Lee Hasse and Melanie Lawson’s story is not only one of classic high school sweethearts, but also a story of their love and passion for their community that has created a legacy.
Lee and Melanie met as young children and later became high school scholars, leaders, and track athletes. They even attended three proms together. Lee’s mom and siblings were graduates of Central. Melanie’s siblings were also graduates and their father served as the Superintendent.
During his high school years, Lee participated in ’C’ Club, football, basketball, track, band, choir, class officer, Student Council officer, prom committee, and was a Homecoming Attendant. Melanie participated in ‘C’ Club, Freshman Class President, cheerleading, National Honor Society, Student Council, band, Health Club, volleyball, track. Melanie went to state in the mile as a freshman and was a Homecoming Queen candidate.
After graduation, Lee attended Hennepin Technical College and received a degree in architectural drafting and has been working for many years in the field of design and drafting. He’s planning on retiring in January 2027.
Melanie attended the Minnesota School of Business and was hired as the Billing Coordinator for a law firm in the cities where she worked for 11 years. She then returned to the district, working for Kid’s Company, filling in at the high school and district offices, and then as a middle school paraprofessional. In 2000, Melanie worked in the office at the Waconia Middle School for 22 years and then came back to Central as the Athletic Directors Assistant for a year before leaving to care for her youngest granddaughter.
Lee and Melanie were married during a blizzard in January 1982. They raised three children, Teryn, Tyler and Tanner. Each were Central Graduates who all married fellow Central Graduates including Pat Widmer, Molly Hazelton and Trista Stern. Lee and Melanie have been blessed with seven grandchildren and their time is consumed in their many activities.
When Central had a need for score table workers in the late 1990’s, Lee and Melanie jumped in and have been at center court for all home volleyball and basketball games ever since. Lee also runs the scoreboard at football games and has coached middle school track and basketball and a few teams of their grandchildren.
The Hasses are active members of the community and take pride in their connections to Central Public Schools. Central runs deep in their hearts and they will always bleed Maroon and White and promote school and community pride at any opportunity.
The third Annual Raider Rally and Hall of Fame Induction will be on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Hamburg Community Hall. Help us celebrate our Hall of Fame honorees - purchase your tickets to the Raider Rally now: https://108raiderrally.com/
Lee and Melanie met as young children and later became high school scholars, leaders, and track athletes. They even attended three proms together. Lee’s mom and siblings were graduates of Central. Melanie’s siblings were also graduates and their father served as the Superintendent.
During his high school years, Lee participated in ’C’ Club, football, basketball, track, band, choir, class officer, Student Council officer, prom committee, and was a Homecoming Attendant. Melanie participated in ‘C’ Club, Freshman Class President, cheerleading, National Honor Society, Student Council, band, Health Club, volleyball, track. Melanie went to state in the mile as a freshman and was a Homecoming Queen candidate.
After graduation, Lee attended Hennepin Technical College and received a degree in architectural drafting and has been working for many years in the field of design and drafting. He’s planning on retiring in January 2027.
Melanie attended the Minnesota School of Business and was hired as the Billing Coordinator for a law firm in the cities where she worked for 11 years. She then returned to the district, working for Kid’s Company, filling in at the high school and district offices, and then as a middle school paraprofessional. In 2000, Melanie worked in the office at the Waconia Middle School for 22 years and then came back to Central as the Athletic Directors Assistant for a year before leaving to care for her youngest granddaughter.
Lee and Melanie were married during a blizzard in January 1982. They raised three children, Teryn, Tyler and Tanner. Each were Central Graduates who all married fellow Central Graduates including Pat Widmer, Molly Hazelton and Trista Stern. Lee and Melanie have been blessed with seven grandchildren and their time is consumed in their many activities.
When Central had a need for score table workers in the late 1990’s, Lee and Melanie jumped in and have been at center court for all home volleyball and basketball games ever since. Lee also runs the scoreboard at football games and has coached middle school track and basketball and a few teams of their grandchildren.
The Hasses are active members of the community and take pride in their connections to Central Public Schools. Central runs deep in their hearts and they will always bleed Maroon and White and promote school and community pride at any opportunity.
The third Annual Raider Rally and Hall of Fame Induction will be on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Hamburg Community Hall. Help us celebrate our Hall of Fame honorees - purchase your tickets to the Raider Rally now: https://108raiderrally.com/
Continuing on our introductions of new team members, next up is Sydney Farber! She is our newest first grade teacher. Let’s get to know her!
When asked why she chose to work at Central, she shared that she loves being part of a small community and building strong relationships with each of the students.
Growing up, she loved babysitting and working with kids. She is very passionate about helping students grow in both their education and as people. Sydney shared that she couldn’t see herself doing anything else other than teaching.
Her favorite subject in school was art.
When Sydney is not teaching, she likes to bike, shop, hang out with friends and family, and of course her cat named Cuddles!
When asked why she chose to work at Central, she shared that she loves being part of a small community and building strong relationships with each of the students.
