Retired Edina High School economics teacher receives top award

Retired Edina High School economics teacher Michelle Traeger has been co-selected as the Minnesota Council on Economic Education High School Educator of the Year award for 2023. This award was given to Traeger in recognition of her commitment to excellence in economic education for grades 9-12.

“The caliber of high school candidates this year was exceptionally high, prompting us to recognize two educators in this specific category,” said Colleen Gray, Education Director of the Minnesota Council on Economic Education at the University of Minnesota.

Traeger will be honored on Saturday, Oct. 6 at the council’s virtual annual conference, Minn-Econ. 

“Your dedication to nurturing the minds of your students and empowering them with a deeper understanding of economic and personal finance concepts is an inspiration. Your efforts contribute to building a stronger foundation for the economic and financial well-being of your students, and by extension, our community,” lauded Gray.

Traeger taught economics at Edina High School for 18 years after working in the corporate sector at Best Buy. She retired at the end of last school year. 

“The MCEE Economic Teacher of the Year award holds immense significance for me as it validates my dedication to fostering academic excellence and enthusiasm for economics among my students,” said Traeger. “This recognition also underscores the value of effective education in shaping future leaders and decision-makers.”