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HARTINGTON — This new Cedar Catholic High School teacher will be helping students crunch the numbers.
Lyons native and graduate of Mount Marty University in Yankton, S.D., Zach Hegge, will be teaching math classes to Cedar students.
“I’m genuinely excited to teach Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry because each course offers unique opportunities to help students build confidence in math and see its real-world relevance,” said Hegge.
At Mount Marty, Hegge majored in mathematical education and he earned a minor in sports psychology. He also pitched for the baseball team for all four years.
Hegge will be assistant coaching for football, girls’ basketball and track.
He is just as excited about his extra curricular chores as he is his teaching duties.
“I am super excited to learn from great coaches,” said Hegge. “Each sport gives me a different opportunity to build relationships, challenge athletes and be part of something bigger than myself.”
Hegge understands what it takes to be a teacher, as his mother was a teacher. He was inspired to pursue a career in education through his role models.
“What inspired me to become a teacher was the powerful impact that a few key educators had on my own life,” said Hegge. “As I got older, I realized how much I enjoyed working with young people. Watching that moment when something finally clicks for a student is incredibly rewarding.”
Though math is not many children’s favorite subject, Hegge said he will do his best to make his classroom welcoming and exciting.
“I know that I am a high school math teacher, but I also value incorporating social emotional learning in my classroom,” said Hegge. “As an educator, I value not only academic growth, but personal growth.”
To welcome in the school year, Hegge said he encourages students to show effort, curiosity, and respect over perfection.
“Whether you love math or feel unsure about it, you belong here,” said Hegge. “Growth takes time, and we’re going to celebrate the journey, mistakes and all.”
