Rdale early educator chairs award-winning organization

Rdale parent and family educator Michelle Berscheid has been president of the Minnesota Association for Family and Early Education (MNAFEE) for the past three years, and is the outgoing chair this year. Late last month the Minnesota Community Education Association (MCEA) awarded MNAFEE the 2024 Community Education Partner of the Year Award. This prestigious recognition highlights MNAFEE's outstanding contributions and collaboration within community education, particularly in supporting Minnesota's families and young children. 

In remarks accepting the award, Berscheid said, “MNAFEE has a long history of working together on behalf of Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE), School Readiness and other public school early learning programs in urban, suburban, and rural communities. We are grateful for the opportunity to build community by bringing families with young children together in supportive and educational programs, all within Community Education. It is a piece of the lifelong learning that we all strive for.”

“MNAFEE’s dedication to family and early education initiatives has made a lasting impact across Minnesota,” said Matt Dickhausen, Executive Director of MCEA. “Their commitment to quality, accessibility, and collaboration aligns perfectly with MCEA’s mission, and we are thrilled to recognize their contributions with this award.”

The Community Education Partner of the Year Award acknowledges organizations that demonstrate a commitment to the values and goals of community education by actively partnering with local programs and enhancing community well-being. MNAFEE’s efforts have consistently strengthened Minnesota’s early education landscape, making this recognition well-deserved.