Administrators
Aaron Hyer
Principal
I am grateful to serve as Principal at Dakota Meadows Middle School. I believe that all students have the potential for greatness and it is our job as educators to cultivate that greatness. Middle school is an exciting time for students. Each year students will transition and grow academically, emotionally, and socially. They will acquire new skills that will enhance their ability to apply their learning. We are committed to providing a challenging and rigorous learning environment that fosters collaboration and individual growth.
I have been an educator for 20 years and have taught elementary and middle school students in Rochester, MN and Burnsville, MN. I served as the Dean of Students and Assistant Principal at Prairie Winds and Dakota Meadows Middle School for five years prior to becoming the principal. I have three children, including one middle schooler, and am married to a middle school teacher.
Jessica Buttell
Assistant Principal
Greetings Dakota Meadows Middle School and Mankato community,
It is an honor to serve as the Assistant Principal of Dakota Meadows Middle School. Having served in the Mankato Area Public School (MAPS) district for the past twelve years, I was the Dean of Students at Dakota Meadows Middle School (2022-2023). Prior to this role, I was the Lead Teacher at PEEK Middle School and a special education teacher for eight years.
I am committed to building strong, positive relationships with students, staff, and families, and I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for our students and families that foster their voices and a sense of belonging. I am committed to partnering with our staff to build equitable systems that will serve all students and enhance each student’s knowledge, skills, and well-being.
When not at work, you will find me with my husband (also an educator in the MAPS district) and our four children. We enjoy attending their activities, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with our friends and family.
I thank you for this opportunity, and I am excited to be on this journey with our Dakota Meadows students, staff, and families continuing to develop strong and trusting relationships with our DMMS community.