Charlie Haugen

Charlie Haugen decided to go into education during his first year at Gustavus Adolphus College.

“My advisor, the head of the Physical Education Department, persuaded me to take some PE classes, and I was hooked. My college advisors and family have been my biggest influencers.”

Haugen will teach Health, Physical Education and Developmental Adapted Physical Education (specially designed physical education instruction and services for pupils with disabilities).

He grew up in Falcon Heights and graduated from Cretin - Derham Hall High School. He attended Gustavus Adolphus College before earning a bachelor’s degree from Bethel University.

Haugen has been a substitute teacher at Groves Academy—a private school in St. Louis Park for students in grades 1-12 who have disabilities—but Cleveland will be his first full-time position.

His favorite topics to teach are basketball and hockey.

“They are great team sports and have tons of fun games attached with them.”

Haugen chose Cleveland school because he likes the area, the people and the idea of being a little ways away from the Twin Cities.

“Ever since I left Gustavus, I knew I wanted to be back in an area like St. Peter and Cleveland, so when I saw the job opening, I had to jump on it.”

With both an athletic and an artistic side, Haugen keeps busy outside of the classroom.

“I love to be outside with my dog, I love sports and always am trying to find a game to play. I have really enjoyed skiing recently, and I also really enjoy sketching and painting.”