Three District 196 grads going for gold at Tokyo Olympics
Gable Steveson, Mallory Weggemann and Payton Otterdahl will represent Team USA during the summer games.
District 196 high schools debate their way to the top at nationals
All four high schools earned top finishes, three schools were named Schools of Outstanding Distinction and two students won championships at the National Speech and Debate Association national tournament.
District 196 summer programming
Explore our updated COVID-19 protocols for the summer, free meals information and course offerings.
Superintendent Kreger’s statement from June 14 School Board meeting
“We will continue to promote a culture of acceptance, understanding and achievement for all students and families in District 196.”
How to get free summer meals for children
Free breakfast and lunch kits will be available this summer to any child, up to 18 years old, at five District 196 schools. The Open Door Pantry will also have locations throughout the district.
One District. Infinite Possibilities.
We are nationally recognized for providing boundless opportunities in which students can learn and grow. At District 196, the sky's the limit.
Average ACT Score 22.7
Our graduates scored nearly one-half points higher than the nation-leading Minnesota average on the ACT college admissions test.
89% graduation rate
Our graduation rate exceeds the state average by five points.
29,000 students
We are the 4th largest district in Minnesota, serving learners from the cities of Rosemount, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Coates, Lakeville and Inver Grove Heights, and Empire and Vermillion townships.
4,000 staff
Our high-quality, diverse workforce includes 2,100 licensed teachers and administrators, of which more than half of whom hold master’s or specialist’s degrees.
STORIES OF INFINITE POSSIBILITIES
Sharing stories of Academic, Art and Athletic successes from around the District.
![Three district 196 grads are participating in the 2020 olympics]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1626815121/district196org/q8ujok3wmjcpkdfzyvyo/196Olympians.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1626815121/district196org/q8ujok3wmjcpkdfzyvyo/196Olympians.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1626815121/district196org/q8ujok3wmjcpkdfzyvyo/196Olympians.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1626815121/district196org/q8ujok3wmjcpkdfzyvyo/196Olympians.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1626815121/district196org/q8ujok3wmjcpkdfzyvyo/196Olympians.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1626815121/district196org/q8ujok3wmjcpkdfzyvyo/196Olympians.png","width":2000}])
Payton Otterdahl (’14, RHS), Gable Steveson (’18, AVHS) and Mallory Weggemann (’07, EHS) are among the athletes vying for medals in shot put, wrestling and swimming, respectively, in the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic games.
![apply for educational benefits at district196.org/edbenefits]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1626728906/district196org/qbmfenptvd4xi7ixqoyd/APPLYTODAY1.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1626728906/district196org/qbmfenptvd4xi7ixqoyd/APPLYTODAY1.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1626728906/district196org/qbmfenptvd4xi7ixqoyd/APPLYTODAY1.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1626728906/district196org/qbmfenptvd4xi7ixqoyd/APPLYTODAY1.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1626728906/district196org/qbmfenptvd4xi7ixqoyd/APPLYTODAY1.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1626728906/district196org/qbmfenptvd4xi7ixqoyd/APPLYTODAY1.png","width":2000}])
Formerly known as the Free and Reduced-Price Meals Program, the Educational Benefits Program is more than just a free meal application. It also provides critical funding for your child's school.
![District 196 logo]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1574456446/district196org/khk54hcmbgppbwz7msnn/District196_Logo_CMYK_copyright.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1574456446/district196org/khk54hcmbgppbwz7msnn/District196_Logo_CMYK_copyright.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1574456446/district196org/khk54hcmbgppbwz7msnn/District196_Logo_CMYK_copyright.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1574456446/district196org/khk54hcmbgppbwz7msnn/District196_Logo_CMYK_copyright.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1574456446/district196org/khk54hcmbgppbwz7msnn/District196_Logo_CMYK_copyright.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1574456446/district196org/khk54hcmbgppbwz7msnn/District196_Logo_CMYK_copyright.png","width":2200}]){kind=logo}
Three of the seven at-large positions on the School Board of Independent School District 196 are up for election in the Nov. 2, 2021 General School Board Election.
![Dr Flaten helps students put together their payload for the weather balloon.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1625173015/district196org/lnqqk7ibvrvvdoehufj5/StudentsworkingwithDrFlatenonthePayloads.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1625173015/district196org/lnqqk7ibvrvvdoehufj5/StudentsworkingwithDrFlatenonthePayloads.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1625173015/district196org/lnqqk7ibvrvvdoehufj5/StudentsworkingwithDrFlatenonthePayloads.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1625173015/district196org/lnqqk7ibvrvvdoehufj5/StudentsworkingwithDrFlatenonthePayloads.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1625173015/district196org/lnqqk7ibvrvvdoehufj5/StudentsworkingwithDrFlatenonthePayloads.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1625173015/district196org/lnqqk7ibvrvvdoehufj5/StudentsworkingwithDrFlatenonthePayloads.jpg","width":2200}])
This experiment was part of the school’s seven-day intensive theme course, an option available each trimester that gives students an opportunity to immerse themselves in a topic and earn an elective credit.
![Students from Eagan High School pose with their trophies.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1625076162/district196org/o26lf0ujrvvbatskpxp6/203866849_956717839381_4089499603800404838_n1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1625076162/district196org/o26lf0ujrvvbatskpxp6/203866849_956717839381_4089499603800404838_n1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1625076162/district196org/o26lf0ujrvvbatskpxp6/203866849_956717839381_4089499603800404838_n1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1625076162/district196org/o26lf0ujrvvbatskpxp6/203866849_956717839381_4089499603800404838_n1.jpg","width":960}])
Apple Valley, Eagan and Eastview were three of the 10 Schools of Outstanding Distinction in Speech and Debate in this year’s national tournament, based on the number of rounds of competition their students completed during the tournament.
