Thanks to Zak’s Auto Service and Minnesota Locks for their support.
Earlier this year, Education Minnesota announced the field of 128 Teacher of the Year Candidates from across the state. Two of those candidates are ISD 197 teachers, both at Somerset Elementary School: Michelle Bannie and Shannon Dodson.
“Both Shannon and Michelle embody the heart of what great teaching looks like,” said former Somerset Principal Libby Huettl. “Each of them brings something special to the profession, but what they share is a deep commitment to students and families that truly reflects our district’s mission of caring relationships, equitable practices and high achievement for all.”
The Teachers
Michelle Bannie:
- Experience: A third grade teacher at Somerset, Bannie has spent her entire 13-year career in ISD 197.
- Principal Huettl said: “Michelle brings an incredible level of thoughtfulness and care to everything she does. She creates a classroom environment where students feel a true sense of belonging and where curiosity and collaboration thrive.”
Shannon Dodson:
- Experience: A fourth grade teacher at Somerset, Dodson has taught at Somerset for seven years and spent eight years in ISD 197. She has more than 30 years of education experience.
- Semi-finalist: Last month, Education Minnesota narrowed the field of candidates to 30 semi-finalists, which included Dodson.
- Principal Huettle said: “Shannon has an extraordinary ability to build relationships with students that help them feel safe, confident, and ready to take risks in their learning. She sees the strengths in every child and works tirelessly to nurture their growth, both academically and personally.”
Teacher Talk
We posed a few questions to Bannie and Dodson and they responded together:
What was your reaction to being named a candidate for Teacher of the Year?
Honestly, our first reaction was surprise. We feel deeply honored, but we also know that this recognition represents far more than two classrooms. Every day we work alongside extraordinary educators who are doing quiet, unseen, and deeply meaningful work for students and families. Teachers across our district are constantly showing up for kids in ways that often go unnoticed — staying late, checking in with families, creating spaces where students feel safe, known, and encouraged to grow. Being named candidates feels less like an individual accomplishment and more like a reflection of that collective commitment.
What’s your favorite part of being a teacher?
Without question, it’s the kids. The greatest privilege of this work is building relationships with students and getting to know them as learners and as people. Every child walks into the classroom with their own curiosity, humor, perspective, and potential, and it’s incredible to watch that unfold throughout the year.
We’re especially grateful for the trust that families place in us. Being part of a child’s journey—helping them discover their confidence, celebrate their progress, and feel that they truly belong in our classroom community—is the most meaningful part of being a teacher.
Thanks for talking with us and congratulations.
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