Moorhead Area Public Schools superintendent Dr. Brandon Lunak made an unexpected visit to Moorhead High School’s Learning Stair to present the February 2025 Spud Spirit Award to Hanna Fischer and Heidi Fisher, special education teachers at MHS.
Dr. Lunak surprised the pair during the first block of the day, bringing their classes together to jointly announce the award for both teachers.
Of Hanna Fischer, he shared that her nominator called her a passionate advocate for all students, ensuring that each one is given the support and opportunities they need to succeed, regardless of their abilities. Dr. Lunak added, “Your dedication to fostering an inclusive school environment is evident in your efforts to bring everyone together as part of the broader school community.”
He then shared that Heidi Fisher’s nominator praised her “unwavering dedication and genuine compassion as a Special Education professional. Your commitment to your students goes beyond the gym floor, as you consistently tailor your approach to meet each child's unique needs, ensuring they receive the best possible support and encouragement.” Fisher serves as the Developmental Adaptive Physical Education Teacher at MHS.
Dr. Lunak also shared stories about how each teacher took pride in supporting the activities that they lead: Fischer with the school’s Peer to Peer group and Fisher with the Spuds Adaptive Floor Hockey team. These stories brought applause and cheers from the assembled morning classes as the teachers received their awards.
Hanna and Heidi’s tireless work in support of their students and fellow staff members exemplifies the district’s mission to develop the maximum potential of every student to thrive in a changing world.
The Spud Spirit Award is a recognition program that honors MAPS staff who live by the district mission to develop the maximum potential of every learner to thrive in a changing world and showcase our Spud Spirit statements:
Students, staff, parents, families, and the Moorhead community
Passionate, engaged, innovative, and growing in safe environments
Unique, worthy, respectful, and relationship-based
Diversity enriches our school and community
Stewards of the public’s trust in effective and efficient operations
Spud Spirit Award nominations are made by staff, student families and community members.