Minneapolis Public Schools
Board of Education
Applicants for Seat Vacated
with Resignation of Faheema Feerayarre
The Minneapolis Public Schools Board of Education will appoint a board member to replace District 3 Member Faheema Feerayarre, who resigned from the position, from the following six applicants >>>>>
>>>>>
David
Tilsen
Lucie
Skefte
Fatimah
Hussein
Kowsar
Mohamed
Michael
Duenes
Christina
Crabtree
<<<<<
Maria Rollinger
Executive
Director, Academic Core & Instruction
……………………………………….
Anna
Baumann Smith
Social Studies/Ethnic
Studies Content Lead
M. Ed.,
English/Language Arts
(Relay Graduate
School of Education, 2013-2015)
B.A., Women’s
Studies
(Warren Wilson
College)
……………………………………….
Billy
Perkins
World
Languages Content Lead
M. Ed., Spanish/ESL
K-12
(University of
Minnesota/Twin Cities)
B.A., Peace &
Global Studies
(Earlham University)
……………………………………….
Casey
Strecker
International
Baccalaureate Programming Content Lead
Education Specialist
(Concordia University/St.
Paul, 2014-2020)
M. Ed., Educational
Leadership & Administration
(Concordia
University/St. Paul, 2012-2014)
B.A., Secondary
Education
(University of
Wisconsin/Madison, 2004-2019)
……………………………………….
Chas Thomsen, Science Content Lead
M.A., Bilingual & Multicultural Education
(California State University/Sacramento)
B. S., Physics
(University of California/Davis)
……………………………………….
Courtney
Caldwell
English
Learning & Literacy Content Lead
M.A., Education
(St. Mary’s University)
B.S., Elementary Education & Spanish
(University of Minnesota/Duluth)
……………………………………….
Emily
Duffy-Hanrahan
English
Language Artes, 6-12 Content Lead
[Information Pending]
……………………………………….
Jennifer
Hanzak
Math K-5
Content Lead
M.Ed.,
Curriculum & Instruction
(M. Ed., University of St. Thomas)
B. S., Elementary Education
(University of Minnesota/Twin Cities)
……………………………………….
Julie
Ripplinger
Literacy
K-5 Content Lead
B. S., Elementary Education
(Minnesota State University/Morehead)
……………………………………….
Kelly
Merritt
Literacy
K-5 Content Lead
B. S., Elementary Education
(Florida International University)
……………………………………….
Kimberly
Bice
Director,
Literacy
M.A., Literacy
Education
(Hamline University,
2023)
M.Ed., Curriculum
& Instruction
(University of
Minnesota/Twin Cities, 2009-2011)
B.A., English
Language & Literacy, General
(University of
Minnesota/Twin Cities, 2005-2008)
……………………………………….
Kristin
Coquelin
STEM, K-8
District Program Facilitator
M.Ed., Educational Administration
(St. Cloud State University)
Bachelors of Applied Science, Elementary Education
(University of Minnesota/Twin Cities)
……………………………………….
Kyle
Hansen
Health/Physical
Education Content Lead
Spanish Literacy (M. S., Northeastern University)
Health and Physical Education (B. S., University of
Minnesota/Duluth)
……………………………………….
Marie
Olson
Literacy
Intervention Lead, K-5
[Information Pending]
……………………………………………
Natalie
Tourtelotte
Director,
K-12 Programs
M.Ed.
(University of Minnesota/Twin Cities)
B. A., Social Studies
(Hamline University)
……………………………………………
Robert
Kohnert
College
Credit Programming Content Lead
M.Ed., Teaching History
(University of Minnesota)
M. Ed., Social Studies Education
(University of Minnesota)
………………………………………….
Sarah
Minette
Music
Programming Content Lead
………………………………………….
Sizi Goya
Director,
Math
M.Ed.
(Augsburg University)
B. S. Mathematics
(Texas Tech University)
………………………………………….
