2025 Candidates

Learn more about Nicole here!

MASE Committee, Area Rep, Board Positions Held:
Co-chair MASE Communications Committee (July 2023 - October 2025)
Co-Chair MASE Equity Committee (July 2024 - present)
MNSELF Treasurer and Board Member (July 2020 - present)

Describe how your leadership experiences, professional or volunteer, have had an impact on fostering change.
As an advocate for students, especially those with disabilities, I’ve always worked to be a changemaker. Over the years, I’ve learned how to advocate in ways that don’t just help individual students but also create positive changes for all.

In my leadership roles, I’ve helped create change by supporting teachers and service providers while building strong partnerships with outside organizations. Working together, we’ve introduced new ideas, improved resources, and made support systems more inclusive for students. These changes have helped students feel more confident, embrace who they are, and build happy, healthy lives.

I know that change isn’t always easy—some people welcome it, while others find it overwhelming. That’s why I focus on open, honest conversations and always lead with the “why.” When people understand the reason behind a change, they’re much more likely to get on board. This approach has helped me build trust, create progress, and make a lasting impact on students and those who support them.

Describe up to three additional skills you would bring to the executive committee and how you believe they would be beneficial.
In my leadership experiences, I’ve had the chance to work with a variety of teams, helping to create environments built on trust, collaboration, and open communication. By offering support and encouraging honest conversations, I’ve helped teams grow stronger, lean into each other’s strengths, and stay focused on shared goals.

Building relationships comes naturally to me—I enjoy finding common ground with others while also appreciating what makes each person unique. This has helped me foster strong connections and bring people together, even in fast-changing environments.

My ability to support teams in becoming their best, along with my strength in building relationships, would allow me to contribute to the executive team in continuing to meet the needs of MASE members.

Describe up to three major achievements and/or experiences that will help you be successful on the MASE Executive Committee and why.
One of my most meaningful achievements has been becoming more involved with MASE committees and the MASE board. Once I experienced the power of building strong connections within MASE, I knew I wanted to do more. I’m passionate about spreading the word that MASE is the place to be for support, collaboration, and connecting with like-minded professionals.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to gain diverse experiences that have shaped me into the leader I am today. From small towns in Wisconsin to large diverse high schools in Belleville, IL, SCRED, principal at the juvenile state correctional facility in Red Wing, MN, and now at GCED—each step has fueled my curiosity and commitment to making meaningful change for students. These experiences have driven me to push for improvements in education, and I would be honored to bring that same passion and curiosity to the MASE Executive Committee.

Learn more about Erin here!

Treasurer 2025-27
Erin Hoffman, Executive Director, West Central Education District

MASE Committee, Area Rep, Board Positions Held:
Current Treasurer, Legislative Committee, Former Area E Rep to the MASE Board

Describe how your leadership experiences, professional or volunteer, have had an impact on fostering change.
As a director of special education, my leadership has been instrumental in fostering meaningful change for students, staff, and families. By actively listening to stakeholders, analyzing data, and evaluating programs, I have identified areas for growth and implemented targeted improvements. For example, I have worked to strengthen inclusive practices by providing professional development for teachers and advocating for necessary resources. Additionally, I have facilitated crucial conversations between staff members to improve collaboration and problem-solving. My role requires balancing compliance with innovation, and I strive to ensure that every decision leads to more equitable and effective student support.

Describe up to three additional skills you would bring to the executive committee and how you believe they would be beneficial.
I bring strategic problem-solving, data-driven decision-making, and a commitment to continuous improvement to the MASE Executive Committee. As an executive director/special education director, I navigate complex challenges like staffing shortages, student outcomes, and balancing compliance with best practices. I take a big-picture approach, always looking for solutions that support both students and staff.

I also rely on data to drive decisions—using student progress, compliance metrics, and stakeholder feedback to make informed choices that lead to real improvements. Good decisions come from understanding the full picture, not just reacting to problems.

Finally, I’m always focused on continuous improvement. Education is constantly evolving, and I believe in staying ahead through learning, mentoring, and implementing best practices. With these skills, along with strong communication and collaboration, I would bring a problem-solving mindset to the Executive Committee, helping to support special education leaders across Minnesota.

Three major achievements and/or experiences that will help you be successful on the MASE Executive Committee:
As MASE treasurer, I have gained valuable insight into the organization’s financial operations, ensuring responsible stewardship to support special education leaders across Minnesota. I am eager to continue this work in a second term.

Beyond my treasurer role, I have served on the legislative, nominations, and professional development committees, deepening my understanding of MASE’s mission and strengthening my ability to collaborate with colleagues statewide.

Additionally, my background as a special education teacher in both elementary and middle school settings has shaped my leadership. I understand the challenges educators face and the policies that best support students and staff.

These experiences have prepared me to continue contributing to the Executive Committee, ensuring MASE remains financially strong and focused on supporting its members.