Benton-Stearns Education District

The Benton-Stearns Education District (BSED) is a cooperative educational agency headquartered in Sartell, Minnesota, that serves as a vital resource for a consortium of member school districts in the Benton and Stearns County areas. Rather than functioning as a traditional K-12 school building for the general public, the district operates as a shared-services provider. Its primary mission is to pool resources and expertise to provide high-quality specialized programming, administrative support, and instructional services that individual member districts might otherwise struggle to provide independently.

The district is particularly recognized for its commitment to inclusive education and student support services. This includes managing specialized programs for students with unique learning needs, such as those requiring special education services, alternative learning opportunities, and professional development for staff. By facilitating collaboration between member districts, the Benton-Stearns Education District ensures that students across the region have access to a broader range of educational pathways and interventions, ultimately fostering a more equitable learning environment throughout the central Minnesota region.