Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools

Spotlight Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools

Summer 2020 | Volume 60 • Number 4

At District 196, the sky’s the limit. Graduates to experience socially distanced celebrations That’s because our committed team More than 2,100 seniors will graduate from District 196 high schools the first week of educators is dedicated to helping in June. The ever-resilient Class of 2020 and their families will take part in an learners explore the outer limits of in-person experience featuring some of the key moments that define graduation, their vast potential. done in a very different and appropriately distanced way due to the pandemic. The three-part optional experience begins with individual diploma cover IN THIS ISSUE presentations and photo opportunities. On graduation day at each school, there will be a parade of seniors in separate vehicles held a few hours before graduation. Artificial turf projects begin ...... p.2 Shortly after the parades, at the scheduled graduation times, commencement ceremony videos will premiere online recognizing members of the Class of 2020 Superintendent’s message ...... p.3 at Apple Valley, Eagan, Eastview and Rosemount high schools, and the School of Environmental Studies. Best High Schools ranking ...... p.5 A committee of district and high school administrators, working in cooperation with local police departments, began meeting in March to develop options for graduation. In early May, the state released guidance prohibiting ceremonies in gymnasiums and stadiums, and provided parameters for holding events outside the home such as a parking lot ceremony or graduate parade. When Governor Walz announced the stay-at-home order would expire May 18, the committee finalized its plan and schools started sharing site-specific details with families. “This plan honors our incredible graduates as we strive to provide a safe experience for them and their families,” Superintendent Mary Kreger said. “The most important thing is to share our appreciation and pride for the Class of 2020. Our entire community celebrates their success. We are incredibly proud of their strength and resilience, and we know they will continue to make the world a better place.” << continued on page 12 >>

Parades of positivity Teachers use fab labs to make PPE for local health workers Red Pine Elementary second-grade Teachers at two of District 196’s STEM education schools teacher Kelly Robertson waves to put their expertise into action this spring to help equip students and parents during a parade local health care workers with much-needed personal of Eagan neighborhoods May 2. More protection equipment (PPE) to slow the spread of the than 40 Red Pine teachers and staff novel coronavirus. joined the parade to spread cheer and Early in the spread of COVID-19, medical facilities were positivity to students and their families. experiencing shortages of PPE, especially masks and face Schools across District 196 and the shields. Days before Minnesota first enacted its stay-at- country participated in similar events home order, STEM teachers Chris Lee of Apple Valley High Chris Lee this spring to show their support and School and Brian Martin of Valley Middle School of STEM stay connected during school closures were already exploring ideas on how they could use equipment in their schools’ and distance learning caused by the fabrication labs to help protect local health care workers. novel coronavirus pandemic. See more “Chris went to work on a design for a face shield he found online and had an initial photos on pages 8-9. prototype completed in a few hours. Fast forward 48 hours and he’d already << continued on page 4 >>

1 DISTRICT196.ORG District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 District News Infinite Possibilities

District 196 is nationally recognized for providing boundless opportunities in Construction which students can learn started at and grow. Whether they have Eagan High an affinity for academics, School arts or athletics, our goal is May 11 with to expose students to the removal of infinite possibilities within the track and the district and throughout excavation of our communities. Together, the field. we encourage them each day to pursue excellence as they experience their exciting journey along the road of life. Artificial turf projects started at Eagan and Rosemount The District 196 School Board approved financing and awarded bids for construction of artificial turf fields at Eagan and Rosemount high schools in April and work started on both Spotlight Newsletter projects in mid-May. The fields are expected to be ready by the start of the school this fall. This quarterly publication is mailed to every household in Eagan and Rosemount are the first two of four artificial turf projects that will be completed District 196 to inform parents over the next 16 months. Separate financing and bids will need to be approved for projects at and other residents about Apple Valley and Eastview high schools next year. Each high school will get two artificial turf district news. fields, one stadium field and one practice field with lights. Total project costs are estimated between $17 million and $19 million. Send comments on Spotlight to [email protected] At its April meeting, conducted by videoconference, the board approved the sale of $8,960,000 in certificates of participation to low bidder Northland Securities, Inc., of Minneapolis, at a rate of 1.9685 percent per year. Debt service on the certificates will be paid off over the next 10 years through the district’s annual property tax levy. Director of Finance and Operations Mark Stotts said the project will increase the district’s total levy by NONDISCRIMINATION NOTICE: District 196 does not approximately 1 percent next year. discriminate in employment or in any of its programs and activities, “It was nice, tight bidding,” said Jodie Zesbaugh of Ehlers and Associates, the district’s including vocational opportunities, financial consultant. “We are really happy to see a rate under 2 percent.” on the basis of sex, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, marital After approving financing, the board awarded bids for both projects. Peterson Companies status, familial status,* disability, status with regard to public assis- of Chisago City was lowest of three bidders for the Rosemount project, at $3,857,500. G.L. tance, sexual orientation, member- Contracting, Inc. of Medina was lowest of four bidders for the Eagan project, at $3,608,850. ship or activity in a local human Stotts said both projects are slightly under budget. rights commission,* age or genetic information.* District 196 provides “It was a competitive bid day and we got a good purchase,” said Scott McQueen of Wold equal access to designated youth groups. Architects and Engineers, the district’s architect. The Director of Human Resources, District administration proposed artificial turf fields in December in response to growing Tom Pederstuen (651-423-7859 – [email protected]) concerns about safety and playability issues on sod fields at the district’s four high schools. has been designated to respond The situation reached a breaking point last fall when a wet season and failed drainage tile to employment-related inquiries system caused Rosemount to shut down its stadium field. All four schools limit play on their regarding the non-discrimination policies including Title IX. The stadium fields and have had to reschedule events because of unplayable fields. Director of Elementary Education, Sally Soliday (651-423-7782 – sally. “It has changed from being an extra to an expectation,” Superintendent Mary M. Kreger [email protected]) and the said about artificial turf fields. District 196 high schools are part of a shrinking minority of Director of Secondary Education, Michael Bolsoni (651-423-7712 – metro-area high schools (24 of 76), and the only member high schools in the South Suburban [email protected]) Conference and Region 3AA, that do not currently have artificial turf fields. have been designated to respond to student-related inquiries regard- In addition to providing a more consistent and reliable surface for high school athletic ing the non-discrimination policies including Title IX. The Director of teams and marching bands, artificial turf fields will provide additional teaching stations Special Education, Janet Fimmen for the schools’ physical education classes and will be valuable new resources for athletic (651-423-7629 – janet.fimmen@ associations that offer programs for youth in the communities District 196 serves. district196.org) has been designated to respond to inquiries concern- Eastview High School Athletics Director Matt Percival said he currently limits usage of the ing the rights of a student with a disability including Section 504. The school’s stadium field and adjacent field to fewer than 70 events per year in order to protect mailing address for all directors is the sod. Once artificial turf is installed, that number will jump to more than 1,200 event/ 3455 153rd Street W, Rosemount, MN 55068. game opportunities each fall and spring, not including summer. *Asterisked categories are limited to employment-related discrimination 2 and Districtharassment. 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 Superintendent's Message

