MASA named Dr. Theresa Battle, Retired Superintendent of Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School District, the recipient of the 2025 MASA Polaris Leadership Award. Dr. Battle was honored for her exemplary school leadership and a lifetime of achievement in education during the MASA Fall Conference, September 28–30, 2025, at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) in Duluth, MN.
The Polaris Leadership Award is named for the North Star because, just as Polaris remains constant in the sky, exemplary administrators serve as steadfast guides for students, staff, and communities. Recipients are recognized for professional courage, fostering innovation, mentoring, and integrity.
MASA is grateful to Ehlers, Inc. for their ongoing support of the Polaris Leadership Award.
“Dr. Battle has been an inspiring leader whose commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success has set a powerful example for school leaders across Minnesota,” said Dr. Deb Henton, MASA Executive Director. “She has worked tirelessly to ensure that every student and staff member is valued and supported, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and leadership.”
Dr. Battle retired on July 1, 2025, after a 40-year career in education, including six years as Superintendent of Burnsville-Eagan-Savage. She began her career as a special education teacher in Hampton, Virginia, before holding teaching and leadership roles with Saint Paul Public Schools, Osseo Area Schools, Minneapolis Public Schools, and the University of Minnesota.
Since becoming Superintendent in 2019, Dr. Battle has advanced Burnsville-Eagan-Savage’s equity-focused mission, leading initiatives such as Culturally Proficient School Systems training for all staff, the Amplify One91 affinity group, and innovative recruitment and retention strategies that increased BIPOC staff representation from 7% in 2020 to more than 18% in 2025. She also guided the district through successful levy campaigns, implemented a comprehensive Pathways K–12 model, and introduced new opportunities such as a Virtual Academy and Associate of Arts degree program.
Beyond her district, Dr. Battle has been a dedicated MASA member, serving on the Professional Assistance Team, Federal Advocacy Committee, and Nominating Committee, while also mentoring aspiring and early-career superintendents. She has shared her expertise as a frequent speaker and panelist, uplifting colleagues and future leaders across Minnesota.
Dr. Battle holds a bachelor’s degree in special education from Hampton University, a master’s degree in educational administration, and a doctorate in education from the University of Minnesota.
