Jane Stewart Award OF Excellence | Katie Hazeldine

Jane Stewart Award OF Excellence | Katie Hazeldine

Katie Hazeldine began her Westview story over a decade ago, not as a teacher, but as a parent. In 2013, Katie was looking for a school to support her son, Finley. What she found was a place that would shape both of their lives.

"I just can't believe how lucky we were to find Westview," Katie said. "It was exactly what my son needed. He spent eight years here, and along the way, Westview gave us more than an education. It gave us a community."

Although Katie's background is in industrial engineering, she graduated from Oklahoma State University and worked in the corporate world. Teaching was always in the back of her mind. She comes from a family of educators and spent her teenage years tutoring and helping her mom, who was also a middle school math teacher, create lessons.

In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Katie stepped in as a substitute teacher at Westview. That experience changed everything.

"I felt drawn to our students," she said. "They reminded me so much of Finley, each with their own strengths and unique personalities. I also realized how warm and welcoming the staff was and how much I genuinely enjoyed being in the classroom. It brought back that desire to teach."

Katie officially joined the Westview faculty soon after. She started in Lower School Science and transitioned to Middle School Math in Spring 2023. Since then, she's become a cornerstone of the Middle School team. Her colleagues say she has an incredible way of connecting with her students with patience, kindness, and high expectations.

"She meets students where they are," one co-worker said. "She supports them when they need help and challenges them when they're ready to grow."

"She changed how our kids think about math," another wrote. "She makes [math] meaningful and accessible, and the kids know she believes in them."

Katie's influence on Westview goes beyond the classroom. She is known for being a thoughtful teammate, a calm problem-solver, and someone who's always willing to help. Whether it's stepping into a tough meeting at the last minute or offering kind words to a colleague who needs encouragement, Katie shows up.

She is always thinking about what's best for the kids," one colleague said. "She brings great ideas, and everything she does is student-centered.

When asked about the most rewarding part of her job, Katie didn't hesitate. "It's when I see the light bulbs go on," she said. "Watching something click for a student is powerful. It builds confidence and shows them they can do hard things."

She also shared her favorite thing about Westview: "Our students don't have to try to fit into a model that wasn't made for them. Everything, from academics to school events, is designed with their needs in mind."

Receiving this award, Katie says, is both humbling and meaningful. "Westview is full of educators who give their whole hearts to their students. Just being part of that group is an honor."

It's clear from the voices of her peers that Katie is much more than a great math teacher. She brings warmth, dedication, and heart to everything she does, and that's exactly what the Jane Stewart Award of Excellence is all about. We are proud to honor Katie Hazeldine as this year's award recipient; she is truly someone who not only teaches but uplifts, supports, and inspires the entire Westview community.