• Age: 39

• Role: Dispatcher

• District: Bemidji Area Schools, ISD 31

• Location: Bemidji, MN

Megan Fratzke was a stay-at-home mom for six years, and when she was ready to try something new, she turned to the school bus, getting hired in dispatch for her local district in Bemidji, Minnesota.

For Fratzke, the day starts early at 4:30 when she addresses missed messages from drivers or paras regarding coverage needed for the morning shift. She’s to the office by 5:30, and gets to work assigning buses, arranging subs, and printing route sheets. She’s focused on routing through 9, then shifts focus to extracurricular and field trip routes for the district and surrounding charter schools. She is always ready to help solve a problem. 

“I really enjoy that every day brings a new challenge, and that I have the opportunity to work with people with diverse personalities and from such varying backgrounds,” she said. “It keeps things interesting!”

Kala Henkensiefken, SPED manager at the same district, said Fratzke is an invaluable asset who works with grace, dedication, and exceptional skill. “This position is not easy to fill, as it demands someone with not only patience and empathy, but also the willingness to remain on call 24/7. Prior to Megan’s arrival, we struggled to find drivers willing to take on extracurricular trip assignments. Megan quickly identified opportunities for process improvements and fostered stronger relationships with both customers and employees. Megan is starting her third year with us and in that short time, we have seen dramatic changes within our department. Her natural people skills and engaging personality have had a tremendous impact, making it easier for our team to recruit drivers during a time of shortage.”

One of the lessons Fratzke has learned is that although planning is valuable, anything can change in an instant. She credits her co-workers for making last-minute adjustments, thinking creatively, and focusing on getting students safely to and from school every day.

What she most hopes to see more of is the continued innovation in student identification, routing, and safety, and the appreciation for all those involved in that work. 

Fratzke advises other aspiring leaders to be open to learning by experience, from co-workers, training, and on the fly. “Stick with it even on the hard days, because it’s an important profession,” she said. “Utilize resources to become familiar with the options that can be used in the event of last-minute events and changes to plans. Stay creative, and have fun.”

Henkensiefken adds that Fratzke also serves as secretary of her union group and volunteers at her children’s school. “Megan’s blend of professionalism, compassion, and volunteerism make her more than deserving of recognition,” she said. “She has not only excelled in her role, but has also made a lasting impact on our community.”