Dean Frank
Board Chair
rbaboardchair@rochesterbeaconacademy.org
Elisa Bruske
Vice Chair
I am honored to be able to serve on the board of directors at RBA as a community member. I previously worked at RBA from 2015-2024 starting as a paraprofessional and to a special education clerk. Since RBA opened its doors back in 2015 , I have shared and believed in RBA’s mission and vision. In spring 2024 I wanted to continue supporting our staff and students of RBA and made the decision to join the board. I believe that every student belongs and deserves a chance. With the continued support, hard work and dedication of the RBA staff, RBA has been a great place for our students to strive and be there best. In my personal life, I am married and have two adult daughters. When I’m not working, I enjoy planting flowers, watching the MN Vikings and spending time with my family and our dog and going for walks.
Christina Pruka
Treasurer
I am a wife, mom of 2, and work for Winona State University-Rochester in the Nursing Department as an Administrative Assistant. I have been on the school board since 2023 and joined because I see what the school has done to help my son and knew I could help make a difference for all the children in the school. My son attends RBA and will be graduating this year and moving into the SOAR program. I don't think he would be the adult he is today without the help he received at RBA and Scouting. My daughter is still in Elementary so we will see what her future holds! In our free time we love camping with family, boating and fishing, and traveling.
Khristie Cano
Secretary
I’ve seen firsthand how the teachers, administrators, and staff at RBA work together with dedication and care to bring the school’s Mission and Vision to life. Their commitment to inclusion and student success is evident in the way they welcome, educate, and prepare each child to become a confident, capable adult. Serving as a board member is my way of giving back to a school that has had such a meaningful and positive impact on my own children’s lives. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and am a certified Yoga Teacher with a specialization in Yoga Therapy. For the past fifteen years, I’ve also worked alongside therapists who support autistic children, an experience that continues to deepen my understanding of diverse learning needs and compassionate education.
Lizzi Clobes
Teacher Representative
Ellen Nelson
Teacher Representative
Ellen Nelson is the general education Language Arts Teacher at RBA. This is her 4th year at RBA and her 8th year of teaching overall. She holds a B.A. in English from St. Olaf College and a M.S. in Education from Winona State University. Ellen lives in Owatonna with her two dogs, Lucie and Maisie. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and learning new things.
