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
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92% were satisfied with student learning and achievement
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89% gave our teachers high ratings
Strategic Framework
Our Strategic Framework provides an organized approach to achieving educational goals and supporting student learning and development. It aligns District operations with community values and helps us create clear expectations for our schools and administration. Our guiding principles of caring relationships, equitable practices, and high achievement for all are woven into everything we do.
Meet the School District 197 Leadership Team!Our leadership team is a dynamic group of dedicated educators, visionaries, 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
Dave Sandum
Director of Technology
Not pictured Director of Community Education Lisa Grathen.