From the desk of Hamilton Heights Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood

Update No. 173

Please join me in congratulating this year’s Building Level Teachers of the Year: Sarah Julian (HHES, third grade), Kellie Combs (HHMS, ELA 6/ELA 6 Honors), and Wendi Russell (HHHS, English).

Each of these outstanding educators was selected for the way they elevate learning, inspire students, and reflect the values at the center of our mission every day. One of these remarkable individuals will be named our District Teacher of the Year and will represent Hamilton Heights at the Indiana Teacher of the Year competition in Indianapolis this fall.

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We are also proud to recognize our Building Level Support Staff of the Year honorees: Wendy Sauerteig (HHES Secretary), Charity Powell (HHMS Instructional Assistant), and Adam Hughes (HHHS Instructional Assistant).

These dedicated team members were chosen for their unwavering commitment to students, their reliability, and the positive impact they make across their buildings. Our District Level Support Staff Member of the Year is Austin Bragg (HHSC Transportation Mechanic), whose dedication and exceptional service strengthen our schools in countless ways.

The 2026 District Teacher of the Year will be formally announced at our Year End Banquet as we celebrate the people who make Hamilton Heights such an extraordinary place to learn and grow.

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Nominations are now open for the Hamilton Heights Athletic Hall of Fame – Class of 2026. This annual tradition honors the athletes, coaches, and teams whose dedication, character, and accomplishments have shaped Husky athletics and inspired generations of students.

If you know an individual or team whose impact deserves to be celebrated, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Forms can be downloaded from the website here.

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Hamilton Heights High School has once again earned recognition as a performance-qualified high school for 2026-2027! This distinction reflects strong academics, engaged students, and innovative learning, giving HHHS added flexibility to design programs that best support student success. This recognition reflects the exceptional work of our teachers and staff, the commitment of our students, and the support of a community that believes deeply in the power of public education.

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Speaking of high school, we are looking forward to celebrating commencement for the Class of 2026, Hamilton Heights High School’s 61st graduating class, on Saturday, May 30 beginning at 6 p.m. in the high school gymnasium. The event will also be live streamed and can be viewed here.

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As we head into summer break and leave the more structured days of the school year, the shift in routine can bring new challenges for some of our students. More time online, less supervision, and changes in daily structure can increase exposure to unsafe situations or harmful people. Schools provide safety, stability, encouragement, and trusted connection for many children, and those vulnerable students remain at the forefront of our minds.

To support families during the months ahead, we are sharing several resources that may be helpful. This includes a new Be BRAVE campaign, which offers simple, practical guidance to help students stay safe online. You’ll also find parent resources on recognizing online grooming, information about reporting concerns to the CyberTipline (1‑800‑THE‑LOST), and additional reporting options available to both students and adults. The ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline provides phone, text, and online chat support for anyone who needs help or guidance. Please feel free to share these resources with any child or family who may benefit.

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Let’s move into summer united in our commitment to keeping every child safe, supported, and surrounded by caring adults.

#WeAreHuskies