Photo by Joe Keele
After 27 years of dedication to teaching the youth of Hastings Senior High, Family and Consumer Science teacher Jody Potthoff will be entering an exciting new stage in life; retirement.
Potthoff grew up on a farm in southwest Nebraska where an aunt inspired her to become a teacher.
“I made the decision to be a teacher in elementary school. I had an aunt that was a teacher and she was my role model,” Potthoff said.
Advice given to Potthoff earlier on in life led her to specialize in teaching Family and Consumer Sciences.
“I was interested in the area and years ago someone told me, ‘find something you’re good at, get good enough at it to make money doing it and be generous with your talents’ and so that’s why. It just fit my personality and my interests,” Potthoff said.
After studying at McCook Community College for two years, Potthoff finished off her studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and graduated with a degree in education and family resources.
Since graduating from UNL, Potthoff has been teaching on and off, accumulating a total of 34 years, 27 of which were at Hastings Senior High.
At Hastings Senior High, Potthoff currently teaches a wide range of subjects including applied psychology, textiles, parenting, housing and interior design, families and wellness, and child development.
Potthoff says she’ll miss interacting with her students and coworkers.
“My favorite memory is probably just building those relationships with students and fellow teachers. What I’ll miss most are just the day-to-day wonderful surprises that happen,” Potthoff said.
After retirement, Potthoff hopes to spend more time with family and get back into some old hobbies.
“I’m looking forward to doing what I want when I want,” Potthoff said jokingly. “I plan on getting back to swimming and gardening. I also want to be able to attend my granddaughter’s events.”
Potthoff had some advice for any upcoming teacher.
“Don’t let the day-to-day stuff get to you too much. Just keep calm and carry on. Any young people interested in becoming a teacher, it’s a great job and the ability to impact students is very rewarding.”