Pandemic will shape future of education for the better By Mary M. Kreger, superintendent

here are moments in history when provides. Some students, thankfully I want to thank the creative and you can recall where you were and very few, have not been engaged in hard-working employees of District Twhat you were doing when you learning at all since distance learning 196 for their “get-it-done” attitude learned about it. These life-changing began, despite repeated attempts from throughout this experience. In addition events have long-lasting, far-reaching school staff to reach their families. to teachers, our unsung heroes include effects across our state, country Conversely, I’ve had parents tell custodians, food service workers, and world. me their child struggled before but transportation employees, clerical is engaged and thriving in distance staff, administrators and others who’ve Sunday, March 15, 2020 was one of learning. done everything we asked to keep these moments in history for me serving students and families the best and other Minnesotans, listening to Our amazing teachers have done an we can. Governor Walz issue his first executive outstanding job staying connected, order closing schools to slow the supporting parents and giving I want to thank the families of District spread of the novel coronavirus. The students opportunities to continue 196 for their patience and grace in decision to close schools is not one learning and growing during these learning new ways of doing things, and any governor or superintendent makes unusual and uncertain times. The for supporting their child’s education in lightly, so we knew the importance quality of the experience and breadth a more time-intensive way. of putting public health first in every of opportunities we provide students decision my administrative team made when they are in our school buildings Most importantly, I want to thank later that day, and every day since. cannot be replicated through distance the incredible students of District learning. However, distance learning 196 for their tenacity, patience and On Monday, March 16, the day after the will be a part of our plans for this fall, perseverance these past few weeks. governor’s executive order, we were which we hope to be able to share with They engaged in learning and did providing free daily meals to children at families in July. their best despite missing the people, several sites. At two of those schools, structure and joy of going to school YMCA staff were providing socially Our task as district leaders is to use every day. I am especially grateful distanced child care for the children of the things we already knew, along with for the Class of 2020. They endured health care and other essential workers the things we’ve learned the last three hardship and sorrow at missing so who have been so critical in the fight months, and use this opportunity many of the important milestones of a against COVID-19. Food and child care to improve the daily educational senior year. I know they will learn and are two of the three expectations for experience we provide to students and be stronger from this experience. schools in the governor’s initial order. their families. The third is to provide an equitable Students (and some adults) cheer distance learning experience for our I am meeting daily with district and when they get my early morning phone students. The state gave districts school leaders, teaches and other staff calls canceling school for weather. I just days to accomplish this. With the to discuss options for the 2020-21 can imagine the cheers on the day benefit of a working spring break that school year. Soon we will be surveying we announce we following week, we launched distance parents, students and staff to get their are going back to learning districtwide on Monday, March input about concerns and expectations school. I look 30, and took over responsibility for for next school year. Using this input forward to that providing child care using district staff. and following guidance from the state day. departments of education and health, While there have been some bright our goal is to set up learning spaces spots, distance learning has impacted to allow some in-person, socially students in very different and some distanced learning next school year. predictable ways. Inequities with This will require many changes, possibly access to food, child care, technology/ schedules, calendars, start times, internet and adult support have class sizes and other things. We will magnified gaps in attendance, continue to be in a time of change and achievement and engagement among adjustment heading into the students who are most in need of the school year. support that an in-school experience