Steven
Montgomery
Ethnic
Studies Content Lead
Education
Specialist Licensure Program,
Education
Administration & Supervision
(St.
Mary’s University of Minnesota, January 2023-May 2025)
M.Ed., Urban Education, Social Studies Teacher
Education
(Metro State University, August 2017-May 2022)
B.A.. Communications & Media Studies
(University of Minnesota/Twin Cities, 2011-2014)
………………………………………….
Teri
Emery
Talent
Development Content Lead
………………………………………….
Tommie
Casey
Director,
AVID Programming
Education Specialist
(University of St. Thomas)
M.Ed., English Education
(University of Minnesota/Twin Cities)
B. A., Education
(Missouri Valley College)
………………………………………….
Volume XI, No. 5
November 2024
Journal of the K-12 Revolution:
Essays and Research from Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis Public Schools Board of Education Election, 2024: Information and Recommendations
A Five-Article Series
A Publication of the New Salem Educational Initiative
Gary Marvin Davison, Editor
Minneapolis Public Schools Board of Education Election, 2024: Information and Recommendations
A Five-Article Series
Gary Marvin Davison
New Salem Educational Initiative
Copyright © 2024
Contents
Introductory Comments
Minneapolis Public Schools Board of Education Election, 2024:
Information and Recommendations
Article #1
Information from the Website of Shayla Owodunni (Candidate for At-Large Seat)
Article #2
Information from the Website of Kim Ellison (Candidate for At-Large Seat)
Article #3
Information from the Website of Lara Bergman (Candidate for District 6 Seat)
Article #4
Information from the Website of Greta Callahan (Candidate for District 6 Seat)
Article #5
Recommendations for Election to the Minneapolis Public Schools Board of Education, 5 November 2024
Minneapolis Public Schools Board of Education Election, 2024:
Information and Recommendations
Four seats on the Minneapolis Public Schools Board of Education
are up for election on Election Day, Tuesday, 5 November 2024.
Two candidates are running unopposed >>>>>
>>>>> Sharon El-Amin is running unopposed for the
District 2 seat, which she has held for four years.
>>>>> Adrian Cerrillo is running unopposed for
the District 4 seat, which she also has held for four years.
The other two seats are contested, as follows >>>>>
>>>>> Kim Ellison is running again for the At-Large
seat that she currently holds; her
opponent is Shayla Owodunni.
>>>>> Lara Bergman and Greta Callahan are
candidates for the District 6 seat vacated by outgoing MPS Board of Education
Director Ira Jourdain.
Thus, the candidates in the 5 November 2024 election are as
follows >>>>>
District 2 >>>>> Sharon El-Amin
District 4 >>>>> Adriana Cerrillo
District 6 >>>>> Lara Bergman
Greta
Callahan
At-Large >>>>> Shayla Owodunni
Kim Ellison
Information from the Website of Shayla Owodunni (Candidate for At-Large Seat)
The following provides key information and
personal statements from Shayla Owodunni’s website >>>>>
CLEAR SKIES IN MPS
Welcome to my vision for Minneapolis Public Schools! As a
candidate for the Minneapolis School Board, I am committed to fostering an
educational environment where every student's potential blooms. My vision is
inspired by the students I've served, and successful models like Union City Public Schools in New
Jersey, rooted in the urgent need for improvement in
our district.
CULTIVATING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
Education is the seed from which future success grows. My vision
focuses on creating a learning environment where every student can thrive,
regardless of their background or circumstances. By prioritizing literacy and
math proficiency and setting high expectations in our schools, we can lay a
strong foundation for lifelong learning and achievement.
SUPPORTING OUR EDUCATORS
Teachers are the gardeners of our educational ecosystem. By
providing them with the support, resources, and professional development they
need, we can ensure that they are equipped to nurture and guide our students
toward success.
