Four new staff members have joined Hettinger Public School this school year, bringing different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives from Oklahoma and the Philippines. Although their journeys to Hettinger are different, they share a common goal of helping students grow, feel supported, and reach their full potential.
For the new staff members, coming to Hettinger has meant adjusting to a new community, school system, and way of life. New administrator Darci Freeland brings more than 30 years of experience in education and recently moved from Oklahoma to be closer to family. After seeing how much education has changed over the years, she believes supporting students, teachers, and families is more important than ever.
"Leadership um that we have in schools means that we need to um really support one another and build a sense of community amongst each other," said Darci Freeland.
The three teachers from the Philippines have also experienced major changes. Through the J-1 teacher exchange program, they have brought their teaching experience to the United States while learning about a different culture and education system. Their previous experience ranges from around 10 to 16 years in the classroom. Although moving away from home has been challenging, they see this opportunity as a chance to grow professionally, learn new teaching strategies, and share their own culture with students.
Despite coming from different places, the four staff members have similar ideas about what makes a good school. They want students to feel safe, valued, and supported in the classroom. They also hope to help students develop confidence, enjoy learning, and recognize that their efforts matter.
One teacher shared what they hope students will remember long after leaving their classroom.
"Most importantly, I want my um students to remember that they are capable, that they are um their efforts are, you know, um u matter and they have a teacher who who cares for them and believes in their potential," said Zaira Chinte (2nd Grade Teacher).
Another important goal is building a stronger sense of community. Freeland hopes to support teachers, encourage family involvement, and create an environment where students have opportunities to explore their interests and futures.
While each of the four new staff members brings a different story and set of experiences to HPS, their goals are closely connected. They want to make a difference beyond their individual classrooms by helping create a school where students feel supported, challenged, and encouraged to succeed. Their different perspectives add to the HPS community, but their shared commitment to students is what brings their stories together.
