Standing with You, Teachers and Educators!

elevate teaching toolkit

Every day, educators across our state show up not only to teach, but to listen, to reassure, and to hold space for young people who are carrying far more than they should have to. In moments of fear and uncertainty, schools become more than places of learning. Educators become anchors of safety, dignity, and belonging.

For many Minnesota students and families, especially those facing new and painful anxieties, educators are often the most trusted, steady presence in their lives.

Tracy Byrd, 2024 MN Teacher of the Year, has a powerful reminder for all us.

“As an educator we are always teaching. There are times when the teaching is school curriculum based, and there are times when the teaching revolves around social and emotional learning. The students are always looking to us for direction.”

To our teachers and educators: Thank you for supporting our students. Thank you for supporting each other too. 

To the broader community: Thank you for supporting the teachers and educators who are using their skills, experiences and courage to ensure that students continue to get their education in these challenging times.

This matters deeply.

Now more than ever, Elevate Teaching is committed to lifting up your voices. We continue to connect you with peers and supporters, and to highlight resources that can sustain you and your well-being to live out your mission as an educator.

You matter. Your work matters. Your community stands with you.

 

With Gratitude,

Your Elevate Teaching Team


Calling all teachers, educators & champions of the teaching profession!

Join us for a virtual community gathering to meet the moment.

Thursday, January 22 at 4:30pm to 5:30pm

Join us in this virtual space to breathe together, listen to one other, receive support materials to sustain you and your wellbeing to meet the moment.  

We will facilitate exercises and guided group reflections to connect teachers, educators and community supporters together. You are not alone. 

Please click below to register.  This event is free.


Additional Community Resources & Opportunities

Partner Resources

Two important resources for navigating this moment with children of all ages from Amazeworks.

Please reach out if you have any questions or trouble accessing the resources (info@amazeworks.org)

Partner Events

1) Reclaiming Learning: PreK–12 Curriculum and African American Literature

Date: January 21, 2026

Time: 5 to 7pm (4:30 starts with a buffet)

Location: Elmer L. Andersen Library, UMN

Please register at z.umn.edu/Reclaiming

For more information, click here to open the event flyer. 

2) Push Back / Push Forward for Racial Equity in Education

Date: Friday, January 23

Time: 10am-noon

Location: On Zoom (Registration required)

Click here for more information.