Nebraska Town Creates Scholarship Honoring Beloved Teacher

When a teacher changes your life, the gratitude can last for decades.

A former Hastings High School student loved their European history teacher so much that they're now funding scholarships in his name. The Stanley J. Copley Memorial Scholarship will give two graduating seniors each year financial support to attend a four-year college, with priority for future teachers who need help paying for school.

Stanley J. Copley taught at Hastings High from 1959 to 1973, bringing European history to life for countless Nebraska students. His engaging teaching style left such an impression that one former student decided the best way to honor him was helping the next generation follow in his footsteps.

Chris Schukei, executive director of the Hastings Public Schools Foundation, sees this kind of giving regularly, but it never gets old. "It is incredible. One of the great joys of this job is seeing people do that," he said.

The scholarship addresses a real need. Teaching shortages affect schools nationwide, and the cost of college stops many talented young people from entering the profession. By removing financial barriers, this award makes it possible for students who dream of teaching but worry about paying for their degrees.

The Ripple Effect

One inspiring teacher created ripples that are still spreading 50 years later. The former student he influenced is now helping future teachers get their start, who will go on to inspire thousands more students over their careers.

Schukei emphasized why this matters beyond one school. "Our society needs great teachers. Being able to help Hastings High graduates that want to go back into the classroom and inspire further students and further generations is kind of what we exist for," he said.

The first scholarships will be awarded on May 11 at Senior Night. Students can apply through the Hastings Public Schools Foundation website.

This is what legacy looks like: one teacher's excellence creating opportunities for the teachers of tomorrow.