Dakota Electric Association recently awarded unclaimed capital credits money to fund specific needs at three different school districts. Districts 191, 196 and 197 were recipients of the donations, and representatives attended a recent Dakota Electric board meeting to receive the donations.
(L-R): Judy Kimmes, Dakota Electric director; Jerry Pittman, Dakota Electric director; Kathy Funston, District 191; Superintendent Jane Berenz, District 196; Superintendent Peter Olson-Skog, District 197; Dean Verdoes, District 197 Foundation; and Clay Van De Bogart, Dakota Electric director.
District 191 (Burnsville-Eagan-Savage) will use the money for their college and career pathways program that helps prepare students for a future career and can help them earn early college credits or other credentials.
District 196 (Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan) will use the money for STEM learning and helping prevent summer reading loss. The money will be used to purchase STEM equipment, robotics kits and books to encourage summer reading with students who might not own any of their own books and are most at risk of losing reading skills during the summer months.
District 197 (West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan) will use the money to fund a program that will bring education to the home for both students and parents. The program helps close the achievement gap among students who don’t speak English as their primary language. Money will also be used to support the extended day program that provides students with homework help and other academic enrichment.
District representatives acknowledged their appreciation for Dakota Electric’s support of their educational efforts.
“I would like to thank you on behalf of the school district for your gracious contributions to education,” said Dr. Kathy Funston, director of strategic partnerships and pathways for District 191.
“Thank you so much; Dakota Electric has been there for us with their support over the years,” said District 196 Superintendent Jane Berenz.
“I just want to thank you. It’s tremendously considerate for you to think of us,” said District 197 Superintendent Peter Olson-Skog.
“We are happy to be able to provide financial support from unclaimed capital credits to worthwhile educational programs,” Board Chair Jim Sheldon said.
