Raider Families and Staff,

As we transition into a new week, I’m excited to share the latest updates and highlights from across our district. In this edition of the Raider Update, you’ll find coverage of the Polar Plunge, a recap of our recent community collaboration sessions, details on the Minnesota Student Survey, a new board member appointee, an update on the superintendent search, and a few important dates to mark on your calendar.

Polar Plunge

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in and supported the inaugural Hastings Polar Plunge! Our students proudly announced they had a “Reason for Freezin’” as they jumped in support of inclusion for all students. In total, nearly 90 participants braved the chilly waters — an incredible demonstration of community spirit and commitment.

Board Member Appointment Process

We are pleased to announce that Elaine Mikel-Mulder has been appointed to the Hastings School Board. Elaine will be officially seated at 1:50 PM on May 13, immediately before the start of superintendent interviews.

Congratulations, Elaine, and welcome to the Hastings School Board!

Community Collaboration April Series

Thank you to everyone who attended one or more of our recent community collaboration sessions. Your engagement is vital to our collective success. If you or your group would like additional information or have ideas to further elevate community voice, please feel free to contact the District Office at 651-480-7000 or email us.

Minnesota Student Survey

The Minnesota Student Survey will be given as follows: 

High School Grades 9 and 11: May 5th - detailed information has been sent by the building

Middle School Grades 5 and 8: May 19th - detailed information has been sent by the building

The surveys and the opt-out are available for your review here.  For more information, please visit the Minnesota Department of Education website, linked here.

Superintendent Search

Thank you to those who attended the MSBA Virtual Q&A Session on Wednesday, April 16. A recording of the session—including the process overview and community-submitted questions—is available here.  Next steps in the process include the following:

April 24-29: Board members review applications

April 29 at 6PM* Board determines finalists, interview questions and procedures

May 6 at 8AM* Round One Superintendent Interviews

May 13 at 2PM* Round Two Superintendent Interviews and Selection

*Open Meetings held in District Conference Room A

Calendar Reminders

• 24-25 School Calendar in its entirety

• 25-26 School Calendar

Raider Events

• Raider Athletic Calendar

• Raider Events Calendar  

As always, thank you for your ongoing support of Hastings Public Schools. If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

Sincerely,

Dr. Tamara Champa
Superintendent, Hastings Public Schools

Dakota County is excited to host a presentation by Arc on Supported Decision Making and Guardianship for caregivers, support staff, and case managers supporting individuals with disabilities. The presentation will be held Wednesday, 4/30/25 from 7-8 pm via Microsoft Teams. Please see below for details and a registration link – a calendar invite will be sent out to those registered a couple of days before the presentation. Please reach out with any questions. Thank you!

Supported Decision Making and Guardianship with Arc

• Wednesday, 4/30/25 from 7 pm-8 pm via Microsoft Teams

• Description:

  • There are many options for how to support someone in making decisions. It is important to figure out what works best for each person. In this session, attendees will:

    • Learn the principles of Supported Decision Making

    • Understand the importance of customizing decision-making supports and the tools available to assist

    • Learn about supported decision-making, alternatives to guardianship, and types of guardianship

    • Understand legislative changes to guardianship 

Link to register: Dakota County Community Living Services: Guardianship and Supported Decision Making with Arc