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Each year MREA recognizes leaders who are delivering results for schools in Greater Minnesota through its Educators of Excellence, Innovation, and Distinguished Service awards.

Educators of Excellence Award

MREA presents the Educator of Excellence Awards to recognize, reward, and promote excellence in education that achieves the highest outcomes for Greater Minnesota students. This award honors inspiring educators who demonstrate:

  • Positive impact on students and student achievement
  • Leadership in the school, district and community
  • Innovative and creative instructional practice that impact all students
  • Collaborative efforts with fellow educators, parents, families and the community
View Past Award Recipients

Nominate an Educator

Nominations are currently closed.
Questions? Call the MREA Office at (320) 762-6574.

2024 Educators of Excellence Award Honorees

South Central

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Jeff Granrud

Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted School District

At Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted Schools, Jeff Granrud has transformed math into a subject that students eagerly anticipate each day—a challenging feat. Dedicated to nurturing resilience and effort among his students, Granrud prioritizes growth over grades, believing that “mistakes are opportunities for learning, not failures.” As a true Educator of Excellence, he plays a vital role in shaping the district’s culture for both staff and students, as well as making a positive impact in the local community.

See his story

South

Ashley Wolf

Plainview-Elgin-Millville School District

Driven by strong relationships, Ashley Wolf takes the time to understand each student’s motivations and aspirations at the beginning of each year. Her dedication does not go unnoticed, as students appreciate her genuine care. A product of the same school district she now serves, Wolf invests countless hours and energy into her role. As the leader of the math department and the high school student council, she exemplifies true leadership and sets a powerful example for her students.

See her story

North Central

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John Short

Waubun-Ogema-White Earth School District

In John Short’s classroom at Waubun-Ogema-White Earth Public Schools, boredom is never an option. His infectious energy and enthusiasm for science inspire students and often guide them toward science-related careers. Leading an initiative to utilize their resources, Short has transformed the school’s 200+ acre forest into an outdoor classroom. This hands-on approach encourages students to engage with science in nature, making learning both dynamic and impactful.

See his story

North

Katie Melgaard

Marshall County Central School District

Katie Melgaard brings science to life for her students at Marshall County Central, creating a safe and nurturing environment for them to thrive. Described by her principal as someone “born for this work,” Melgaard is a true team player in her rural district. In addition to teaching, she leads the robotics team, advises the River Watch group, and drives the bus. Her students feel her genuine care through her actions and daily interactions. Thank you, Katie, for making a difference as an Educator of Excellence.

See her story

Thank You to These MREA Award Sponsors

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Innovation Award

From Ada to Zumbrota, across Greater Minnesota, MREA wants to know about members’ programs that serve as examples of innovative educational opportunities for our rural students. What are the compelling practices or programs at your school or educational organization? Programs throughout MREA member districts are nominated and then selected by the MREA Board of Directors based on these core criteria:

  • Innovation — What made this program unique?
  • Benefit to Students — How did your students benefit from this program?
  • Collaboration — Who worked on developing this program with your school?
  • Ease of Adaptability — How can other districts replicate this program?
View Past Award Recipients

Nominate a Program

Thank you for your interest in nominating an Innovative program! The deadline to nominate is February 29, 2024.
Questions? Call the MREA Office at (320) 762-6574.

Nominate a Program

2024 Innovation Program Award Honorees

World of Responsible Kids

River Bend Education District

The World of Responsible Kids (WORK) Program at Riverbend Education District in New Ulm is a two-part program for students on IEPs to learn, practice and apply transition skills.

In the part-time curriculum, students dive into an engaging hands-on experience that encompasses 264 different job tasks, allowing them to explore a variety of career options. In the full-time program, the focus shifts to community engagement, real work experiences, and essential home living skills.

What’s truly inspiring is Riverbend Education District’s commitment to tracking the success of their special education students after high school. Before the WORK Program, many students faced challenges in securing employment or living independently after graduation. Now, thanks to this transformative program, there’s been a remarkable increase in both job placements and independent living among graduates.

The WORK Program is not just a curriculum; it’s a stepping stone to a brighter future.

Learn More

Aquatics Program

Cloquet School District

The Aquatics Program at Cloquet Area Alternative Education Program (CAAEP) is an innovative cross-curricular initiative offers students an exciting opportunity to earn graduation credits in a dynamic, hands-on environment. As they engage with fish, tanks, and aquatic life, students explore key concepts in art, math, science, and social studies.

Over the past four years, the Aquatics Program has flourished, with an increasing number of tanks, students, and enthusiastic staff eager to join the effort. By working collaboratively towards common goals, students enhance their writing, research, outreach, and interpersonal skills while immersing themselves in a world of endless possibilities.

Led by the students themselves, with guidance from dedicated teachers, this program has ignited a newfound passion for learning, significantly boosting attendance and engagement. Students have even taken the initiative to participate in Saturday field trips, solidifying their commitment to both their education and the care of their aquatic companions. Together, they are transforming their educational experience!

Learn More

Awards News

View Past Award Recipients