Tami DeLand 
With a work history spanning over 25 years in PK-12 public education, and the most recent of them directing assessment, research, evaluation, and continuous improvement activities at Edina Public Schools, many professionals might be looking forward to retirement and relaxation. Not the case with Donna Roper, the new executive director of research, evaluation, assessment and … Read more
Lacey Lokken is a positive force to be reckoned with in St. Cloud Area School District. “The thing about Lacey is,” says Director of Equity Services, Sebastian Witherspoon, “she has this ability to make everyone around her feel good about themselves.” Lokken is the American Indian Program Coordinator for District 742 and works with American … Read more
In the fall of 2014, Tammy Wilson became the new principal at Discovery Community School in St. Cloud, Minnesota and had plenty on her “to-do” list. Writing a children’s book wasn’t on it – until one day she helped out in the school media center. “The idea for the book came out of a need,” … Read more
When local artist and founder of the non-profit, herARTS in Action, Sarah Drake takes a residency in a middle school classroom and combines art with topics more traditionally explored within a social studies curriculum, she’s not surprised to hear the complaint, “Hey, why are you combining my favorite class with my least favorite?” Drake laughs … Read more
Apollo High School social studies teacher and head football coach, Justin Skaalerud, strives to educate his players on the importance of giving back to the community. It is this effort that has instilled in his players a sense of responsibility. These athletes not only value being successful on the field and in the classroom, but … Read more