Hawkeye UniServ Unit Tour Begins in Waterloo

Our morning on Tuesday, October 2nd began at West High School in Waterloo. Hawkeye UniServ Unit Director Shelly Staker picked me up at my motel bright and early then off we went to meet terrific leaders along with many association members at "Java West".

Katie Clancey (at right) a West High Special Needs teacher shared with us that "Java West" planning began in January of 2007 with the grand opening in May. "Java West" is a project (a real coffee house within West HS) staffed with co-op students and volunteers during 1st, 2nd and 3rd periods of the school day.


Many departments within the school made this dream a reality. First, the staff gave up the one and only lounge in the building. Counters and cupboard were made by those in Drafting; the Art Department painted murals as well as furnished other decorative pieces; Family and Consumer Science made curtains; and it all came together for the students!

Stopping by for conversation was Connie Lubbert (at right). Connie is an English teacher here at West High School. Many who stopped by for only a moment gave great praise for Connie as a wonderful teacher and dedicated professional. Connie is also a member of the Waterloo Education Association Executive Board.

Waterloo EA President Sue Padget (at left) is Chair of the Social Studies Department at West High School. Sue was willing to give up her planning time to visit with us about strengths of the Waterloo EA and ideas she has for her association year ahead. I first met Sue at ISEA Summer Conference in Storm Lake. How lucky we are to have dedicated leaders that not only make a difference in the lives of association members, but their first passion is making a difference for students!