It’s like a feeling of being alive and connected to people, and to me, that’s joyous”

Samantha Hindt, English Teacher

Samantha Hindt received her teaching degree from Bethel University, and is currently working on a Master’s Degree through Concordia. These educational degrees combine well with someone who, as a kid, was a self-proclaimed “know it all” who enjoyed bossing people around. Not just that, but she was able to follow in the footsteps of an incredible mentor. Her dad. 

“My father was a teacher at the same school I attended,” Hindt said. “One of my biggest memories is how often fellow classmates would come up to me and tell me how lucky I was to have my dad, as he was super cool, and a great teacher.”

“I thought it was amazing that he was connecting with so many kids, and having such an incredible impact,” she recalled. “My dad also modeled creative teaching. He would buy sand to do Egyptian projects, or cut tons of tree saplings, so kids could build wigwams. His creativeness reminds me that I can have fun with the content in ways that I teach.”

Ms. Hindt said some of the best things about being a teacher are connecting with her students, and seeing the energy the class can create when it’s all coming together. 

“It’s like a feeling of being alive and connected to people, and to me, that’s joyous,” she said. 

She enjoys keeping her class educational but also fun. She’s a prankster. She may lock the door after a kid leaves to use the restroom. Or have the entire class applaud, for a student who arrives late. Creativity and humor keeps her class engaged.

While there are so many things she wished parents knew, the biggest wish is for them to know how much their kids are loved by their school. Teachers take pride in mentoring and educating kids. Patience and perseverance is needed by everyone, including the teachers, students and parents. 

“There are going to be bumps, and mistakes along the way, made by everyone. But if there's trust and resilience, then everyone can achieve the end goal! Teachers are people, and sometimes make mistakes. Over-communication with parents is key,” Hindt said. 

Outside of the classroom, Samantha has helped coach the HS JV Tennis team, and is an advisor for the Nintendo-Wii club. 

Hindt also participates in an “old lady volleyball team,” and enjoys Barre workouts, watching crime shows, crafts, and collecting Starbucks “been there” mugs. She tries to sneak in snuggling up with her two cats and reading a good book. 

For anyone lucky enough to be in Ms. Hindt’s classroom, they will confirm her approach to teaching, and the classroom experience she provides would make her dad very proud. Samantha Hindt’s love of teaching and dedication to her students are why we are #200Strong!