From the desk of Hamilton Heights Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood

Update No. 199

As I reflect on the first half of the school year, I am proud of all we have accomplished together as a school community to challenge, educate, and inspire every student, every day.

I continue to be grateful for the leadership and vision of our school board, and passionate teachers and staff and their commitment to our students. I remain proud of our students for their efforts to learn and achieve in the classroom, on the stage, and on the athletic fields. I appreciate our families support and involvement that is a gamechanger for positive student outcomes.

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On the topic of involvement, one of our district parents who works in the local food security sector reached out to see if we could help spread the word about a new app, Community Compass. This free, quick, and easy tool provides information about when and where free food is available in our area. This can be a helpful resource for those navigating the pantries and alternative food distribution system. Most of us aren’t immune to facing difficult times or challenges. Finding nutritious, readily available food shouldn’t be one of them. We all could use a helping hand now and then, especially when the unexpected happens.

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Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program (YAP) was selected as this year’s recipient for the Partners in Service Award recently presented at the Hamilton County Trustee Association annual awards ceremony. There are 11 YAP advocates serving Hamilton County’s six public schools.

Jackson Township Deputy Trustee Nicole Duncan said, “It was our direct relationship with YAP Youth Assistance Early Intervention Advocate for Hamilton Heights, Mary Ann Haymaker, that influenced our decision to select this organization for the award. We love her and the work she does at Heights through YAP and is deserving of this honor.”

We couldn’t agree more! Thank you to all our Hamilton County Youth Assistant Advocates for their investment in our students and community through the YAP. Learn more about the impact of YAP in our schools at youthassistance.org.

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Our Band Director, Mark Snelson, is offering a special opportunity for middle school students to participate in the first of what could be an annual, half-day Flag Camp for HHMS students (grades 5 to 8) this Saturday, Dec. 16. Students are invited to practice and perform with Heights’ award-winning high school Color Guard live on court at halftime during the boys’ varsity basketball game.

The camp consists of practice during the day, mentored by our amazing Color Guard Squad, pizza lunch, flag, T-Shirt, and creating a great memory in front of Husky fans and visitors alike. The deadline to register is today, Friday, Dec. 15. More information and registration can be found here.

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Members of the Hamilton Heights Girls Basketball team cordially invite the community to wear pink and come out in force at the fourth annual Pink Out on Friday, Jan. 19 at Hamilton Heights. Our annual Pink Out campaign is something we all look forward to as we recognize those who have survived, remember those who fought, and bring awareness about breast cancer in our community. Proceeds benefit the IWIN Foundation.

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Calling all former Hamilton Heights boys basketball team players, managers, cheerleaders, and coaches to participate in the Hamilton Heights Alumni Boys Basketball game and related festivities on Saturday, Jan. 20. The afternoon “fun”-raiser and evening recognition is designed to connect the sport’s rich past with our current players and fans. Details and registration information can be found here.

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May your holiday season be filled with the most precious gifts of all: time with friends and family, rest and relaxation, and cheerful laughter.

#WeAreHuskies