Honoring great educators through Minneapolis Educator Leadership Awards
Growing up, Mrs. Johnson was my favorite teacher from elementary school. She encouraged my love of reading! We would have these book reports to complete after reading a book and I loved it. It was my favorite part of school.
Educators are so incredibly important because they play a significant role in shaping the minds of the future. Not only did I become an avid reader with inspiration from Mrs. Johnson, but I also became a writer myself, and I eventually published my own book.
Great teachers build confidence, encourage creativity, and can be an added support system for students, and that’s why the Minneapolis Educator Leadership Awards (MELA) is my favorite part of being the Portfolio Manager at The Graves Foundation. MELA is a partnership between Graves and Achieve Twin Cities that recognizes and elevates hard-working professionals diligently educating our children.
I often think of Mrs Johnson when I visit all the incredible educators at their schools in MPS. When I drop by schools unexpectedly and surprise educators with the news that they’re MELA winners, I feel privileged to get to see their genuine emotions of excitement/happiness/shock/gratitude. I wish I could go back in time and give Mrs Johnson this award!
One thing I’ve learned from these amazing educators is that they’re unstoppable; they're always going above and beyond to secure resources they need for their students. Though I wish our school system was resourced in a way that allowed more teachers to take on enrichment projects for their students, I feel honored to play a small part in recognizing and supporting them.
My wish is for all MPS staff to know about MELA! I want them to know that anyone in the school building from educators to paraprofessionals to support staff are eligible. Candidates for the award are nominated by their peers, students, parents, or anyone who admires their work as educators, and finalists are selected by a committee of teachers, administrators, and support staff actively working in the Minneapolis public school district.
Being able to shine a light on educators’ constant commitment, impact, and dedication to our students is one small way that I get to thank all of the “Mrs. Johnsons” out there who are inspiring the next generation.
--Lisa Moy, Portfolio Manager