MREA annually honors members with the Profiles of Excellence Awards to recognize innovative programs and efforts that serve as an example of educational opportunities for rural students. Programs throughout MREA member districts are nominated and then selected by the MREA Board of Directors based on these core criteria:
- Innovation — What made this program unique?
- Benefit to Students — How did your students benefit from this program?
- Collaborative Effort — What other individuals, groups and/or agencies worked on developing this program?
- Ease of Adaptability — How can other districts replicate this program?
Nominations open in the spring of each year and must be for that current school year. Learn more.
2016 Exemplary Program
Flyer Video Production | Little Falls Community Schools
After recognizing a trend in video consumption, Little Falls school leaders implemented a program that produced over 250 newscasts and 100 events in the past year. Students, faculty, parents and community members are able to enjoy high-quality, well-produced events and news from the entire school district. Learn more.
2016 Honorable Mention
Community Bond Referendum | Deer River Public Schools
Deer River Schools Superintendent Matt Grose had a vision and spearheaded a bond referendum that passed with a remarkable 68 percent rate. Instead of focusing solely on the enrollment growth straining the elementary school, Grose expanded his vision to include the needs of the community as a whole. He involved stakeholders from varying constituencies to help make this dream a reality. Learn more.