Inver Grove Heights Schools Superintendent Dave Bernhardson Announces Retirement
After 12 years of leading Inver Grove Heights Schools, Superintendent Dave Bernhardson has announced his retirement, effective at the end of the 2025-26 school year. Bernhardson’s career has been marked by his dedication to building relationships with students, teachers, and the community. A message on the whiteboard in his office, “Progress moves at the speed of relationships,” reflects his approach to education and leadership.
Bernhardson’s commitment to relationships has been the hallmark of his career, and he is most proud of the connections he has made with kids and adults. His child-centered approach and readiness to support colleagues have earned him recognition from peers, including Deb Henton, executive director of the Minnesota Association of School Administrators. Henton credits Bernhardson with providing “steady, reliable leadership” during a period of significant change, including the pandemic and other complex challenges.
A Career Marked by Dedication and Leadership
Bernhardson’s career in education spans several decades and includes roles as an elementary physical education teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. Before becoming superintendent in Inver Grove Heights, he served as a principal, principal on special assignment, and assistant superintendent in South Washington County Schools. Tom Nelson, who became superintendent of South Washington County Schools in 2005, tapped Bernhardson to organize the planning and development of East Ridge High School, a task he completed with excellence.
Bernhardson’s dedication to his students and teachers is evident in his approach to leadership. He believes that caring about students and teachers is essential for a superintendent, and he has demonstrated this through his actions and decisions. His commitment to relationships has been instrumental in helping students realize their potential and has earned him the respect of his peers and the community.
Opening Doors for Students
Bernhardson’s journey in education began when he was a teenager, and he took a kinesiology class on a whim. This experience sparked his interest in education, and he went on to pursue a career in the field. As a lifelong educator, he has seen himself in many students walking the halls of Inver Grove Heights schools, and he has been able to help open doors for them, providing opportunities that they may not have known existed.
Superintendent Dave Bernhardson gathers feedback from students about school meals during an ISD 199 Student Advisory Council meeting in Inver Grove Heights in April 2025. (Katie Sheridan / ISD 199)
The size of District 199 has allowed Bernhardson to lead the district administratively while also connecting with students. He has treasured the opportunity to work in a district where he can make a difference in the lives of students and has taken great pride in providing service to every kid who comes through the doors.
A New Chapter
Bernhardson’s decision to retire is based on his belief that the timing is right for a new leader. The pressures of tightening budgets and the growing politicization of public schools have contributed to his decision. He is looking forward to spending more time with his family, including his wife, Becky, who teaches third grade in the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan district, and his three grown children. He is also excited to visit his 97-year-old father in Moorhead regularly.
Bernhardson’s retirement marks the end of an era in Inver Grove Heights Schools, but his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate students, teachers, and the community. His commitment to relationships, dedication to his students, and leadership have made a lasting impact, and he will be remembered as a superintendent who truly cared about the people he served.
Read more about Superintendent Dave Bernhardson’s retirement and his impact on Inver Grove Heights Schools Here
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