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Superintendent Welcome
Welcome to Eden Prairie Schools,
As both superintendent and a proud parent in our community, it is an honor to serve the students, families, and staff of Eden Prairie Schools each day. Here, our students are on an inspired journey – one that encourages them to discover, explore, and pursue their passions. This journey is guided by our mission: to inspire each student every day.
Grounded in our strategic plan, we are committed to creating authentic and personalized learning experiences, fostering strong connections, and nurturing a culture of well-being for both students and staff. We know that every student and family wants to feel seen, included, and valued – and we work every day to ensure they do.
I am continually inspired by the dedication, compassion, and talent of our exceptional staff, who guide and support our students along this path. Together, we are building on a tradition of excellence and cultivating a vibrant learning community where every voice is valued, and every student can achieve their personal best.
This shared commitment is what makes Eden Prairie such a special place – one I am proud to call home as a resident, parent, and leader.
With deep appreciation for your continued partnership,
Josh Swanson, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Superintendent Biography
Dr. Josh Swanson began his duties as superintendent of Eden Prairie Schools on August 21, 2017.
Dr. Swanson has been a key member of district leadership since joining the district in October of 2012. As executive director of technology, his expertise and leadership was instrumental in the development and rollout of the district’s i-Learn initiative. As assistant superintendent, he assumed the role of key academic advisor to the superintendent.
Prior to his tenure in Eden Prairie Schools, Dr. Swanson worked within the Wayzata and Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose school districts. He has served as a paraprofessional, teacher, coach, middle school athletic director, assistant principal, consultant, student support services administrator, director of technology and information services. Dr. Swanson also worked for Merrill Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, prior to starting his career in education and brings that experience to his work.
Dr. Swanson is passionate about student and adult learning, continuous improvement, K-12 education, and technology. The work of his teams has resulted in increased learning and access through research based instructional practice and the use of technology. He led one of the first “bring your own device” initiatives in the state of Minnesota, and has collaboratively implemented a digital conversion in Eden Prairie Schools. This initiative ensures each student has access, empowers students and staff, and opens new doors as learning is personalized.
Dr. Swanson is also active in statewide educational leadership. He has served as the president of Phi Delta Kappa at the University of Minnesota (a professional association for educators providing research and resources for leadership and best practice), as the chair of the technology leaders at TIES, and on the board for the Minnesota Association of School Administrators. He continues to be active in statewide educational leadership while also serving in local organizations such as the Eden Prairie Rotary and as a member of the Chamber of Commerce board.
Dr. Swanson holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Thomas and his master’s, post-master’s administrative licenses, and doctorate from St. Mary’s University. He is the father of two Eagles and a proud member of the Eden Prairie community.