I love building those connections. I hope to make a difference.”

Hillary Heim

For Hillary Heim, teaching has always been more than just a career — it’s been a calling. The 34-year-old Special Education teacher at Stanley-Boyd found her way into the profession thanks to the encouragement of her own teachers, and today she’s paying that inspiration forward in her classroom.
Heim, who has lived in Chippewa Falls for three years, earned her degree at UW–Platteville before spending five years teaching on the Menominee Reservation. She later moved to Eau Claire to be closer to family and, just this year, joined the Stanley-Boyd School District— a choice inspired by the many alumni she knows who consistently praise the district.
“I had a lot of great teachers when I was younger that I looked up to,” Heim said. While she once thought about teaching kindergarten, a high school teacher changed her direction. Mrs. Hoppe, her home economics teacher, noticed how naturally Heim supported her classmates with special needs and suggested she consider special education. Heim took that advice — and found her passion.
Heim said her teaching philosophy is built on advocating for what’s best for her students. She recalls working with one frustrated second-grader who often flipped a desk or tore up papers during math class.
“After building a relationship with that student, we talked about why, and they said it was just too many problems,” Heim explained. Her solution was simple: shorten assignments while still ensuring the student demonstrated understanding. That student-centered approach has guided her ever since. “I want them to be strong learners and know how to advocate for themselves,” she said. Relationships, Heim believes, are at the heart of teaching — a lesson her students have taught her time and again. “Like Rita Pierson said, kids don’t learn from people they don’t like,” she added. Some of her favorite moments are when former students stop by her classroom to visit. “I love building those connections. I hope to make a difference.” Heim wishes people knew just how much time teachers dedicate to planning fun and engaging activities for their students.
Family remains an important part of Heim’s life. Her brother served as a Marine, and her sister now lives in Hawaii. Together, her family enjoys playing euchre, hearts, and board games whenever they can. Outside of school, Heim enjoys chasing waterfalls, throwing darts, and catching live music — her concert lineup this year includes Kelsea Ballerini, Simple Plan, Knox, Taylor Tomlinson, and comedian Matt Rife, with plans to see the Jonas Brothers and Jesse McCartney later this year. She’s also a loyal fan of Wisconsin sports, cheering for the Packers, Badgers, and Brewers.
Looking ahead, Heim said she is excited for “the difference middle school brings” and hopes to get more involved in the Stanley-Boyd community. While her schedule is busy — she currently juggles three jobs — she said she plans to volunteer at school sporting events to meet families and support the district.
At the end of the day, Heim said it all comes down to the students. “The best part is building connections and relationships,” she said. “That’s why I became a teacher.” As Heim settles into her role at Stanley-Boyd, her passion for students and community shines through. With her dedication both inside and outside the classroom, she’s eager to make a lasting impact — one relationship at a time.