Simon Glaser was born and raised in the vibrant and diverse University City neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA. At an early age, he learned the value of a pluralistic community, the power of collective action, and the importance of social justice. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison he became involved in campus politics, first as an editor of the student daily newspaper, and later as the political chair of the student organization Realization of a Dream. In his professional life his commitment to social justice and collective action grew as a Teach for America corps member, public school teacher, and leader in the teachers’ union.

Simon moved to Rochester in 2010, and except for a three-year stop in Roanoke, Virginia, he has taught in Rochester Public Schools since that time.

Simon has dedicated his career to education, community service, and fighting for the issues that matter most to working families. With decades of experience as a teacher, organizer, and advocate, he has built a reputation as a leader who listens, collaborates, and focuses on results.

A Commitment to Education and Empowering the Next Generation

Simon’s career began in the classroom, when Teach for America gave him his start in the public schools outside New Orleans. After his two-year commitment in Louisiana, he earned a master’s degree in education from the University of Pennsylvania and has since spent over 30 years educating students and working for teachers. As an English teacher in Rochester Public Schools, he has worked tirelessly to ensure that every student—no matter their background—receives the high-quality education they deserve.

His passion for education goes beyond the classroom. As an active member of Rochester’s teachers’ union, he has served in many roles, including vice president, negotiations team member, and government relations representative —fighting for fair wages, better working conditions, and policies that benefit both teachers and students. At the state and national levels, he has represented educators as a delegate to the National Education Association Representative Assembly, the Minnesota AFL-CIO, and he has testified before the Minnesota legislature on crucial education policies.

A Record of Organizing and Advocacy

Simon believes in the power of grassroots organizing to drive meaningful change. He has been a strong voice in Education Minnesota’s Legislative Action Committee, where he has worked to shape policies that support students, educators, and schools. He has organized legislative candidate screenings, direct lobbying efforts, and get-out-the-vote initiatives to ensure that public education remains a priority in this state.

Beyond education, Simon has been deeply involved in community advocacy. Working with the local chapter of ISAIAH and Faith in Minnesota, he has mobilized volunteers, led phone banks, and trained community members to advocate for policies that strengthen our local community. He has volunteered with the Rochester Boys and Girls Club and has held leadership roles in multiple faith-based organizations, reflecting his deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and service.

With Simon Glaser, you get a leader who stands up, speaks out, and fights for real progress. Join the movement—because together, we can build a future that works for all of us.