District 196 Foundation Incorporated

Our mission is to eliminate barriers to learning for students in District 196.

The District 196 Foundation is focused on eliminating barriers to learning by ensuring our students have consistent access to food, providing books to keep them reading during the summer, and connecting our community with our schools. The Foundation is the only entity that focuses on filling critical needs for current students across the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan school district.

The Foundation is the easiest and most efficient way for individuals and businesses to support current students in District 196. To maximize return on investment and ensure that resources are used effectively, the Foundation strategically leverages partnerships to deliver services within the district.

Donations received are dedicated to: 

1. Fighting child hunger in District 196 schools
   Hunger is a barrier to learning for an estimated 1000 students in District 196. Because it's hard for kids to learn when they're hungry and unsure where their next meal will come from, we fund a weekend food program. In partnership with The Sheridan Story, we provide meals for students so they can focus on learning.
   Your tax-deductible donation of $215 provides a child with weekend food throughout the year.
   
   
2. Purchasing books for students who are at risk of a decline in literacy skills during the summer months
   Research shows that children succeed academically when they read at or above grade level. Without access to grade-level reading materials, summer break poses a challenge for some students. We’re committed to providing books for these students every spring to keep them reading over the summer.
   Your tax-deductible donation of $30 provides 10 books for a student.
   
   
3. Enjoyment of the arts
   Research shows that learning music facilitates learning in other subjects and enhances skills that children inevitably use in other areas. Through the Band for All initiative, we raise funds that allow the district to restore used instruments so more kids can enjoy band and the many benefits of the arts.
   Your tax-deductible donation of $100 restores an instrument for an aspiring musician. 
   
   
4. School supplies for student success
   The cost of school supplies poses a challenge to many parents and impacts student success. By providing funds for the Back to School Supply Project, we ensure that every student has access to the tools they need for school and to reach their full potential.
   
   
5. Addressing Period Poverty
   One in four teens have missed class because of a lack of access to feminine hygiene products. Through a student-led initiative, the 196 Foundation has supplied the start up costs to provide products in bathrooms at every district school building.
   
   
6. Leveraging resources within the community
   Working together, we can eliminate barriers to learning. We partner with local businesses and community organizations to address critical needs within the district. Contributions from business owners, community organizations, district staff, parents and engaged citizens support district-wide priorities and help fill critical gaps in funding.

   The District 196 Foundation helps to eliminate barriers to learning