Rosemount, Minn. (Aug. 5, 2026) — Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools is proud to announce that three of its schools – Falcon Ridge Middle School, Pinewood Community School, and Thomas Lake Elementary – have been recognized by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) for their sustained commitment to Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

The positive behavior program teaches students how to be respectful, safe, and kind. Instead of just punishing bad behavior, school staff focus on teaching positive habits early on. Schools using this program see better student behavior, stronger school spirit, and higher grades. 

Each school has its own special way of bringing positivity into the building. 

At Thomas Lake, from the moment you enter the school, everyone is greeted with the message “You are loved.” The school focuses on five main values called PRIDE: Positivity, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Excellence. This is brought to life every day in the classroom, the cafeteria, and even the playground. Students and staff work together to create an environment where everyone feels loved and respected.

Pinewood Community School keeps its main rules simple: Be safe. Be kind. Be your best. When students and classrooms hit their behavior goals throughout the school year, they earn fun rewards – like time in the school game room! Although the rewards are motivating, students are learning positive behaviors and habits that they can carry with them as they grow into young adults.

At Falcon Ridge Middle School, students and teachers work together to follow “The Falcon Way.” This program focuses on three main goals: Respect, Responsibility, and Safety. By setting clear expectations, the school helps middle schoolers build great habits every day. These habits help create an inclusive environment where students feel heard and respected not only by their peers but by staff as well, which in turn creates productive learning environments.

MDE will honor Thomas Lake, Pinewood, and Falcon Ridge, along with 94 other schools throughout the state, on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026, at the state PBIS Summer Institute.