Hiawatha Valley Teachers United
Hiawatha Valley Teachers United is a group of teacher and ESP local unions working together on education issues of common interest in southeastern Minnesota.
We are one of 21 intermediate organizations (IOs) across the state.
Meet our officers
HVTU President
Matthew Wilmes teaches Vocal Music at Lewiston-Altura High School where he is also the local teacher’s union member rights chair. He serves as HVTU’s President and the Election District I representative to the Education Minnesota Governing Board. Matthew recently graduated from Winona State University with a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership.
HTVU Vice President
Paula Braun teaches kindergarten at Dover-Eyota Elementary School. She has over 30 years experience with Dover-Eyota schools and has taught kindergarten, 1st and 6th grade and has subbed for most elementary levels. Paula is the treasurer for her local union and will take over as co-president this year. Paula lives in St. Charles with her husband, David. Together they’ve raised 4 sons, 2 of which are high school teachers, one student teaching in the fall and the fourth works in the field of surgical robotics. Paula enjoys spending time with her family and being a grandma to her four grandsons.
HVTU Treasurer
Kiel is a teacher at Houston High School and has worked as a Mathematics teacher for 17 years and is currently serving as a Career and Technical Education teacher. Kiel lives in Winona, MN where he grew up and attended college. He is married, and has three very active children. Kiel is also a boy scout leader and enjoys camping with his troop. He enjoys mountain biking, carpentry and woodworking. Kiel is also a very active union leader with his local. He is currently the co-president, membership chair, member rights and lead negotiator.
HVTU Secretary
Deanna is a member of Education Minnesota Kingsland and is a third grade teacher there. She has taught elementary students for 35+ years and has held many offices in her local. She has two grown daughters, both of whom are nurses. She enjoys walking, watching Hallmark movies occasionally, and spending time with family and friends.
Our work
HVTU supports member PPE with the help of Education Minnesota. Pictured here are members from Caledonia ESP local wearing the masks. Thank you, Education Minnesota and HVTU!
