Minnesota Educators Partnership Grow Your Own site
Dear Students, Families, and Community Members,
At our high school, we are dedicated to helping individuals turn their passion for education into a rewarding career. Through our participation in the Minnesota Educators Partnership (MEP)—funded by the Minnesota Department of Education’s "Grow Your Own" (GYO) grant—we are proud to offer pathways for both secondary students and adult community members who aspire to become licensed teachers.
Student Pathway: MEP Teachers of Tomorrow
Designed specifically for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, the Teachers of Tomorrow program allows students to explore the teaching profession, build leadership skills, and prepare for post-secondary education.
Program Highlights for Students:
Navigator Support: Receive bi-weekly mentoring and individual academic/career guidance.
Scholarships: Access scholarship awards aligned with MN statutes and state GYO grant funds to help cover college costs.
Rising Educators Academy: Attend a 4-day summer academy on the Minnesota State University, Mankato campus.
College Visits: Participate in six group college visits annually.
College & Career Readiness: Gain hands-on leadership experience, college application and FAFSA assistance, and networking opportunities.
Adult Pathway: MEP Teaching Fellows
Our Grow Your Own initiative also extends to adults in our community—including current district staff (such as paraprofessionals and educational assistants), alumni, parents, and local community members—who are pursuing or completing their teaching license.
Program Highlights for Adults:
Tuition Assistance & Stipends: Financial support (up to $5,600 per semester) to help cover tuition, books, or living expenses while enrolled in an approved teacher preparation program.
Dedicated Mentorship & Advising: One-on-one support from an Adult Pathway Navigator and connection with experienced mentor teachers.
Career Pathway Support: Guidance through licensure requirements and job placement opportunities within our partner school districts,
Who Is Eligible?
Student Pathway: Open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors at MEP partner schools.
Adult Pathway: Open to adults who meet program residency/employment criteria (e.g., district employees, local community members, or district alumni) enrolled in or entering an approved teacher preparation program.
How to Get Started & Contact Us
Applications for both pathways are accepted on a rolling basis.
Student Application: Scan the QR code on the attached flyer or submit your application online.
Learn More: Visit the official MEP Grow Your Own Website to explore details on both the Student and Adult pathways.
General Coordinator Contact: Reach out to Grant Coordinator Teri Preisler at teri.preisler3@gmail.com
District Contacts: Find specific district navigators and contacts on the MEP GYO Contact Page
We look forward to growing our future educators right here in our community!