From the desk of Hamilton Heights Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood

Update No. 150

Last week, Dave Post’s Engineering class became the first in the state to offer Purdue University’s 5S workshop as part of their Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). Representatives from Purdue University were on site to observe this groundbreaking achievement and to present the certifications.

5S is one of several Lean Manufacturing tools and is a globally recognized methodology focused on structured, team-based problem-solving to improve organizational processes and increase productivity.

Used by over a million businesses worldwide, it empowers individuals with the tools to analyze, refine, and optimize workflows. For students, integrating 5S principles into academics and daily life provides a forward-thinking mindset that strengthens critical problem-solving skills – valuable both in education and future professional pursuits.

Earning this certification signifies a student’s proficiency in identifying risks, reducing errors, and driving efficiency, skills highly sought after in industries committed to excellence.

This milestone marks an exciting step for Hamilton Heights, highlighting the school’s dedication to innovation and real-world learning opportunities.

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In other exciting news, both the high school and elementary schools join the middle school in earning the prestigious ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation from the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). They are among an elite group of 190 schools across 29 states to have earned this honor. This distinguished five-year recognition underscores the district’s unwavering commitment to a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with the ASCA National Model, which emphasizes a proactive and preventative approach to fostering academic, career, and social-emotional development for every student.

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The IMPACT Awards Dinner, hosted by the Hamilton Heights Youth Assistance Program, is now in its eighth year of honoring exceptional Heights’ students for their perseverance and resilience in overcoming personal challenges.

Held at Hamilton Heights Middle School, the celebration welcomed 170 attendees, including students, families, school personnel, and community representatives. The program recognizes at least one student per grade (K–12), nominated by staff for demonstrating strength and determination in the face of adversity.

This event is a true celebration of the accomplishments and triumphs of these remarkable students, many of whom have overcome significant challenges in their lives. The grit, perseverance, and unwavering spirit of these students serves as an important reminder that challenges do not define success – resilience does.

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month. While this is a good reminder for us to prioritize well-being, it’s also a time to reflect on the profound impact of public education – not just as a foundation for learning, but as a pillar of community, growth, and support. Schools are more than classrooms; they are spaces where students discover their potential, build lasting connections, and learn the values of compassion and resilience.

Every day, educators, families, and community members come together to ensure that each child feels valued, empowered, and supported in their journey. By uplifting one another – through kindness, encouragement, and understanding – we create an environment where every student can thrive, and where seeking help is never seen as a weakness, but as a step toward strength and success.

Together, we are shaping a future where education not only equips students with knowledge but also nurtures the skills to lead with empathy, persevere through challenges, and build a brighter world for all.

#WeAreHuskies