By Bruce Karnick

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Genz-Ryan, a regional heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical sponsored a social media event called Classroom Cash. According to their contest website, “The contest highlighted beloved local teachers and their dedication to their students’ education and classroom curriculum. At Genz-Ryan Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning, we appreciate our Minnesota teachers, and we’re inspired by their motivation to improve their student’s lives daily. That’s why we decided to give back to these amazing mentors.”

The received 63 submissions, including one from here in Hastings. First Grade teacher Katie Matzek from Pinecrest Elementary. Matzek was nominated ‘Because she is an excellent teacher and is looping into first grade this coming school year and will need additional supplies,’ according to her submission.

Matzek received 539 ‘votes’ in the contest with the first-place winner receiving more than 1,300. First and second received $500 each and because of the overwhelming support, Genz-Ryan decided to award each runner up with $200, meaning they gave over $13,000 to teachers in Minnesota.

Congrats, Mrs Matzek!