As a special education teacher, Rachel Berndt’s position requires her to focus not only on learning, but welfare and safety matters. Learn more about what drive’s Berndt’s passion for special education as well as how she strives to make all sorts of connections to best support her students and their families.   

Special thanks goes to the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation for sponsoring the Above & Beyond Awards. Learn more about their work at ahef.us.

For more about other Above & Beyond winners, listen in for additional podcasts in this series, or visit ahschools.us/aboveandbeyond.

As a technology facilitator, Andy Berg supports the work of Anoka Middle School for the Arts staff - helping them to best utilize technology tools to teach and support its students. Get to know Berg and how his life experiences have led him on this rewarding career path as well as what he does to accomplish his goals.  

Special thanks goes to the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation for sponsoring the Above & Beyond Awards. Learn more about their work at ahef.us.

For more about other Above & Beyond winners, listen in for additional podcasts in this series, or visit ahschools.us/aboveandbeyond.

Art teacher Tracy Bengtson has found a home at Anoka-Hennepin Regional High School. Learn how her high-energy classroom and enthusiastic support of her students is building new skill and confidence in this podcast episode. Bengtson explains how partnerships bring new opportunities for her students as well. 

Special thanks goes to the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation for sponsoring the Above & Beyond Awards. Learn more about their work at ahef.us.

For more about other Above & Beyond winners, listen in for additional podcasts in this series, or visit ahschools.us/aboveandbeyond.

Laura Ahrendt is an action-oriented “doer” who is making a difference for her students. A special education teacher at Anoka High School, Ahrendt works to build strong connections with her students, and their families. She works as part of a team that is focused on student success and helps organize learning plans for her students that earned her consideration as an Anoka-Hennepin Schools’ Above & Beyond recipient for 2020.   

Special thanks goes to the Anoka-Hennepin Educational Foundation for sponsoring the Above & Beyond Awards. Learn more about their work at ahef.us.

For more about other Above & Beyond winners, listen in for additional podcasts in this series, or visit ahschools.us/aboveandbeyond.

Success in our schools and for our students is a direct result of the energy and commitment of Anoka-Hennepin’s dedicated employees. Each year, the district coordinates recognition for those who exceed expectations through the Above and Beyond Awards. This year’s Above and Beyond Award recipients include a list of 14 exemplar employees.