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.