In May 2023, District 196 voters approved the Building Our Future bond referendum to relieve overcrowding, enhance safety and security, and create consistently high-quality learning environments across the district. It is exciting to watch construction progress over a four-year period. Thank you, voters, for investing in our schools and our community.

Timeline for projects:

Emerald Trail Elementary School (Elementary School #20)
The new school design uses the same floor plan as East Lake Elementary School, saving time and design costs. Located at Akron Ave and Bonaire Path in Rosemount, construction is progressing on time and on budget. Anticipated completion summer 2025.

Dakota Ridge School
Construction is underway for six additional classrooms and a multi-purpose gym addition. On time and on budget, this project is scheduled for completion in fall 2025.

Rosemount Middle School
Following a prolonged search, District 196 purchased property from the University of Minnesota at Boulder Trail and Biscayne Avenue in fall 2024. The new middle school will replace the current Rosemount Middle School, the oldest building in the district dating back to 1918. Bidding is completed, and construction will start this winter. The anticipated completion date is fall 2027.

High School Activity Centers
With a commitment to consistent facilities and learning experiences across all schools, the Activity Centers Committee has reached consensus on a standard design and equipment for each of the four activity centers approved on Question 2 of the May 2023 bond referendum.

Each site will have:

• 2-level design with lobby, restrooms, and Community Ed offices on both levels 
• 4 courts (with pickleball lines and striping) 
• 6 hoops per court (custodial included)
• Curtain dividers between courts 
• Scoreboards at each court; touch screen controls 
• Volleyball/Badminton standards 
• End-of-court pull-out bleachers
• Upper-level walking track 
• Lower-level straightaway running lanes 
• Flexible multipurpose space 
• Weightroom
• Storage in corners of courts 
• 1200 SF of storage below the mechanicals 
• Sound system 
• Daylight/windows 
• Storm shelter (required)
• Storage for concessions 

Quality schools are at the heart of thriving communities. This referendum was proposed to address aging facilities, enhance safety and security, and create more space for growth, ensuring high-quality learning environments for generations to come.