Washington Elementary in Mankato is one of just 13 schools statewide recognized as a 2025 Minnesota School of Excellence by MESPA. The honor celebrates the school’s dedicated staff, engaged students, and strong community culture.

Mankato East teacher Chris Ward received the University of Minnesota’s Sarah L. Tilman Memorial Science Teacher Award for his inspiring teaching and mentorship.

South Central Service Cooperative was recently featured on Kato Living, a local news program that highlights community initiatives making a difference across the region.

Jenny Wallskog and Gina Anderson were featured on KEYC's "Kato Living" discussing the South Central Minnesota Induction and Mentoring Grant, which supports new teacher retention across 17 regional school districts.