URGENT: Important Transportation Update for Minneapolis Families for the 2026-27 School Year

Dear Robbinsdale Area Schools families who live in Minneapolis,

We are writing to share an important update for families who live in Minneapolis and open-enroll into Robbinsdale Area Schools (Rdale) and currently receive district-provided bus transportation.

Beginning with the next 2026-27 school year, Rdale will no longer provide bus transportation for open-enrolled students who reside in Minneapolis.

We recognize that this is difficult news and that transportation changes affect students, families, and daily routines. Out of respect for our families, we want to share this information well in advance, so you have time to plan and make informed school choice decisions.

To be clear, your student remains a valued part of the Rdale community and still has a spot in the school district. This update does not affect your student’s enrollment eligibility, only district-provided transportation.

Robbinsdale Middle School, Noble and Sonnesyn Families

As previously approved by the Board of Education Dec. 15, Robbinsdale Middle School will close at the end of the current 2025-26 school year. Beginning for the next 2026-27 school year, students who attend, or plan to attend, Robbinsdale Middle School will instead go to Sandburg Middle School in Golden Valley.

In addition, Noble and Sonnesyn Elementary Schools will also close at the end of the current 2025-26 school year, but exact school placement has yet to be finalized. 

Important Next Step: Jan. 15 Deadline

We understand that this transportation change may impact where your student attends school next year. We encourage families to use this information and take time to review their options and consider whether this update affects their school choice plans. 

Open enrollment applications received by the priority deadline of Jan. 15, 2026, will receive priority consideration based on district administrative procedures. Applications submitted after Jan. 15, 2026, will be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on space availability.

For more information about enrollment options, including open enrollment applications, please visit rdale.org/enroll. If you have questions or need assistance reviewing your options, please contact our Enrollment Center at 763-504-8080 or enrollment@rdale.org.

Request for Transportation From Closest Bus Stop (Limited Availability)

Families who wish to request transportation from an existing district bus stop within the district’s boundaries may do so through a petition process. This process typically begins in mid-August, once routes and capacity are finalized, with requests reviewed once the school year has begun. Transportation cannot be guaranteed, and space will be very limited.

There will be additional communication in the coming weeks to provide more information and support as families plan for the 2026-27 school year.

Thank you for your partnership and for being part of Rdale.

Sincerely,

Kristen Hoheisel
Chief Financial Officer
Robbinsdale Area Schools