![MMEA logo]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1624386264/district196org/vwu4gyzkehqnoubwlpu8/MMEAlogo002.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1624386264/district196org/vwu4gyzkehqnoubwlpu8/MMEAlogo002.jpg","width":508}])
Fifty-two District 196 high school students were named all-state musicians by the Minnesota Music Educators Association (MMEA) for the 2021-22 school year.
"We will continue to promote a culture of acceptance, understanding and achievement for all students and families in District 196."
As regulations and executive orders expire with changes in the pandemic, updated protocol include less regulations and requirements, and more personal/family choice and responsibility.
![Horizontal image of Violeta]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1622738898/district196org/bdt8yss40tjt7uu0aluv/ScreenShot2021-06-03at114418AMcopy.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1622738898/district196org/bdt8yss40tjt7uu0aluv/ScreenShot2021-06-03at114418AMcopy.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1622738898/district196org/bdt8yss40tjt7uu0aluv/ScreenShot2021-06-03at114418AMcopy.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1622738898/district196org/bdt8yss40tjt7uu0aluv/ScreenShot2021-06-03at114418AMcopy.png","width":814}])
Hernandez Espinosa brings a variety of professional experience in both the public and private sectors, including recruiting diverse students and employees, and advocating for underserved populations in the legislative process.
![Students at Eastview High School pose for a photo during their military recognition ceremony]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1622218699/district196org/svp3gbb228z3nihypidu/IMG_0927.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1622218699/district196org/svp3gbb228z3nihypidu/IMG_0927.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1622218699/district196org/svp3gbb228z3nihypidu/IMG_0927.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1622218699/district196org/svp3gbb228z3nihypidu/IMG_0927.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1622218699/district196org/svp3gbb228z3nihypidu/IMG_0927.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1622218699/district196org/svp3gbb228z3nihypidu/IMG_0927.jpg","width":2200}])
Fifty-two graduating seniors in District 196 will be serving in the U.S. Armed Forces following graduation this spring.
![Native American graduates pose for a photo during a powwow.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1622068147/district196org/axayrpnadiupin4qgwis/Grad29.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1622068147/district196org/axayrpnadiupin4qgwis/Grad29.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1622068147/district196org/axayrpnadiupin4qgwis/Grad29.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1622068147/district196org/axayrpnadiupin4qgwis/Grad29.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1622068147/district196org/axayrpnadiupin4qgwis/Grad29.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1622068147/district196org/axayrpnadiupin4qgwis/Grad29.jpg","width":2200}])
Traditional indigenous dancers from around the U.S. and Canada came together May 15 to celebrate District 196’s Native American seniors during an honoring ceremony and powwow.
![Eastview student Tanisha Kota works outside on her computer.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1621628450/district196org/mjt0dz0gw3gaqtbuavdf/TanishaKota.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1621628450/district196org/mjt0dz0gw3gaqtbuavdf/TanishaKota.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1621628450/district196org/mjt0dz0gw3gaqtbuavdf/TanishaKota.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1621628450/district196org/mjt0dz0gw3gaqtbuavdf/TanishaKota.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1621628450/district196org/mjt0dz0gw3gaqtbuavdf/TanishaKota.jpg","width":1280}])
Need help in English or math? Geniusprep can help! Students in grades K-6 who could benefit from free summer tutoring are encouraged to sign up by June 11.
![Students watch Nasa astronaut Mark Vande Hei through a live feed.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1624296639/district196org/fqjzpyelbtoebyfrbbog/NASA1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1624296639/district196org/fqjzpyelbtoebyfrbbog/NASA1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1624296639/district196org/fqjzpyelbtoebyfrbbog/NASA1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1624296639/district196org/fqjzpyelbtoebyfrbbog/NASA1.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1624296639/district196org/fqjzpyelbtoebyfrbbog/NASA1.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1624296639/district196org/fqjzpyelbtoebyfrbbog/NASA1.jpg","width":2200}])
The interview was made possible through NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement, which provides students with an opportunity to engage in NASA’s mission of space exploration.
Students of the Year for 2020-21 were selected by teachers and administrators at all four, four-year high schools in District 196. Students were selected based on their academic performance and participation in the given subject area during their high school career. The 2020-21 Students of the Year in District 196 are listed below by school and subject.
![Row of graduates]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1620767948/district196org/isbmkgx0t64z9torce1e/Grad4copy.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1620767948/district196org/isbmkgx0t64z9torce1e/Grad4copy.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1620767948/district196org/isbmkgx0t64z9torce1e/Grad4copy.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1620767948/district196org/isbmkgx0t64z9torce1e/Grad4copy.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1620767948/district196org/isbmkgx0t64z9torce1e/Grad4copy.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1620767948/district196org/isbmkgx0t64z9torce1e/Grad4copy.jpg","width":2200}])
District 196’s four comprehensive high schools will hold graduation ceremonies outside at the Eagan and Rosemount high school stadiums on Saturday, June 5 or, if necessary, Sunday, June 6
UPCOMING EVENTS
Dakota Ridge School
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Dakota Ridge School
Dakota Ridge School
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