EMPOWERING PARENTS & GUARDIANS
Parents and guardians play a crucial role in shaping a successful
school environment. My vision includes empowering parents and guardians with
resources and platforms for active participation in their children's education,
thereby strengthening the home-school connection.
ENGAGING THE COMMUNITY
A thriving school system requires active participation from the
entire community. My vision includes fostering strong partnerships between
schools, parents, and local stakeholders to create a supportive and
collaborative educational environment.
ENSURING FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
Financial integrity is crucial for the sustained growth of our
schools. My vision includes transparent management of school finances and
contract rigor, fiscal accountability, and securing sustainable funding to
support our educational programs and initiatives.
A NOTE FROM SHAYLA OWODUNNI
Hi there! I am so thrilled you've taken the time to come learn
more about me and my campaign! As a dedicated advocate for educational
excellence and community engagement, I am passionate about planting seeds of
change within Minneapolis Public Schools. Last August, I saw a flyer on my
sister's dining table calling for early learning volunteers, and quite
unexpectedly, here we are today.
From serving in the classroom I was immediately made aware that we have the
most innovative, creative, quick, and personable students and educators in our
district - fully capable of academic excellence. I also learned that 'everyday'
community members (like me) can help cultivate an environment where every
student has the opportunity to thrive and bloom. If you have any questions
along the way, please do not hesitate to reach out. I'm in this field for the
long haul! Together, I firmly believe we can make a lasting difference for the
futures of our Minneapolis children.
Forever rooting for MPS,
Shayla
GROW WITH SHAYLA
Advocate for Educational Excellence
Shayla Owodunni is a Minnesota native with a deep commitment to
educational excellence
and community engagement. With expertise in early learning,
corporate finance, and IT governance, risk, and compliance (IT GRC), Shayla
brings a unique and multifaceted perspective to her candidacy for the
Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) School Board Member At-Large position. She is
committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all
students, regardless of background or circumstance.
Shayla is a proud graduate of the University of Minnesota Carlson
School of Management, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business (BSB)
with a focus in Accounting and Entrepreneurial Management. She currently serves
as a Carlson School of Management Alumni Board Member and Chair of the Carlson
360 Network Affinity Group for alumni of color, leading efforts to advance
inclusivity and support diversity initiatives within the Carlson School
community.
Shayla is also a trained children's etiquette instructor and the
founder of Social Heirlooms, a business that provides modern etiquette
education. Her entrepreneurial spirit extends to her flora-inspired lifestyle
blog turned biophilic design business, The Plant Penthouse, and her management
consulting firm, Corporate Carpentry Consulting, which focuses on IT GRC and
program management. These ventures highlight her innovative approach and
dedication to creating positive change in various fields.
Beyond her professional journey, Shayla is actively involved in
community engagement. She volunteers with the Hennepin County Master Gardener
program and is trained in Children's Garden in Residency programming, further
nurturing her love for growth and development.
A LIFE DEFINED BY PURPOSE
Passion for Education
Shayla's commitment to education is both professional and
personal. As an Early Learning Corps volunteer, she has witnessed firsthand the
challenges and triumphs of students and educators. Her passion for literacy led
her to create a YouTube channel, "Ms
Shayla Reads," aimed at inspiring a continuous love for literacy among
children.
Shayla's vision for Minneapolis Public Schools is rooted in
academic achievement, community collaboration, and financial integrity. Her platform
is designed to address the urgent needs of the district while fostering an
environment where every student can flourish
Vision
My vision for Minneapolis Public Schools is rooted in academic
achievement, community collaboration, and financial integrity. After serving in
the district and seeing what can be achieved when a strong community is
established, I am committed to creating a thriving educational environment
within MPS, at-large, where every student can bloom.
BENEATH THE SURFACE
Priorities
Grounding my campaign for the Minneapolis School Board is a
commitment to nurturing the growth and development of every student. Drawing
inspiration from successful educational models and
my own diverse experiences, my priorities are designed to create an environment
where students, educators, and the community can thrive together. By focusing
on academic excellence, strong community partnerships, and financial integrity,
we can cultivate a vibrant and inclusive educational ecosystem.
