Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association (MESPA)

📍 Next stop: Casey Reierson at Win-E-Mac Schools! Our Executive Director, Michelle Krell, visited and saw firsthand the incredible things happening in this K-12 school. 🌟 Principal Reierson is already building strong, positive relationships with students, staff, and families. We loved to see the older students supporting the younger ones and we also got to witness the dynamic Math Thinking Classrooms in action. The positive energy and joyful atmosphere throughout the school are undeniable! 🙌 We’re proud to have Casey as part of our principal mentorship program. Keep up the great work! 💪 #MESPAInAction #MESPA #PrincipalMentorship #JoyfulLearning

🎉 Today, principals from the Northern and Western Divisions gathered for an engaging meetings in Mahnomen, MN, fostering connections and sharing valuable insights! Currently, they’re diving into an all-day legal seminar led by Roger Aronson, MESPA's legal counsel and lobbyist, to stay up-to-date on the latest legislation and ensure compliance with current laws. It’s been a productive day of learning and collaboration so far and more valuable learning in progress! 👏 #PrincipalLeadership #MESPA #SchoolLeaders #ProfessionalDevelopment

📸 MESPA on the move! Our Executive Director, Michelle Krell, recently visited first-year principal Chad Gilbertson at Underwood Elementary, and there’s so much to celebrate! 🏫 Underwood is a PreK-12 school where the positive culture is felt in every hallway. Kind and caring students support one another and the strong sense of community makes this school a true standout. It's no surprise that Underwood is a school of choice for many families! 🌟 Kudos to Principal Gilbertson and the entire Underwood team for fostering such an incredible learning environment! 🙌 #MESPAInAction #StrongPrincipalsStrongSchools #MESPA

🚗 On the road and made an impromptu stop! While driving by the sign for St. James, she decided to drop in and visit Liam Dawson, principal of Northside Elementary and one of our incredible mentors at MESPA. 🙌 She was blown away by the innovative programs at Northside! From their dynamic STEM lab to the phenomenal art program, and let’s not forget their state-of-the-art Calm Room. Liam and his team are truly leading the way in creating an inclusive, forward-thinking school environment. 👏 Thank you, Liam, for all you do as a principal and mentor! #MESPA #SchoolLeadership #STEM #ArtEducation #CalmRoom #PrincipalMentor #EducationInnovation #NorthsideElementary

🚗 Final stop of the day! Executive Director Michelle Krell visited Windom Elementary, where first-year principal Corey Barfknecht is doing an amazing job! ✨ Michelle was impressed by the beautiful school and the engaging learning spaces that inspire students. Even more inspiring is the positive and collaborative culture Corey has cultivated within the school community. 💙 Keep up the fantastic work, Corey! You're creating an environment where both students and staff can thrive! 👏 #MESPAInAction #PrincipalMentorship #Leadership #PositiveCulture #FutureLeaders #MESPA

🚗 Second stop of the day! Executive Director Michelle Krell visited Madelia Elementary, where first-year principal Ann Mikkalson is already making a huge impact! 🌟 Michelle was impressed by the strong relationships Ann is building with staff and students and the positive culture she's cultivating. 💙 Relationships and a positive school culture are the foundation of student success, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Ann is doing an incredible job fostering both in her first year as a leader. Keep it up, Ann! 👏 #MESPAInAction #PrincipalMentorship #LeadershipMatters #SchoolCulture #FutureLeaders #MESPA

🚗 First stop of the day! Executive Director Michelle Krell visited Cedar Mountain Elementary, where first-year principal Julia Garms is already making an amazing impact. 👏 Michelle was impressed by the students engaged and the creativity in the classrooms—especially the PE class with a biking unit! 🚴♂️ The students are building endurance while fostering a love for outdoor activities. 🌳🚲 So proud to see Julia thriving as a leader and making a positive difference in her first year! Keep up the great work, Julia! 💪 #MESPA #PrincipalMentorship #FutureLeaders #SchoolEngagement

We’re incredibly grateful to Justin Kiel @jm_kiel for joining our Principal Mentorship Program to share his insights on building a positive school culture! His practical strategies and inspiring message are helping our new principals foster environments where students and staff can thrive. Thank you, Justin, for your dedication to creating supportive and dynamic schools! #PrincipalMentorship #BuildingCulture #StrongerTogether #MESPA2025

🌟 Today marks the third workshop in our Principal Mentorship Program! 🌟 It’s been an inspiring day filled with meaningful connections, collaborative learning, and actionable insights. Our new principals are building a strong network of support while diving deep into leadership strategies that will empower them to lead with confidence and purpose. 💡 Together, we’re shaping the future of education, one workshop at a time! #PrincipalLeadership #NewPrincipals #MESPA #LeadingWithPurpose #LifelongLearners

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