The Hedin Hartnagel Memorial Fund unveiled a major award Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, to recognize and inspire outstanding educators and staff in the Red Wing Public Schools.
Every year starting in May 2025, the Elizabeth Hedin Award for Educator Excellence with an unrestricted award of $10,000 will go to two exemplary individuals. They will be nominated by their peers and then selected by committee.
“Local educators and support staff have a profound and lasting influence on their students, peers, and the community,” Hedin Hartnagel directors said in announcing the award on Feb. 17, 2025. “The message is clear: We acknowledge you. We value you. We appreciate you.”
The money comes from the estate of Douglas Hedin and is named after his mother, who was an educator, historian, and community activist in Red Wing. Both graduated from Red Wing Public Schools. He envisioned the award as validation and motivation for current and future quality educators – just only teachers but support staff as well.
“The value of all employees extends beyond their specific job duties — they work together to foster a culture of care, respect, and opportunity for every student. Whether directly involved in instruction or in supporting roles, their collective efforts are essential in helping students reach their full potential. Every role matters, and the success of a school system depends on the dedication and commitment of every employee,” Superintendent Bob Jaszczak said.
“I believe this is generally understood on an intellectual level, but it is exceedingly rare to have concrete recognition of this nature. This award is a true testament to the value of each person contributing to the collective effort of helping Red Wing students become the best version of themselves,” he added.
Douglas Hedin died in 2023. The Hedin Hartnagel Memorial Fund Board Chair Liz Knapp said the nonprofit agreed to administer the award, investing the legacy gift with the St. Paul and Minnesota Foundation. The interest will be used to cover the $10,000 awards; no public education funds will be used.
The award will operate on a three-year cycle: In the first and second years, one teacher from grades preK-6 and one teacher from grades 7-12 will be selected. In the third year, two support staff members will be chosen — one from preK-6 and one from 7-12 — each receiving an award of $10,000.
Only Red Wing Public Schools educators and non-administrative employees who have been with the district at least three years are eligible to nominate someone or be nominated for this award. Nominators cannot nominate themselves or a family member.
Learn more at www.hedinhartnagel.org/educator-excellence-award.
