Over the past four years, District 196 has made substantial improvements to school safety, emergency preparedness, and security infrastructure. Enhancements were made possible by 2019 and 2023 bond referendums and reflect our district’s commitment to maintaining safe, secure, and responsive learning environments for students, staff, families, and visitors. 

District 196 maintains more than 4 million square feet of facilities to secure (more than MSP). Key safety initiatives include:

• Lockdown Technology Enhancements: Updated lockdown buttons in buildings can immediately secure learning areas and alert emergency response teams, supporting faster, more coordinated lockdown procedures.
• Expanded Security Camera Coverage: Additional cameras inside and outside schools improve surveillance and deter unsafe behavior.
• Secure Entry Vestibules: All school buildings now have secure entry vestibules requiring visitors to be buzzed in during the school day and providing monitored access points.
• Visitor Management System: Raptor visitor management system screens and tracks visitors, enhancing front office safety protocols.
• HALO Smart Sensors: HALO detectors monitor air quality and detect vaping, aggression, and abnormal sound levels, helping staff identify and respond to prohibited behaviors.
• Standard Response Protocols (SRP) & Reunification Training: Consistent crisis response language across all schools improves clarity, communication, and coordination during emergency events. Collaboration with local law enforcement outlines a clear, efficient process for reuniting students with families during emergencies. Each school is equiped with standard emergency and medical go-bags for evacuations or emergencies.
• Two-Way Radios and Communication Infrastructure: Installed a district-wide radio system and fleet of 1,700 units for daily and emergency communication efficiency.
• Improved traffic management for Thomas Lake Elementary, Falcon Ridge Elementary

 

Construction Updates

With Emerald Trail Elementary and Dakota Ridge construction complete, District 196 is updating the timeline for remaining projects.

Started in 2025

Apple Valley High School Activity Center

East View High School Activity Center

Cedar Valley Learning Center Renovations

Dakota Valley Learning Center Renovations

Highland Elementary Ceiling Replacement

Falcon Ridge Middle School Renovations

Rosemount Middle School Construction

Scott Highlands Middle School Addition

Valley Middle School Renovation

Starting in Fall 2025

Eagan High School Parking Relocation

Rosemount High School Activity Center

 

Starting in Spring 2026

Eagan High School Activity Center