SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

The School of Environmental Studies (SES), located in Apple Valley, Minnesota, is a unique public magnet high school within District 196 that focuses on an interdisciplinary, project-based curriculum centered on environmental science and sustainability. Unlike traditional high schools, SES is designed to immerse students in the natural world, utilizing its unique location—adjacent to the Minnesota Zoo—as a "living laboratory." The school fosters a close-knit, collaborative community where students work in teams to tackle real-world problems, blending rigorous academic coursework with hands-on field experience.

The school’s philosophy emphasizes stewardship, critical thinking, and civic engagement, encouraging students to become active participants in their community. By integrating core subjects like English, social studies, and science through an environmental lens, the program prepares students for higher education while instilling a deep sense of environmental responsibility. Its unconventional structure, which includes flexible scheduling and personalized learning paths, is designed to empower students to take ownership of their education and develop the leadership skills necessary to address the complex ecological challenges of the future.