From the desk of Hamilton Heights Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood

Update No. 138

November brings a season of gratitude and generosity, a time to appreciate those around us and support those in need. It’s a month dedicated to thanks and giving, with countless opportunities to acknowledge the people who make a difference and to extend help to those who could use it. Let’s come together as a community to nurture our children, support each other, and lend a hand to those facing challenges.

Speaking of opportunities, we are always looking for good people to join the district in a variety of roles including substitute teachers. It’s truly our people who make Hamilton Heights such a special place to learn, teach, and work. Interested? Check out our current job postings here. We would love to have you join our team!

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As we strengthen our home-school partnership, there are many ways you can become actively engaged in the school community. Attending school activities is a great way to be involved, build relationships, and support your child, and there are many exciting events happening at Heights during the holiday season.

The events are posted on our district website, shared via social media, and through individual building communications to families.

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A fall favorite for family fun that is right around the corner is the Hamilton Heights High School Drama Department’s production of The Groom Has Cold Feet by Martin A. Follose. The play brings in audience participation to help solve this western whodunit murder mystery set in the 1800s.

There will be three performances on Nov. 15 (7 p.m.), 16 (7 p.m.), and 17 (2:30 p.m.). The play is under the direction of Hamilton Heights’ Theatre teacher Brooks Myers in collaboration with her theatre arts class. Tickets are $5 at the door (cash or card) beginning 30 minutes before each performance. All proceeds benefit the High School Drama Department.

Hamilton Heights High School is located at 25802 State Road 19, Arcadia.

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National School Psychology Week (NSPW) kicks off on Monday.

I want to give a shout out to the invaluable work of our school psychologists Rachel Johnson (HHES) and Pat Jones (HHMS/HHHS). They play an important role in supporting the psychological well-being and academic success of students in educational settings, especially those who struggle with barriers to learning. They address the social, emotional, behavioral, and learning needs of students. They collaborate with families, teachers, and administrators and take a multidisciplinary approach to providing an array of services and support to improve student outcomes.

Thank you for being a champion for children at Heights!

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Monday is Veterans Day. This occasion gives us the opportunity to thank our veterans for always keeping the nation before themselves. I would like to recognize and express my gratitude to those men and women who answered the call to serve, and for the sacrifices they have made so that we can enjoy the freedoms and life we lead today.

Please join me in taking a moment, not just on Nov. 11, but any day there is an opportunity to thank and honor those who have served our country.

We will always remember the dedication and sacrifice of our veteran families. Thank you!

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There is no place like Hamilton Heights! I am so grateful and thankful to be the superintendent of a diverse, robust, and welcoming school district with over 2,300 students, 300 committed and talented staff, their engaged and loving families, and a supportive community.

Thank you all for allowing me to work on your behalf and in service of our students.

#WeAreHuskies