May 8, 2025

New Donovan Group Templates Created for Your Use

The Donovan Group recently brought to my attention a developing issue they’re monitoring and proactively addressing by creating communication templates for districts.

While I haven’t yet heard concerns about this from our members, it’s wise to stay ahead of emerging challenges.

With the rapid growth and accessibility of artificial intelligence tools, schools are facing new risks—including the use of “deepfakes.” These fabricated videos or audio recordings can falsely portray district or school leaders making inappropriate, offensive, or threatening remarks.

The provided templates are designed to support districts in communicating about this issue. They include general awareness messages for your community, as well as specific guidance for responding if a deepfake targeting your district begins to circulate.

Meet the New Chair-Elects!

It is the job of the MASA President-Elect to identify 2025-26 Chair-Elects for the MASA standing committees in consultation with the executive director. Here is who has accepted those roles:

• Executive Development Committee: Matt Grose, Superintendent, Grand Rapids School District

• Nominating Committee: Minda Anderson, Assistant Superintendent, Big Lake Schools

• Federal Advocacy Committee: Scott Vedbraaten, Superintendent, Browerville Public Schools

• Legislative Committee - Overall: Lisa Sayles-Adams, Superintendent, Minneapolis Public Schools

  • Legislative Finance Sub Committee:  Peter Olson-Skog, Superintendent, West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan Area Schools

  • Legislative Policy Sub Committee: Amy Thuesen, Director of Technology, Austin Public Schools

Here are the Chair-Elects from 2024-25 moving into the Chair position for 2025-26:

• Executive Development Committee: Ranae Case Evenson, Superintendent, Jordan Public Schools

• Nominating Committee: Brandon Lunak, Superintendent, Moorhead Area Public Schools

• Federal Advocacy Committee: Michael Thomas, Superintendent, Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools

• Legislative Committee - Overall: John Magas, Superintendent, Duluth Public Schools

  • Legislative Finance Sub Committee: Michael Meihak, Superintendent, NRHEG Public Schools

  • Legislative Policy Sub Committee: Sue Chase, Superintendent, Cass Lake-Bena Schools

Leadership Matters!

“Follow your heart, your instincts. People might try to dissuade you from your passion, but no one can live your life but you.” - Olympia Dukakis

A Mother’s Day Message

This Mother’s Day, we honor the extraordinary women in our MASA community who nurture, lead, and inspire—both in their families and in their schools. Thank you for the care, commitment, and strength you bring to everything you do.

-Your MASA Staff