3 District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 District News

PPE << continued from front page >> completed two prototypes,” said Apple Valley Principal Drew Mons. To ensure it would work, Lee reached out to Jena Wirt Anderson, an intensive care unit doctor at Abbott Northwestern Hospital and 1994 graduate of Apple Valley. Lee sent her a face shield prototype to be tested. She reported back that not only did the face shield work properly, it also withstood the sanitation process, so it could be reused. At Valley Middle, Martin had the school’s 3D printers churning out face shields and face masks using designs he found online and even enlisted the help of his two children. “I thought this would be a good learning experience Staff at the Cancer Center in Burnsville don the face shields provided by Apple Valley for them to see how important it is STEM teacher Chris Lee. to support our community and take advantage of this equipment we are Apple Valley Rotary and the Apple “This continues to be an amazing, fortunate to have,” Martin said. Valley Arts Foundation provided truly life-changing and life-saving Soon, Lee and Martin were collectively generous donations for supplies to project,” Lee said. “To see how this printing over 40 masks per day. make the shields. The schools’ STEM has expanded, been supported by so Both took their projects public and business partners also provided many others and impacted people shared updates on social media. It support for the project. throughout our community is amazing. wasn’t long until their inboxes were With designs and funding in place, I am glad that our fab labs can help flooded with support and requests Lee and Martin reached out to local support the medical industry in its to donate funds and materials. health care organizations and began efforts to save lives.” Makerbot, the company that produces collecting orders. As of mid-May, Lee 3D printers, provided filament and has distributed more than 2,100 face extruders. Local business such as Park shields and Martin has completed 600 Chrysler Jeep, Collins Aerospace, pieces of PPE. All of the equipment was donated to local hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities, as well as to district food service personnel. Jennifer Litchke, a nurse manager at a local mental health treatment program, shared her struggle with finding vendors who stock enough PPE to protect her colleagues. She said the 160 face shields donated to her clinic have provided an “indescribable amount of relief.” Having a reliable source of necessary PPE remains a challenge for health care facilities. An early estimate Valley Middle School STEM teacher Brian provided to Lee from one hospital Martin gets help from his two children conglomerate shows a need of 20,000 Twins Lisa and Isaac Johnson, Class of packing face masks and face shields for face shields in just one month. He said 2004, worked with Apple Valley to create medical facilities in need. He printed the they are working on a plan to produce face shields. Issac helped build them and PPE using the school’s 3D printers and masks and shields at a higher volume Lisa distributed them to her colleagues in material donations. as the need continues to rise. the medical field.

District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 4 District News

District 196 graduation rate increases to 91.2 percent Coulson is finalist

The four-year graduation rate for • 85.2 percent of Black students for 2020 Minnesota District 196 high schools increased to graduated compared to Teacher of the Year 91.2 percent in 2019 compared to 83.7 69.9 percent statewide; From her early days percent statewide, according to data • 78.6 percent of Hispanic students as a student in released by the Minnesota Department graduated compared to 69.9 District 196, Katie of Education March 5. percent statewide; Coulson knew she Of the 2,165 District 196 seniors • 93.7 percent of White students wanted to be a included in the 2019 graduation data, graduated compared to 88.7 percent teacher. In fact, 1,974 or 91.2 percent graduated in four statewide; she came home years. That is 0.7 percent higher than from her first day • 93.9 percent of students who are the district’s four-year graduation rate of kindergarten of two or more races graduated of 90.5 percent in 2018. Of the District and told her parents compared to 72.3 percent statewide; 196 students who did not graduate that education was her calling. It’s this in 2019, 5.6 percent are continuing • 75.8 percent of students receiving lifelong passion for learning that earned school, 1.9 percent dropped out and English Learner services graduated her selection as a finalist for 2020 the graduation status of the remaining compared to 67.2 percent statewide; Minnesota Teacher of the Year. 1.3 percent is unknown because they • 66.0 percent of students receiving “My passion for school, learning and may have moved out of the district. special education services books is something I want to share The state goal is for school districts graduated compared to 63.0 percent with students,” she said. “Building a to have a graduation rate of at least statewide, and strong community and having those 90 percent for all students, with • 80.6 percent of students eligible to relationships is the most important no student group below 85 percent receive free or reduced-price school thing you can do to help a child.” graduating in four years. In 2019, meals graduated compared to 71.0 Coulson joined the Thomas Lake District 196 met the state goal for percent statewide. Elementary School team six years ago all students, Asian, Black, White, and as a second-grade teacher and has students of two or more races. Graduation rates for American Indian/ Alaskan Native were not reported for taught fourth grade the last two years. The four-year graduation rates for District 196 because there were fewer She is active in the school community individual groups of District 196 than 10 students in the group. Statewide, and serves as a teacher representative students in 2019 were as follows: the graduation rate for American on the Native American Parent • 92.3 percent of Asian students Indian/Alaskan Native students was Advisory Committee. graduated compared to 87.6 percent 50.8 percent. Coulson has stayed focused on statewide; supporting her students during the disruption of school closures and the challenges the pandemic is creating for District 196 high schools earn high rank in U.S. News report many families. Coulson is one of 10 finalists for All four, four-year high schools in The criteria for Minnesota Teacher of the Year. District 196 are in the top 60 high the rankings The recipient was supposed to be schools in Minnesota in U.S. News & include announced in May at the annual World Report’s 2020 ranking of the performance on Teacher of the Year banquet, which was nation’s Best High Schools. state reading postponed. A selection is tentatively and math Eastview and Eagan are both in scheduled to be announced in June. the top 10 among Minnesota high assessments, schools, ranking fourth and ninth, the performance Board meetings via video respectively. At No. 4, Eastview is the of historically highest ranked public high school in underserved groups of students, The District 196 School Board is holding Minnesota. Rosemount is 21st and curriculum breadth, graduation rate, all meetings by videoconference until Apple Valley is 57th in the magazine’s and college readiness measured by further notice due to the COVID-19 ranking of 879 Minnesota high schools, the percentage of students who took pandemic. Members of the public can published in April. The School of and passed at least one Advanced watch the meetings live on the district’s Environmental Studies magnet high Placement exam. To review the YouTube channel. To submit a question school for juniors and seniors is 142nd rankings, go to https://www.usnews. or comment in advance or request an in the Minnesota ranking. com/education/best-high-schools. invitation to participate in the meeting, email [email protected].

