Hastings High School

Staff Spotlight - Temira Butler, Special Education Teacher, HHS In Hastings Public Schools, our educators wear many hats, but few have a collection as impressive as Ms. Temira Butler’s. Since joining ISD 200 in 2007, Ms. Butler has been a cornerstone of our district, pouring her energy and expertise into every role she takes on—and there are many! She currently serves as a Special Education teacher at Hastings High School, teaches social studies during summer school, works as a Homebound teacher, participates in the Native American Parent Advisory Committee, and represents our district on the Insurance Committee. Ms. Butler’s dedication to education spans nearly two decades. “After 15 years of teaching multiple subjects, I am now a resource teacher at both the high school and HAHS, and I also co-teach English 10 and Algebra 2 Essentials,” she shares. Her flexibility, passion, and drive to meet student’s individual needs are evident in every role she fulfills. Over the years, she has witnessed the evolving landscape of education. “At ISD 200, I’ve embraced technology to support student learning. However, I’ve also seen how it can negatively impact students' social, emotional, and academic development. What our students need now more than ever is our full attention—and a partnership between educators, parents, and the greater Hastings community to help hold students accountable and support rigorous learning.” Ms. Butler’s belief in Hastings High School runs deep—so much so that she paid out-of-state tuition so her youngest child could attend HHS, graduating in 2023. Her decision speaks volumes about the high regard in which she holds her colleagues. “The staff at Hastings High School are exceptional. Dana Strain, Christine Meister, Patty McNamara, Callie Lawrenz, Todd Levos, Christian Waage, Anthony Letourneau, Jackie Morrison, Jessie Holm, and Brianna Dietz are just a few who inspire me daily with their thoughtfulness, skill, and dedication.” Outside the classroom, Ms. Butler leads a vibrant and active life. She enjoys camping, reading, collecting Funko Pops, raising exotic animals, and exploring the diverse cultures across Minnesota—both Indigenous and immigrant communities. Ms. Temira Butler exemplifies the passion, commitment, and heart that define our Hastings staff. Her impact stretches far beyond the classroom, touching the lives of students, families, and colleagues alike. We are incredibly grateful to have her as part of our ISD 200 family. Thank you, Ms. Butler, for all you do!

The School Board of Hastings Public Schools is conducting a search for a new superintendent. The School Board contracted with the Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA) to guide and provide assistance throughout the process. The School Board met on April 3, 2025, to plan the search. To ensure all constituents in the district have access to accurate information regarding search processes and expectations, MSBA will host a virtual Q & A with MSBA at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. Click here to join the Zoom session at that time. All interested individuals are invited to attend the live session; however, to accommodate busy schedules as well as ensure access to search information, the session will also be recorded and made available on the district website for the remainder of the search. Questions about the search process can be submitted anonymously in advance by clicking here: Submit Questions About the Search Here. The deadline for submittal of advance questions is Wednesday, April 16 at noon. Questions may also be submitted during the session using the chat box. We hope you can join MSBA for this overview of the upcoming search process. If you are unable to join us live, please visit the district website to watch the recording at a later date. Contact Barb Dorn, MSBA Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search, at 507-508-5501 with any questions. For more information, visit our website at: https://www.hastings.k12.mn.us/page/superintendent-search Thank you for your interest and participation in the superintendent search process!

