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Inver Grove Heights superintendent to retire June 30, 2026
Summary
Superintendent Dave Bernhardson announced his retirement effective June 30, 2026, after serving the district since July 2014; board members praised his leadership at the Dec. 8 meeting and pledged to support a smooth transition.
Superintendent Dave Bernhardson told the Inver Grove Heights School Board on Dec. 8 that he will retire as superintendent on June 30, 2026. "I have made the decision to retire as Superintendent on June 30, 2026," Bernhardson said during his remarks, and he added that he will remain committed to supporting a smooth leadership transition.
Bernhardson, who has served the district since July 2014, thanked staff and community partners for recent projects, citing Industrial Tech teacher Shawn Nelson and Simley High School students who helped design lighting for a community event and Business teacher Craig Spreiter and students who launched the Spartan SWAG Shack. Board members offered public praise: Member Pierson said she hears Bernhardson's voice saying, "kids come first," and other members called his energy and leadership exemplary.
The superintendent also noted calendar items: the district's winter break runs Dec. 24 through Jan. 2 and school resumes Jan. 5; the district held its second Flex Day on the day of the meeting, with PreK–5 on break, grades 6–12 in remote flex learning and staff in professional development. The board did not take formal personnel action related to the announcement at the Dec. 8 meeting; Bernhardson said he intends to help ensure a smooth transition through his retirement date.
The retirement announcement occurred during regular board comments and was followed by expressions of gratitude from multiple board members. The board will address any successor process in future agenda items.