Growing up, she loved babysitting and working with kids. She is very passionate about helping students grow in both their education and as people. Sydney shared that she couldn’t see herself doing anything else other than teaching.
Her favorite subject in school was art.
When Sydney is not teaching, she likes to bike, shop, hang out with friends and family, and of course her cat named Cuddles!
Presenting Central's 2026 Homecoming court
2026 Freshman Homecoming Attendants Kelsey Cebulla and Matthew Storms
2026 Sophomore Attendants Emily Hecksel and Jarrett Dingles
2026 Junior Attendants Whitney Cebulla and Colton Krueger
2026 Homecoming Queen Candidates Hailey Stender, Katelynn Venske, Vivien Holland, Brenna Parpart, Ava Salomon, Ava Becker
2026 Freshman Homecoming King Candidates Luke Allison, Cole Brinkman, Dylan Mesenbring, Jacob Neumann, Jack Kloempken, not pictures Will Steinhagen
2026 Homecoming Court candidates
Central Elementary School partnered with Samaritan’s Feet International and local NIL athlete Brayden Kohlz to provide 75 brand-new athletic shoes for our Central families. We are so thankful for our community partners who help support our students both in and out of the classroom!
Here’s to our next new team member, Hayden Molva! Hayden is a 7th and 9th grade English teacher. Let’s learn more about Hayden!
Why did you choose to work at Central Public Schools?
“Being that I am from Norwood Young America, I feel comfortable in this community and at this school. I have heard many great things about the staff members, students, and parents of this school, that is why I chose Central.”
What led you to a career in education?
“My younger brother is a big reason why I chose education. Growing up, I found myself teaching him everything I know. I felt that my purpose was to guide him so that he could find more success than myself. This inspired me to get involved in Kids Company and to major in education at SMSU.”
What was your favorite subject when you were a K-12 student?
“I was never drawn to a particular subject in school; I enjoyed different subjects each year. I found a love for English in my early years at SMSU.”
What do you like to do for fun?
“I love people. My type of fun is spending time with the people that I am closest with. My dad is in a band and my mom comes from a large family, so there are always gatherings, events, or shows that we attend. My family is into yard games, board games, and card games, we play these at every gathering or event. In my free time I love to read, write, watch movies, spend time with my fiancée, workout, and practice baseball. A culmination of this is what makes up most of my weekends and summers.”
Why did you choose to work at Central Public Schools?
“Being that I am from Norwood Young America, I feel comfortable in this community and at this school. I have heard many great things about the staff members, students, and parents of this school, that is why I chose Central.”
What led you to a career in education?
“My younger brother is a big reason why I chose education. Growing up, I found myself teaching him everything I know. I felt that my purpose was to guide him so that he could find more success than myself. This inspired me to get involved in Kids Company and to major in education at SMSU.”
What was your favorite subject when you were a K-12 student?
“I was never drawn to a particular subject in school; I enjoyed different subjects each year. I found a love for English in my early years at SMSU.”
What do you like to do for fun?
“I love people. My type of fun is spending time with the people that I am closest with. My dad is in a band and my mom comes from a large family, so there are always gatherings, events, or shows that we attend. My family is into yard games, board games, and card games, we play these at every gathering or event. In my free time I love to read, write, watch movies, spend time with my fiancée, workout, and practice baseball. A culmination of this is what makes up most of my weekends and summers.”
🍭✨ A SWEET YEAR IS ABOUT TO BEGIN! ✨🍭
The students at Central Public Preschool are ready for a year filled with learning, laughter, friendship, and lots of sweet memories!
📚🍎 Classes begin Monday, Sept. 14!
We can’t wait to welcome our preschoolers and kick off another wonderful year!
Let the sweet adventures begin!
The students at Central Public Preschool are ready for a year filled with learning, laughter, friendship, and lots of sweet memories!
📚🍎 Classes begin Monday, Sept. 14!
We can’t wait to welcome our preschoolers and kick off another wonderful year!
Let the sweet adventures begin!
Our youngest Raiders will join us for their first day of school on Monday, Sept. 14. We look forward to welcoming our Pre-K students!
Next up, we are proud to introduce you to Kelly Otto! Kelly is our new Early Intervention Special Educator (Birth-3). To learn more about her and her passion for education, we asked her a few questions:
Why did you choose to work at Central Public Schools?
“Central Schools had an excellent opportunity available to work as an Early Interventionist. I am passionate about providing families and our youngest learners with support, resources, and quality individualized plans that help children grow and thrive during these important early years. I’m excited to become part of the school community and grow in this new position.”
What led you to a career in education?
“I have always enjoyed working with children and helping them learn, grow, and gain confidence. Over time, I realized how meaningful it is to build relationships with students and families and to help each child find success in their own way. That passion ultimately led me to education and, more specifically, Early Childhood Special Education, where I can support children and families during some of the most important years of development.”
What was your favorite subject when you were a K-12 student?
“Music and reading were my favorite subjects. I loved the creativity and expression that came with music, and I have always enjoyed getting lost in a good book.”