Staff Spotlight, Mary Shrader, Parent Educator, Tilden We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Mary Shrader to the ISD200 family this year as a Parent Educator! Mary is joining the Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program in Hastings, where her work is already making a profound impact on children, families, and the community as a whole. "I am constantly inspired by the ECFE and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) teachers here in Hastings," shares Mary. "My colleagues are incredibly skilled professionals who make a lasting difference for young children and their families every day." At Tilden Elementary, Ms. Shrader’s role is centered around building and strengthening relationships—both with and within families. As Mary puts it, "The most meaningful learning for both children and adults happens within the context of relationships. In our supportive groups, parents explore science-based approaches to parenting. They work to build on their own strengths, learn from one another, and stay open to new ideas and strategies." One of Mary’s key goals is to expand access to ECFE, especially for working parents and those with school-aged children. She is passionate about exploring important topics such as self-care, self-regulation, co-regulation, positive discipline, media and technology use, fostering a growth mindset, child-led play, and early literacy. These are just a few of the many valuable areas Mary addresses with the families she supports. The work Mary and her colleagues do extends far beyond the early childhood years. The foundation they lay helps our youngest learners build the skills and confidence necessary for long-term academic success—impacting their entire educational journey. When she’s not working to empower families and foster young minds, Mary enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren. Her hobbies include biking, kayaking, hiking, reading, and crafting. Thank you, Ms. Shrader, for helping to prepare our children for a bright and successful future. Our community is truly stronger because of you!

Staff Spotlight, Kailyn Gernes, Paraprofessional, Pinecrest At the heart of our school community are the paraprofessionals—dedicated individuals who play a crucial role in helping our students achieve their goals, overcome challenges, and reach their fullest potential. This month, we’re thrilled to celebrate one such outstanding team member: Ms. Kailyn Gernes, a paraprofessional at Pinecrest Elementary. For the past three years, Kailyn has been a vital part of our Pinecrest family. Her passion for supporting students goes far beyond the classroom, as she works tirelessly to help them thrive. Kailyn shares, "Watching our students succeed is the best part of my job! No goal is too small, and when our students reach those goals, it's incredible to celebrate with them. Positive feedback and reinforcement are what keep us all going. Being able to motivate and encourage excellence, while helping create a safe and supportive environment for our students, is what drives me every day." A proud graduate of Hastings High School, Kailyn grew up in the community she now serves. She reflects fondly on the incredible teachers she had as a student and is deeply honored to now work alongside them. "My co-workers inspire me with their innovative ideas and their unwavering dedication," Kailyn says. In addition to her role as a paraprofessional, Kailyn also coaches the Middle School volleyball team, where she brings the same dedication to fostering student success both on and off the court. Outside of school, Kailyn enjoys playing volleyball, attending concerts, spending quality time with her family, and soaking up the outdoors. Kailyn is deeply inspired by her hardworking parents, and it's clear that she, in turn, inspires the students she works with every single day. Kailyn, thank you for everything you do to make Pinecrest Elementary a better place! We are grateful for your passion, commitment, and the positive impact you have on so many.

Staff Spotlight, Karen Beard, 3rd-grade teacher, McAuliffe Oh, to be a kid again—especially a 3rd grader in Ms. Beard’s classroom at McAuliffe Elementary. What a lucky group of students they are! After hearing countless positive stories about the Hastings community and the supportive work environment, Karen knew she had to be a part of this district. Now in her second year of teaching at Hastings Public Schools, we’re fortunate to have her on board! For Ms. Beard, teaching is a source of immense joy. "My favorite part of my job is helping students realize their full potential, no matter where they start in their learning journey. I absolutely love those ‘lightbulb moments’ when the learning finally clicks," she shares. Her own children serve as a major source of inspiration, but she also thrives on building strong relationships with her students. By sharing her own hobbies and interests, she’s able to connect with them in meaningful ways. When she’s not in the classroom, Karen enjoys a variety of hobbies, including golf, baking, gardening, and embarking on family adventures. While being a 3rd-grade teacher is undoubtedly an adventure of its own, we’re grateful she’s up for the challenge!

