MSEA hosts annual Champions for Children event

The Mat-Su Education Association (MSEA) hosted the 2026 Champions for Children event at Everett's Restaurant.

This annual event celebrates individuals and organizations who go above and beyond volunteering their time in our Mat-Su Borough schools.

Each recipient received an engraved plaque to honor their dedication.

The event emcee and organizer, Linda Jo Klapperich, has organized this event with MSEA for over 20 years.

Amber Glasser was the keynote speaker at this year's event. She is a hospitality leader, community advocate, and passionate supporter of youth and our families across Alaska.

She currently serves as director of operations for Mat-Su Resort and Everett's Restaurant in Wasilla, where she is committed to helping people feel welcome, valued, and connected.

Glasser shared that she had many influential adults in her life that helped her through challenging times in her youth. She understands the importance of supportive adults in our schools.

She continues to give back to her community by supporting schools and creating opportunities for youth.

The Champions for Children Committee comprised of Susan Dunham, Sacha Pettitt, and Linda Jo Klapperich know the importance of continuing this annual celebration to recognize the heroes who volunteer to support our students.

It truly takes a village to raise and support our students.

This year's volunteers who were recognized: Marie Zimmerman - Frontline Mission; Janet Gallardo - Palmer Jr. Middle; Judy Thorssin - Palmer Jr. Middle; Ashley Rogers - Butte Elementary; Jessica Lindman - Sherrod Elementary; Jack Foster - Colony High; Marie Victoria Kalmbach - Tanaina Elementary; Amy Doughty - Iditarod Elementary; Megan Craig - Academy Charter; Sherrill Collins - Birchtree Charter; Larry Burton - Shaw Elementary.