5 District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 In the Schools

Kusch selected next High schools select Students of the Year for 2019-20 Black Hawk principal Students of the Year for 2019-20 services; Braydon Jones, technology, were selected by teachers and engineering and manufacturing; Grace Apple Valley High administrators at all four, four-year Falteysek, work experience, and School Assistant high schools in District 196. Students Tatiana Pereda, world languages. Administrator were selected based on their academic Anne Kusch was performance and participation in the EASTVIEW HIGH SCHOOL selected to be given subject area during their high Jiayang Tang, art; Brianna Cairns, the next principal school career. The 2019-20 Students of business; Morgan Peterson, dance; at Black Hawk the Year in District 196 are listed below Kendyl Green, English/language Middle School by school and subject. arts; Maria Diaz Castro, English in Eagan during an language learner; Anya Brown, interview process in May. APPLE VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL family and consumer sciences; Kusch will officially take over July 1 for Guadalupe Castellanos Padilla, art; Brendan Wilhelm, mathematics; Rich Wendorff, who is retiring at the Elliot Ewald, business; Isaiah Sims, Kyra O’Malley, instrumental music; end of this school year after 27 years dance; Sydney Wilson, English/ Abigail Reis, vocal music; Delaney of service in District 196, including the language arts; Crisllanely Vargas Cashin, physical education and last 19 as principal at Black Hawk. Hernandez, English language learner; health; Anushri Tiwari, science; Eva Aisha Warmahayye, family and Lundgreen, social studies; Kenton Since 2013, Kusch has been an consumer sciences; Whitney Chung, Ladoux, special services; Jonah assistant administrator at Apple Valley mathematics; Julia Lee, instrumental Behnke, special services center-based; High, where she is responsible for music; Christina Monsen, vocal Max Gouette, technology, engineering overseeing student affairs and special music; Cieran Searson, physical and manufacturing; Cloe Kraus, education staff and services. Kusch education and health; Nora Bengtson, work experience, and Sarah Zipf, began her career in District 196 in 2000, science; Brooke Kierzek, social world languages. as a teacher at Dakota Hills Middle studies; Jaqueline Montenegro School and Eagan High School. In 2002, Andriano, special services; Thor ROSEMOUNT HIGH SCHOOL she started working full time at Dakota Oase, technology, engineering and Ashley Stock, art; Mariana Pliego Hills as a special education teacher manufacturing; Jacob Holmgren, Cuautle, AVID; Olivia Gernandt, and case manager. Kusch earned her work experience, and Racquel Scott, business; Ellie Ackland, dance; Kate first administrator position in 2009, world languages. Beckwith, English/language arts; Anab when she was hired as a district special Mohamed, English language learner; education coordinator working with EAGAN HIGH SCHOOL Morgan Heck, family and consumer secondary students, families and staff. Brianna Wilkins, art; Britney Chey, sciences; Elizabeth Benke, technology, She held that position until 2013, when business; Anne Koslowski, counseling; engineering and manufacturing; she was hired at Apple Valley High. William Altier, English/language Brenna Buck, mathematics; Jenna “I am thrilled to be returning to the arts; Angela Nieto-Galicia, English Gillich, instrumental music; Matthew middle level and humbled by the language learner; Sarah Thissen, Bell, vocal music; Amanuel Kiros, opportunity to be the next principal family and consumer sciences; Evan physical education and health; Charlie of Black Hawk Middle School,” Kusch Blom, mathematics; Jacob Berran, Huang, science; Jared Flannery, said. “I look forward to building instrumental music; Mia Scott, social studies; Mark Bukovich, special relationships with students, families vocal music; Cole Gibson, physical services; Gabriela Sheppard, work and the staff, and collaborating with education and health; Luke Anderson, experience, and Tanner Morrison, these stakeholders to build on Black science; Maxwell Meekin, social world languages. Hawk’s successes and further expand studies; Andrew Ellingson, special possibilities for all of our students.” Kusch earned a bachelor’s degree Homeschools are required to report to the district in English from the University of St. Families living in District 196 who plan to homeschool their children for the 2020- Thomas; a master’s degree in education, 21 school year must submit a completed Compulsory Instruction Report to the as well as principal and special director of Community Education by Oct. 1. education director licensure from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Information about the report and other programs and services will be addressed at a and is working toward a doctorate in virtual meeting Aug. 12 at 6:30 p.m. Currently registered homeschool families will get educational leadership from Minnesota an email invitation to participate in the meeting. Others can request an invitation by State University, Mankato. calling 651-423-7722 and providing contact information for the invitation. Homeschool information is available on the district website at www.district196. org/academics/homeschool. For more information, call 651-423-7722.

District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 6 In the Schools

Echo Park assistant Logan Schultz selected school’s next principal Echo Park Elementary School of Leadership, Engineering and Technology Assistant Administrator Logan Schultz was selected to be the school’s next principal during a hiring process in May. First-grade teacher Mark Fehlandt shared information with his students while learning Schultz will fill a vacancy created with in the Oak Ridge School Forest earlier this year. the resignation of current Echo Park Principal Scott Thomas at the end of Focus on nature earns Oak Ridge ‘School Forest’ designation this school year. He will officially take over as principal July 1. Learning at Oak Ridge Elementary to provide even more opportunities School of Leadership, Environmental for outdoor learning, stewardship and Schultz has been Echo Park’s assistant and Health Sciences in Eagan management of our forest.” administrator for the last two years. Prior to that he was a teacher leader often takes place outside of the The designation provides assistance at Southview Elementary School traditional classroom. Surrounding from the DNR to implement relevant in Apple Valley from 2015 to 2018. the school grounds is a lush, three- curriculum, boost teacher training After growing up in Perham and acre wooded area in which students around school forestry and future soak up hands-on lessons in all graduating from The College of Saint grant writing opportunities. Angie varieties of subject areas. It’s this Scholastica in Duluth, Schultz spent Schlede, Oak Ridge educator and a the first three years of his teaching commitment to combining education leader of the school’s sustainability career at an elementary school in with an appreciation for nature that initiatives, said fostering both an Florida serving a high percentage of earned Oak Ridge the designation of understanding of and appreciation for students with a variety of needs. He School Forest. nature is an important part of the Oak said the experience shaped his passion “This is an incredible recognition of Ridge mission. for an advocacy and student-first the work we’re already doing to extend “Not everyone comes with a love or leadership approach. our classrooms into the woods around appreciation of nature, and we want “I am humbled by the opportunity to our school,” Technology Clerk Amy to foster that,” Schlede said. “We try be the next principal at Echo Park and Kupinski said. “This is a chance to to get outside as much as we can, and honored to be a leader in such a caring partner with the DNR Forestry Division there’s a lot of just observing nature.” and committed school community that puts students first,” Schultz Deerwood students post top score on FBI safe surfing test said. “During my time at Echo Park, Fourth-grade students at Deerwood Elementary School scored highest in the I have been in awe of the school and nation on a test about online safety this spring. The top score earned them the family partnership and look forward FBI’s Safe Online Surfing Award for their grade. to continuing this culture of care Media Specialist Dawn Lyons uses the Safe Online Surfing program to teach and collaboration.” digital citizenship skills to students in all grades at Deerwood. The culminating Schultz has a bachelor’s degree in event of the curriculum is the online test and the FBI’s monthly awards. elementary/middle education from The The program teaches students about web terminology, how to recognize secure College of St. Scholastica, a master’s and trustworthy sites, protecting personal details online, creating strong in educational leadership from Saint passwords, avoiding viruses, scams and strangers, and being a good digital citizen. Leo University in St. Leo, Florida, and a doctorate in educational leadership Teachers manage their students’ participation in the program and the FBI does from Concordia University, St. Paul. not collect or store any student information. For more information about the program, go to https://sos.fbi.gov.