Staff Spotlight, Dina Greiskalns, Preschool Teacher, Tilden For the past two years, Ms. Dina Greiskalns has been working with our youngest learners in the ISD 200 Preschool program at Tilden. "My favorite part of my job is seeing the excitement in the kids' faces as they are eager to learn and work alongside our incredible team of positive, experienced staff members," says Ms. Greiskalns. Dina brings over 30 years of experience working with young children in various roles. She has a deep passion for teaching them to be thoughtful thinkers, kind friends, and enthusiastic learners. "We create a classroom family, both within our room and throughout Tilden. This preschool program is dedicated to supporting children during one of the most exciting and important stages of their lives—their first educational experience. The Early Childhood model here in Hastings is unique and effective, with a team of staff who support students, families, and each other," Dina explains. Throughout her career, Dina has had many opportunities, but she chose ISD 200 because of its tight-knit community and its focus on the development of young children. "I love working with my coworkers and administrators!" she shares. Dina is inspired by her 100-year-old grandmother, who continues to live independently in her own home. "She has been an incredible role model—caring, compassionate, and hardworking. She leads by example, always baking something delicious for family and friends. She lived through the Great Depression, both World Wars (including her husband's time serving and being shot down over Italy), and countless other world changes. Despite all of this, she remains the sunny, shining light in my life. I strive to follow her example by helping and caring for my family, friends, students, and coworkers," says Dina. When not baking, Dina enjoys reading, kayaking, and hiking on the North Shore, where she practices her skills at hunting for agates.

Staff Spotlight, Jackie Morrison, Special Education Resource Teacher, HHS Ms. Jackie Morrison has been an invaluable member of our high school staff for six years, serving as a Special Education Resource Teacher. She is deeply committed to her student's success and takes great pride in being a part of their educational journey. Watching her students grow and evolve over their four years is something she cherishes, though, like many Special Education teachers, she wishes the paperwork could be less demanding! "I strive to have a positive impact on every student I interact with—whether I'm co-teaching in math classes, supporting the National Honor Society, managing my caseload, or simply crossing paths in the hallways. My goal is for each student to feel uplifted when they see me," Jackie shares. Recruited to ISD200 by a former Special Education Director, Jackie quickly felt at home in our district. Her connection to the community was so strong that after just a few years, she convinced her husband to relocate their family to Hastings. Together, they have three young children: Ida and Leona, who attend McAuliffe Elementary, and their son Cyrus, who will join them soon. Jackie's passion is fueled by the incredible dedication of her colleagues. "Every day, I am inspired by the commitment, passion, and care my coworkers demonstrate toward our students," she says. Outside of her work supporting students and managing IEPs, Jackie enjoys reading, traveling, playing games, and spending quality time with her family and friends. The work of our Special Education Department is essential in providing the support and resources many of our students need. Their efforts are vital not only for the students but also for their families. We are incredibly grateful to Jackie for the profound impact she makes on our community every single day.

Staff Spotlight, Anne Stoneberg, Coordinator of Raiders Study Center, HHS For 31 years, Ms. Anne Stoneberg has been a dedicated and invaluable part of ISD 200, and our schools are deeply grateful for the community members who devote their careers to making a positive impact. Currently serving as the coordinator for the Raiders Study Center at the High School, Anne plays a pivotal role in helping students develop skills for lifelong learning. “The Raiders Study Center is a guided study space where we focus on the importance of organization, building connections, and managing daily homework. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the joy and pride in a student after they’ve worked hard to overcome a challenge,” she shares. Whether working with students or colleagues, Anne is known for her unwavering respect, integrity, and perseverance. We’re grateful that she’s passing these vital qualities on to our students. Anne has loved working in our public schools, especially as it allowed her to raise her four children within the same system. The Stoneberg family is a true example of Raider Pride! “My family, including my two sweet grandsons, inspire and challenge me to be curious, accepting, helpful, adventurous, patient, confident, and grateful,” Anne says. Outside of her work with students, Anne enjoys traveling through life’s journey with her husband, Brad. She also loves spending time in the garden, taking daily walks, reading, listening to podcasts, and hosting family and friends. Thank you, Ms. Stoneberg, for your dedication to our schools over the years. We are so fortunate to have an incredible staff member like you who helps our students thrive!

