Kyle Economy named Lasallian Educator of the Year

Kyle Economy didn’t always plan on becoming a teacher. A decade ago, he was working in geographic information systems at Xcel Energy, applying the knowledge he had gained while earning his Bachelor of Science in Geography from the University of North Dakota. He was also coaching on the side and starting to question whether the corporate world was truly where he was called to be. 

Economy credits his father, as well as Holy Family science teacher and fellow track coach Ian Parzyck, for encouraging him to pursue education. That encouragement, paired with a desire to make a deeper impact, changed the trajectory of his life.

Economy earned his Master of Arts in Education from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and obtained his teaching license, eventually teaching for one year at Wayzata High School, one of the largest high schools in the state. The experience solidified his desire to work in a smaller school where he could build deeper relationships in a faith-based environment.

Now in his fourth year of teaching at Holy Family, Economy teaches Economics and AP Government with Economics™, and leads the school’s track and field team as head coach. He’s also an assistant coach for the cross-country team. Whether in the classroom or on the track, his goal is the same: to help students become thoughtful, accountable citizens and connected human beings.

“For me, the classroom prepares you for life,” Economy says. “A lot of the skills you take from the classroom make you a better citizen. The rules and expectations help mold you into the adult you will become.”

Economy grew up in Victoria, ran cross-country and track at Chaska High School and later at the University of North Dakota, and now lives in the area with his wife, Jessie, and their two young sons, Caleb and Harrison. His roots in the community run deep having received his Sacraments of the Eucharist and Confirmation through St. Victoria Church in Victoria. 

Economy's coaching philosophy reflects a belief in something bigger than times and stats. “I preach to the kids one principle I believe is important: being part of an ‘Audience of One’—glorifying God through your sport,” he said. “If we can hold ourselves accountable to that, everything else—effort, sportsmanship, being a good classmate and teammate—comes together.”

As for receiving the 2025 Holy Family Lasallian Educator of the Year award, it's an honor Economy describes as affirming. “It's affirming and tells me I’m meant for this work,” he says. “But the job isn’t done. I always want to improve. I want to be the best educator I can be.”

Economy connects deeply with the Lasallian virtue of humility, striving to humanize their school experience. “I try to explain things in a way my students can relate to,” he says. “To take away the intimidation and be real with them.”

These reflections reveal a teacher who’s not only thoughtful and dedicated but also grounded in faith and purpose. Even in the face of challenges, such as balancing life with a young family, he remains grateful. “It doesn’t always feel like a job,” he says. “I feel fortunate to be able to teach at Holy Family.”