Spotlight: Grant Hegstad (IA '23)

Iowa Milken Educator Grant Hegstad is an assistant principal and extended career experiences coordinator at MOC-Floyd Valley High School. Hegstad directs the school’s Center for Advanced Professional Studies which has quadrupled in size over the past year. The program helps students gain on-the-job training, real-world experiences, and secure job offers post-graduation. Hegstad cares about the longevity of his students both professionally and personally. "Educators have the privilege of investing in students during a crucial stage of their development and growth. This opportunity to shape young minds and future leaders is both a tremendous blessing and a large responsibility." Hegstad received a 2023-24 Iowa Milken Educator Award on February 15, 2024.

Milken Family Foundation: How have students responded since your Milken Educator Award surprise? 

Our students continue to amaze me, as evidenced by their response to my Milken Educator Award. They have been so encouraging and affirming, making it a joy to share in the excitement together. Reconnecting with graduates I've worked with in previous years has added to the fun as well. The notification surprise has reinforced for all of us the uniqueness of our community — rich with incredible people and opportunities. We are truly fortunate to live, learn, work, lead, and serve together at MOC-Floyd Valley. 
 
MFF: Who are your role models as an educator? Is there an experience you had in the classroom as a student that shaped your practices or motivation to teach?

So much of who I am today, I would attribute to my parents.  My mom served as a classroom teacher and my dad is a pastor, so each of them have been a "teacher" in their roles.  Their example of servant leadership and fostering relationships through their work has always inspired me as an educator.    
 
During my K-12 journey, I had so many teachers, coaches, and activity sponsors who left an impact on me and have helped inspire me to become the educator I am today.  Their ability to forge strong relationships, bring out the best in others, and exemplify a passion for their work are qualities I strive to emulate. Additionally, my professors at Northwestern College were instrumental in developing my educational philosophy, centered on the concept of "teacher as servant."  Now as an educator, I have had many colleagues and administrators mentor me and help me grow personally and professionally. 
 
The "unsung hero" role model in education is my wife, Jen, who serves as a third-grade teacher in our district. She's an incredible mom, supportive wife, and a passionate educator. Without her, I would be unable to do what I do now in the same way. I'm so grateful for all she does. 
 
MFF: Tell us about your first year of teaching and/or administration. What memories stand out? Who or what helped you through it? 

In the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS), we live by the mantra, "It's all about growth." We encourage our students to embrace productive struggle, take on new challenges, and fail forward. Through this process, we learn and grow together.  My first year of teaching was a testament to this philosophy — full of many learning opportunities. What stands out most are the students I worked with that year. They showed remarkable grace, understanding we were all on this journey together. As my first group, they will always hold a special place in my heart. I was fortunate to have exceptional teaching colleagues, administrators, and paraprofessionals supporting me in my classroom. Their guidance was invaluable as I navigated that first year. It truly was a team effort.

MFF: What do you hope students remember from their time with you? 

I hope each student remembers: 
- Each of them is cared for and valued, and we believe in their unique potential.  
- Embrace the productive struggle. 
- Be willing to fail forward — learning can be a joyful experience.
- We have never fully “arrived” — the pursuit of continual growth is a lifelong journey. 

MFF: What inspired the implementation of the CAPS program at MOC-Floyd Valley High School, and how has it evolved since? 

Nearly a decade ago, our administration and several teachers embarked on a journey to discover more authentic, real-world connected learning experiences. We recognized a gap between education and the preparedness required for future employees beyond graduation from high school. As we explored options, we discovered that the CAPS model aligned well with our school district and community needs, offering a promising solution to bridge this gap. 
 
The CAPS Network has established core beliefs that serve as the foundation for all its programs, while allowing flexibility for each program to tailor its approach. CAPS has become a powerful connector for our students, teachers, community partners, and professionals beyond the classroom. 
 
We have evolved from a single-strand CAPS Solutions program to now include CAPS Education and CAPS Medical, catering to students interested in those professions as well. This expansion reflects our commitment to providing diverse, industry-specific opportunities for our students. 
 
MFF: Vocational education is gaining popularity on high school campuses. Why do you believe this kind of curriculum is so valuable for students? Are there any success stories that stand out from the students who have participated in the CAPS program and transitioned into full-time employment or pursued further education in their chosen career paths? 

Vocational education programs offer students first-hand experiences that connect classroom learning to the real world. This approach demonstrates the relevance of academic content to life outside the classroom, as students can see its practical applications. These course options also provide opportunities for student agency, allowing them to choose subjects that align with their strengths, interests, and passions. As a result, student engagement increases, leading to higher levels of achievement. 
 
In CAPS, our goal is to "prepare all students for their purpose." Through the program, students gain a better understanding of who they are, what they're passionate about, and where their strengths lie. We then help align these insights with suitable career areas for further exploration and connections. Many students who have participated in our CAPS Program have received full-time employment opportunities after graduation, thanks to the experience the program provided or the connections it fostered. Additionally, it has helped numerous students gain clarity on potential fields of study at post-secondary institutions. 
 
Ultimately, we aim for all students to graduate with greater clarity and confidence about their identities and future paths. The CAPS program plays a crucial role in helping students bridge the gap between education and their future careers, ensuring they are well-prepared for life beyond high school. 

MFF: What advice would you share with people who are interested in becoming teachers? 

As the Milken Family Foundation states, "The future belongs to the educated." Education is the key that unlocks doors to all fields. Teachers have the unique opportunity to unleash the potential in others, helping them achieve their goals and dreams. If we reflect on our own educational journeys, almost everyone can recall at least one teacher who had a profound impact on their life. 
 
Educators have the privilege of investing in students during a crucial stage of their development and growth. This opportunity to shape young minds and future leaders is both a tremendous blessing and a large responsibility. The rewards of working in education are immeasurable, as teachers witness the transformation and success of their students over time. 
 
Teachers play a vital role in shaping not just individual futures, but the future of our society. Their influence extends far beyond the classroom, making education one of the most impactful and fulfilling professions. 

MFF: Are you working on any interesting initiatives or new projects these days? Is there anything else you want to share about your school?  

We are actively working to enhance our CAPS Medical program. In addition to our existing components — a professional onboarding process, client projects, and building a network of connections in the biology and health professions — we are now looking to add an internship opportunity for our student-associates in partnership with our local health system. 
 
This internship would provide our students with the invaluable chance to learn directly from professionals in the field. It would offer hands-on experience and expose them to various positions in healthcare, including roles they might not have previously known about or considered.