Education

Sun Patriot

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ISD 111 board chair represents state board in D.C. trip

Watertown-Mayer School Board Chair Hunter Feldt traveled to Washington, D.C., in late September to represent the Minnesota School Boards Association at the Consortium of State School Boards Associations’ Federal Advocacy Conference. The trip included meetings with Minnesota’s congressional delegation. Feldt and fellow school board members from across the state urged lawmakers to address federal issues affecting public schools, students, families and staff. “One of my biggest points of pride was talking about Watertown-Mayer,” Feldt said. “I wanted to make sure our legislators understand how federal decisions show up in our classrooms every single day.” The conversations focused on three issues affecting Watertown-Mayer: internet access, special education funding and student mental health. Internet access through E-Rate Advocates discussed how cuts to the federal E-Rate program, administered by the Federal Communications Commission, would affect local schools. E-Rate helps districts provide students and staff with reliable, affordable and safe internet access. Special education funding When Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, it pledged to cover 40 percent of the additional cost of special education. Fifty years later, that commitment has never been met. Federal funding covers about 12 pct. of those costs in Watertown-Mayer, leaving the district to cover the difference

Minnesota · 8d

Press & News

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Dr. Hiel named 2027 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year

The Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) has named Superintendent of Osseo Area Schools Dr. Kim Hiel the 2027 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year. As Minnesota's honoree, Dr. Hiel is now a candidate for National Superintendent of the Year, which will be announced during the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) National Conference on Education, Feb. 25-27, 2027, in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Hiel was selected by an independent panel of representatives from Minnesota education organizations, based on her leadership for learning, communication skills, professionalism, and community involvement. The Minnesota Superintendent of the Year Award is proudly sponsored by ATSR, Planners/Architects/Engineers. “Dr. Hiel's leadership reflects a deep commitment to ensuring every student has access to the opportunities and support they need to succeed. Her ability to bring people together, build trust and navigate complex challenges demonstrates the importance of listening and collaboration in public education,” said MASA Executive Director Matt Hillmann. “Through her focus on academic achievement, community engagement and inclusive leadership, Dr. Hiel is making a meaningful difference for students, families and staff across Osseo Area Schools.” Expanding college, career readiness Since becoming superintendent in 2023, Dr. Hiel has prioritized expanding access to rigorous learning opportunities and closing achievement gaps

Minnesota · 13d