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.”
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!
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!”
Our next Hall of Fame honoree is a consistent name you see in the record books as a three sport student-athlete in basketball, volleyball and softball. Not only was she making waves in the sports world, she stood out as an engaged leader in the classroom and extracurriculars. We’re proud to honor Class of 1990 graduate Kathy Mackenthun (Heuer) in this year’s Raider Rally.
Throughout high school at Central High School, Kathy was involved in a variety of activities and held many leadership roles including C-Club (president), choir, Future Homemakers of America (President), Homecoming Committee, Prom Committee, German Club, National Honor Society (Treasurer). She was even named in the Senior "Hall of Fame" as Most Likely to Succeed, along with Douglas Stuedeman.
Kathy was on the Varsity Volleyball team during her junior and senior years, and was named the Offensive Player of the year as a junior. During her senior year, she was Team Captain, MRC All-Conference and Team MVP for two years. She also earned recognitions as MRC Honorable Mention All-Conference, All-Region 3A Team, and All-State Academic Team.
Kathy also shined on the basketball court, which is what led to her play at the collegiate level. During high school, she played on the varsity basketball team all four years. During her senior year, she was Varsity Captain, Team MVP 3 years, MRC Most Valuable Player, All-State Team and All-State Academic Team. Kathy finished her Central career with 1,276 points, becoming the first Central player ever to score 1,000 career points. She averaged 19 points per game and shot 59% from the field. Central lost to St. Peter 51–53 in the game to advance to state, but her 14-for-14 shooting performance remains second in the MSHSL record books for highest field-goal percentage in an individual game.
After graduating from Central, Kathy attended the University of Minnesota Morris, graduating with honors and double-majoring in Management and Economics. She continued her basketball career as a Cougar, and in 2012 was inducted into the University of Minnesota Morris Cougar Hall of Fame. At the time of her induction, she ranked third in career scoring with 1,543 points and fifth in rebounding with 812.
After college, Kathy continued her education and professional development by earning CPCU — (Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter) and ARe (Associate in Reinsurance). She spent 30 years working for EW Blanch in Bloomington, which later became part of Aon. She currently serves as Senior Managing Director at the FHCF Administration and works on the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund account.
Kathy married Rodney "Rod" Mackenthun and they have three children Anna, Abby and Michael who are all Central High School graduates.
One of the most meaningful chapters of Kathy's post-college life has been coaching. For approximately 15 years, she coached youth basketball for boys' and girls' teams from NYA, Glencoe and Hamburg/Emanuel.
Kathy considers the years spent coaching her children and their teammates some of her favorite memories. The friendships, laughter and time together made those years especially meaningful.
We appreciate all that Kathy has contributed to our community from her time as an extraordinary student to now as a dedicated community member!
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/
We are so excited to see our 6th and 9th grade students tomorrow for Transition Day! Families, if your 6th and 9th grade students will let you get first day of school photos, we will happily take them at communications@isd108.org to potentially be shared on social media!
Work 2.25 hours per day (10:50 a.m. - 2:05 p.m.)
Position Description/Qualifications:
1. Minimum qualification: High School Diploma, experience with elementary age students preferred
2. Must have the ability to lift and toilet students.
3. Possess basic academic competencies to provide tutorial assistance to the student(s) as needed.
4. Prior experience working with special needs children is desired but not required.
Apply today: https://www.applitrack.com/central/OnlineApp/JobPostings/view.asp?all=1
