Mr. Vatnsdal retired as a Fifth Grade Math Teacher at Rockford Middle School.
He retired Spring, 2018.
Learn more about Mr. Vatnsdal!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Roseau, MN.
What High School did you graduate from?
I attended Roseau High School.
Where did you attend college?
I went to Concordia College – Moorhead, MN.
Did you always want to be a teacher?
My father was a teacher, my 5th grade math teacher, and I became interested in teaching because of him.
How many years have you been a teacher?
I have been teaching for 34 years with the last 20 in Rockford. I also taught in Bagley, Mn and Litchfield, Mn.
What grade(s) have you taught through out your career?
I have taught 3rd, 5th, and 6th grades.
What activities have you coached as a job or as a parent?
I have coached hockey, volleyball, tennis, and golf.
What do you look most forward to everyday at Rockford?
I look forward to seeing the people each day, both students and adults. They are the lifeblood of a school and Rockford is blessed to have the best.
What is one of your most memorable moments as a teacher?
I think receiving messages from past students sharing what they are doing now, letting me know that they “made it” and are doing well.
What advice would you give a brand new teacher?
Be genuine, have fun, and let the kids know you care about them. They will remember you for how you made them feel.
What will you miss most about teaching in Rockford?
I will most definitely miss the people. They are what made my time in Rockford special.
Family
My family consists of my wife, Lori, and kids Nick and Katie.
What are your plans when you retire?
I plan to do some traveling with my family, work part-time, and spend more time hunting and fishing.
*Photos: Left photo taken this school year, right photo taken in unknown year