06/17/2026
“Justine is a blessing to our community and our children.”
Mahtomedi Teacher Impact: Academic Excellence 💛💙
Justine Hawkinson is a kindergarten teacher at Wildwood Elementary School. Kindergarten is an important transition year, and that transition can feel big for both students and families. Mahtomedi parent Lindsey Weisner shared this impact message about that transition and how Ms. Hawkinson's classroom is a loving place where students are building a strong academic foundation while feeling safe, seen, and supported.
⭐️“My daughter is in Mrs. Hawkinson’s Kindergarten class this year. As a mother, I was having a hard time with the transition from my little girl being at home with me most of the time to being in school full-time. From the moment my daughter started school this year, she not only was learning so much academically, but also felt safe, cared for and seen. She cannot wait to go to school every day to be with who she calls her best friend, Mrs. Hawkinson. As a mother, I could not be more grateful for how Mrs. Hawkinson shows up for her students. Anytime we have faced a challenge in school, Justine addresses immediately, effectively, but most importantly with love and care. I would like to acknowledge how hard of a job it is to lead, guide, and care for that many children each day. I would also like to acknowledge that Mrs. Hawkinson takes on that challenge every day and is doing an amazing job. Justine is a blessing to our community and our children. In my opinion, if all teachers could follow her example, it would truly change the world.”