Alum Spotlight: Ericka Maldonado Medina

Meet Ericka Maldonado Medina, a 2012 Henry Sibley graduate who currently works as a physical therapist at a local clinic. Ericka began her educational journey in School District 197 at Garlough Environmental Magnet School, where her mother Xiomara Medina Calderón works. She then attended Friendly Hills Middle School before moving on to Henry Sibley (now Two Rivers High School). Below, Ericka shares how her experiences at School District 197 influenced her career, gives advice to current students, and reflects on her family’s contributions to the district."It’s special to have teachers and staff who stay with School District 197 for years and work with multiple generations of families in the community."

Tell us about your family!
I grew up in West St. Paul and Eagan. Currently, I live in Prior Lake with my fiancé and dog. I have three younger sisters who also went to School District 197. My mom has worked for the school district most of my life!

What do you do for a career?
I am a physical therapist at a clinic. I work with patients who are experiencing orthopedic issues such as shoulder or back pain. I also specialize in working with patients with breast cancer and patients with Parkinson’s Disease.

What was your post-high school journey?
I went to the University of Minnesota and majored in Biology. Afterward, I continued my education at the University of Minnesota with my Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

What is your family background in the district?
My three sisters and I have all been to the same schools in the district. Our legacy mainly is at Garlough. My sisters and I still love going back to visit! My mom’s legacy has been creating a great space to celebrate diversity and community at Garlough.

What advice would you give to current students in the district? Explore as many classes and activities as you can! If you expose yourself to more learning early on, then you set yourself up for even further growth and opportunities in the future.

Were there any staff members who had a significant impact on you?
I feel like my senior year math and physics teachers significantly impacted me. They were inspiring in how they displayed their love for what they do and pushed me to keep working hard.

What do you believe is the most unique characteristic of our school district? It is very telling how special the school district is given the fact that many people who grew up here return here to work or live.

Ericka is pictured here with her mother Xiomara Medina Calderón