Michael Funk
Superintendent, Stillwater Area Public Schools

Click Here to read Superintendent Funk's Statement

I am honored to seek a position on the AASA Governing Board, having served as a Minnesota superintendent in rural, medium sized, and metropolitan school districts in Minnesota over the last 20 years. Throughout my tenure as a superintendent, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to educational excellence, equity, and innovation.

With experience leading diverse school districts in BOLD (Olivia, MN), Albert Lea, and Stillwater, I have successfully navigated complex challenges, passed transformative funding initiatives, and fostered partnerships that drive student success. My leadership has consistently emphasized strategic planning, community engagement, and fiscal responsibility, ensuring that districts thrive both academically and financially.
Education is at a critical juncture, and now more than ever, AASA must champion policies that support all students, regardless of their zip code. I am eager to contribute my expertise, advocate for superintendents nationwide, and help shape the future of public education. I would be honored to serve and bring a balanced, experienced voice to the AASA Governing Board.

Biography – Michael Funk, Ed.D.
Michael Funk is a seasoned educational leader with a distinguished career spanning rural, regional, and metropolitan districts in Minnesota. Currently serving as Superintendent of Stillwater Area Public Schools, he oversees a system of 8,300 students and over 1,000 employees, leading efforts to enhance student achievement and modernize facilities through a $175 million bond referendum.

Previously, Dr. Funk served as Superintendent of Albert Lea Area Schools for 13 years, where he was named Minnesota Superintendent of the Year (2022). His leadership resulted in expanded Advanced Placement participation, implementation of 1:1 technology initiatives, and the successful passage of multiple operating and facilities referenda. Before that, he was Superintendent of BOLD Schools in rural Minnesota, where he increased college credit opportunities and strengthened financial stability.

Dr. Funk’s extensive leadership extends beyond education. A retired Army Colonel, he commanded units in NATO peacekeeping missions and held senior positions in the Minnesota National Guard, including Chief of the Joint Staff.

A passionate advocate for public education, Dr. Funk has served on multiple community boards and educational organizations. His experience across different district settings gives him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing superintendents nationwide.

He holds a Doctorate in Educational Policy and Administration from the University of Minnesota, a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, and additional degrees in education and government.

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Scott Monson
Superintendent, Minneota Public Schools

Click here to read Superintendent Monson's statement

My name is Scott Monson, and I am the Superintendent for Minneota Public Schools.  I am a candidate for the AASA Governing Board vacancy and would appreciate your consideration for this elected position. 

It has been my great fortune to be a part of public education in Minnesota for the past 32 years as a business education teacher, coach, extra- and co-curricular advisor, principal, superintendent, and MSHSL official. I also get to be a girl dad to a 6-year-old [Logan] and a 2-year-old [Jordan], both of whom do/will attend public school.

During the almost 19 years of being a superintendent, my focuses have been student achievement, professional development for all staff, educational policy, opportunities for students, funding for public education, school facilities, culture and climate, and stakeholder engagement. Most recently, I find myself being pulled toward educational policy, as this is an area I have seen radical changes in and is one I fear may continue to be adversely affected by our state and federal elected officials. I would welcome a chance to advocate…and fight for…Minnesota’s public school students, no matter their address or school district, in the role as a Governing Board Member for AASA.

I had the opportunity to serve as one of the AASA Governing Board Members from 2017-2020, during which time I learned an extensive amount about AASA’s role in advocacy and policy, along with the relationship between MASA and AASA. I have served as superintendent in a smaller district, a medium sized district, and a regional center school district. I believe my previous experiences will be beneficial if I am elected to the AASA Governing Board.

I would be honored for the opportunity to represent Minnesota and MASA at the national level, and I realize the importance of reporting back to our MASA membership about the important work that AASA and the Governing Board has done, is doing, and is proposing to do. I would be excited about being YOUR VOICE at the national level.
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Thank you for the important work that all of you do in your respective school district and for being a difference maker for your students. I appreciate your consideration as a candidate for the AASA Governing Board.  

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Nate Rudolph
​Superintendent, Cambridge-Isanti Schools

Click here to read Superintendent Rudolph's Statement

Dear MASA Members,

I am honored to submit my candidacy for Minnesota AASA Governing Board Representative. As a dedicated educational leader with a deep commitment to advocating for students, educators, and school communities, I bring a wealth of experience, a collaborative mindset, and a steady presence to this opportunity to serve you. In times of chaos, I will strive to be a source of calm. In moments of uncertainty, I will aim to inspire confidence. And in seasons of anxiety, I will work to provide hope.

My connection to Minnesota spans its diverse regions. I was raised on a farm in southern Minnesota, where I learned the value of hard work, resilience, and community. I pursued my college education at Southwest MN State University, which shaped my understanding of rural education and its unique challenges. I served as a teacher and administrator in central Minnesota, lived in northern Minnesota, and now serve as a superintendent in east-central Minnesota, just north of the Twin Cities. These experiences tie me closely to both Greater Minnesota and metro communities, allowing me to better advocate for school districts across our state. I believe a broad perspective is needed to represent the diverse needs of all Minnesota students, families, and educators.

I have been fortunate to work alongside dedicated educators and community members to foster excellence in education and support student success. As a superintendent, I have championed initiatives focused on student achievement, staff development, and community engagement. I have also had the opportunity to learn from some of the best educational leaders in our business as well as serve as a mentor to others. Whether it is guiding new Superintendents through uncertainty or providing feedback on various dissertation projects, I enjoy serving and supporting others. 

