32 year teacher at Colman-Egan readies to leave Kindergarten
By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise
While official graduation ceremonies have already taken place for the seniors at Colman-Egan High School, another group of graduates is getting an extra special send-off as the 2025-26 school year comes to a close.
“Each year when Pomp and Circumstance begins our kindergarten graduation, I look straight forward at the front of the crowd, because tears fill my eyes each and every time! This year, there will be a few extra, because I am saying goodbye to something that has been a big part of me for 32 years.”
Kindergarten teacher Amie Hemmer will take down the decor from the walls and pack up her things one last time as she prepares for retirement.
Hemmer, a Garretson native, earned her education degree from Dakota State University. Her first job out of college was at Colman-Egan.
“I student taught in the first grade room at Colman-Egan and lived across the street from the school. After I finished student teaching the first grade teacher left the district and I was able to move into kindergarten due to a little shuffle in staffing.”
More than three decades later, Hemmer said the answer to why she stayed is simple.
“I became a Hawk! This is where I raised my family and I worked with some amazing teachers and got to know some wonderful families through the years.”
Hemmer said it’s hard to believe 32 years have passed.
“I am looking forward to less ‘busy.’ I have always loved being home in the summer and look forward to not having a schedule. My bonus next fall will be having my new granddaughter with me each day.”
“I hope the kids left knowing that I enjoyed my time with them and hopefully they enjoyed their time with me. I’ve always thought they are so young when they are in my room that their memories are probably pretty few, but I hope they find good memories of it.”
Hemmer also offered heartfelt thanks to the parents who trusted her with their children over the past 32 years.
“It has been such a joy and privilege to watch them learn, grow, and shine in our classroom. From the very beginning, they have truly become ‘my kids,’ and I cherish the laughter, memories, and special moments we’ve shared together.”
Looking back, Hemmer said the numbers surprised even her.
“My husband and I took out the annuals that I have collected and counted 689 students that I have had in my class. That isn’t counting those that moved in after ‘picture day.’ Out of the 689, I was able to teach my own three children and 15 nieces and nephews.”
Hemmer is one of three longtime Colman-Egan staff members retiring this spring. More on the impact of the trio’s departures — and the years of service they represent — in next week’s edition.
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