Excellence was the theme of 2025-26 across District 196 High Schools, as evidenced by a year of staggering student achievements in Academics, Arts, Athletics, and a fourth "A"—Activities.
In District 196, learning and growth in District 196 extend far beyond the traditional classroom. Our mission and vision are to educate, develop, and inspire the whole student. Through academics, arts, athletics, and activities, students develop discipline, leadership, and character. They learn to be healthy, active, and creative. Teamwork, belonging, and confidence prepare students for lifelong success in a wide variety of pursuits.
Academics: Rigor and Real-World Readiness
During a report to the Board in June, Dr. Polly Reikowski, Principal of Eagan High School, highlighted a robust year in the classroom, emphasizing a surge in college-credit opportunities. This year, 36.5% of high schoolers—totaling 3,424 students—enrolled in at least one Advanced Placement (AP) course, bolstered by a 4.5% increase largely driven by a new AP World History offering for freshmen. In May alone, 3,376 students sat for nearly 6,000 AP exams.
The district also boasted 47 National Merit scholars (Commended and Semifinalists) among its senior class.
Beyond traditional college prep, Career and Technical Education (CTE) saw massive engagement with 5,640 students enrolled in hands-on exploration for their future. Programs ranging from construction and aviation to healthcare and a unique zoo-based animal behavior partnership ensure that graduates leave equipped with practical, real-world skills. Today, students who apply themselves can earn both their associate degree and high school diploma in the same year.
Arts: A Community Front Door
"When we talk about our schools, the arts are often our community’s front door," noted Bill Blatzheim, assistant principal at Apple Valley High School. The numbers back him up: District 196 arts events drew more than 40,000 audience members this past year.
With 5,800 students participating in band, choir, dance, theater, and visual arts, the district remains a powerhouse of creativity. The district produced over 40 All-State musicians and saw incredible dominance on the national stage in Speech and Debate. Of Minnesota's 192 total entries to the National Speech and Debate Association, 46 came from District 196. An astounding 14 of those students reached the semi-finals, meaning over 7% of the nation's top 14 speakers hail from right here in our community.
Athletics: Developing Lifelong Skills
Participation in sports remains a cornerstone of the high school experience, with 46% of the district's high school students competing in at least one of 37 Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) sports.
Eastview High School Athletic Director Matt Percival reported an incredibly successful competitive season. District 196 was represented in 31 of 37 MSHSL State Tournaments and clinched 13 South Suburban Conference Championships. Rosemount Girls Basketball, Eastview Boys Volleyball, Rosemount Baseball, and three stellar Dakota Hawks Adaptive Athletes captured State Championship titles.
Furthermore, 105 graduating seniors committed to competing in college athletics next year. Percival emphasized that while the stats are impressive, the "InsideOut" coaching philosophy adopted by the district's 600+ coaches ensures that human growth and character development remain the ultimate goal.
Activities: Fostering Belonging and Leadership
Rounding out the report, Rosemount Principal Pete Roback highlighted the massive impact of student-led activities and clubs. With over 100 student-led clubs district-wide—including everything from Robotics and Baking Club to robust affinity clubs —students are finding their place to lead and belong.
Participation numbers in competitive activities have been extraordinary: 530 students in Speech and Debate, 475 in DECA and BPA (Business Professionals of America), and 144 in Robotics. The dedication paid off, with over 50 students advancing to national competitions across various activity disciplines this year.
Looking Ahead
In District 196, we have profound gratitude for the educators, 600+ coaches, parents, and community members who make this ecosystem of success possible. As the district looks to the fall, opportunities will only expand with the opening of two Activity Centers — Eastview and Apple Valley, opening in 2026, and Eagan and Rosemount, to be completed in 2027. Our commitment to fostering grit, discipline, and community remains stronger than ever.
