The USD 489 Foundation for Educational Excellence, in partnership with Heartland Credit Union, is proud to announce the launch of the Inspire 489 Award, a new initiative designed to recognize and celebrate exceptional staff members across Hays Public Schools.
“Having this chance to be part of an award that truly recognizes the great teachers in our district is super exciting,” said Chrisy Crough, President of Hays 489 Foundation for Education. “Educators are the unsung heroes of today’s workforce. Day in and day out they work tirelessly to make our future brighter and deserve all the kudos and praise.”
The Inspire 489 Award reflects a shared commitment to uplifting the educators and staff who make Hays Public Schools a place where students thrive. Together, the USD 489 Foundation and Heartland Credit Union look forward to honoring those who inspire excellence every day.
“We are thrilled to partner with the USD 489 Foundation for Educational Excellence to honor the incredible individuals who make a difference in Hays Public Schools every day,” said Dan Springer, President and CEO of Heartland Credit Union. “The Inspire 489 Award is our way of saying thank you and shining a light on those who go above and beyond for students in the Hays area.”
Heartland Credit Union was founded in 1948 by 14 schoolteachers, and the Inspire 489 Award reflects its continued commitment to supporting educators and schools in the communities it serves.
Each Inspire 489 Award recipient will receive a $1,000 check from Heartland Credit Union and a commemorative plaque. Recipients will be chosen four times throughout the school year.
Nominations open August 27, 2025, and can be submitted online at www.usd489.com/page/foundation. All members of the public are encouraged to participate—nominations may be submitted by parents, fellow staff members, students, and community members who wish to recognize the outstanding contributions of USD 489 staff.
