DEPARTMENT: Social Services-Aging & Disability Services
FILE TYPE: Consent Action
TITLE
title
Authorization To Execute Joint Powers Agreement With Independent School District 196 At Oak Ridge Elementary School Of Leadership, Environmental, And Health Sciences To Foster Inclusive Learning Environments For Communities For All Inclusion Initiative
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Authorize execution of joint powers agreement (JPA) with Independent School District (ISD) 196 at Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental, and Health Sciences for the Communities for All Inclusion Initiative.
SUMMARY
By Resolution No. 24-572 (December 3, 2024), the County Board authorized Dakota County to accept Workforce Shortage grant funding through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to provide funding for its Communities for All initiative. Communities for All issued a Letter of Interest (LOI) and selected the Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental, and Health Sciences to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every child can thrive and participate regardless of any disability. Every student will have equal opportunities to engage with outdoor spaces through accessible equipment and training (Attachment: Solicitation Summary).
Staff is requesting authorization to execute a JPA with ISD 196 at Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental, and Health Sciences in an amount not to exceed $17,750 from the date of execution through June 30, 2026 (Attachment: Joint Powers Agreement).
OUTCOMES
How Much?
The Oak Ridge Elementary School will purchase three pieces of pediatric adaptive all-terrain mobility equipment and a portable mat system to expand inclusion for students with disabilities by increasing access to playgrounds, outdoor classrooms, and school events. The school will train ten staff members on the safe use of the equipment and on proper support for students as they use it.
How Well?
The adaptive equipment will enable students who use mobility aids to safely and independently access grass, playgrounds, and natural learning spaces, allowing full participation alongside their peers. Effectiveness will be strengthened through comprehensive, hands-on staff training for teachers, paraprofessionals, and playground supervisors focused on safe use, transfers, and the integration of inclusive activities. By embedding adaptive equipment into the curriculum, recess, and physical education, its use will become normalized rather than exceptional, reinforcing inclusive practices. This approach also models disability awareness and inclusion, supporting consistent, high-quality implementation across settings in Dakota County.
Is Anyone Better Off?
Students with mobility challenges will experience greater inclusion and equity through increased participation in recess, physical education, and outdoor learning, leading to improved physical activity, confidence, and a stronger sense of belonging. Their peers benefit from more inclusive social interactions, fostering empathy, friendships, and a more welcoming school culture. Staff also benefit, with increased confidence and skills to facilitate adaptive recreation, reducing barriers and improving program quality. Finally, the school community as a whole benefits from sustainable, long-term access to outdoor spaces that support participation for all students, creating lasting systemic change rather than one-time accommodations.
RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff is requesting authorization to execute a JPA with ISD 196 at Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental, and Health Sciences in an amount not to exceed $17,750 from the date of execution through June 30, 2026.
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EXPLANATION OF FISCAL/FTE IMPACTS
This is funded using DHS Workforce Shortage grant funds and is included in the 2026 Social Services department budget in the General Fund.
☐ None ☒ Current budget ☐ Other
☐ Amendment Requested ☐ New FTE(s) requested
RESOLUTION
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WHEREAS, by Resolution No. 24-572 (December 3, 2024), the County Board authorized Dakota County to accept Workforce Shortage grant funding through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to provide funding for its Communities for All initiative; and
WHEREAS, Communities for All issued a Letter of Interest (LOI) and selected the Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental, and Health Sciences to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every child can thrive and participate regardless of any disability, and every student will have equal opportunities to engage with outdoor spaces through accessible equipment and training; and
WHEREAS, staff is requesting authorization to execute a JPA with Independent School District (ISD) 196 at Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental, and Health Sciences in an amount not to exceed $17,750 from the date of execution through June 30, 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners hereby authorizes the Community Services Director to execute a joint powers agreement with Independent School District 196 at Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental, and Health Sciences in an amount not to exceed $17,750 from the date of execution through June 30, 2026, subject to approval by the County Attorney’s Office as to form.
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PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION
24-572; 12/3/24
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment: Solicitation Summary
Attachment: Joint Powers Agreement
BOARD GOALS
☒ Thriving People ☐ A Healthy Environment with Quality Natural Resources
☐ A Successful Place for Business and Jobs ☐ Excellence in Public Service
CONTACTS
Department Head: Emily Schug
Author: DeAnn Prouty