What do you like to do for fun?
“For fun, I enjoy spending time with my family, being outdoors, caring for our animals, and cheering on my daughter at softball. I also enjoy relaxing with a good book when I get the chance.”
Why did you choose to work at Central Public Schools?
“Central Schools had an excellent opportunity available to work as an Early Interventionist. I am passionate about providing families and our youngest learners with support, resources, and quality individualized plans that help children grow and thrive during these important early years. I’m excited to become part of the school community and grow in this new position.”
What led you to a career in education?
“I have always enjoyed working with children and helping them learn, grow, and gain confidence. Over time, I realized how meaningful it is to build relationships with students and families and to help each child find success in their own way. That passion ultimately led me to education and, more specifically, Early Childhood Special Education, where I can support children and families during some of the most important years of development.”
What was your favorite subject when you were a K-12 student?
“Music and reading were my favorite subjects. I loved the creativity and expression that came with music, and I have always enjoyed getting lost in a good book.”
What do you like to do for fun?
“For fun, I enjoy spending time with my family, being outdoors, caring for our animals, and cheering on my daughter at softball. I also enjoy relaxing with a good book when I get the chance.”
Taher, Inc. is looking for a Head Cook to join the team at Central. Check out the ad below:
Head cook wanted - $500 sign on bonus! Central Food Service and Taher, Inc. is looking for a head cook for the High School, starting immediately. Duties include preparing Main Entrees and Limited Time Offer Meals from the menu, unload and organize grocery items, clean and sanitize all equipment and surfaces used by the cook, help with monthly inventory, learning which groceries to order, along with assisting the food service director with activities like back to school meal, kids in the kitchen, etc. Previous experience in food service is preferred, but not required. If interested, you can go directly to Taher, Inc. and apply under Careers. You may also reach out directly to Chantelle Eshleman, Central Food Service Director at 952-467-7147 or email at ceshleman@isd108.org. Can’t wait to hear from you!
Head cook wanted - $500 sign on bonus! Central Food Service and Taher, Inc. is looking for a head cook for the High School, starting immediately. Duties include preparing Main Entrees and Limited Time Offer Meals from the menu, unload and organize grocery items, clean and sanitize all equipment and surfaces used by the cook, help with monthly inventory, learning which groceries to order, along with assisting the food service director with activities like back to school meal, kids in the kitchen, etc. Previous experience in food service is preferred, but not required. If interested, you can go directly to Taher, Inc. and apply under Careers. You may also reach out directly to Chantelle Eshleman, Central Food Service Director at 952-467-7147 or email at ceshleman@isd108.org. Can’t wait to hear from you!
Here's a few more Raiders as they launched into the 2026-27 school year yesterday! Let's have a great year!
A huge thank you to everyone who shared their first day of school photos today! Let's have a great year Raiders!
School is back in session! We’re excited for what the year will bring for our students. Be sure to share your first day of school photos with us to be featured on our Central social media pages! Email photos to ommunications@isd108.org.
There's nothing like the energy on the first day of school!
Our theme for the 2026-27 is Built for the Future. Grounded in Community. We are seeing that theme in all of our first day fun for sure!
We love seeing so many different grade levels represented on our first day photos! Send yours over to communications@isd108.org
We’re proud to welcome our newest 5th grade teacher, Anna Houseman!
When asked why she chose to work at Central she said, “I love working in a smaller community, it creates opportunities to build strong relationships and work closer with students to achieve their goals.”
Anna shared that her family of educators inspired her to become a teacher, but also she enjoys watching students’ faces light up with excitement when they grow socially or academically.
Growing up, Anna said that she loved physical education, art or technology and any subject that requires projects or hands-on learning.
When Anna is not teaching, she keeps very busy. She shared, “I coach Figure Skating and am often at the rink. I love the outdoors, hiking, fishing, lake days etc. I have a few mini dachshunds that like to join me for my outdoor adventures. When I’m not outdoors, I’m in my woodshop or spending time with family including my new 6-month-old nephew!”
When asked why she chose to work at Central she said, “I love working in a smaller community, it creates opportunities to build strong relationships and work closer with students to achieve their goals.”
Anna shared that her family of educators inspired her to become a teacher, but also she enjoys watching students’ faces light up with excitement when they grow socially or academically.
Growing up, Anna said that she loved physical education, art or technology and any subject that requires projects or hands-on learning.
When Anna is not teaching, she keeps very busy. She shared, “I coach Figure Skating and am often at the rink. I love the outdoors, hiking, fishing, lake days etc. I have a few mini dachshunds that like to join me for my outdoor adventures. When I’m not outdoors, I’m in my woodshop or spending time with family including my new 6-month-old nephew!”
It's so great to have our students back for another year of learning and growing!
Keep those first day of school photos rolling folks!
Our Raiders are looking excited to charge into the school year and ready to thrive!
It's the first day of school for all grades at Central Public Schools! We are loving the first day photos so far. Send yours to communications@isd108.org to potentially be shared. Have a great first day Raiders!
