Called to Teach: Haylie Larsen’s Classroom Journey

When Haylie Larsen was just five years old, she met the woman who would inspire her future career–her kindergarten teacher. Larsen decided then and there that she would teach, and her interest grew as she encountered one incredible teacher after another. The bud planted in kindergarten has blossomed; she’s White Pine Elementary’s Teacher of the Year. 

“I always just kind of knew,” she said. “Teaching is what I’m supposed to be doing. It’s my calling.”

White Pine Principal Derek Beer agrees wholeheartedly. “Haylie has a natural ability that’s inspiring,” he said. “She deals with every situation in a calm and loving way.”

Larsen’s gentle presence is a gift to her first-grade students. When asked about their teacher, they eagerly praised her kindness, “loveliness,” and the way she makes learning exciting.

One student’s excitement reached intergalactic proportions. “Mrs. Larsen is the best in the whole, entire universe!” he said.

Throughout her nine-year career, Larsen has always loved teaching first grade. “They are so sweet, and I love seeing them grow,” she said. “Those little light bulb moments are so fun.”

Her love for teaching is matched by her deep connection to the community. A Richmond resident herself, Larsen views White Pine as an extension of her home.   

 “It is a really personal connection for me,” she said. “White Pine is a family first, and I just love this community.”

According to her colleagues, the feeling is mutual.

“Haylie is always so positive,” one said. “She creates great relationships with her students.”

Another added, “She teaches her students in a loving, engaging, and orderly way. She is great at understanding her students’ needs and creating a positive experience for all.”

Of course, teaching, like any profession, has its ups and downs. Larsen finds strength in reflection, which guides her approach.

“On the hard days, I ask myself, ‘What kind of teacher would I want my kids to have?’” she said. Then I try to become that person.”

That approach has made a deep impression on her students’ parents, who shared appreciation for her impact on their children. 

“As a parent, there are so many wonderful things I can say about Mrs. Larsen,” one said. “She is communicative. She is patient, caring, and smart. She makes learning fun! But the number one thing that makes her an amazing teacher is how she teaches while also making each student feel loved and special.”

Clearly, Larsen is a teacher whose influence will extend through generations.

 “We all love Mrs. Larsen,” one student said simply.

And perhaps that is the greatest honor of all.