From the desk of Hamilton Heights Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood

Update No. 172

Last Friday, our middle school staff welcomed their children for its annual Staff Bring Your Child to Work Day – a tradition that continues to highlight the family-centered culture of Hamilton Heights Middle School.

This event is a bright spot in the spring, offering students a glimpse into the world of education while celebrating the important role our staff members play both at home and in our schools. It’s a joyful reminder of why our work matters and an opportunity to inspire the next generation of Huskies and future educators.

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We also recently celebrated the graduation of 169 fifth- and eighth-grade students from the Teach One to Lead One (T1L1) mentoring program. Since 2019, T1L1 has been an important part of our curriculum, connecting students with caring adult mentors who meet weekly during the school day to build leadership skills rooted in the program’s 10 Universal Principles: respect, integrity, self-control, compassion, courage, teamwork, excellence, humility, enthusiasm, and honor. Students are encouraged to put these principles into action, helping them grow as leaders both in and out of the classroom.

Hamilton Heights was the first district in Indiana to host a T1L1 community mentoring group, and the program now serves seven districts across Central Indiana. We are proud of our students’ accomplishments and grateful for the mentors who make this transformative work possible.

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As we celebrate the meaningful work happening across our district, I am pleased to recognize Mitch Street, Hamilton Heights High School Assistant Principal, who has been named the District 5 Assistant Principal of the Year by the Indiana Association of School Principals.

This well-deserved honor reflects his exceptional leadership, steady presence, and unwavering commitment to students and staff. Mitch is known for building strong relationships, leading with integrity, and creating a school environment where students feel supported and educators feel empowered. His ability to balance high expectations with genuine care continues to be a hallmark of his leadership.

We are incredibly proud to see his dedication recognized at the state level and grateful for the difference he makes each day at Hamilton Heights.

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One of our most important annual celebrations is right around the corner: Graduation. This milestone represents years of hard work, growth, friendships, challenges overcome, and moments that shaped who our students are becoming.

The Class of 2026 has explored their interests, discovered their strengths, and built the confidence to take their next steps with purpose. Some will continue their education at colleges and universities, others will enter the workforce with industry-recognized certifications, and some will begin serving our country in the military. Whatever path they choose, each graduate carries with them the experiences, relationships, and learning that have prepared them to thrive beyond Hamilton Heights.

We are excited to celebrate the Class of 2026 at 6 p.m. Saturday, May 30 in the high school gymnasium. This ceremony is a chance to honor who they are today and who they are becoming.

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This month also offers an important reminder to prioritize well-being – not only for ourselves, but for the young people we serve each day. As we move into the final weeks of the school year, it’s a time to reflect on the powerful role public schools play in supporting students’ growth.

Our schools are more than places of learning; they are communities where students discover their strengths, build meaningful relationships, and learn resilience, compassion, and confidence. Mental Health Awareness Month invites us to celebrate that work while ensuring every student and family knows support is always within reach.

#WeAreHuskies