Staff Spotlight, Thomas Garding, Special Education Teacher, HMS Our students who need additional support receive exceptional guidance from a fantastic new teacher. Thomas Garding joined the outstanding Special Education team at Hastings Middle School this year. This dedicated group of educators empowers our students to develop the skills and confidence they need to reach their full potential. Thomas has called Hastings home for the past four years and was eager to become more involved in our community. Despite holding a teaching position in a nearby district, he felt that working in Hastings would offer a unique opportunity to contribute to our collective growth. He is also the proud father of a two-year-old daughter, who is already on track to be a future Raider! Mr. Garding thrives on connecting with his students, sharing moments of laughter, and witnessing their progress. He wants the community to know how deeply the students he works with feel supported and how much they appreciate that encouragement. His inspiration comes from his daughter: "Her courage, curiosity, and kindness constantly motivate me to be better and to bring out those qualities in everyone around me," he says. When he’s not helping students at school, Mr. Garding enjoys reading, writing, gardening, woodworking, tackling house projects, and playing guitar. Welcome to ISD200, Thomas. We’re so happy to have you with us!

Staff Spotlight, Bethany Bagwill, Academic and Restorative Coach at HHS Hastings Public Schools is proud to have a team of dedicated Academic and Restorative Coaches across the district. These professionals play a vital role in fostering a positive school climate and culture, offering invaluable support to staff, students, and families. They are trained in restorative practices that empower students to resolve conflicts, repair harm, and build stronger relationships. Additionally, they guide educators with key behavioral interventions and professional development. Thanks to their efforts, students gain critical life skills—such as responsibility, respect, relationship-building, and reintegration—that help them thrive in school and beyond. One standout team member is Ms. Bethany Bagwill, who has been with ISD 200 for eight years and has profoundly impacted Hastings High School. Although she wishes there were more hours in the day, Bethany says, "One of the things I enjoy most about my job is the ability to connect and collaborate with all students and staff throughout the building." Her positive influence can be felt throughout the school, as she tirelessly supports individuals and groups. Many people inspire Bethany in her life, but none more than her mother. "She’s the strongest, feistiest person I’ve ever met. She is truly amazing," she says. A Hastings native, Ms. Bagwill has deep ties to the community, even though she now lives outside the city. She loves Hastings's small-town feel and is proud to serve the community that shaped her. Bethany cheers on her two sons at their sporting events when she's not at school. She also enjoys motorcycle rides, spending time at the lake and cabin, and making memories with her friends and family. We are incredibly fortunate to have dedicated professionals like Ms. Bagwill on our team. Her contributions not only support our students' academic and emotional growth but also enrich the entire school community. The resources and guidance she provides help prepare our students for success in ISD200 and in future endeavors. Thank you, Ms. Bagwill, for all that you do!

Staff Spotlight: Rosario Mollo, 6th Grade STEM, HMS Mr. Mollo has been inspiring our 6th graders for the past nine years through his passion for STEM. As a dedicated educator, he’s been helping students build essential computer skills, from digital literacy and coding to robotics. “My class works with tools like Google Sheets and programming languages. It’s incredible to see students imagining themselves using these skills in their future careers,” says Mr. Mollo. An advocate for collaboration, Mr. Mollo values input from families. “I send a weekly email to parents, updating them on the projects we’re working on,” he explains. “If there’s a concept or skill in STEM that would benefit the students, I’m always happy to hear suggestions.” For Mr. Mollo, teaching goes beyond just imparting knowledge—it’s about encouragement. “I love seeing students thrive in a non-traditional classroom setting,” he shares. “Sometimes, kids doubt themselves and give up before they even try because they don’t believe they can succeed. But the adults in their lives—teachers, parents—are here to help them realize their potential.” Having strong local roots, Mr. Mollo is married to a Hastings alum and has close ties to the community. “I’ve heard so many great things about this district from friends and family, so I knew it was the perfect place for me,” he says with pride. Mr. Mollo draws his inspiration from his own upbringing. “My parents are Italian immigrants with little formal education. Their incredible work ethic and positive attitude taught me the value of perseverance,” he reflects. Though he’s busy shaping young minds, Mr. Mollo still finds time to enjoy life outside the classroom. With three young boys—ages 7, 3, and 1—he and his wife are always on the go. As a huge sports fan, you can often find him multitasking, catching a game whenever possible. We’re incredibly grateful for Mr. Mollo’s dedication to developing strong computer skills in our middle schoolers. These technical abilities are essential in today’s digital world and will serve them well for years to come.