7 District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 In This Together

Distance Living and Learning Education changed drastically on March 18 when all schools in Minnesota were ordered to close in an effort to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. Seemingly overnight, kitchen tables and living rooms were transformed into learning spaces. Students and teachers in District 196 and across the state embraced distance learning and adjusted to their new virtual classrooms.

Zoom meetings connected Laura Johnson with her Glacier Hills School of Arts and Science kindergarten students. Shannon Park Elementary third-grader Lukas Middleton worked on his architectural drawing skills. Reading Recovery specialist Jill Johnson continued to see progress in her students. And our food and nutrition services personnel packed hundreds of grab-and-go meals to keep students’ brains fueled.

Our district has come together like never before to ensure students remain successful and all are supported during this unprecedented time.

District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 8 In This Together

In This Together, District 196!

9 District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 In the Schools

Pursuing Infinite Possibilities: Dan Myers, Eastview High School Class of 2003

Dan Myers had high hopes that his What do you remember most fondly passion for writing and love of hockey about your time in District 196? would one day lead him to his dream “I attended world-class schools every career. In 2016, that dream became a step of the way. I was blessed to reality when the 2003 Eastview High attend Oak Ridge Elementary, Black School graduate landed a job with the Hawk Middle and Eastview High School, Minnesota Wild. all of which were newer facilities at the As coordinator of digital content time with great teachers and staff that for the team, he curates and shares prepared me well for the next step in stories with Wild fans and connects my life.” them to the sport like never before. In Which District 196 teachers made the his role, Myers travels with the team biggest difference in your education? and provides in-depth and up-to-the- “Two of my coaches at Eastview, Troy moment information. The job has taken Swanson and Kelly Sherwin, were him all over North America. 2003 graduate Dan Myers began his positive influences that challenged However, following the outbreak of journalism career at Eastview High me to be a better athlete and a better the novel coronavirus, hockey rinks School and is now the digital content person off the field. In the classroom, across the NHL shuttered and seasons coordinator for the Minnesota Wild. Kellie Sagmoen Scales was my first ended abruptly. He credits his first exposure to writing school newspaper advisor and gave in high school as the catalyst for me a chance to get my first byline. Two “This has completely re-shaped how his success. decades later, here I am.” I’m doing my job,” he explained. “I How did District 196 prepare you for work from home every day, as the Wild content for the Minnesota Wild. Lives your future? shut down team headquarters when in Hudson, Wis., with wife Jen and “Starting my writing career as a Minnesota’s stay-at-home orders beagle Kato. Lightning Press, were first issued. Right now, we’re reporter at the my Fun fact just trying to find fun ways to provide high school newspaper was my first Myers recently released his first major content that is also cognizant of the big break. I worked my way up to book, “100 Things Wild Fans Should events taking place in the world.” sports editor, then editor-in-chief as Know and Do Before They Die.” It’s the a senior, an experience that prepared ultimate guide for Wild and hockey me to work at my college newspaper. fans alike, including traditions and That opened many doors for me once I attended world-class facts, trivia and a must-do activity I graduated from college and began “schools every step of list ranked from 1 to 100. The book my career. None of it would have been the way… with great is available on Amazon and in all possible without my first experience at Minnesota Barnes and Noble locations. teachers and staff that Eastview High School.” prepared me well for the next step in my life.” Parents and guardians can opt-in to receive text messages District 196 parents and guardians can opt-in to receive text messages from the Myers said sideline reporting changed district and individual schools. The texts are delivered via the SchoolMessenger overnight because of COVID-19, but mass notification service the district also uses to send phone calls and added that working in the world of email messages. sports is never dull. Parents must opt-in to receive text messages by texting “Y” to 67587, and will “Everyone in my position is looking receive a confirmation message stating that they are registered to receive forward to the day when we can get SchoolMessenger notifications via text. If the sender does not receive a back to sports and be a small part confirmation message or what appears to be an error message, it most likely of helping to bring the spirit of the means that short code texting is not enabled on their wireless plan. nation back to life,” he said. “We will get there.” To receive texts, parents must also make sure their cell phone number is included with their child’s contact information in the Infinite Campus student information Stats system. Parents can check this and add the number, if needed, by using their A 2003 graduate of Eastview High Campus portal account or contacting the office at their child’s school. School; studied journalism at Minnesota State University, Mankato, Standard message and data rates may apply. To unsubscribe at any time, simply and is the coordinator of digital text STOP to 67587, or HELP to request assistance.

