The Hastings School District 200 Board of Education opened its Wednesday, March 25 meeting on a celebratory note, recognizing a wide range of student and coaching accomplishments that highlighted both athletic excellence and community impact across the district.
The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of the agenda before transitioning into the “Raider Spotlight,” where board members honored standout students and coaches from Hastings High School.
Athena and Apollo Award winners recognized
Leading off the recognitions were senior student-athletes Ellie Magnus and Trey Beissel, recipients of the school’s Athena and Apollo Awards, presented annually to the top female and male athletes in the graduating class.
High School Principal Scott Dorn described the awards as recognizing not only athletic excellence, but also leadership, character and academic achievement.
Beissel, a standout in football and wrestling, compiled an extensive list of accomplishments, including multiple all-conference honors, section championships and a state title in wrestling. He plans to continue his wrestling career at the University of Minnesota.
Magnus, a three-sport athlete in soccer, basketball and track and field, earned 10 varsity letters and numerous all-conference and all-state honors. She also maintained a 4.0 GPA and was active in several student organizations. Magnus plans to compete in track and field at the University of South Dakota.
Board members praised the pair not only for their athletic success, but also for their commitment to academics and leadership.
“It’s always amazing to hear everything you’ve accomplished in such a short time,” one board member said.
State champion freshman honored
The board also recognized freshman wrestler Beckett Edstrom, who captured an individual state championship at 121 pounds in his first varsity season. Edstrom finished the year with a 44-1 record.
When asked about his title match, Edstrom said he felt confident heading into the finals.
“I was just locked in,” he said.
Board members noted the significance of his achievement, particularly as a freshman, and expressed excitement for his future in the program.
Girls wrestling team earns state honors
The Hastings girls wrestling program was also celebrated after capturing a state team title at the Minnesota State Wrestling Coaches Association tournament.
Head coach Tim Haneberg said the team defeated several top programs en route to the championship and finished the season undefeated in dual meets.
The team also had seven individual state qualifiers and earned academic honors, underscoring success both on the mat and in the classroom.
Board members highlighted the rapid growth of girls wrestling in the district and statewide, noting that the sport is expected to gain full independent status in Minnesota in the near future.
Coach of the Year and Hall of Fame honors
Haneberg was further recognized as Class AAA Coach of the Year by the Minnesota Wrestling Coaches Association, an honor voted on by coaches across the state.
Administrators and board members praised his leadership, noting his presence at events across the district and his role in building a strong wrestling culture.
“This really represents our entire coaching staff,” Haneberg said, crediting assistant coaches and past program leaders for the team’s continued success.
The board also honored longtime educator and coach Josh McLay, who was inducted into the Minnesota Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame as a wrestler.
McLay, a three-time state champion in the 1990s, reflected on his roots in Hastings and the mentors who shaped his career.
“I’ve been lucky to have great coaches and great teachers in this community,” he said. “That’s why I’m proud to be giving back.”
Public comment highlights staff concerns
Following the recognitions, the board heard from one public speaker, Hastings High School teacher Nick Willette, who shared concerns about what he described as a disconnect between staff and the school board.
Willette referenced recent survey feedback and decisions such as the district’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy changes and adjustments to chaperone selection for school trips.
He framed his comments as an effort to encourage collaboration and improved communication.
“I come not as a voice of criticism primarily, but as a voice of reconciliation,” Willette said.
Willette also shared a personal perspective, noting a recent cancer diagnosis that has shaped his outlook and reinforced the importance of empathy and connection within the school community.
Board Chair Tate thanked Willette for his comments and noted upcoming efforts to address community and staff engagement, including an April 1 collaboration event and future work sessions focused on improving relationships across the district.
A celebratory tone
While the meeting included discussion of ongoing challenges, the evening opened with a strong emphasis on student success and program achievements.
Board members repeatedly emphasized pride in the district’s students, coaches and educators.
“Love that part,” Tate said following the recognitions.
The recognitions served as a reminder of the district’s strengths, even as leaders continue to work through broader issues facing the school community.