“Is there a defining moment – an event or interaction with a student – during
your time as a teacher that stands out?”

Many teachers will give a similar answer to that question: “There are too many to
count?” Or they’ll give a general response.

Not Kidder Middle School teacher Heather Caster. She has a great example in
mind.

 

“It's really very simple,” she said. “I had a student last year who missed quite a bit
of time in my class and school in general. Although he had his challenges, I could
see potential. One day toward the end of the school year he came into my room
after school had dismissed. I was pleasantly surprised to see him, but when he
said, ‘I really miss this class; it was fun,’ my heart was made full.”

It’s no surprise that Caster inspired that student. It’s what she does. Caster was
named a 2018-19 Daring Greatly Award winner. That award goes to an innovator,
trailblazer and visionary who attempts new strategies, takes risks and embarks on
new teaching adventures to inspire students to achieve greatness.

Achieving greatness requires hard work, Caster said.

“Success doesn't come easy,” Caster said. “It takes hard work, determination, and
often comes after failure -- sometimes numerous failures. You will never experience
success if you give up.”

Here are five more things to know about Heather Caster:

If you could be any fictional character, who would you choose?
Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter series. “She's ‘Muggle’ born but is also
an intelligent and talented wizard. She is confident, strong, courageous and loyal.”

Ten years ago, who did you think you would be now?
“I knew I would still be involved in education, whether it was teaching, consulting,
or leadership.”

What three traits define you?
Flexible, helpful and reserved.

What is your favorite thing about working in Northwest Schools?
“Mountie Nation takes care of each other. We cook meals, donate time, support
families and genuinely care about everyone.”

What would you do if you weren't doing this?
“I would love to own a bakery and work in a library. So, if there are some
investors out there, my dream would be to open a library/bakery/cafe.”