About School District 197

West St. Paul–Mendota Heights–Eagan Area Schools (also known as School District 197) is a public school district serving more than 5,000 students across the Southeast Metro.

School District 197 includes:

  • Five elementary schools (Kindergarten - Grade 4)
  • Two middle schools (Grades 5 - 8)
  • One high school (Grades 9 - 12)

The district also includes an Early Learning and Family Resource Center serving children from birth through age 5, the Branch Out Transition Program supporting young adults with disabilities through age 22, and community education services providing programs and services for learners of all ages.

For nearly 100 years, School District 197 has paired the feel of a close-knit community with wide-ranging opportunities in academics, arts, athletics, activities, and college and career readiness. Families choose us for our top-ranked schools, small class sizes, caring educators (80% of whom hold advanced degrees), and supportive community. Our four magnet schools—focused on the arts, STEM, and environmental learning—offer unique pathways alongside strong academics, athletics, and extracurricular opportunities.

We Are 197

Every day in School District 197, our students and staff bring their full selves to school—as readers, leaders, helpers, educators, coaches, relationship-builders, and so much more. To highlight all of the ways our community shows up each day, we asked students and staff to fill in the statement: “I am ______.”

Watch the video to see what it means to be part of School District 197.

How Families Rate School District 197

Families consistently share positive feedback about their experience in School District 197. In our most recent family survey:

  • 90% of parents rated the quality of education positively
  • 92% were satisfied with student learning and achievement

  • 89% gave our teachers high ratings

School District 197 Leadership Team

Our leadership team is a group of dedicated educators and community champions committed to shaping the future of our students. Together, they bring diverse expertise and a shared passion for creating an inclusive, innovative, and supportive learning environment for all. Get to know the leaders behind district’s mission who work tirelessly to ensure that our entire community thrives.

Dr. Peter Olson-Skog
Superintendent

Dr. Peter Mau
Assistant Superintendent

Cari Jo Drewitz
Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment

Sara Lein
Director of Special Services

Tye Michaels
Director of Human Resources

Mark Fortman
Director of Operations

Sara Blair
Director of Communications

Tom Stukel
Assistant Director of Technology

Lisa Grathen
Director of Community Education

Brian Schultz
Director of Finance