This sense of service extends beyond my district as I actively contribute to educational and community boards, including the Minnesota School District Liquid Asset Fund Board of Trustees (MSDLAF+), MASA Executive Development Committee, MASA Nominating Committee, Cambridge Medical Center/Allina Board of Trustees, Anoka Ramsey Community College Cambridge Campus Foundation Board, Bluejacket Education Foundation Board, Cambridge Dollars for Scholars Board, and the Falcon National Bank-Isanti Advisory Board. These experiences have strengthened my ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, provide insight and guidance, and advocate for policies that benefit our schools and communities.

I have been honored to receive the MASA District Leadership Award for Region VI and was named to the 2024 National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) Superintendents to Watch list. Additionally, I have had the privilege of sharing insights on educational leadership and innovation through published contributions in AASA’s School Administrator magazine and as a featured guest on the #SocialSchools4EDU Podcast hosted by Andrea Gribble. These opportunities have allowed me to highlight the great work happening in our schools and share best practices with fellow educators.

As the next Minnesota AASA Governing Board Representative, I will work diligently to ensure that the voices of our school leaders are heard at the national level. In a time of political polarization, I believe that finding common ground rooted in sensible solutions is essential to supporting all Minnesota schools. I am committed to fostering productive conversations and bridging divides to advance policies that serve the best interests of students and educators. I look forward to modeling this approach on a national stage, demonstrating how education leaders can work collaboratively to build a stronger future for all schools.

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and represent Minnesota’s educational leaders. I respectfully ask for your support and look forward to the possibility of working together in this capacity. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like to discuss my vision further.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,

Dr. Nate Rudolph
Superintendent, Cambridge-Isanti Schools 

Dr. Bitman: Letter of Support for Superintendent Rudolph

March 19, 2025
Dear MASA Members,
I am honored to write this letter in strong support of Dr. Nate Rudolph as he seeks to represent Minnesota on the AASA Governing Board. As a longtime colleague and former supervisor, I have witnessed firsthand his exceptional leadership, deep commitment to public education, and tireless advocacy for students, staff, and school communities across our state. I urge you to join me in supporting his candidacy.

Dr. Rudolph is a visionary leader who has consistently prioritized student success, equity, and innovation. As Superintendent of the Cambridge-Isanti School District, he has championed initiatives that enhance learning opportunities and foster an environment where all students can thrive. His ability to bring people together, solve complex challenges, and implement lasting change makes him the ideal representative for Minnesota administrators at the national level.

Throughout his career, Dr. Rudolph has made a profound impact on education in Minnesota. From his time as an elementary and middle school principal in the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District to his current role as superintendent, he has led with integrity, passion, and a relentless focus on continuous improvement. His leadership has resulted in measurable gains in student achievement, strengthened school cultures, and meaningful community engagement.

Beyond his district leadership, Dr. Rudolph is an active voice in shaping education policy at both the state and national levels. He is deeply engaged in professional organizations, collaborates with educational leaders statewide, and serves as a mentor to emerging administrators. His experience, knowledge, and dedication make him uniquely suited to advocate for the needs and priorities of Minnesota’s school leaders on the AASA Governing Board.

As school administrators, we need a representative who understands our challenges, shares our vision, and will advocate for us on a national stage. Dr. Rudolph is that leader. His unwavering commitment to public education, strategic thinking, and ability to inspire others make him the best candidate for this important role.
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I strongly encourage you to support Dr. Nate Rudolph for the AASA Governing Board. Your vote will help ensure that Minnesota has a strong, experienced, and passionate advocate representing our schools, students, and communities at the national level.

Sincerely,

Dr. Daniel Bittman

Superintendent Rudolph's Articles in AASA's MAGAZINE

Superintendent Rudolph frequently is published in the AASA School Administrator magazine. Check out some of his articles below!

• Dealing with Negative Comments Online (January 2025)
• Building Relationships, Building Trust (February 2023)

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Christine Tucci Osorio
​Superintendent, N. St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District

Click here to read Superintendent Tucci Osorio's Background

Since 2015, Christine Tucci Osorio has been the Superintendent of District 622 North St. Paul – Maplewood – Oakdale, a diverse, east metro school district of nearly 11,000 students. Prior to her current role she worked in Saint Paul Public Schools for 19 years, most recently in the role of Chief Academic Officer.

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Klint Willert
Superintendent, Pipestone Area Schools

Click here to read Superintendent Willert's Background

Hello, I am Dr. Klint Willert. I am a dedicated and experienced educational leader with a passion for advancing public education and supporting the success of all students. With over two decades of service as a superintendent, I have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. I believe my leadership has been marked by fostering strong community partnerships, championing student-centered initiatives, and driving systemic change to enhance educational opportunities.

Throughout my career, I have advocated for equitable access to quality education, ensuring that all learners are prepared for the challenges of the future. I believe in navigating complex challenges by building consensus among diverse stakeholders.  I believe my experience, passion for public education, and my advocacy for the superintendency would serve me well as a voice for Minnesota on the AASA Governing Board. 

As a long-time member of MASA and of AASA, I have a great appreciation for the work of these organizations and the support they provide superintendents and other central office and district leaders.  I have served on multiple committees with MASA including most recently serving on the Federal Advocacy Committee.  At a time of great change and uncertainty at the federal and state level with educational policy, I bring a seasoned and proven voice. As a member of the AASA Governing Board, I would be committed to bring his visionary leadership and a collaborative spirit to advocate for policies that empower school administrators, promote educational excellence, and strengthen public education. I believe that my commitment to helping fellow school administrators, my advocacy for public education, my passion for innovation in schools, and my  dedication to continuous learning aligns with AASA’s mission to support and develop effective school system leaders.

I would appreciate your vote – Remember, Klint with a “K”!