Staff Spotlight: Jenny Cooper, Art Teacher - Kennedy Meet Ms. Jenny Cooper, the talented new Art Instructor at Kennedy Elementary! After teaching in another district, Jenny sought a full-time position in a school community where the arts are truly appreciated and celebrated. She's thrilled to have found her new home in Hastings, where she feels welcomed and at ease. While Ms. Cooper wishes for a few more hands-on days filled with messy, creative projects, her favorite part of teaching art is watching students who may struggle in other subjects truly shine in the art room. "Creation is an innate part of being human," she explains. "By providing students with a rich, hands-on art experience, we can nurture their creativity, which is key to both their academic success and personal happiness." Ms. Cooper is excited to be part of her students' artistic journeys. She hopes the skills and perspectives they gain in her classroom will inspire them long after they leave elementary school. "I want them to carry a creative spirit with them as they move forward in their school and professional careers," she says. When asked about her personal inspirations, Ms. Cooper reflects, "The helpers of the world inspire me—the people who step up in times of crisis, those who put others' needs before their own, and the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to care for others. These are the people who inspire me the most." Outside the classroom, Ms. Cooper enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, Evie and Bree. Together, they love mountain biking, cooking delicious meals, and traveling whenever possible. A lifelong soccer enthusiast, Ms. Cooper has played on a women's soccer team for 16 years! We're so grateful to have Ms. Cooper with us at Kennedy Elementary, inspiring our students and fostering a love of art. Thank you, Ms. Cooper, and welcome home!

Hastings School Board Directors Jessica Dressely and Mark Zuzek Honored with MSBA Director’s Award. Congratulations to Hastings School Board Directors Jessica Dressely and Mark Zuzek, who have been recognized with the Minnesota School Board Association's (MSBA) Director's Award! This prestigious honor is given to board members who achieve 100 or more points for attendance at MSBA training programs over the course of their term(s). We are proud of Jessica and Mark for their commitment to professional development and dedication to serving our community.

Staff Spotlight: Sarah Anderson ECSE Teacher/ECSE Department Lead - Tilden For nearly a decade, Sarah Anderson has started each day with smiles, laughter, and the eager curiosity of young minds ready to learn. As an Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) teacher, she plays a pivotal role in preparing the youngest members of our community for their academic journey and future success. The ECSE program serves children from birth through kindergarten entry, providing specialized educational services to those who face developmental delays or medical conditions that impact their growth. Depending on a child’s age and needs, services are delivered in a variety of settings. Sarah values the collaborative spirit of the Tilden-based ECSE team, which includes teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other support specialists. Together, they work to integrate their students into the enriching preschool programs offered within ISD 200. “I love greeting kids as they come to school for the first time, meeting them where they are at, providing supports that are needed to help make every kid as successful as they can be, watching every one of them grow and learn. I love that a preschooler’s work is play. As the ECSE department lead, I am oftentimes a family’s first connection to the school district, and I take pride in making that a positive experience,” shares Sarah. A native of Prescott, Wisconsin, Sarah moved to Hastings in 2008 to be closer to family. After seven years working in a different district, she eagerly applied for a position in Hastings when it became available. “I love the sense of community here,” she shares. “The commute is easy, and we’re truly a family invested in the success of ISD 200. My husband, Brent, works as the Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds, and our two kids are students here. We enjoy living and working in the same community, and it’s always a joy to bump into past and present students and their families.” Outside the classroom, Sarah enjoys cheering on her kids at their various activities—more Raider Pride!—as well as camping, solving puzzles, and spending time outdoors with her family. Thank you, Sarah, for your dedication to our youngest learners and your continued support of our school community!

