The Meaning Behind MEA

Every October students around Minnesota get excited for the annual break they get thanks to Education Minnesota, and it has become one of the most traveled weeks in the state according to Minneapolis/St. Paul airport.

While students appreciate the time off, they may not completely understand the origin  of the vacation days and the importance to teachers across the state. MEA stands for Minnesota Educators Academy and allows unpaid days for the Teacher’s union members to grow in their profession.

“The meaning behind MEA break,” said St. Francis Union Representative Mike Stoffel, “is for teachers to attend professional development courses.”

Local Union President Ryan Fiereck talked about what teachers are doing while their students are on break.

 “Thousands of teachers around the state of Minnesota have the opportunity to drive down to the St. Paul Rivercentre and have access to classes that they may not have back at their schools,” he said. 

Teachers can receive training in a variety of things and can attend course to get relicensure hours and can even get professional development on classroom management. Some teachers also use the time to focus on making changes in their curriculum, or as an opportunity to recharge.

“I think one thing that students should know is that your teachers often times are doing professional development,” said Stoffel, “and some others do use it as a break just as the students do.” 

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Thousands of teachers around the state of Minnesota have the opportunity to drive down to the St. Paul Rivercentre and have access to classes that they may not have back at their schools.

— Ryan Fiereck

From Ryan Fiereck’s profile published on Education MN

Philosophy as a board member: The governing board play a vital role in Education Minnesota. We must provide our members with representation that helps drive Education Minnesota towards goals and accomplishments that reflect our classroom needs. Our union must be active, by addressing the concerns of both our members and the public in a manor that is proactive and professional