Raider Staff and Families,

As we “spring forward” with our clocks today, it’s another sign that spring is just around the corner! 

In today’s update, I’m covering a few key legislative topics you may be hearing about and their impact on Hastings, a reminder about the school board vacancy, and the usual calendar updates. It’s hard to believe we’re just a week away from spring break!

Please note: Due to spring break, there will be no Raider update on March 16th or 23rd.

Legislative Topic: Educational Benefit (Free and Reduced Meal) Forms

For years, school districts have made a concerted effort to encourage families to complete educational benefit forms, commonly known as free and reduced meal applications. While these forms unlock a range of additional benefits for students and families based on income eligibility, the number of completed applications has dropped significantly since the introduction of universal free breakfast and lunch.

This decline has broader implications—not only do families miss out on important resources, but a portion of school funding is also tied to the percentage of qualifying applications. Recognizing the widespread impact on districts across the state, efforts are underway to explore the best path forward to ensure students, families, and schools continue to receive the support they need.

Legislative Topic: Data Requests

Over the past five years, data requests have become increasingly common in public schools. Once a formal request is filed, districts are responsible for gathering all relevant information, redacting personal data, and making the materials available for inspection. In many cases, the volume of requested information is substantial, which can cost the district thousands for a single request.

Currently, state law allows these requests to be made anonymously, which has led to a significant number of requests across the state that are never actually reviewed. House File 1999 aims to remove the option for anonymity. I have attached the bill for your review.

HF 1999 LINK

School Board Vacancy:

The Hastings School Board is seeking a candidate to fill an interim board member position through December 31, 2025.

Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest to LynDee Humble at the district office or via email at lhumble@isd200.org by noon on Friday, March 21, 2025. Please include a statement explaining your interest in serving on the Hastings School Board.

The full vacancy announcement is provided below.

Calendar Reminders

• Upcoming calendar reminders:

• Spring break March 17-21

• 24-25 School Calendar

• 25-26 School Calendar (amended 2/26/25)

• 26-27 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

Oh, to be a kid again—especially a 3rd grader in Ms. Beard’s classroom at McAuliffe Elementary. What a lucky group of students they are!

After hearing countless positive stories about the Hastings community and the supportive work environment, Karen knew she had to be a part of this district. Now in her second year of teaching at Hastings Public Schools, we’re fortunate to have her on board!

For Ms. Beard, teaching is a source of immense joy. "My favorite part of my job is helping students realize their full potential, no matter where they start in their learning journey. I absolutely love those ‘lightbulb moments’ when the learning finally clicks," she shares.

Her own children serve as a major source of inspiration, but she also thrives on building strong relationships with her students. By sharing her own hobbies and interests, she’s able to connect with them in meaningful ways.

When she’s not in the classroom, Karen enjoys a variety of hobbies, including golf, baking, gardening, and embarking on family adventures. While being a 3rd-grade teacher is undoubtedly an adventure of its own, we’re grateful she’s up for the challenge!