Tabitha Newton named Husky Hero for being a champion for students

Submitted by Hamilton Heights School Corporation

Hamilton Heights School Corporation recognizes Tabitha Newton, sixth-grade science teacher at Hamilton Heights Middle School, as the newest Husky Hero. For her students, Newton is much more than a science teacher. She is a mentor, role model, cheerleader, and one of their biggest supporters.

For Newton, the recognition is especially meaningful because it comes from the families she serves. Just into her first year at Hamilton Heights, Newton has already made a lasting impression on students and families alike. Again and again, parents described a teacher who goes above and beyond, generously investing her time, energy, and heart into helping students succeed.

Here’s what families shared:

Jessica Grandson: “Miss Newton has been a phenomenal teacher to my son but also to every sixth grader. She is apparently a huge football fan, and it showed this football season. She had just met all her new incoming 6th graders at the start of the year but yet she showed up to their very first game to support them. She made it to every single 6th grade game. The kids were pumped knowing she was there watching them. She even purchased a ticket to Lucas Oil and came to support them there! At the end of the season she had all of the football players wrote thank you notes to every one of their coaches. She is not only teaching them science but also how to be respectful young adults. She most definitely deserves to be named husky hero!”

Megan Bishop: “Miss Newton is an amazing addition to the HHMS family. Since day one, she has unwaveringly supported her sixth-grade students, both in and outside of class. She makes it clear that she is an available resource in times of need and has spent much of her free time supporting outside activities of her students. It is clear that she was born to be a teacher!”

Mike Cameron: “Amazing role model to the sixth-grade football boys. Showed up to every game including paying to go down to Lucas Oil Stadium. Even the end of year team party. Way outside of her obligated hours. Engaged with all of the parents and just a joy to have around.”

Irlene Hanson: “Ms. Newton showed up for her youth football league kids. She came to all of the games, supports the boys in and out of the classroom and cares about her job so much! She is a phenomenal teacher!”

Chelsea Smith: “She shows up for these kids! She came to all the boys’ football games no matter how big or small! She helps support them in and out of class and they respect and love her so much!!”

Lisa Bailey: “She’s extremely supportive of our kids and is dedicated to their success.”

Jessica Clingler: “Miss Newton has been a great teacher and supporter for the 6th grade student. She has taken time out of her day to come to the 6th grade football games to support the players and cheerleaders. She made sure to have the players make cards for their coaches. She has also been a great help with getting assignments turned in and making sure they all understand how important it is to turn in your assignments on time.”

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“Being named Husky Hero means so much to me, especially because the nomination came from my students’ parents,” Newton said. “It’s a reminder that the little things I do each day can make a real difference for my students. Knowing that their families see and appreciate those moments makes this award even more special.”

Her motivation stems from a powerful influence in her own life. Newton credits her high school guidance counselor with helping her believe in herself and making a lasting impact that continues today.

“I want to be that kind of person for my students,” she said. “Someone they can talk to, trust, and count on to be in their corner.”

Whether it’s greeting students with a high-five, sharing a special handshake, supporting extracurricular activities, or helping them navigate challenges, Newton embraces the opportunity to connect with students and help them grow.

Receiving the Husky Hero Award only strengthens Newton’s commitment.

“I want them to leave my classroom more curious about science and more confident in themselves,” she noted. “Years from now, I hope they remember that Miss Newton was in their corner.”

Do you know a Husky Hero? Nomination forms and information about this special recognition program for Hamilton Heights employees are available at bit.ly/hhschuskyhero. The Husky Hero Recognition program is made possible through the Hamilton Heights Educational Foundation in partnership with Craig and Amber Bowen (FC Tucker). #hhedfoundation