From the desk of Hamilton Heights Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood

Update No. 122

We are in the middle of National School Counseling Week (first full week in February) and are taking this opportunity to honor the incredible and meaningful work our school counselors do each and every day.

They play a central role on the school support team and are vital resources who work to ensure a healthy, positive, and safe school environment for students to learn, achieve school success, and plan for a career. We are grateful for the impactful role, service, and support provided by our school counselors: Nikki Wert and Tricia Rudy (HHES), Chelsea Pacheco and Sabrina Duncan (HHMS), and Lori Watson, April Baugher, and Rebecca Johnson (HHHS).

Thank you for all your work in helping to build a positive school climate and changing lives, one day at a time.

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We are also celebrating Black History Month. Our school community is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment for all our students, regardless of race or ethnicity.

Our students, staff, and community can benefit through culturally relevant teaching, learning, and activities centered around the rich cultural heritage, achievements, sacrifices, triumphs, and the essential role of African Americans in shaping our country.

Please join us in embracing this opportunity for growth by engaging your children with meaningful conversations about Black History Month at home to better understand and appreciate the countless Black individuals who have given their gifts and their lives in pursuit of a society that is free, just, and equitable for all.

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School Resource Officer (SRO) Appreciation Day is coming up next week (Thursday, Feb. 15) and I want to share a note of gratitude to our amazing SROs – Deputies Josh Ireland, Jon Tindal, and Kevin Neal.

They serve as an important bridge between our students, law enforcement, and our community. They are engaged, involved, help protect our campus, and provide a safe environment for our staff and students. Moreover, they are inspirational mentors, advocates, and role models.

The lasting relationships they build with our students and staff are lifechanging. Thank you for your presence, commitment, and service.

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This year’s annual Kindergarten Roundup will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 29 in the Husky Hangout at the elementary school. Registration opens on Friday, Feb. 23.

Our Kindergarten educators are phenomenal in providing an exceptional blend of engaging, inspiring, and fun learning experiences that are the building blocks of early literacy, socialization, communication skills, independence, and success in school for our littlest Huskies.

Click here for more information on what you need to do to begin your child’s educational journey at Heights.

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Mark your calendars to follow the yellow brick road to Hamilton Heights High School to enjoy our Drama Department’s live production of The Wizard of Oz. This year’s spring musical is a delightful adaptation of a timeless tale of a magical world over the rainbow in the Land of Oz.

The play, directed by HS English Teacher and Drama Sponsor Brooks Myers, features a talented cast of high school and middle school student performers for three shows on Feb. 16, 17, and 18. Tickets can be purchased online starting today, Feb. 9 and at the door the night of the show.

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As a reminder, Monday, Feb. 12 is our last scheduled Asynchronous E-learning Day and students should be prepared for a day of virtual instruction and learning from home.

Thank you for your engagement and continued support.

#WeAreHuskies