A total of 16 new teaching staff members from four Waseca learning sites were welcomed at a luncheon co-sponsored by the Waseca Rotary, Lions, and Exchange clubs on Friday, August 24, at the Lakeview Golf Course.
Lions Club president Diane Beckman told teachers, “I hope this luncheon helps demonstrate that Waseca supports schools in a very big way. As you settle into your new positions, we want you to feel appreciated and recognized.”
Exchange Club president Mikhail Rostislavovich agreed: “Please lean on any of our organizations. Let us know how we can be of help.”
“We are here for you, teachers,” assured Rotary president Amy Potter. “We want to help on every level, whether that’s support or assistance in your classroom, or a friendly greeting as you’re out shopping. We want you to know we’re glad you’re here.”
Teachers were introduced by their respective principals who shared various tidbits during their conversations. Junior/Senior high school principal Jason Miller encouraged his new teachers to provide information about their favorite places to go for a long walk: answers ranged from “a national park” to a laughingly delivered “off a tall cliff.”
Waseca Intermediate School (WIS) principal John Huttemeier had only one staff member, Ashley DePauw, to introduce. She shared that she is a regional representative for the little-known sport of “Rolle Bolle,” which uses a small, wheel-like device in a game with similarities to both horseshoes and Bocce Ball. Despite being enigmatic, the sport has offered tournaments and competitions in the midwest for decades.
As the luncheon was winding down, Superintendent Eric Hudspith introduced himself and thanked the three sponsoring organizations for their support and for the luncheon.
“This is what Waseca is all about,” he declared, “support for our schools. We are going to have a great week getting ready for our new school year. We’re glad you have a chance to settle in and find out what it means to be a Bluejay.”
