Guests of the October luncheon of the Northern Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce meeting enjoyed the open and spacious Hamilton Heights Middle School’s Outdoor/STEM lab. Dr. Derek Arrowood, Superintendent, Hamilton Heights School Corporation and Mary Roberson, Superintendent, Sheridan Community Schools, shared a brief update of their districts prior to turning the program over to educators and students to highlight two new specialty programs.
Jeff Beechler, U.S. History Teacher, Hamilton Heights Middle School, was accompanied by students currently involved in the new broadcasting program at the middle school. Students took guests on an interactive journey on the inspiration, vision, and impact of the student-run program. The program exposes students to all aspects of broadcast journalism while providing the opportunity to produce live video broadcasts through the Husky Broadcast Network. Students shared the impact of the class and their work on the entire corporation along with two recent student-produced PSA’s on bullying and mental health.
Sheridan students shared how they are creating a culture of less stress and anxiety with their new Social Emotional Learning (S.E.L.) mindfulness program made possible through a special grant. Students at the elementary level were introduced to the practice of yoga through fourth-grade teacher, Lindsey Martin. They use various yoga techniques to help relax their minds and take a short brain overload break. Mindfulness lessons are given by Abby Williams, Language Arts teacher at Sheridan High School. Students learn specialty techniques that help reduce stress and anxiety, enable students to become more observant to how they feel and what’s around them, and most of all, how to be in the moment.
Sheridan senior Eli Donaldson gave guests a sampling of what they are learning through a short exercise in breathing, focus, and taking in their surroundings in the present moment. Students shared the many benefits learned through these lessons including building better relationships, making healthier choices, and getting a good night’s sleep to name a few.
Chief Jeff Muszar, Jackson County Fire Department, summed up the presentations by both groups of students with heartfelt appreciation and support. “I was blown away by what I saw today,” Muszar said. “I was really touched by what is taking place at these schools and what these students are doing. It was eye-opening and nothing short of impressive.”