For more than three decades, the halls of Melcher-Dallas Community School District were filled with the sound of young voices learning their letters, singing songs, and discovering the joy of reading under the guidance of Diane Vander Heiden.
Diane began teaching Kindergarten at Melcher-Dallas in 1968 and dedicated her entire 30-plus-year career to the district, retiring in 2003. A graduate of William Penn College in Oskaloosa, Iowa, she brought both heart and talent to her classroom. She was named Teacher of the Year by Who’s Who magazine in 2003, but those who knew her would say her greatest recognition came long before that, in the smiles of her students.
Former students remember her sitting with a guitar in hand, leading them in song, or gathering them close for story time, sharing her deep love of reading. She built confidence, curiosity, and a sense of belonging for students.
Diane passed away on April 9, 2023, at the age of 76 years, but her love for the district remains. Through a generous gift left to the district, Diane once again invested in the students she cared about so deeply.
At the time of the gift, the high school had just completed a new building addition. As staff looked at the updated space, they recognized an opportunity: the fine arts and Career and Technical Education departments needed a dedicated trophy case to showcase student achievements. The location was ideal and it was a perfect spot waiting to tell the story of student success and Diane’s gift made it possible.
Today, a custom trophy case stands as more than a display for awards and accomplishments. It represents the legacy of a teacher who spent her life celebrating students. It highlights the creativity of fine arts students, the innovation of CTE programs, and the many ways Melcher-Dallas students continue to excel.
In giving back to the district she loved, Diane ensured that student success would continue to be seen, celebrated, and remembered.
Just like her.
