Photograph by Jacqueline Ramseyer
Expert Administrator: Caroline Hastings has spent the last 21 years of her 30-year career in education as an administrator for the Moreland School District.
Public Citizen
Moreland administrative assistant offers guidance to parents and staff
By Moryt Milo
Whether it's a parent, teacher or an employee seeking help, Moreland School District administrator Caroline Hastings is there to steer them through.
For 30 years, Hastings, who assists Moreland School District Superintendent Jim Ritchie, has worked as an administrator in the field of education, 21 of those years with the Moreland School District, where she has watched with interest as superintendents and staff have developed new philosophies and approaches to education.
"It's interesting to see how the field of education has shifted back and forth between various programs over the years," she says. "We have so many new teachers who are excited and enthusiastic about their jobs. It's what keeps everything alive."
The level of instruction has become stronger because teachers are eager to continue developing their skills, Hastings says, with many working towards their master's degree.
Hastings, a 27-year Campbell resident, says the various changes during the past three decades have also made the educational process stronger, as innovative methods become part of a school's curriculum
Hastings' interest in education began soon after she and her husband, Jim, fell in love with the Santa Clara Valley. Jim was stationed in Oakland during his military service.
"We liked it so much we decided not to move back to Oregon once Jim was out of the Army," she says.
When Jim's tour of duty ended, the couple moved to the South Bay, where Jim took a teaching job.
During their early years, Hastings says her first goal was to have a family. As her children grew and entered elementary school, she began volunteering in Campbell Union School District (CUSD) classrooms.
Her volunteering led to a job as an instructional aide at Lynhaven Elementary School, which was the start of a career as an administrator in the field of education.
"I became involved because I thought I could contribute something to education," she says. "I wanted to help parents and staff and I have found it to be a rewarding experience."
Eventually her start at Lynhaven led to a job with the CUSD office. After working at the district for nine years, she moved to the Moreland School District offices, where she has spent the bulk of her career.
"The best part of my career has been in Moreland," she says. "Everyone here is like one big family."
The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) has honored Hastings' years of service, as ACSA board member from 1988 to 1991 and as ASCA Region 8 president.
In 1990 she received the Doctor Leland Stier Service Award. In 1989 she was recognized for her outstanding service as the president of ASCA Region VIII, and in 1991 for her service as a member of the ACSA board of directors .
The plaques on the walls are a testament to what Hastings says has been a great career.
Campbell, California
