Chip Rankin | Minnewaska Area School District
Experience with Current School/District: Since 2017, I have served as Superintendent for Minnewaska Area Schools, overseeing 1,426 students, 246 staff, and a $22 million budget. I lead a team of principals and directors to provide an equitable, safe, and welcoming learning environment. Together with the Board, we implemented a strategic roadmap to drive improvement and accountability, improving the district’s financial position from a 10.8% to a 14.5% fund balance.
Experience in Education Sector:
- Superintendent of record for RAED (special education coop)
- Pope-Douglas United Way
- Pope-Douglas Healthy Adolescents Committee
Experience in Rural Sector:
- Pope County HRA/EDA
- West Central Initiative
- Glenwood Chamber of Commerce
- Rotary
- VFW and American Legion
Other Relevant Experience: From 2010-2017, I was Principal at Pequot Lakes High School, where I led significant improvements in student performance and implemented an Associate’s Degree program in partnership with Central Lakes Community College. I also served as Assistant Principal at Bemidji High School and Principal at Mora High School, focusing on educational leadership and staff development.
Why MREA? Serving with MREA appeals to me because I value the unique opportunities and challenges of rural education. I am passionate about advocating for equitable resources and support for rural students and educators, ensuring they have access to the same quality education as their urban counterparts. As a rural education ambassador, I am motivated by the chance to collaborate with local stakeholders, promote innovative solutions, and contribute to the development of vibrant, thriving rural schools.
What Excites You About MREA’s Work? MREA’s commitment to addressing the specific needs of rural schools and communities excites me. Their collaborative approach to advocating for policies that reflect the unique challenges rural educators face, such as resource allocation, teacher retention, and student access to diverse opportunities, aligns with my passion for creating lasting, positive impacts in rural areas.
Challenges for MREA in the Next 4 Years:
- Addressing the growing teacher shortage in rural areas by creating enhanced teacher support programs, advocating for competitive compensation, and developing policies that make rural teaching more attractive.
- Ensuring equitable access to technology and broadband internet in rural communities, requiring continued advocacy for infrastructure investment and targeted support for rural districts.
Opportunities for MREA in the Next 4 Years:
- Promoting innovative educational models tailored to rural communities, such as place-based learning and community-centered education, by fostering partnerships between schools, local businesses, and community organizations.
- Advocating for expanded mental health services and support in rural schools to provide students with access to counselors, mental health professionals, and wellness programs.
Expertise and Skills to Strengthen MREA’s Mission:
- Human Resources
- Public Speaking
- Strategic Planning
- Social Media
Additional Skills and Expertise: I bring a wealth of leadership experience from nearly 31 years in the US Army/MN Army National Guard, with multiple deployments overseas. As a Colonel, I command 5,600 soldiers and manage a $540 million budget, ensuring readiness for state and federal missions. My global perspective and extensive leadership skills will be valuable in addressing rural challenges.