There is a ton of learning happening every day in our schools and most students are doing their best and need support by active and involved parents.”

Jim Hanson

For almost three decades, Jim Hanson has been sharing American history with kids in the Hastings community.

A graduate of Corban University in Salem, Oregon, he completed his Bachelor’s degree in 7-12 grade Social Studies education, later completing a Master’s degree in Education from St. Mary’s University in Minnesota. His education, combined with his years of experience, make him a huge asset to the Hastings school district.

Jim said he became a teacher because “it was apparent that I was cursed for caring about things, and so I chose teaching as a way to try to do some good”.

Besides ‘doing some good’, Hanson finds other perks to being a teacher at HMS. 

“There are many things that I enjoy, but one is when Mrs. Meier has her 8th grade FACS students bake and deliver cookies to teachers of their choice,” he said. “Along with the cookie is a hand-written note of appreciation! I have saved all those notes for years. Also, when I am able to reconnect with former students and share stories about middle school and life beyond. It's always interesting to see where life's road has taken them. Teaching also allows me to be a club advisor for Youth in Government.”

Hanson has felt well supported by the vast majority of Hastings area families over the years. 

“There is a ton of learning happening every day in our schools and most students are doing their best and need support by active and involved parents,” he said. 

Though not originally from Hastings, his wife is from here and his father-in-law Sherman Sanders was a beloved elementary teacher in the 70s and 80s. 

Even though Hanson doesn’t have connections to town from his childhood, he has made many great connections to the community through other means. 

“I have a second job driving bus for Hastings Bus Company/Minnesota Coaches which allows me to learn much through my travels and transfer that into my teaching,” he said. “I also run an annual non-school sponsored 8th grade trip to Washington D.C., which has introduced me to many wonderful families.”

“In my free time, I enjoy being a grandpa, riding my motorcycle, hanging out with friends and family, hunting, fishing, reading and, of course, Netflix,” he said. 

With all he does to contribute to our students at HMS, let’s hope Mr. Hanson enjoys lots of free time - he deserves it! It’s because of dedicated educators like him that ISD200 is #200Strong!