Tammy Knapper
Position running for: Governing Board At-Large Election Zone 4
Job title: Special Education Coordinator
Local name: Education Minnesota – Willmar
Email: dtkeaglelake@charter.net
Statement: I am running for reelection to the Education Minnesota Governing Board, where I have proudly served since 2021 representing Zone 4, which includes many diverse regions in our union. My work is rooted in listening to educators from urban, suburban, and rural communities and bringing their voices forward in statewide union decisions.
I currently serve as Chair of the Education Minnesota Personnel Committee, where I lead committee meetings, participate in Education Minnesota staff interviews, and meet with the Human Resources Director and the Executive Director. This work gives me direct insight into how our union operates and ensures decisions are made with transparency and accountability, while keeping our members in mind.
My priorities remain clear: strong healthcare, fair pay, and secure pensions. These are not abstract issues, they directly impact educators’ ability to stay in the profession, organize strong locals, and retire with dignity. I also believe professional respect must be demonstrated through strong collective bargaining, supportive working conditions, and policies that trust educators as professionals.
Equity is central to my work. I am committed to racial and social justice and to ensuring our union continues to be a force for inclusion. That means asking hard questions, listening deeply, and intentionally asking, “Who’s missing?” when decisions are made.
As a governing board member, I strive to model our shared norms: listening first, coming prepared, assuming positive intent, debating ideas and honoring collective decisions once made. I value honest, transparent communication and believe trust is built through consistent, good-faith leadership.
Finally, I am focused on building action-ready members and strong locals. Our collective power comes from organized educators who are informed, engaged, and prepared to advocate for themselves, their colleagues, and their students.
I respectfully ask for your support as I seek reelection to continue representing Zone 4 and advancing the collective strength, values, and future of our union together, as active, engaged members shaping our shared future.
Testimonial
I have served with Tammy Knapper for many years on both the Central Lakes United board and the Education Minnesota Governing Board. Tammy is a tireless, action-oriented leader who serves on numerous committees and consistently delivers results. She is prepared, principled, and unafraid to do the hard work. Tammy listens, leads with integrity, and is a strong advocate for educators and students. Zone 4 benefits from her leadership.
Tracy Detloff
