Burnsville Teacher Awarded for Work with Special Needs Kids

Most people might give up a few weekend hours to volunteer for a cause they believe in. Mark Riggs—a teacher and coach at Burnsville High—is not like most people. 

Riggs gave up his first, second, third and fourth wedding anniversaries in the name of service, much to the delight of his wife, Jeanine. The two celebrated their first year of marriage during a karaoke night at a camp for kids with muscular distrophy.

"Mark and I got up and sang 'I Got You Babe' by Sonny and Cher. It was a wonderful experience," Jeanine recalled. "We had a blast watching the kids giggle and cheer us on. I'm so happy I gave him up for that year." 

The couple's serenade was just one moment in Riggs' lifelong quest: To make the world a better, more inclusive place for kids with disabilities. On Thursday, the district recognized Riggs' dedication by honoring him with the first-ever , an accolade meant to recognize staff members who go the extra mile for children with special needs.

The award was the brainchild of ISD 191's Special Education Advisory Committee, which also vetted the nominees. In all, 10 people from the district staff were nominated—as well as the Spark Program at Nicollet Junior High. Ultimately, the committee chose Riggs for his efforts, which went well beyond the call of duty.

Riggs was born and raised in Burnsville. He graduated from BHS in 1983 and went to college at Gustavus Adolphus in St. Peter, MN. While at Gustavus, Riggs first found his calling working with special needs adults at the state hospital in town. Helping those with disabilities soon became his life's work. Before long, he took a post as sports director for a muscular dystrophy camp in Annandale—a facet of the Courage Center and site of the Riggs' memorable anniversary duet. 

After graduating from Gustavus with a degree in physical education and health, Riggs took a teaching position in Belle Plain but he was soon drawn back to his hometown. Riggs accepted a job at his alma mater, Burnsville High, in 1990.

Throughout his career at ISD 191, Riggs has made a special effort to include students with disabilities. Since Riggs signed on, he's made sure kids with disabilities have a shot at earning letters for their jackets too. Early in his tenure, he coordinated an all-district track meet for special needs kids. He also has helped scores of students become managers for the district's athletic teams.

For Riggs, his students' happiness is his as well.

"Just seeing the success they have, giving them opportunities they normally wouldn't have is what is rewarding for me," Riggs said. "My goal is to open doors so that they can truly enjoy being a part of things. It gives them confidence that they know they can do it."

Riggs' work benefits his students' mainstream peers, as well, who are often called upon to help. Efforts to mix the two groups have paid off. Over the last 22 years, Riggs said he's seen a significant improvement in how students with disabilities are percieved.

"There is so much more acceptance, so much more inclusion," Riggs said.

Riggs said he, too, has been changed by his work.

"I think it makes me a better teacher, a better person and a better father," he said.