District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 10 In the Schools

New School of Environmental Studies wind turbine dedicated to the Class of 2020

In 1999, a wind turbine was erected on the grounds of the School of Environmental Studies (SES) as part of an ambitious project that included displays about wind energy and the A drone view turbine. Three years ago, the head of of the SES that turbine fell unexpectedly. It was campus and a total loss, but thankfully no one the new wind was injured. turbine. SES opened in Since 2017, SES students and staff 1994 as an have been talking about how to environ replace the turbine. It happened mentally on May 13 in front of a small group themed of invited students and staff who magnet high maintained proper social distancing school for while witnessing a crew install a new juniors and turbine thanks to a partnership with seniors. Kettle View Renewable Energy of Sheboygan, Wis. Kettle View owner Randy Feller showed students and staff the technology that enables them to The information will be used as part his crew to sign their initials on the monitor the power generated by the of class curriculum and to maintain nose cone of each newly-erected turbine and shared information about the school’s LEED (Leadership turbine. Along with his initials, SES careers in the renewable energy field. in Energy and Environmental Technology Specialist Jacob Rylander Next school year, students will be Design) Certification. added, “SES CLASS 2020.” able to log into a dashboard from “I am so proud to lead a school where “This was supposed to be a schoolwide the school website and observe in kids put their beliefs into action,” event, and it’s sad that students real time wind speed and direction, said Principal Lauren Trainer. “I weren’t able to participate as planned,” how much energy is being produced think we live in times where action, Trainer said. “But now we know and how the turbine is functioning. empowerment and contribution to the turbine was dedicated to the community are vital.” Class of 2020 and they will always Feller told the group it’s tradition for be remembered.”

The nose cone of the turbine was initialed by those who witnessed the installation and dedicated to the “SES CLASS 2020.” A technician from Kettle View Renewable Energy installs the head of the new SES wind turbine on May 13.

11 District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 In the Schools

Hughes hired as next Thomas Lake principal Rachel Hughes, the current principal of Sioux Trail Elementary School in Burnsville, was hired in May to be the next principal at Thomas Lake Elementary School in Eagan. Hughes will fill the position currently held by Mary Jelinek, who is retiring at the end of this school year following a 29-year career in District 196, the last 23 as principal of Thomas Lake. Hughes will officially take over as principal July 1. Hughes is completing her second year as principal at Sioux Trail Elementary, one of two elementary schools and one middle school being closed by the Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School AVHS makes good argument but falls short at mock trial state District at the end of this school year. The Apple Valley High School mock trial team came up just short of defending its She was scheduled to be moving to state title at this year’s state tournament March 6 in St. Paul against Nova Classical Gideon Pond Elementary School Academy. In mock trail, each team consists of three attorneys and three witnesses, next year. and must be prepared to argue both sides of the case. All teams receive the same case, which is used throughout the season. Members of the team are pictured with Justice Hughes started her career at Oltman David Lillehaug at the state tournament. They are (left to right): Maya Gort, Taylor Middle School in St. Paul Park, where Garrison, Sam Hubley, Justice Lillehaug, coach Eric Strauss, Jack Bauer, Noah she was a science teacher and dean of Becker, Marcello Christ and Bobby Smith. students for seven years. In 2013, she moved to Lakeville South High School to be an assistant principal and dean Graduations << continued from front page >> of students. Three years later, Hughes took her first job in Burnsville, as Kreger stressed that public health and safety will be top priorities during the associate principal at Nicollet Middle diploma cover presentations and graduate parades. The diploma presentations School, and was hired to be principal will be highly controlled, with scheduled time slots, one-way movement and at Sioux Trail Elementary in 2018. minimal interaction with others. The schools will offer a similar opportunity later this year for anyone who cannot or chooses not to participate now. “I am excited to join District 196 and the opportunity to be part of the The Apple Valley, Eagan and Rosemount police departments will be present to Thomas Lake school community,” ensure the parades are orderly and only involve invited participants who remain Hughes said. “I look forward to inside their vehicles. The only people allowed outside of vehicles will be teachers meeting everyone and working and school staff appropriately distanced along the route to cheer the graduates together to continue the tradition of as they ride by in vehicles with family members only. excellence at Thomas Lake of The commencement ceremony videos will premiere on the District 196 YouTube providing our children the best channel and other online sites on the following dates and times: education possible.” • Thursday, June 4, 7 p.m. – School of Environmental Studies Hughes has a bachelor’s degree • Friday, June 5, 7 p.m. – Rosemount High School in secondary education and earth • Saturday, June 6 – Eagan High School (2:20 p.m.), Apple Valley High School (6 science from St. Cloud State p.m.) and Eastview High School (7 p.m. ). University, a master’s of education The committee considered postponing graduations until later this summer, but from Hamline University and earned did not like the ongoing uncertainty of that option. The new “Stay Safe Minnesota” her administrative licensure from guidance limits gatherings to no more than 10 people. St. Mary’s University.

