From the desk of Hamilton Heights Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood

Update No. 176

As we open the doors to a new school year, I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to our students, families, and staff.

Those who know me know how much I truly love school. It’s the energy of a new day, the promise of learning, and the simple moments that remind me why our work matters. Greeting students in the morning, watching teachers bring lessons to life, and seeing a child’s confidence grow day by day fuel my passion and guide my leadership. Each new beginning brings fresh opportunities to learn, grow, and strengthen the partnerships that allow us to provide an exceptional Pre-K through 12^th grade educational experience for every student.

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We’re excited to welcome both new faces and familiar voices to Hamilton Heights. Each person joining our team brings unique strengths, fresh perspectives, and a deep commitment to students that will enrich our classrooms and elevate our work. Their arrival strengthens an already exceptional group of educators and staff who consistently demonstrate excellence and a steadfast dedication to our students and community. Together, they will help us continue building the vibrant, student‑centered learning environment that defines Hamilton Heights.

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As we focus on helping every student thrive, I also want to make sure our families are aware of Indiana’s updated accountability system and how school grades will now be determined. We’ve created an overview that outlines what counts for students at each grade level, including an important change: attendance is now part of every school’s grade.

I encourage you to take a few moments to review this information so you can see how success indicators, assessment results, and attendance all work together to support each student’s growth. You can view the full document here.

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If you’ve driven past Hamilton Heights High School on State Road 19, you’ve likely noticed the construction underway on the north side of campus. This work reflects meaningful progress in our Phase 3 facilities plan, a long-term investment that was carefully budgeted early in the planning process to ensure responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. These funds directly support programs and spaces that benefit everyone in our community.

Phase 3 includes a new, larger weight room, a new north entry, expanded wrestling facilities, natatorium upgrades, a new auxiliary gym, and other improvements to high use areas. Together, these enhancements will elevate daily student learning and enrich the experience of families and community members who attend events at the high school.

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I encourage you to stay connected with us throughout the year whether by volunteering in classrooms or at events, engaging with our social media updates, reading our newsletters, or tuning in to our monthly video messages.

Hamilton Heights is strongest when our families and schools walk alongside one another, and our students feel that unity every day. There are so many meaningful ways to contribute, whether you have children at Heights or simply care about the success of our schools.

However you choose to be involved, your presence helps nurture the supportive, close-knit community that enriches the experience we create for every child.

I’ve loved school my entire life, and that love is renewed every time I see our students walk into classrooms filled with possibility. I know it’s going to be another great year for every Husky.

#WeAreHuskies