Dear Raider Families,
Classrooms are full of energy, students are engaged in meaningful learning, and our staff continues to bring a high level of care and commitment to their work each day. It is a great time to be in Hastings Public Schools.
On April 1, we welcomed community members, staff, and families to our latest Community Collaboration event. Thank you to everyone who joined us and shared their perspectives. We are also grateful to the School Board Community Collaboration Committee Chair, Elaine Mikel-Mulder, for opening and closing the event.
Using a structured process, we asked three key questions: What is working well? Where can we improve? What ideas can help us move forward? To ensure everyone could share openly, responses were submitted confidentially through a digital app. This allowed for honest feedback and helped us see common themes in real time.
There is a strong foundation to build on. Participants noted improvements in communication and transparency, as well as opportunities for community input.
At the same time, there are areas for growth. The most consistent themes included rebuilding trust and respect, strengthening communication, valuing staff expertise, and moving from conversation to action.
When asked to prioritize next steps, several ideas rose to the top:
-Building trust and respect
-Focusing on student success and educational priorities
-Strengthening communication and engagement
-Increasing community involvement
-Continuing to elevate student voice
There is a shared commitment to our students and to this community. The Community Collaboration Committee will review the information and determine next steps.
Thank you again to everyone who participated. Your voice matters and is helping shape the future of Hastings Public Schools.
Looking ahead, I want to share an upcoming opportunity to connect with our broader community.
This annual event brings together community members, business leaders, and local organizations to hear updates from the City of Hastings, Hastings Public Schools, and other community partners. It is a great opportunity to reflect on where we are as a community and to look ahead to where we are going together.
We are grateful to the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce for organizing this event and for their continued partnership in supporting our schools and community. If you are interested in attending, you can find more information and register through the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce website.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Hastings Public Schools.
Go Raiders!
Dr. Kristine Wehrkamp Herman
Superintendent
