School of Environmental Studies

Founded in 1995 through a partnership between District 196, the Minnesota Zoo, and the City of Apple Valley, the School of Environmental Studies (SES) is one of Minnesota's most innovative public high school programs. Located on the grounds of the Minnesota Zoo, SES serves juniors and seniors from Eastview, Apple Valley, Eagan, and Rosemount high schools. Students engage in interdisciplinary, project-based learning focused on environmental issues, sustainability, and real-world problem solving. SES has gained national recognition for its unique educational model and continues to provide students with hands-on learning experiences that extend far beyond the traditional classroom.