School Board & Policies

Mark Meier - DREAM Teacher Representative/Board Chair

I am currently a Title One Coordinator and Assessment Coordinator at DREAM Technical Academy.  Previously, I was a Special Education Teacher in Las Vegas, Nevada for 20 years.  I was born and raised in Minnesota for 31 years.  I moved back to Spicer, Minnesota due to the passing of my father in March of 2023.  I have one daughter who is 14 years old and she lives with her mother in Hampton, Virginia.  I have one brother and one sister who are both older than me.  I have a few other side jobs and previously had my own Ad Specialty company which I am planning to start up again in the near future. 

Phone: 320-262-5640

Email: boardchair@technicalacademies.org

Hannah Nelson - CHOICE Teacher Representative/Secretary

I have worked at TAM for several years in various roles.  I am currently the Title 1 Coordinator at CHOICE and the District Assessment Coordinator.  I have lived in Owatonna for 6 years and have been teaching since I graduated in 2018.  I would like to learn more about board operations to better understand decision-making at the board level.  I am hoping to share my perspective and help with any required tasks or reports.

Phone: 507-400-4009

Email: hnelson@technicalacademies.org

Deanna Schiesser - Vice Chair/DREAM Teacher Representative

My name is Deanna Schiesser, I am a single, widowed mother of six, four of whom are still at home. Currently, I have very flexible availability. This fall, I will return to U of M Morris to finish my Secondary Education degree in Communications and Literature with a minor in Theatre Arts. It should take approximately two years to finish my degree. I currently hold two Associate degrees in Liberal Arts and Early Childhood Development. I have been involved in a variety of church and community activities. My church involvements include Women's Commission (2-year term), choir, AWANA registration desk, and parent life group. My community involvements include volunteering at Kandiyohi County Food Shelf and Barn Theatre, community band, 4H parent volunteer, childcare union local representative and Head Start parent group local and regional secretary.

As a single mom, I value education and our future generations. A child's success in school sets the groundwork for a lifetime of success. Children thrive in an environment that fits their individual learning styles; not all students thrive in a "traditional" school. DREAM Technical Academy meets these students where they are and helps them realize their full potential. I want to serve on the board because I see it as an opportunity to contribute and improve the community. It is also a way to develop and enhance leadership skills while being able to leave a legacy for current and future students. My vision for DREAM and Technical Academies of Minnesota is a place of child-centered excellence where all students have an opportunity to reach their full potential.

Phone: 320-262-5640

Email: dschiesser@technicalacademies.org

Ruby Espinoza, DREAM Parent Representative/Treasurer

I am a longtime resident of Kandiyohi and Renville Counties.  Family and community have always been instilled, as well as balancing a loving family as a devoted wife and proud mother.  I am a cottage food producer and currently following my own education path towards an AAS in Administration and an Education Transfer Pathway.  

I am a board member and active volunteer at the Cultural Centre in Bird Island.  As a parent, I see my daughter loves to attend DREAM.  I notice issues with the school and I want to be part of making the school a safe and thriving place for our children to receive support in their academic, social and emotional development. 

Phone: 320-262-5640

Email: respinoza@technicalacademies.org

Jim Barnes, Community Member

I have lived in Owatonna for 20+ years. I'm the father of two children, one who went to CHOICE Technical Academy for 6 years, and previously served 4-5 years as a parent representative on the TAM School Board.  I have been involved in other public school functions and teams.  I have a background in accounting, finance, education and leadership.  I enjoy traveling, reading, watching movies, and being with my family.  

I believe strong education and choice are the key to building better citizens of tomorrow.  To that end, I have been involved in education in some capacity for over 20 years and believe in the mission and approach of TAM.  I enjoy giving back to my community and helping as much as possible.  With some things cleared up, I have time to help again.  

The vision is that we have a solid working relationship as a board with ourselves, our schools, our authorizer, the state, community, and any other stakeholders.  My vision is to make sure the affidavit and policies are followed in all situations, including future expansion and learning outcomes.

Phone: 507-400-4009

Email: jbarnes@technicalacademies.org

Kandi Tetzloff, Community Representative

I am married, a mother of 7 children and grandmother of 5 grandchildren.  We have one child who lives at home.  Currently, I work full-time as a Pathway of Hope Case Manager.  I hold a bachelor's degree in Social Work and a master's degree in Religion and Theology.  I have been involved with Hope for our City and Love for our City.  

In the past, I have been a Den Leader, Awana Leader, Sunday School and Confirmation Teacher, a paraprofessional and Title 1 aid.  I appreciate and value education.  How children learn is important for not only their well-being, but also their mental health.  Having more opportunities allows them to be successful in all they do. 

Phone: 320-262-5640

Email: ktetzloff@technicalacademies.org

Degrees and Certifications: Bachelor's degree in Social Work and Master's degree in Religion and Theology.