Our "Employee Spotlight" series aims to showcase the unique personalities, talents, and stories that contribute to the success of Lansing USD469. This section celebrates the incredible individuals who make our Lansing USD469 community thrive.
Heather Herrig, 3rd Grade Teacher
Question: How long have you worked in Lansing USD 469?
Answer: 4 years
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: I am a 12-year elementary educator and currently serve as a third grade teacher in the district, where I've been teaching for the past four years. In my role, I help students build strong foundations in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies as I teach all subject areas aligned to third grade standards.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: Third grade is a pivotal year where students move from learning to read toward reading to learn while also building independence across subjects. What I enjoy most about my role is the growth I get to witness in each student every year. Third grade students are constantly learning new material, which makes both learning and teaching exciting. The amount of academic, social, and even physical growth students make during third grade is incredible to see, and being part of that journey is extremely rewarding!
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time with my family. I love watching movies with my daughter Ashton and cuddling my grandbabies, Junior and Briella. I also enjoy cheering on my boys, Dominique and Divante, as they play football at Emporia State University. As well, I enjoy showing support to current and former students and their families outside of the the classroom, and of course spending time with friends and coworkers whenever I get the chance.
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: Something unusual about me is that, even though I'm a teacher, I don't really enjoy reading - unless it's for teaching! I love helping students learn to read and grow their skills, but when it comes to my own free time, I usually prefer other activities.
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: There are honestly so many heartwarming and memorable experiences I could share, but one that stands out happened when we were finally able to return to the classroom after teaching via Zoom during COVID. One of my sweet students looked at me and said, "Dreams really do come true, Ms. Herrig! I finally got to meet you in real life!" So many memorable moments remind me just how special the connections between teachers and students can be.
Question: What piece of advice would you like to offer to students to help them succeed and make the most of their educational journey?
Answer: Mistakes are a part of life and they're how we learn, so don't be afraid to make them! My advice is to own those mistakes and keep trying, because that's when we grow. Be kind, work hard, and believe in yourself!