Ms. Alex Westby is one of the newer faces at Kennedy Elementary, but in just two short years, she has already made a significant impact. Her passion for teaching and connecting with her students is evident in everything she does. “I love seeing the smiling faces each morning when I greet my students at the door,” she says. “It’s exciting to watch them get enthusiastic about learning.” Before joining the Kennedy Elementary team, Ms. Westby taught Special Education in Wisconsin. Eager for new opportunities, she had always heard great things about the Hastings School District. “I’m very happy to be working here in Hastings,” she shares. “The community and staff are incredibly supportive, and it’s been a rewarding place to grow professionally.” Since arriving in Hastings, Ms. Westby has fully embraced her role both inside and outside the classroom. She enjoys volunteering at after-school events, finding it a great way to connect with students and their families. “It’s been wonderful to build relationships with not just my students but their families as well,” she says. “Those connections are so important for creating a strong community, and I’ve loved getting to know everyone.” What drives Ms. Westby in her work is a deep commitment to helping every student succeed. When asked who inspires her, she reflects on her own experiences as a student. “I remember struggling a lot in school when I was younger,” she says. “I had teachers who supported me and helped me find my way. They made all the difference. Now, I want to be that person for my students—to help them believe they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.” Outside of school, Ms. Westby is a passionate sports fan, especially when it comes to Minnesota teams. Whether it’s cheering on the Minnesota Vikings or the Wild, she enjoys the thrill of the games. She’s also recently welcomed a new puppy, Miss Luna Mae, to her family. The playful pup keeps her on her toes, but when she has a moment of downtime, Ms. Westby enjoys reading and spending time outdoors. We are so grateful to have Ms. Westby as part of our team, inspiring our young learners to set high goals and pursue them with confidence!

Raider Staff Spotlight - Bridget Dean-Kautto, LEAP Teacher, HMS The students in the LEAP classroom are fortunate to have such dedicated support from Bridget Dean-Kautto, who is making an incredible impact in her first year at ISD 200. The LEAP program, designed for elementary-age students with special needs, provides a range of resources that help kids thrive in a positive, nurturing environment. “I’m enjoying getting to know my students and working together to find solutions that fit their unique needs,” shares Ms. Dean-Kautto. The solutions she creates are as individual as the students she serves, tailored to help them reach their full potential. If Bridget could make one wish, it would be for additional support staff to help further enrich the classroom experience. "A person with a disability is not 'without' ability," she says. “Each of my students brings joy, strength, and depth to my life, their learning environment, and the entire Hastings community." Originally from outside the area, Bridget and her family recently moved closer to the Twin Cities, where her husband works as a firefighter in St. Paul. We are fortunate to have Bridget here in Hastings, where her dedication to our students shines daily. Her commitment is fueled by her students, colleagues, family, and friends—each of whom inspires her to give her best. Hastings is lucky to have such a strong support system for students in ISD 200, thanks to staff like Ms. Dean-Kautto. Bridget enjoys rowing, hiking, reading, and writing—activities that keep her energized and inspired when she's not making a difference in the classroom.

Raider Staff Spotlight - Mary Pasch, ELA Teacher HMS The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and that’s certainly true for Ms. Mary Pasch, the English Language Arts teacher for our 6th graders at HMS. Born and raised in Hastings, Mary saw firsthand her mother's impact as a teacher and administrator in the school district she would eventually serve. After a brief time away, she and her husband returned to Hastings, where they raised their family, and Mary dedicated her career to ISD 200. She is now in her 36th year of teaching within the district. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work alongside amazing students, parents, staff, and community members over the years,” says Ms. Pasch. “My life is richer because of these connections, and I’ve learned so much from everyone.” Mary finds deep satisfaction in her role. “I love watching my students’ academic and social/emotional growth throughout the year,” she explains. “I also appreciate the many opportunities I’ve had to try new things, which have helped me grow personally and professionally.” Mary’s inspiration comes from the strong women in her family—her mother and grandmother—who were trailblazers in their own right. Both women, she says, demonstrated the confidence and work ethic to carve new paths and accomplish great things for themselves and others. It’s clear that Mary continues to follow in their footsteps. When she’s not helping students thrive, Ms. Pasch enjoys reading, gardening, cooking, canning, and hiking.

