Students and families who have Arinn Wenzel as their Kindergarten teacher at Kennedy Elementary School are some of the luckiest in the Hastings district. 

“I want the parents of my students to know I am here to listen, help and support,” said Arinn. “My commitment extends beyond just your student. I hope to create positive and meaningful relationships with you as well as your child.”

And her commitment shines bright! Ms. Wenzel, with a degree from Minnesota State, Mankato has been a teacher for six years, becoming a teacher because she knew the positive impact she could make on the lives of children. 

“I want to create an environment where children feel safe, welcomed, cared for and creative,” she said.

The effort Ms. Wenzel puts into developing relationships surely sets the stage for these kids to become lifelong learners. 

“I love creating connections with all of my students,” Wenzel said. “Building meaningful relationships that extend outside of the classroom, like sports, hunting and fishing are important to me, as I am interested in so much more than just the student - I want to know them as a person.”

Arinn grew up just upriver from Hastings, and always enjoyed visiting as a child. She now loves teaching in our community. Outside of work, she enjoys fishing, hunting and golf.

“My family and I enjoy the outdoors and spending time together, doing what we love,” she said. 

We love the fact that Arinn Wenzel is a teacher here at Kennedy and are so lucky to have dedicated professionals who truly love and care for our kids and help them achieve great things. With teachers like her, we are #200Strong!