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CONGRATULATIONS to our Community Ed Director, Melanie DeBay!

Melanie DeBay, Itasca Area Schools Collaborative Community Education Director, has been chosen as the Region 8 Community Educator of Excellence by the Minnesota Community Education Association (MCEA).

MCEA recognizes, thanks and celebrates the outstanding contributions made by practitioners and supporters of community education from across Minnesota. Nominees represent the best of the best: persons committed to working together, creating opportunities, persisting through challenges and partnering with others.

Melanie, Itasca’s Community Education Director for the past 10 years, has been dedicated to serving the Itasca communities. Serving 4 Itasca school districts, collaborating with 4 Community Ed Advisory boards, 4 Superintendents, 16 school Principals, and numerous community partners across the county. She serves on numerous committees across the community including the Invest Early Leadership team, the Itasca Networks for Youth Committee, and the Board of Directors for the Itasca Family YMCA.

Krystal Berg, Proctor-Hermantown Community Ed Director says “Melanie is always my go-to gal when I have questions, concerns, or need to have another perspective on a possible idea.” Melanie has shown to be a true team player, excels at creating partnerships and grant opportunities, and is recognized as a leader locally and across the state. “We all agree that Melanie is worthy of this award! She has been an amazing support during the pandemic and has inspired us to think outside the box to find ways to connect with our communities, but has also encouraged us to take care of ourselves and our families during this difficult time” states community education secretary Holly Henriksen.

Community Education programs will be open in compliance with State and Federal guidelines during this global pandemic. Please be advised that participant compliance with programming expectations for health and safety must be followed. Community Education programs will take an abundance of care for all participants but acknowledge a potential risk for health and safety due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before you come to class please remember the following:

• Face coverings are required.
• Stay home if you are sick. Do not attend class if you have any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chills, body aches, sore throat, loss of smell or taste, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Stay home if you, your child, or a family member has been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or you are awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test.
• Stay at least 6 feet from other people.
• Wash your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before you enter the class.

Let’s all do our part! You can help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like COVID-19.