Hello Raider Nation!
As we step into October, the vibrant colors of fall are beginning to show, and so is the incredible energy in our schools. It’s been a strong start to the year, and I’m proud of the dedication to learning that our students, staff, and families continue to bring to our schools everyday.
October 2 marked National Custodial Workers Recognition Day, and I want to extend my thanks to our custodial, maintenance, and grounds staff and leaders. Your dedication keeps our schools safe, clean, and welcoming every day, and your behind-the-scenes work does not go unnoticed.
On October 6, we celebrate National Coaches Day. Our coaches serve not only as leaders on the field, court, and classroom but also as teachers, mentors, and role models who help shape students' character and confidence. We are truly grateful for the support and guidance they provide.
A quick reminder that parent-teacher conferences will take place October 13–15. I encourage all parents/guardians to take this opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher to discuss their academic progress, ask questions, and share insights.
At Hastings Public Schools, we deeply value the partnership between home and school. Conferences are a meaningful way to strengthen that connection and ensure we’re working together to support each student’s success.
School Perception Satisfaction Surveys
Parent, staff, and student surveys will be distributed on Monday, October 13. Please review the following information for both the parent and student surveys.
Parent Survey
At Hastings Public School District, your child’s success is at the heart of everything we do. We're always looking for ways to make our schools even better, and we know that starts with listening to you.
To help us understand what’s working well and where we can grow, we’ve partnered again with School Perceptions, an independent research firm, to conduct a short parent/guardian survey. Your honest feedback will help guide our next steps and strengthen the connection between home and school.
Keep an eye on your inbox! The survey link will be emailed out on October 13 and will remain open through October 27 at 5:00 PM. If you don’t see it, be sure to check your spam or junk folder.
Your voice matters, and your input can make a big difference. Thank you for taking a few minutes to share your thoughts and help us continue building a school community we can all be proud of.
Student Survey
Beginning on Monday, October 13, students in the Hastings School District (grades 4-12) will also have the opportunity to participate in the School Perceptions Student Life Survey. The survey is designed to measure students' engagement at school. It will provide our District with answers to important questions, such as:
What practices help our students learn, and what barriers are in the way?
Do students feel supported?
What could be done to increase student involvement, both in and out of the classroom?
The survey is online and takes about 10 minutes to complete. Once the survey is done, the District will receive a summary report that will not include confidential or identifiable information. The purpose of the survey is to ensure that our practices are meeting the needs of our students. Any trend data will be used in our upcoming planning and programming to ensure continuous improvement.
This survey is designed ONLY to reflect on the engagement and opportunities for our students. However, if you would like to preview the survey, it is available in the district office, in the office of every school, and has been posted on our website. If you would prefer that your student not participate, please return the opt-out form, which is available on the website and is also provided here for your convenience. Please note that any opt-out forms need to be returned by the end of the school day on Thursday, October 9.
Go Raiders!
Dr. Kristine Wehrkamp Herman
Superintendent
