Jenna Fromm | Pine City
Experience with Current School/District: I live in Pine City, MN. Three of my children have graduated, and one is set to graduate this year. Due to their rural education, they have participated in arts and athletics, and three have graduated from university. I have enjoyed the best of rural education for my children.
Experience in Education Sector: I have attended hundreds of school board meetings for various rural school districts throughout Minnesota over the past nine years. Observing the different leadership styles and power balances between administration and board members has been intriguing. Public involvement and education tensions have given me a front-row seat to well-handled heated moments and standoffs. Effective leadership requires finding common ground, common goals, and unity of purpose to do the best for our students.
Experience in Rural Sector: This year, I participated in the Chamber of Commerce Program, Leadership MN. We explored each region of Minnesota, examining the industry and careers available. From taconite mining, forestry, and paper mills in the Iron Range to Taylor Corp with printing and Cambria in solid surface manufacturing, I have seen the pathways our rural students can embark on for their careers.
Other Relevant Experience: Growing up in a small town and attending a local K-12 school shaped my early years. Recognizing the unique opportunities small schools provide, my family and I moved to a rural community when my children reached school age. Over the years, I have been a coach, teacher, and bus driver, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities of rural education.
As the CEO of a student transportation company for the past nine years, I have served 28 school districts across Minnesota—mostly rural. I understand the critical role transportation plays in ensuring equal access to education. My diverse background—experiencing rural education, working in various school roles, and leading a company supporting rural education—equips me with a unique perspective.
Why MREA? I have a unique perspective on rural education that spans Minnesota. Our company serves 28 school districts, with 27 being MREA members. I want to share the rural business perspective and prepare our students for jobs post-graduation. We have developed a diesel tech training program for high school students, offering a great opportunity for rural students to explore a career in their area.
What Excites You About MREA’s Work? I love MREA’s communications, legislative updates, and advocacy for rural Minnesota, which is sorely needed in an environment unfairly focused on the metro area. I want to influence policies to benefit all of Minnesota.
Challenges for MREA in the Next 4 Years:
- Equity in funding for rural schools.
- Moratorium on mandates.
Opportunities for MREA in the Next 4 Years:
- To be heard and share stories of rural education benefits.
- Emphasize the importance of equity for all communities.
Expertise and Skills to Strengthen MREA’s Ability to Deliver on Its Mission:
- Strategic Planning
- Public Policy/Advocacy
- Public Speaking
Additional Skills and Expertise: In my business group, we have presenters and speakers eight times a year. Matching MREA’s needs with what these professionals can bring may be beneficial.
