School of Environmental Studies

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School of Environmental Studies

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Where Minnesota’s juniors & seniors transform planet passion into real-world projects.

SES is a public eco-magnet high school beside the Minnesota Zoo—open to ISD 196 & Twin Cities students via open enrollment. Founded in 1995 through a pioneering partnership with Independent School District 196, the City of Apple Valley, and the Minnesota Zoo, the School of Environmental Studies (SES) was created to prove that small, purpose-driven learning communities ignite deeper, more authentic education. At SES, juniors and seniors immerse themselves in real-world environmental challenges—conducting field research, collaborating with scientists at the Zoo and beyond, and tackling projects that matter to Minnesota’s future. Graduates leave not only knowing essential facts, but having mastered how to learn, adapt, and lead throughout a lifetime of discovery and civic engagement.

10/07/2026

09/24/2026

Just another day at SES- community, experiences, and making a difference!!

09/09/2026

Grateful to teachers and student for an awesome first couple weeks!
Shoutout to Minnesota Zoo for hosting us today!

04/23/2026

SES’ Green Tean learned more about our local waste. We toured SET Organics/Compost Facility and the Pine Bend Landfill in Rosemount. Thanks Dakota County!

04/19/2026

Last week our awesome juniors wrapped up a powerful Model United Nations simulation. We are impressed at the level of preparation juniors put into their learning, reflecting their commitment to diplomacy, collaboration, critical thinking, and global awareness.

04/09/2026

Lego is not just for kids! 🏙️ Over the past week, SES seniors have taken on the role of urban planners in a simulation to revitalize the New Nicollet (former K Mart) site in Minneapolis. In this urban redesign unit, each student plays a part in a development team strategizing to create their best site plan taking into consideration financial analysis, market demand, site design, existing and new stakeholders, and environmental and equity goals. Today we welcomed expert facilitators from the City of Rosemount, JLG Architects, and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to give feedback on the plans. We’re so grateful to these folks for partnering with us to elevate the students’ experience!

03/21/2026

Join SES teacher Kim Colburn-Lindell for Yoga at Birch Pond! Register with Community Ed through the link in the comments or from our story.
April-May Yoga at Birch Pond (Wed. 3:30 and 6:30)
Should be able to do outside!
Namaste!

Address

12155 Johnny Cake Ridge Road
Apple Valley, MN
55124

Website

http://ses.district196.org/explore-ses

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