Meet Wendy
Education has been at the heart of my life and career. I began as an elementary school teacher and later became a reading specialist, where I developed a particular passion for helping students become confident, capable readers. My work also led me to advocate for students with dyslexia and for the resources and support they need to thrive in school.
I have two daughters who have grown up in the Orono community and have been part of our schools since ECFE. I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the many ways Orono Schools support students and families—and to appreciate the dedicated educators and staff who make that possible.
I am proud to serve on the school board. I bring both an educator’s and a parent’s perspective to the work, along with a deep commitment to our students, our staff, and the continued excellence of our schools. I value a connected community and will listen, ask thoughtful questions, make informed decisions, and always keep students at the center of my work.
Wendy In Action
Orono Action is a nonpartisan committee of the Orono School Board that advocates for public education policies and funding to improve student outcomes. As a member of the Steering Committee, I have the opportunity to meet with our state representatives every year to share and discuss the legislative priorities of Orono Schools.
Every year I have the honor to join fellow elected leaders and community members at the Maple Plain Memorial Day service to remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
It is a privilege to serve as the School Board Liaison to the City of Maple Plain. As a liaison, I provide the City Council with district updates, participate in city events, and engage with the community.
Testifying (during the pandemic) to the MN House and Senate for HF288/SF244 on the importance of providing grant funding for Minnesota educators to complete Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS). The bill passed the Senate and the House with bipartisan support, and $3M in grant funding was included in the Governor’s Omnibus Bill in 2021.
At the Capitol in support of Senator Roger Chamberlain’s bill, SF2872: $33M in grant funding for educators in Minnesota to complete Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS).
For years I volunteered my time educating the community on various aspects of literacy. An informed community is a strong community.
A field trip with my first grade class in 1999. As a member of the school board, I will always support and champion our educators. I know the dedication it takes and the responsibility it carries.
I was incredibly honored to be asked to participate on the 2017 task force that developed the “Profile of an Orono Graduate.” The group was a balance of parents, teachers, district leaders, and community members brought together to create a shared vision regarding the cognitive, personal, and interpersonal competencies that students need to be successful in work, citizenship, and life. I didn’t know it then, but I know it now that I have been preparing for the role of school board member for over 20 years.