PRIORITIZE ACADEMIC GROWTH IN LITERACY AND MATH
·
Enhance Literacy and Math
Proficiency: Advocate for targeted programs, personalized learning, and
equitable access to resources to improve literacy and math skills.
·
Foster a Culture of
Excellence: Establish high expectations and instill confidence in students
by believing in their potential and providing the necessary support.
·
Implement Individualized
Instruction: Utilize a consistent application of technology and
personalized learning plans across MPS to cater to each student's unique needs
and pace, ensuring every child can thrive.
Despite the efforts of the intervention triad program, recent
winter assessment data revealed a concerning decline in proficiency rates among
Minneapolis students. Overall, only 44% of second through eighth graders are
reading at or above grade level, and just 39% demonstrate proficiency in math.
The most alarming gaps are seen among Black and Hispanic students, emphasizing
the urgent need for effective interventions. In Union City, the belief in high
expectations for all students, especially those from underprivileged
backgrounds, was key to their success. We can replicate this by maintaining a
strong belief in our students' abilities and providing the necessary support to
help them succeed.
SUPPORT AND DEVELOP EDUCATORS
·
Promote Professional
Development: Offer continuous learning opportunities to help teachers grow
and excel.
·
Competitive
Compensation: Ensure teachers receive fair pay to attract and retain top
talent.
·
Supportive
Environments: Create environments where teachers have the resources and
support needed to deliver high-quality education.
My experience as an Early Learning Corps Tutor revealed the
challenges our educators face, from inadequate resources to the need for more
effective support systems. By investing in our teachers, we invest in our
students' future.
EMPOWER PARENTS AND GUARDIANS
·
Provide Resources: Equip
parents with the tools and knowledge to support their children's education.
·
Foster Active
Participation: Create platforms for parents and guardians to engage
actively in the educational process.
·
Strengthen Home-School
Connections: Encourage collaboration between families and schools to
enhance student success.
Engaging parents and guardians is crucial for creating a
supportive and collaborative educational environment. By empowering families,
we can build a stronger community and can better support our students' growth
in, and out, of the classroom.
FOSTER COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
·
Build Strong
Partnerships: Foster robust collaborations between schools, parents, and
local stakeholders to enhance educational opportunities.
·
Align Community Needs: Work
with the community to ensure school resources meet the needs and priorities of
local families.
·
Support Services: Coordinate
with local organizations to provide comprehensive support services for students
and families.
My community engagement involvement, including roles with the
Carlson School of Management, Early Learning Corps, and the Hennepin County
Master Gardener program, underscore my commitment to fostering strong community
ties. By building partnerships and collaborating with local stakeholders, I aim
to listen to learn—and create a supportive and collaborative educational
environment that benefits all students.
ENSURE FINANCIAL INTEGRITY AND EFFICIENCY
·
Ensure Transparency: Advocate
for clear and accessible management of MPS finances.
·
Prioritize Fiscal
Accountability: Focus on responsible budgeting and spending to maximize
the impact of every dollar.
·
Advocate for Sustainable
Funding: Secure ongoing financial support to maintain and grow essential
educational programs and initiatives.
As a corporate finance and IT governance, risk, and compliance (IT
GRC) professional, I have a keen understanding of the importance of financial
integrity (with most of my years spent in both financial and IT internal
audit). Through review of the district's budget and contracts, I have
identified areas for greater transparency and efficiency.
Platform Roots
01.
Prioritize Academic
Growth in Literacy & Math
02.
Support & Development for Educators
03.
Empower Parents and Guardians
04.
Foster Community Collaboration
05.
Ensure Financial Integrity and Efficiency
Grow Your Vision
GROUNDED FOR CHANGE
Join me in planting seeds of change for Minneapolis Public
Schools. Together, we can nurture every student's potential to thrive.
