Two District 196 seniors had a rare opportunity to bring student voices directly to state lawmakers on March 16, 2026, when they testified before the Minnesota Senate Education Committee. 

Ankit Mukhopadhyay, a senior at Eagan High School (EHS), and Madeline Risk, a senior at the School of Environmental Studies (SES), spoke about the importance of student voice and experiential learning in shaping meaningful educational experiences. 

Mukhopadhyay, who serves as Lieutenant Governor in the statewide Youth in Government Program - an organization that engages more than 1,600 students across Minnesota – highlighted how opportunities beyond the classroom have shaped his leadership journey and future aspirations in public service. 

“Experiences beyond the classroom are essential because they help prepare students for life beyond high school,” Mukhopadhyay told the committee. “They give young people the opportunity to use their voices and engage the community.”

Through his involvement in District 196’s Student Legislative Council, Mukhopadhyay said he has been able to represent his peers and ensure student perspectives are considered when decisions are made that impact their education and future. 

“My hope is to expand access for students across Minnesota to have opportunities outside of school,” he said, noting that teachers have played a key role in helping him grow as a student, advocate, and leader. 

Risk shared how her experience at the School of Environmental Studies - a District 196 partnership with the Minnesota Zoo - has shaped her love of learning through hands-on, outdoor education. 

“My favorite thing about my high school is getting to do big, hands-on projects,” Risk said. “Being able to breathe fresh air – whether just for a brain break or actually taking a lesson outside – is one of the most amazing things ever.”

She described how her outdoor experiences, from journaling about seasonal changes to observing wildlife, help students stay engaged and connected to their learning. 

“Being able to sit in the grass and go into the woods is a reset for me and my peers,” she said. “It allows us to be more tuned into the learning and the material in front of us.”

Risk encouraged lawmakers to consider expanding experiential learning opportunities to more schools across the state. 

“If I could make one change, it would be to make experiential education the norm instead of rote learning,” she said. “Giving students a ‘why’ behind what they are learning helps it stick and creates internal motivation.”

Committee members praised both students for their insight and enthusiasm. 

Sen. Erin Maye Quade (DFL - Apple Valley) highlighted the uniqueness of the School of Environmental Studies and its impact on students. 

“It’s just so cool to hear the experience now,” she said. “Having the ability to see and touch and research and do –it does more than just looking at a textbook.”

Sen. Steve Cwodzinski (DFL - Eden Prairie) echoed that sentiment, commending the students’ passion. 

“Your passion for being a student is infectious,” he said. “Getting kids outside…that is the way of the future. Just as you said, it resets your batteries.” 

The testimony offered lawmakers a firsthand look at how student-centered and experiential learning opportunities are making a difference – and why expanding access to those experiences could benefit students across Minnesota. 

Watch District 196 Student Testimonies