District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 12 In the Schools

District 196 students win 13 of 21 video production awards Sixteen seniors named Students representing the journalism National Merit finalists and video production programs at The 16 District 196 seniors selected Apple Valley and Eastview high schools semifinalists in the 2019-20 National won 13 of 21 Crystal Pillar Awards Merit Scholarship Program last fall presented during a special video were all named finalists and were ceremony on Friday, April 3. The video eligible for one of the approximately ceremony was dedicated to students 7,600 merit scholarships totaling more and educators who missed events than $31 million awarded this spring. and activities this spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Merit finalists from District 196 are Christina Monsen The Student Production Awards are of Apple Valley High School; Luke sponsored by the Upper Midwest Anderson, Jake Berran and Joseph Chapter of the National Academy Rollie of Eagan High School; Sanat of Television Arts and Sciences. The Iyer, Ian Kenney, Benjamin Kupinski, award winners from Apple Valley and Apple Valley High School senior Hunter Jiayang Tang, Rohan Vij and Margaret Eastview are listed by category. Bertram is pictured at the 2019 Student Production Awards ceremony, which was Wang of Eastview High School, • Newscast: Apple Valley High – held in Bloomington. and Cecilia Ellis, Regan Hansen, EaglEye, “Newscast #189;” Gabriel Charlie Huang, Tanner Morrison, Peña and Faith Johnson, anchor/ • Magazine: Apple Valley High – Ryan Niedenthal and Akash Shiri of producer. EaglEye, “Show #179,” Sara Abourjeily, Rosemount High School. • General Assignment-Serious Gabriel Peña and Rapheall Davis, Post-secondary scholarships News: Apple Valley High – EaglEye, anchor/producer. are awarded by the National “Jordan Bolton – One of Ours” • Animation/Graphics/Special Effects: Merit Scholarship Corporation, Hunter Bertram, talent, and Jarett Eastview High – The Flash, “Star businesses and colleges and Huard, videographer. Wars,” Parker Hagebock, animator, universities nationwide. • General Assignment-Light News: and Jack Singer, editor. Students are selected for the National Apple Valley High – EaglEye, “iPad • Editor: Jarett Huard, Apple Valley Merit and Achievement programs Possibilities,” Hunter Bertram, talent, High. each fall based on their scores on and Drew Carruth, camera. the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude • Photographer: Jarett Huard, Apple Test/National Merit Scholarship • Arts & Entertainment/Cultural Valley High. Affairs: Eastview High – The Flash, Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which • Talent: Hunter Bertram, Apple “Cinco de Mayo Parade,” Olivia they take as juniors. Approximately Valley High. Cuoco, reporter, and Jill Lamkins, 1.5 million students at 21,000 U.S. videographer. • Video Essay: Eastview High – The high schools took the qualifying test Flash, “What is Love,” Emma Rae, last school year. Students who score • Short Form Non-Fiction: Eastview reporter. in the top 1 percent nationwide are High – The Flash, “Addiction selected semifinalists and can submit Adversity,” Abby Lindgren, reporter. • Writing: Hannah Robinson, Apple additional information to become a Valley High. • Public Affairs/Community Service: finalist. Students who score in the Eastview High – The Flash, Cliff Dodge and Drew McCluskey top 5 percent of students nationally “Youth Climate Change,” Iqra Ismail, are the staff advisors at Apple Valley are named commended students; reporter, and Kyle Hoang, producer/ and Nick Fornicoia is the advisor 26 District 196 students earned videographer. at Eastview. commended status last fall. Reimbursement available for nonpublic transportation Budget information online District 196 residents may request reimbursement for a portion of their costs for having transported their child during the 2019-20 school year to a nonpublic Budget information for the 2019-20 school to which the district does not provide transportation and does not have a school year and previous nine years is comparable nonpublic school available within its boundaries. available on the Finance Department page of the district website at Requests for reimbursement for nonpublic transportation must be submitted District196.org. The 2019-20 final prior to June 30, 2020 to: Independent School District 196, Director of Finance budget features an introductory and Operations, 3455 153rd St. W., Rosemount, MN 55068. For more information section that summaries the district or to obtain a reimbursement form, call 651-423-7715 or go to District196.org and budget in user-friendly language. search “reimbursement for nonpublic transportation.”

13 District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 Achievements

Congratulations! A sampling of student and staff achievements from before the COVID-19 pandemic

The cast and crew of Apple Valley High School’s one-act play, “The Revolutionists” earned a starred- performance rating at this year’s state One-Act Play Festival at O’Shaughnessy Auditorium in early February. The starred rating is the highest award given to a one-act play and, as such, is the equivalent of a state championship. This was Apple Valley’s 13th trip to the state festival and 10th starred-performance rating. Noah Daniel of Dakota Hills Middle School, Zuber Mohamed of Falcon Ridge Middle School and Achyuth Kasthoori of Scott Highlands Middle School won their school-level geography bee with scores that placed them in the top 100 students statewide and qualified them for the state geography bee, which was later cancelled. Eastview dance sweeps state titles in jazz and high kick Kartik Saravanapandi of Black Hawk In February, the Eastview High School Lightning Dance Team swept the Class AAA Middle School, May Tang of Falcon state titles in both jazz and high kick (pictured) for the fourth time in school and state Ridge Middle School and Rasin Hussain history. The team’s final round performance capped a perfect season and earned them a of Scott Highlands Middle School each standing ovation from the Target Center crowd. This is Eastview’s 12th state title in high won their school’s spelling bee and kick and fifth in jazz. Eastview is the only Class AAA school in Minnesota to qualify for qualified for the metro spelling bee. state in both events every year since section qualifying tournaments started in 2002. They’ve also advanced to the state finals in both events all 18 years. Shannon Park Elementary School Food Service Manager Michelle Durenberger was named the state and Seniors Sydney Johnson of Apple The following six District 196 regional Manager of the Year by the Valley High School, Lara Mitchell of employees were selected Outstanding School Nutrition Association in May. Eagan High School, Claudia Dougan Service Award recipients this A coworker nominated Durenberger of Eastview High School and Taylor year: Alyssa Bartosh, assistant for her management style, leadership Janssen of Rosemount High School administrator at Glacier Hills School skills, professionalism and knowledge. were selected by their schools as 2019 of Arts and Science; Maureen Durenberger has worked in the Athena Award recipients. The awards Bechard, school counselor at Dakota district’s award-winning Food and are given each year to the outstanding Hills Middle School; Pete Buesgens, Nutrition Services Department senior female athlete at more than assistant principal at Apple Valley since 1996. 50 Twin Cities-area high schools for High School; Steve Casey, district Thirteen teams from six District 196 their excellence and achievements in maintenance chief; Mark Lovmo, schools had top finishes at metro-area individual and/or team sports. English Learner teacher at Westview tournaments in February to quality Twelve District 196 high school Elementary School, and Laurie Wendel, for the Destination ImagiNation state students had top finishes at state 12-month secretary at Rosemount tournament, which was scheduled to business competitions in early March Elementary School. These six, along be held March 21 but was cancelled to qualify for national competitions with many retiring employees, were due to the COVID-19 pandemic. that were later canceled. Rosemount scheduled to be recognized at the Schools with teams that qualified High School led with seven qualifiers, district’s annual Partners in Education for state are Cedar Park, Greenleaf, Eastview High School had four and banquet in April. The event was Southview and Woodland elementary Eagan High School had one in the postponed until later this year. schools, and Dakota Hills and DECA- and BPA-sponsored events. Rosemount middle schools.

