Today’s celebration is just a small reflection of the immense gratitude we hold for all of you, not only in our district, but across the entire Hastings community.”

Superintendent Dr. Tammy Champa

On Monday, April 21, the tables in the Hastings High School Commons were not filled with under- and upperclassmen, but were instead populated with teachers from across the district who were celebrated and recognized for all they do.
“Today’s celebration is just a small reflection of the immense gratitude we hold for all of you, not only in our district, but across the entire Hastings community,” said Superintendent Dr. Tammy Champa.
The event was put on by volunteers, from the National Honor Society to student musicians, as well as donations from individuals and businesses across the district including Logan Farm Designs who donated all of the awards presented at the event.
Former school board member Lisa Hedin spoke to a “groundswell of volunteers,” both from students and community member who made the event possible.
“As an alumnus of HHS, I still have fond memories of my school years. I have always been so very proud of this district and I continue to be,” said Mayor Mary Fasbender.
Behind the podium stood a sign saying, “Kindness is free,” the oft-used motto of the late Jenny Wiederholt-Pine. It was a sentiment echoed by several speakers, including Fasbender.
Teachers were recognized for service awards ranging from 5-45 years of service in the district. As the awards were given out, Champa listed world events that coincided with various teachers starting at the district including the release of Pac Man in May 1980, the same year that John Dewall came to ISD 200. Dewall was recognized for 45 years of service.
Middle School Language Arts teacher Mary Pasch was recognized as employee of the year and for her retirement at the end of this year.
“Mary Pasch embodies the heart and soul of Hastings Middle School; her unwavering dedication, tireless efforts and genuine care for others makes her a truly deserving recipient of this recognition,” said Champa.
Hastings Middle School Computer Science teacher and President of Ed MN—Hastings Lori Best presented the Hastings Teacher of the Year candidates: Josh Colvin, Taylor Gapinski, Jessica Holm, Kari Jaeger, Paul Olson, and Steve Peterson. The winner will be announced at the May 6 annual banquet.
Best also announced the two Friends of Education awards going to Denny Beck of Denny Beck Photography and the Hastings Fire Department. Beck was recognized for his tireless work photographing Hastings sports and other events like prom, senior nights, and parent nights. The Hastings Fire Department was recognized for their work with preschoolers.
“Each year, the Hastings Fire Department sends a truck and two firemen to Tilden Preschool to teach them about fire safety,” said Best.
Best also recognized Champa who will be leaving the district at the end of June: “In the two years you have served as our superintendent, you have made a difference and you have had an impact. Your work ethic is unparalleled and you have challenged each of us to strive to better each and every day.”
Community Education Director Kari Gorr awarded various Hastings Community Education awards including the Bernie McCoy Community Service Award to Gary Davis, and the Lifeline Learning Award, awarded to Jaci Hansey.
Finally, the district recognized those who will be retiring this year: Jackie Kranz, Jean Linberg, Lori Marsh, Mary Pasch, Paul Alitz, Kay Arndt, Laurie Chandler, Patty Ganrud, Kurt Graumann, Becky Hartung, Tom Knoll, Bruce Kummer, Tim Schmitz, Missy Williams, and Steve Yanz.
Several teachers spoke about their experience in the district and just how much the teaching profession has changed over the years. Jean Linberg noted that when she started teaching in 1990, her classroom lacked computers, mechanical pencils, that the televisions were wheeled into and out of classrooms, and that “you always knew how much work you did by how much ink you had on the side of you hand.”
Despite the advances in technology in the ensuing 18 years, “you have more to put up with now than when I started in 1990,” said Linberg. To that point, her advice was that teachers give themselves grace, appreciate their colleagues, and to do the best with what you can do.
Pasch also spoke about her retirement, providing three pieces of advice to the teachers of the district: “Be willing to make those changes that are going to keep you fresh and help you learn and grow, love the children in front of you every day, even the ones that are hard to love, […] and to embrace your colleagues.”