Monessa Newell: Monessa Newell is currently a member of the Avalon School Board. In the fall of 2005, Monessa graduated from St. Mary's University in Minneapolis with a Masters in Instruction. During that course work, she received licensure requirements for a Social Studies License. Previously, Monessa has had experience working with children of all ages from various backgrounds including; nannying, pre-school teaching, and working at the Minneapolis Children's Hospital in the Child Life Department as well as volunteering at a Women's Domestic Abuse safe house. Monessa's undergraduate degree in Drama Therapy for Urban Youth was achieved at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. The BA includes background in theatre, child psychology, and urban studies.

Monessa student taught in the high school program at Avalon in the fall of 2004, and remained throughout the year as an educational assistant and substitute. Inspired and motivated by the Avalon staff and the school itself, Monessa was honored and thrilled to be involved in the development of the middle school and is now a full-time Social Studies Advisor at Avalon Middle School.