District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 14 District News

District supports state bonding request to fund proposed Diffley Road improvements

In April, the School Board unanimously possible safety improvements to the • Modify parking lot entrances/exits approved a resolution supporting roads and school campuses. Public on Braddock Trail, and Dakota County’s request to include meetings were held in December • Construct a new road from the Diffley Road safety improvements in to get input on the full spectrum of north side of the Daniel Drive this year’s state bonding bill, which the possible improvements, which were roundabout into the high school Legislature failed to approve during developed and presented by engineers south parking lot. regular session that ended May 18. from Bolton & Menk. Another public meeting was held in February to get Board member Cory Johnson said The county’s request is for $4.62 he is impressed with the proposed million to fund several proposed input on a narrowed list of possible improvements. solution and how it was shaped by pedestrian and vehicle safety public input throughout the process. improvements on Diffley Road, The improvements detailed in the “I’m really hoping this bonding request Braddock Trail and the adjacent county’s bonding bill request include: is successful because I feel they did a campuses of Northview Elementary • Reconstruct Diffley from a four- to very good job to find a solution for our School, Dakota Hills Middle School and a two-lane road between Lexington schools.” Eagan High School. Avenue to 2,000 feet east of District Director of Finance and Leaders from Dakota County, the Braddock Trail; Operations Mark Stotts said the city of Eagan and District 196 have • Install roundabouts on Diffley at project will not be able to move been working together to identify the intersections of Daniel Drive forward without state funding. and Braddock Trail;

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DRAFT DIFFLEY RD LAYOUT 02/27/2020 SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

The proposed improvements are shown in this graphic from Bolton & Menk. Diffley is the road running horizontally (east-west) at the bottom and Braddock Trail is the road running vertically on the right. Lexington Avenue to the west is not shown.

15 District 196 Spotlight Summer 2020 NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES MN PERMIT NO 594

Independent School District 196 Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools 3455 153rd Street West Rosemount, MN 55068

School Board Jackie Magnuson, chairperson **********ECRWSSEDDM********** Joel Albright, vice chairperson Sachin Isaacs, clerk Local Postal Customer Art Coulson, treasurer Craig Angrimson, director Mike Roseen, director Cory Johnson, director Time Value Material Mary M. Kreger, superintendent Please Deliver Promptly Tony Taschner, communications director

Community Education

Starry Night Dance Party was a Hit!

During the fourth week of our stay-at-home order, May 29-June 3 more than 900 families tuned into a District 196 Fire Sale! Facebook LIVE event and enjoyed an evening of DJ, Keep your child engaged in learning this Bruce Karnick, playing popular hits, and Anna from summer! A limited number of CAHOOTS Frozen hosting movie trivia. Many families already workbooks, a summer math and language arts had the annual parent/child event on their calendar, program for K-5 students, will be available for which raises money for youth scholarships. That in-person event, like $47 each! Join more than 700 students who hundreds of others, was canceled due to COVID-19. However, that did are already enrolled and ready to correspond not stop many from dancing the night away! Although we missed seeing directly with CAHOOTS buddies through all the participants at the gala, we enjoyed the comments and photos the summer. Visit our online catalog (www. posted after the virtual event. To see more photos, visit the District 196 district196.ce.eleyo.com), May 29 - June 3, and Community Education Facebook page. search for CAHOOTS – Fire Sale, select the grade level for fall 2020 (1-6; 1=entering 1st Adult Lifelong Learners grade, 2=entering 2nd grade, etc.). The book will be mailed to your home the week of June 8. Adult Basic Education (ABE) is currently engaging more than 230 adult students to learn English and prepare for the GED exam, and another 130 adult students are earning high school credits in distance learning! Visit www.district196.org/abe to learn more.

Other adults are enjoying a variety of online enrichment classes, including fitness, cooking, arts and crafts, money management, health and safety, and more! Visit www.district196.org/ce to learn more.

inew Online Certificate Courses Increase your knowledge and earn a certificate to make your resume more attractive Youth Engaged and Inspired upon returning to work. Stand out above the rest with a Hundreds of District 196 youth, in the safety certificate in data analysis, project management, social of their own homes, are getting fit in a yoga media for business, digital marketing, management, or bootcamp, exploring how to relax and be accounting and finance for non-financial managers. mindful, prendiendo a hablar español, painting Instructors are experts in their field. It is easy to on a canvas, creating a clay mosaic, and much participate in our monthly online courses. After registering, more. We are adding new learning opportunities you will be given a web address with easy-to-follow frequently. Visit www.district196.org/ce for instructions to get into your virtual classroom. You may current course offerings. participate any time of day or evening with online reading, presentations and self-quizzes. Engage in online written discussion with the instructor and other participants. Visit www.district196.org/ce for more information.

Visit www.district196.org/ce or call 651-423-7920 for more!