Registration is open for the 2025 MREA Greater Education Summit! Join over 500 rural education leaders for three days of celebrating, networking, learning, and collaborating.
With over nearly 40 breakout sessions, rural education leaders will find relevant topics with tools and resources to take back and implement within your district.
Check out this sneak peek of breakout sessions, and watch for the full breakout list in mid-September at MREASummit.org.
Improve Administrative Use of AI
Description: In this session, explore how generative AI can help school administrators save time, streamline tasks, and enhance decision-making. Learn practical applications of AI for rural schools and discover tools that can improve efficiency in day-to-day leadership.
Presenter: David Berner, SWWC Service Cooperative
Recruit & Retain Rural Staff
Description: Rural districts face acute shortages in transportation, food service, paraprofessionals, and teachers. This session highlights strategies to recruit and retain staff in small communities, addressing challenges unique to rural schools.
Presenter: Adam Rosen, Radar Talent Solutions
Co-presenter: Jay Kjos, Menahga Public Schools
Growing Teachers, Transforming Workforce
Description: This session explores how registered teacher apprenticeships can address workforce shortages by developing future educators within rural communities. Participants will learn practical steps to implement “grow your own” models that strengthen teacher pipelines.
Presenter: Sara Paul, North Branch Area Public Schools
Co-presenter: Dr. Todd Tetzlaff, North Branch Area Public Schools
Childcare That Sustains Rural Strength
Description: How can rural schools provide childcare that sustains families, staff, and the broader community? This session shares creative approaches for addressing rural childcare needs, strengthening both school districts and the communities they serve.
Presenter: Holly Ward, Dawson-Boyd Public Schools
Co-presenter: Mattiah Kemen, Dawson-Boyd Public Schools
Innovative Behavior Support in Action
Description: Explore how rural schools are implementing innovative behavior support strategies to help staff manage challenging student behaviors. The session highlights practical tools and data-driven approaches to improve school climate and student success.
Presenter: Jacky Williams, University of Kansas
Co-presenter: Brita Comstock, Warroad Public Schools
Financial Strategies for Budget Reductions
Description: Get strategies for financial analysis regarding budget reductions and how school leaders can make informed decisions during times of fiscal constraint. This session is tailored for rural administrators facing tightening budgets.
Presenter: Anna Nelson, Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors
Co-presenter: Mary Morem, Houston Public Schools ISD 294
Be sure to register for the Greater Education Summit on November 16-18 at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd! Lodging at Cragun’s will fill quickly, so be sure to register today!