Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools — Transcript

Monday, February 9, 2026

Story

District 196 Unveils 2026 Legislative Platform, Prioritizing Funding and Staff Support

Approval of agenda

Recognition of Apple Valley High School debate team

Recognition of Egan High School debate team

Recognition of East View High School debate coach Greta Thomas

Recognition of East View High School Iridescence magazine

Recognition of Echo Park Elementary School as Magnet School of Excellence

Recognition of Echo Park staff Brian Hurley

Superintendent's recognition of staff and students

Consent agenda items

Areas of Interest (5)

  • District 196 braces for potential state deficit in 2028 with new legislative platform.
  • Echo Park Elementary named Magnet School of Excellence for second consecutive year.
  • Teacher recruitment and Read Act training emerge as key legislative priorities for school district.
  • School board advocates for repeal of $250 million special education cross-subsidy reduction.
  • Student achievement in debate programs across District 196 sees record national tournament participation.

Votes (2)

Approve the agenda as outlined

Carries6-0

Moved by Robin · Seconded by Sakowen

Approve the consent agenda

Carries7-0

Moved by Sakin · Seconded by Leah

Notable Quotes (2)

I had started debating when Jimmy Carter was still president in 1979, she then informed me that her parents were born in 1979.

— Chris McDonald
Career longevityReflecting on his 37-year career in debate coaching.

If that would not be repealed, those monies would have to come from somewhere which could impact different parts across the state.

— Logan Schultz
School fundingDiscussing the $250 million special education cross subsidy reduction.

People (9)

JohnsonChairperson

Presiding officer of the school board meeting.

Michael BalsoneSuperintendent

Oversees board meeting proceedings and staff recognitions.

Sophia IshallAssistant Debate Coach

Apple Valley High School coach presenting Jackson Hilddrth.

Jackson HilddrthStudent

Lincoln Douglas debate state top finisher and national qualifier.

Chris McDonaldDebate Coach

Egan High School coach with 24 years of experience.

Greta ThomasCoach/Teacher

2026 Minnesota Debate Association Coach of the Year.

Logan SchultzPrincipal

Principal of Echo Park Elementary School.

Brian HurleyTeacher

Regional 6 Magnet Schools of America Teacher of the Year.

Wyatt MillerStudent

Rosemount High School junior and member of the Legislative Advisory Council.

Places Mentioned

Apple Valley High SchoolEgan High SchoolEast View High SchoolEcho Park Elementary SchoolRosemount High SchoolDistrict 196Richmond, VirginiaDe Moine, IowaGiants Ridge

Events & Meetings (3)

  • February 9th regularly scheduled school board meeting
  • January 12th, 2026 regular school board meeting
  • January 28th, 2026 special school board meeting
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