After 25 years of dedication to Hamilton High School, administrative assistant Mrs. Tracy Haverdink is officially retiring at the end of September.
For more than two decades, Haverdink has been a central figure at the high school, supporting principals Mitch Bosch and David Sheppard, staff, and countless students. While her official title was administrative assistant, Haverdink humbly joked that her role was “fancy for doing whatever Mitch and David want me to do.”
When reflecting on her career, she says the best part of her job has always been the students.
“It’s the atmosphere, it’s the energy,” Haverdink shared. “Someday they’re going to be my doctor or my radiologist. It’s exciting to be around young people and all their potential.”
Hamilton has always been home for Haverdink. A proud Hamilton graduate herself, she grew up less than a mile from the school. It’s also where she met her husband when they were sophomores. After marrying, the couple settled nearby and both dedicated their careers to Hamilton Community Schools—her husband serving 31 years and Haverdink 25.
“This has always been my little bubble,” she said. “There’s no other place to be.”
Though Haverdink is ready for the next chapter, she admits walking away won’t be easy. She expects homecoming and other school traditions will tug at her heart. As a former Hamilton cheerleader, she says she’ll always be cheering on the Hawkeyes.
Looking ahead, Haverdink says retirement will be filled with “anything and everything and nothing”—a season to embrace new opportunities, travel, and enjoy family.
Taking over her role will be Mrs. Tina Foidl, who currently serves as the Student Services administrative assistant. Haverdink expressed full confidence in her successor.
“Tina knows so much already. She will slide into this role so easily,” she said.
Haverdink says she won’t be shedding tears over her departure, choosing instead to see it as a joyful next adventure.
“You don’t cry at that—it’s exciting. It’s like taking a jump.”