Raider Staff Spotlight - Heather Beedy, MS Bridge Program Teacher For a decade now, we have had the privilege of having Ms. Heather Beedy as a teacher in the Bridge program at HMS. The Bridge program offers support and services to the many middle school students who need a smaller, more resource-filled educational environment. Middle School can be challenging for many students. Dealing with additional hurdles makes it even more difficult. Because of Ms. Beedy's amazing support, these kids are set up for success! She loves watching her students grow, learn, and mature over the years they spend at the Middle School. “I love working with students at the Middle School level! They can be challenging, but I enjoy helping them find success and gain pride in their abilities. Students are going through so many changes at this age, and it is amazing to help them learn skills to last a lifetime,” shares Heather. When she first visited Hastings 20 years ago, she fell in love with it! While she lives in St. Paul, she knew she wanted to be a part of this community. “It is amazing to feel part of a community where you are not just a number but an integral part of a team,” she says. Heather has always wanted to be a teacher, but she was truly inspired by her high school language arts teacher, Ms. Wicklund. She was a great educator, someone she looked up to immensely. In addition, Ms. Beedy’s mom is a huge inspiration, as she is the hardest-working and strongest person she knows! Heather is kept busy with her 17 and 20-year-old sons. They love the outdoors and spend as much time as they can hunting for the biggest fish on the lake! “We are in the boat from ice out and then on the ice as soon as it’s thick enough to drive our 4-wheeler out,” she shares. When not watching her bobber, she has her nose in a book, finishing at least 50 books yearly! Ms. Beedy, thank you for your dedication to our middle schoolers. Your work and commitment to our students set them up for success, and many look up to you as much as you did to your educational mentor.

Raider Staff Spotlight - Tonya Zeien, HHS Custodian School district budgets often include a significant allocation for maintaining buildings and grounds. Our school facilities are more than just structures—they are the heart of our district, where students gather to learn, grow, and thrive. Creating a safe, clean, and welcoming environment is essential to student success, and much of that responsibility lies with our incredible custodial team. Our dedicated custodial staff works year-round to keep our buildings clean, safe, and operational. In addition to regular cleaning duties, they oversee major updates and improvements. These updates, alongside their daily work, help ensure that each school day begins with a safe, healthy environment for both students and staff. One of the newest members of our custodial team is Ms. Tonya Zeien, who recently relocated to Hastings from Ellsworth. After working for four years in the River Falls School District, Tonya chose to join the ISD 200 family. She brings a keen eye for detail and a passion for cleanliness to her work. "I enjoy making sure every area is clean and looks great. I pay close attention to detail to ensure everything is sanitized and ready for students and staff," Tonya says. "Hastings High School is such a big and beautiful school, and I'm looking forward to getting to know the teachers and staff here." When she's not working hard to keep our schools looking their best, Tonya enjoys outdoor activities like tennis, pickleball, and camping. She also values spending time with her family and finds inspiration in her two daughters' successful careers. We want to express our deepest gratitude to Tonya and all the members of our custodial team for their unwavering dedication. Thanks to their efforts, our school buildings not only look great but also serve as a true reflection of our Raider Pride. We appreciate everything they do to create an environment where students and staff can succeed.

The AVID 8 class recently practiced the focused note-taking process—ice cream style! They took notes about how to make ice cream in a bag, processed their notes, added questions and connections, and wrote a summary. Finally, they got to test it all out—an assessment that you can eat. Yum!