Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Independent School District 196

This Achievement and Integration Plan aims to pursue racial and economic integration, increase academic achievement, create equitable educational opportunities, and reduce academic disparities based on students' diverse racial, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. The plan focuses on three primary goals: reducing academic achievement disparities among all students and specific categories (American Indian/Alaskan Native, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, Black, and those qualifying for free or reduced-priced school meals), increasing racial and economic integration in schools and districts, and ensuring teacher equity. Developed by a Community Collaboration Council, this three-year plan includes district-wide goals and specific goals for Cedar Park Elementary STEM School, aligning with the district's Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness (CACR) plan and addressing the district's racially isolated designation.

The School Board meeting included several recognition segments for student and staff achievements, such as state debate top finishers, Coach of the Year honorees, and Magnet School of Excellence designations. The consent agenda approved various items, including minutes from previous meetings, reports on revenue, gifts, and expenditures for December 2025, and several Requests for Bid related to bond-funded equipment and infrastructure. Key discussion items included the presentation and approval of the 2026 District 196 Legislative Platform, focusing on funding stability, safe schools, licensure, and student well-being. The Board also accepted a Resolution of Concurrence from the Native American Parent Advisory Committee, which outlined goals for strengthening curriculum and teacher training related to American Indian education. Furthermore, the Board authorized the sale of General Obligation School Building and Refunding Bonds, Series 2026A, and approved a two-year collective bargaining agreement with School Service Employees, SEIU Local 284. Updates were provided on ongoing student transportation challenges, including driver shortages and potential long-term policy revisions, and the Superintendent's mid-year evaluation summary noted transportation issues as a top priority.

This document outlines a plan for student transportation stabilization and long-term reliability. It addresses current challenges arising from increased demands due to growth and systemic complexities, including state transport requirements and specialized programs. The plan details immediate actions such as enhancing staffing through recruitment and stand-by drivers, supplementing transportation with external companies, and improving seat efficiency. It also focuses on strengthening team culture, student supports, and revising transportation policies. Future considerations include potential changes for early childhood special education, center-based programs, magnet school transportation, fee-for-service options, and walking distances. The overarching commitment is to rebuild staffing capacity, reduce disruptions for all stakeholders, invest in sustainable solutions, and ensure transparent communication.

The meeting covered the election of officers for 2026, with Cory Johnson elected chairperson, Anna Williams vice chairperson, and Sakawdin Mohamed elected clerk and treasurer. The Superintendent recognized an alum who qualified for the U.S. Olympic Biathlon Team, district paraprofessionals, a teacher named Zach Prax for an educator award, and introduced the new general counsel. Discussions included union negotiations regarding transportation employees. Key consent agenda items approved included committee assignments, handbook updates, and future meeting dates. The Board adopted the 2025-2026 Final Budget and approved the 2026 District Legislative Platform for future approval, following a presentation. Updates were provided on the Language Access Plan, which was approved. The Board also approved staffing allocation guidelines for Fiscal Year 2027 and the required Pay Equity Report.

The 2026 Legislative Platform for Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools outlines key priorities for the upcoming legislative session. It focuses on ensuring stable and predictable funding for education, creating safe and supportive school environments, and addressing teacher licensure reforms. The platform advocates for protecting the basic education formula, improving compensatory revenue, eliminating cuts to special education funding, and enhancing school safety and youth mental health supports, while also addressing teacher training, recruitment, and child protection laws.