
Empower Dreams & Inspire Classrooms!
Let's meet our amazing teachers that are the recipients of season 1 of our Dream Big Teach Bold Initiative.
Each week we will be sharing a story of an amazing teacher in our region. We're keeping each one a surprise and will reveal a new teacher each week for the next 5 weeks.
Kate Kallenbach – Bringing Music to Life
A passionate band teacher in the Fairmont school District, Mrs. Kallenbach (known by her students as Mrs. K) received brand-new instruments to help students discover a love for music. Now, her students can explore their musical talents with access to high-quality equipment, creating opportunities for learning and performance.
What her nominator, Briana Joseph, shared about Mrs. K:
Mrs. K is the kind of teacher that goes above and beyond in everything that she does. Mrs. K fosters a positive learning environment for students. She has created an inclusive and engaging atmosphere in the band program for students of all abilities to not just get by, but to truly thrive! She makes an extra effort to talk to students about their daily lives and care for them as a whole, not just their academic achievements. Mrs. K makes students feel welcomed and supported by listening to her students with attention-to-detail. If a student brings up an idea for pep band music or a performance, Mrs. K will jump right in and implement it. She is always looking for ways to make performances centered around the students.
Jessica Keenan - Strengthening Minds in Math and Leadership
As a math teacher, volleyball coach, and Student Council advisor, Ms. Keenan wears many hats—but her passion, dedication, and unwavering support for her students never wavers. Whether she’s ensuring 7th and 8th graders build a strong foundation in math, preparing College Algebra students for future success, coaching on the volleyball court, or leading Student Council to foster a fun and engaging school culture, she gives her all—often well beyond school hours.
To help support her incredible work, Profinium provided:
✔️ Graphing calculators so students no longer have to share
🏐 Volleyball supplies to enhance her coaching and build school spirit
🎈 Balloons, pumps, and decorations to bring Student Council events to life
✔️ Graphing calculators so students no longer have to share
🏐 Volleyball supplies to enhance her coaching and build school spirit
🎈 Balloons, pumps, and decorations to bring Student Council events to life
"Ms. Keenan’s dedication goes beyond academics—she is shaping future leaders, athletes, and engaged students who will go on to make a difference," said Joel Staehling, CEO of Profinium. "Her impact is felt in the classroom, on the court, and in every corner of the school community."
We’re honored to celebrate Brenda Phelps, an extraordinary early childhood educator at Maple River. Teaching children as young as 36 months to 6 years old, Brenda instills respect, kindness, and responsibility—all while creating a warm and nurturing space for young learners.
Her dedication is unmatched - arriving early in the morning and well into the evening, she gives her all to her students, even when working with limited resources. But no matter the challenge, Brenda’s passion never wavers.
To support her incredible work, Profinium provided:
✔️ Mixing bowls & cookbooks for hands-on learning
🎨 Art supplies & aprons to spark creativity
👩🏫 Resources to enhance collaboration & fun in the classroom
"Teachers like Ms. B are the unsung heroes of our communities," said Veronica Bruckhoff, Vice President of Business Development at Profinium. "Her compassion and dedication are exactly what ‘Dream Big, Teach Bold’ is here to celebrate."
Watch the heartwarming moment we surprised Brenda!
Known for her warm smile, listening ear, and unwavering support, Mrs. Stevensen goes above and beyond to help her students become confident, capable learners. Whether she’s encouraging them to excel, holding them accountable, or offering support when they need it most, she creates a classroom environment where young minds are inspired to develop a lifelong love of learning.
To help further her mission, Profinium provided:
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A large STEM cart for organizing and storing supplies
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20 STEM kits covering a variety of topics to engage and challenge students
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Wobble stools to promote focus and active learning
A classroom where curiosity thrives—watch Mrs. Stevensen’s special STEM surprise!
Brooke Vogel - A Teacher Who Does Far More Than Just Teach
We are proud to honor Brooke Vogel, an extraordinary educator who continually shows dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to her students and school.
At her small rural school in Cleveland, MN, Brooke does far more than teach—she advocates, volunteers, and inspires. When faced with challenges, she steps up, ensuring her combined 1st/2nd-grade class receives the education they deserve. She’s been a driving force in securing funding, personally reaching out to community members to emphasize the importance of investing in education. She also serves as the teacher representative for the PTO, always working to make her school a better place for both students and fellow educators.
To help support her vision for a fun and engaging classroom, Profinium purchased everything on her Amazon wish list, including:
"Brooke’s dedication to her students and school community is truly inspiring," said Mark Mitzel, VP of Business Banking at Profinium. "Her tireless efforts exemplify what ‘Dream Big, Teach Bold’ is all about, and we are honored to bring her classroom dream to life."
- New book series to inspire young readers
- Art & craft supplies to spark creativity
- Stickers & materials to encourage engagement
- Wobble boards to support focus & active learning
- A modular couch for reading, fort-building, and flexible seating
"Brooke’s dedication to her students and school community is truly inspiring," said Mark Mitzel, VP of Business Banking at Profinium. "Her tireless efforts exemplify what ‘Dream Big, Teach Bold’ is all about, and we are honored to bring her classroom dream to life."