![page background](https://cdn.smore.com/u/backgrounds/custom_bg-650339d4b9aef7d2b8adeb13-ba165b15f413.jpg)
Raider Update
May 12, 2024
![Raider Update May 12, 2024](https://cdn.smore.com/u/8a0e/1693f26fdbe9237bc316748a1247e4c7.jpg)
Message from the Superintendent
Greetings Raider Families and Staff,
This week's Raider Update celebrates and honors all mothers, announces a change to the district calendar for middle school students only, addresses social media inquiries, celebrates our staff, and provides the regular calendar reminders.
Happy Mothers Day - With the timing of today's Raider Update, Happy Mother’s Day to all of our incredible mothers within our school community. May your day be filled with appreciation and cherished moments. Thank you for all that you do.
Calendar Amendment to the 23-24 School Calendar - PLEASE READ - Over the past few months, significant efforts have been underway to develop a new “house” model at our middle school. This model will see grade-level classes grouped together, fostering a more cohesive and supportive learning environment that is also designed to enhance safety and security. In addition to classrooms, dedicated restrooms are being incorporated for each grade level within each house.
To bring this vision to life, numerous classrooms will be relocated. To minimize disruption to student learning and allow time for packing, the school board has approved a calendar amendment specific to the middle school. As a result, the last day of school for middle school students will be Wednesday, June 5. All other district schedules will remain the same.
Social Media Request - Several years ago, I made it one of my goals to increase my social media presence on behalf of the school district. I attended concerts, activities and athletic events and Tweeted (that was the hot media at the time) about the event. This quickly felt contrived to me and didn’t feel authentic, but rather a reminder to the public of all that I was attending. This goal was short-lived as I requested to remove it as a goal. I prefer to be present at events to truly enjoy and support the event. My point is that I’m not active on social media, but realize that many prefer to get information on community sites. If and when there are specific questions about the school, decisions that are made, suggestions about Raider Update topics, etc…, please suggest that individuals contact the district. I’m always happy to answer any questions and am open to suggestions.
Celebrating our Staff - As noted earlier, May is a busy month for recognizing and celebrating our staff. Please be sure to check out our Facebook page for great pictures.
School Principal Appreciation - May 1
School Lunch Heros Appreciation - May 3
Teacher Appreciation Week (May 6-10)
Nurses Day - May 8
Communications Day - May 10
Senior Students - Hard to believe that graduation is right around the corner with senior privileges starting tomorrow. The following highlights a number of key activities and dates, but please check out the high school web page for all the details.
May 13 - May 31 Senior privileges
May 31 - Last day for seniors with a number of special activities and a newly added Raider Walk.
June 7 @ 7PM - Graduation at Todd Field (weather permitting). The ceremony will be held at the high school if this year’s weather does not cooperate.
Calendar Updates and Reminders: Please review the district calendar and the event calendar to make sure you don’t miss any spring events.
In closure, thank you for your unwavering support of Hastings Public Schools. As always, please contact me with any questions or feedback.
Sincerely,
Dr. Tamara Champa
Superintendent
(651) 480-7001
ISD 200 Staff Spotlight
Susan Beskau - Administrative Assistant to the HHS Principal
When Susan Beskau had her children in elementary school, a part-time position became available in the district. She accepted it, thinking it would be a great thing while her children were young. Twenty-five years later, she's still here! She has worn many hats and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her colleagues.
Without a doubt, Ms. Beskau is a huge resource to her colleagues. “I take a lot of pride in my work and try to help the best I can, whether it is helping a student, parent, or staff member. Before my current position, I worked in many areas of the building: student services, attendance, the media center, and as the assistant to the vice principals. This has helped me to see and understand how our building staff work together to make a positive impact with students”, shares Susan.
“The staff at HHS are incredible to work with! I enjoy the variety and the fast-paced environment - no two days are alike! If I could change one thing, I would find a solution to our shortage of substitute teachers”, she says.
“We have three daughters who attended ISD200, Kindergarten through 12th grade. The district provided a well-rounded education, which helped them excel in college. They still talk about their favorite teachers and experiences during their time as students in Hastings”, states Susan.
Susan’s family inspires her, especially her mother, who was boldly strong and compassionate. Her daughters also make her want to continue to learn and grow. When Susan isn’t working to make things run smoothly at the High School, she enjoys reading, gardening, walking, and spending time with her friends and family. She especially enjoys her time with her grandkids!
Hastings Rotary Student of the Month
Congratulations Michael Davis! On behalf of the Hastings Rotary Club and Hastings High School, congratulations on being selected as the April, 2024 recipient of the Hastings Rotary “Student of the Month” Award. The Hastings Rotary Club recognizes Hastings High School seniors who exemplify Rotary’s motto of ‘Service Above Self’, as a way to reward and foster these ideals, and also build mutually rewarding relationships between school administration, staff, students, parents and the Rotary members.
Michael is an exceptional individual who goes above and beyond to contribute to his community. Not only does he actively participate in volunteering at school events, but he also extends his dedication to community events during the summer. Michael's commitment to service goes beyond the requirements of his National Honor Society (NHS) hours, as he willingly offers his time and support whenever he sees a need. This demonstrates his genuine passion for making a positive impact and his willingness to go the extra mile to help others. Michael's selflessness and dedication to service exemplify the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self" and make him a deserving recipient of the Hastings Rotary "Student of the Month" Award.
Events Leading Up To Graduation
- Tilden Community Center 651-480-7670
- Kennedy Elementary (K-4) 651-480-7221
- McAuliffe Elementary (K-4) 651-480-7390
- Pinecrest Elementary (K-4) 651-480-7280
- Hastings Middle School (5-8) 651-480-7060
- Hastings High School (9-12) 651-480-7470
- Hastings Alternative Learning Center 651-480-7690
*If you need any assistance in translating the Raider Update, contact us at kgorr@isd200.org.