MEA, a wonderful break from school and homework. Whether it be camping trips, farm work, raking leaves, or catching up on homework, students seem to love this forgotten “holiday”. But what does it stand for? Why do students have it? And when did it start? Let’s look at these interesting answers, and figure out how kids get these annually mid-October breaks.

Superintendent Beth Giese, answered these questions. The beginning tradition of MEA is actually more historical than one might think. She said, “ The first teachers convention was held in Rochester in 1861, a few months after the Civil War broke out.” Public school students have MEA because it is a conference for the educational staff in schools and to help renew teachers teaching licenses. The abbreviation for MEA actually  stands for Minnesota Education Association and is called EA now, but parents and kids still call it MEA. Giese goes on to say that around 10,000 teachers attend this conference every year, out of the 50,000 teachers in Minnesota. The convention is held yearly in St. Paul, and has a new theme each time. This year’s theme Giese says is new technology in schools. Students beware, and keep a look out for a progressing amount of technology this year, for the staff will get many more ideas. Hopefully this will help with the ever-occuring technology problems and confusing programs. Technology is here, and is looking like it’s not going back. Giese adds that she attends every year, and that admission is free.

MEA, beginning on Oct. 20, 2016 should be very interesting and will hopefully hear many amazing stories after the short break. Before students took school breaks for granted, but  the historical side, the meaning of MEA, and the reasons why students have forgotten holiday, give individuals a new perspective to the vacation. Teachers, have fun at the convention, and kids enjoy your busy break!