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.”

Alex Westby

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!