Heather Mathews
Position running for: Secretary-Treasurer
Job title: Special Education Teacher
Local name: Dakota County United Educators (DCUE)
Email: hmathews4edmnst@gmail.com
Campaign links:
Statement
I hope I can earn your support for the position of EDMN Secretary/Treasurer. I respectfully ask for your vote and confidence.
I have been an elementary special education teacher in Apple Valley for 31 years. As a member of my local union, Dakota County United Educators (DCUE), I have held key leadership roles. These include: Treasurer, Secretary, Legislative Chair, Membership Chair, Budget Committee Chair, and Organizing Chair. These positions have strengthened my fiscal responsibility, budget management, organizing strategies, membership engagement, legislative lobbying efforts through effective legislative action, as well as my ability to communicate effectively with members.
As Vice-Chair of the EDMN Political Action Committee, I continue to guide our union’s political and election programs in order to support pro-education candidates who will protect teacher’s rights and improve classroom conditions. I am committed to bringing this experience and dedication to the role of EDMN Secretary/Treasurer.
My union advocacy has continued at the National level, through my active participation in national conventions and conferences.This work has given me a broader perspective on how to fight and win for our labor initiatives.
My commitment to understanding the challenges you face is paramount. I believe in the power of active listening and advocacy to drive meaningful change for educators statewide. I will ensure that every member feels heard and valued, while advocating for vital legislative initiatives aimed at improving working conditions, compensation, and pension reform. My strong communication skills and deep sense of empathy will foster a culture of respect, kindness, and responsibility within our organization.
I am also committed to preserving the integrity of our organization through prudent fiscal management and transparency by leading budgets and efforts that represent our member’s priorities.
I will collaborate with local leaders and members to strengthen our union, to have a unified voice that empowers us all, while also working to improve communications statewide. I will strive to understand the unique needs of each local in our state. I am dedicated to advocating for solutions that attract and retain teachers, ensuring equity between all of us. I am committed to enhancing our efforts to recruit and retain teachers of color, as our students deserve educators who reflect their diverse backgrounds. I believe that our ESP’s deserve more compensation, and will continue to advocate for their rights.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside dedicated colleagues like you, as we strive to create positive, supportive, and equitable educational environments for all our students, while upholding the values of our union. Together, we can ensure that our educators receive the support, resources, and compensation they deserve.
Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.
Testimonial
I completely support Heather Mathews as our next Secretary-Treasurer!
I have known Heather for 20 years, when we met at my first conference. She encouraged me to pursue the work of our union, for the betterment of all. Her enthusiasm, charisma, passion for all things union and public education helped me become an advocate too. When faced with challenges, she digs in and gets fiercer! She believes that we can all do better together. She will make you personally feel that you are important!
Anne Eckhoff, Teacher
