recognition programs. Read more... School Board Candidate Forum Posted The League of Women Voters of Dakota County held a candidate forum Sept. 30 featuring Robin Cerio, Leah Gardner, Sakawdin Mohamed, and Tracey Plante the candidates seeking to fill three seats on the District 196 School Board in the upcoming general election. A recording of the forum is available to view on the District 196 YouTube channel. Early/absentee voting for the Nov. 4, 2025 election started Sept.19. For information on where and how to vote, go to mnvotes.org.   GOOD TO KNOW Keeping Students Safe Online As technology becomes a bigger part of learning, online threats continue to grow. Our systems protect information and keep digital spaces secure: 🛡️ 275,000 severe threats blocked every month 📧 700,000 spam or malicious emails stopped monthly 🔐 Nearly 100 malicious login attempts stopped every day The 2025 Technology Levy will help fund the strong security systems that make this protection possible, allowing students to learn, connect, and grow in a safe online environment. Vote now through Nov. 4! Learn how schools are tackling cybersecurity in this KSTP story   CELEBRATE Principal/Assistant Principal Recognition Week October 6-10 is Principal and Assistant Principal Recognition Week. We’re proud to celebrate our incredible leaders. Their care and commitment to excellence make a lasting difference for students, staff, and families across District 196. Please join us in thanking our principals and assistant principals for the many ways they serve our schools and community! Nutrition Services Recognition Week October 13-17 is Nutrition Services Recognition Week. These dedicated staff members fuel learning, serving meals that help students stay energized, focused, and ready to learn. Their work is essential to student success and to building the caring, supportive school communities that make District 196 special. Join us in celebrating our Nutrition Services team!   UPCOMING Eastview High School Presents, Thirst Wednesday, Sept. 30; 3:30 p.m. (senior preview) Thursday, Oct. 2; 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; 7 p.m. Buy tickets Rosemount High School Presents, A Wrinkle in Time Wednesday, Oct. 8; 3:30 p.m. (senior preview) Friday, Oct. 10; 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11; 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12; 2 p.m. Buy tickets School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., Oct. 13, 2025. View agendas, minutes, and recordings. Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor Training Become a certified Lifeguard or Water Safety Instructor. Our nationally recognized certifications prepare you to keep people safe and open doors to great job opportunities. Register now! October 16–18 (Thu–Sat), 9 a.m.– 6 p.m., Black Hawk Middle School, $315 per class   Submit Good News to Share Engage with us!

    Thursday, Oct 02 2025

  • Protect Your Child from Measles

    Protect Your Child from Measles District 196 Families, There have been eighteen cases of measles in Minnesota, including at least two in Dakota County. No cases have been reported in District 196 schools, however, Measles spreads quickly. Our Health Services team would like to remind families of the importance of keeping children up to date on their vaccines. Why this matters: Measles is contagious. Early signs include fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a rash. Students who are not vaccinated are much more likely to get sick. If exposed, they may have to stay home from school for up to 21 days. The best protection: The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is required for school. It is 97% effective when both doses are given. The first dose is usually given at 12–15 months. The second dose is usually given at 4–6 years. If your child has not had both doses, it’s not too late. They can get them at any age. As a reminder, Minnesota Statute 121A.15 requires all students in public schools must be fully immunized or have a notarized statement exempting them from immunizations while enrolled in school. Families with state insurance or no insurance can get the vaccine at the Dakota County Immunization Clinic. Call 952-891-7999 to make an appointment. If you have questions, please contact your health care provider or school nurse. Thank you for helping us keep our schools and community healthy. -District 196 Health Services Team

    Wednesday, Oct 01 2025

  • District 196 Today | 9.18.25

    September 18, 2025   Welcome to ParentSquare! You may notice our newsletter looks a little different today! We’re excited to begin using ParentSquare as our primary tool for sharing news and updates with you. You’ll continue to receive this newsletter by email, just in a new format.   🎥 1-min watch: Students Preparing for Healthcare Careers Through courses in health sciences and participation in HOSA–Future Health Professionals, students are finding inspiration, building connections, and preparing for high-tech careers in medicine.   IN THE NEWS Voting for District 196 Election Begins Sept. 19 District 196 will be holding an election on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025 to elect four of the seven at-large positions on its School Board and to renew and increase the district's technology levy. Voters can cast their ballot on Election Day at designated school district polling places, by absentee ballot beginning Sept. 19, or through early in-person voting during the week before Election Day. Read more... District Asks Voters to Renew and Increase Technology Levy this November This November, District 196 voters will be asked to renew and increase the District 196 technology capital projects levy, which funds all instructional technology. If not approved by voters, the $9.1 million in funding will expire this year. Read more... Future Health Leaders: District 196 Students Explore Careers Through HOSA District 196 high school students are stepping into the world of medicine long before graduation—gaining hands-on experience, leadership skills, and a vision for their future careers in healthcare. Through courses in health sciences and participation in HOSA–Future Health Professionals, students are finding inspiration, building connections, and preparing to become tomorrow’s leaders in medicine. Read more... Black Hawk Middle School Recognized for Supporting Students Black Hawk Middle School was recognized this week through the College Football Playoff Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers program, receiving a $2,000 grant to support classroom learning. Teacher Alyssa Pask was also honored with a Big Ten Award for her excellence in teaching and her leadership in the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program.   UPCOMING School Board Meeting The next District 196 Regular School Board meeting is 6 p.m., Sept. 29, 2025.  View agendas, minutes, and recordings.   Vaccine Clinic Available Sept. 23 Let’s make sure your child is up-to-date on required immunizations! Stop by our free or no-cost vaccine clinic from 3-6 p.m., at Valley Middle School on Sept. 23. Hosted by Dakota County Public Health, vaccine eligibility restrictions apply. Learn more...   Eagan High School Presents: The Importance of Being Earnest Wednesday, Sept. 24, 4 p.m. (senior preview) Thursday, Sept. 25, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, 7 p.m. Buy tickets here Eastview High School Presents: Thirst Wednesday, Sept. 30; 3:30 p.m. (senior preview) Thursday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, 7 p.m. Tickets will be available on Eastivew website Rosemount High School Presents: A Wrinkle in Time Wednesday, Oct. 8; 3:30 p.m. (senior preview) Friday, Oct. 10, 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, 2 p.m. Buy tickets here   From Frustration to Focus: Helping Kids with ADHD Succeed Thursday, Oct. 2 | 6:30–7:30 p.m. | Scott Highlands Middle School This workshop shares practical, drug-free strategies to boost focus and reduce stress. Presenters: Rich Frieder, LearningRx – Specialist in ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, with experience training schools and therapy groups Dr. Tye Moe – Neurologically based chiropractor helping kids shift from stress to focus and healthy growth Registration required. Pay what you can. Project Explore Craft Fair Celebrate creativity and community at the annual Project Expore Craft Fair on Saturday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. at Valley Middle School. Shop unique, handcrafted items from local artisans in a welcoming atmosphere that makes this event a community favorite. Admission is free, and proceeds benefit Project Explore’s mission of lifelong learning and enrichment for adults with disabilities.   Submit Good News to Share   Engage with us!

    Thursday, Sep 18 2025