President Linda Aguiñaga
(eeapresident1@gmail.com)
To Linda, the EEA represents stability and empowerment in an ever-evolving educational landscape. She believes that the association allows members to enact meaningful change and be part of something larger than themselves through activism and advocacy. Linda often says that public education is the great equalizer, and she sees the EEA as a vital force in upholding that belief. She encourages all members to actively participate and support one another—reminding everyone that, like a gym, a union only grows stronger when its members show up, invest their time, and stand together.
Linda brings 21 years of diverse teaching experience within Elyria City Schools. Throughout her career, she has taught Math and Science at Hilltop Academy and Franklin, and English Language Arts and Social Studies at Northwood. She has worked with students across nearly every grade from 4th through 8th, and has even guided the district’s youngest learners during Summer School. Her dedication to her students and her broad experience across multiple schools give her a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the needs and strengths of Elyria’s educators and students alike.
Linda is deeply committed to building connections with every member of the Elyria Education Association (EEA). She values getting to know each member personally. One of her goals as EEA President is to plan social events as an opportunity for everyone to relax, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. Those who know Linda best understand her love for conversation and her genuine passion for creating a sense of community among educators.
Vice President Dan Falk
(vicepresident@elyriaea.com)
Dan has served as an English Learner (EL) teacher at Hamilton for the past six years, part of a 15-year journey in education that has taken him from Alaska, Japan, and Lorain to Elyria. Each experience has shaped his teaching philosophy and deepened his commitment to student success and equity.
Since 2019, Dan has served as a Building Representative at Hamilton and remained an active member of the Elyria Education Association. He currently serves on Hamilton’s Site-Based Committee, C & B Committee, ELPDC, Insurance Committee, and our Negotiations Team. In addition, he’s represented our members at Representative Assemblies and participated in numerous NEOEA and OEA trainings, testified at the Ohio’s Senate Education Committee, and serves on the English Learner Advisory Committee with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.
He is passionate about ensuring that every member is represented, heard, and supported. He firmly believes in the power of organized labor, the necessity of transparency, and the impact of clear, honest communication. Advocating for educators and the students he serves is not just part of his role—it’s at the heart of everything he does.
Treasurer Paul Kothe
(treasurer1eea@gmail.com)
With over 20 years of dedicated service in the school district, Paul has worn many hats—teacher, coach, union representative, supplemental review chair, and most recently, treasurer. Throughout his two decades in education, he’s had the privilege of coaching multiple sports and supporting countless students—both in and out of the classroom.
His involvement with the union has been just as prominent. He’s proudly served as a building representative and actively participated in four contract negotiation cycles, advocating for fairness and transparency on behalf of our members.
He is married to a fellow EEA member (Ali) and they are the proud parents of three amazing kids and a dog named Rip.
Paul is excited to take on the role of EEA Treasurer and looks forward to continuing to serve our members with integrity, dedication and honesty.
Secretary Maria Friday
(eeasecretary@gmail.com)
Maria has been a proud Pioneer for 27 years.
She has taught in three different buildings and has formed many positive friendships along the way. Maria is currently a 2nd grade teacher at Eastern Heights Elementary. At EHES, she is an active member of the Discipline Committee, SBDMC, ELA TBT, and Social Committee.
Maria has served the Elyria Education Association (EEA) as a building representative for all 27 years. Her many roles within the EEA have included serving as the Human Relations Chair, Elementary Grievance Chair, OEA Fund Chair, a member of the Negotiating Team, and a delegate to NEOEA, OEA, and NEA. She currently serves as the EEA Secretary. One of Maria’s goals in this role is to increase member involvement.
Maria and her husband, John, are the proud parents of two sons, both currently attending Miami University. She loves her family, teaching, serving her fellow EEA members, spending time at the beach, and taking her dogs for walks.
Maria looks forward to continuing her leadership role in the Elyria Education Association.
Please use your personal email when contacting EEA Officers (school email is a public record)