April 26, 2023: Update #106 from Dr. Derek Arrowood, Superintendent, Hamilton Heights School Corporation

Wednesday is Administrative Professionals Day which gives me a special opportunity to recognize the important contributions that our administrative professionals make at Heights every day. Our administrative roles are incredibly diverse and those who serve in them are invaluable to keeping our offices running smoothly and effectively every day. Their connectedness, expertise, attention to detail, and grace are the skills that make them beyond good at what they do.

These professionals often give the first impression of Hamilton Heights to those coming into our school buildings and district office. They work closely with our administrators, educators and staff, families, and community to ensure our schools are welcoming, organized, and efficient environments for learning. While much of their work is often done behind the scenes, their dedication and contributions are noticed, valued, and appreciated. Thank you!

Tuesday was Bus Driver’s Day which gave us the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the role and contributions of our bus drivers. Our drivers are good stewards, role models, and an important link in the education chain at Heights. Our Transportation Department is a well-oiled operation that provides students reliable, safe transportation to school and home and to and from events. Our drivers are among our unsung heroes whose work and service to our students and families are invaluable and deeply appreciated.

Next week also gives us a chance to celebrate more of our incredible school personnel. May 1 is School Principals’ Day and May 2 is National Teacher Appreciation Day. Our principals and educators play an essential role in our students’ lives. Our principals are leaders who create environments in their buildings where students and teachers thrive. They set the tone, lead the way, and are an example for all to follow.

Our teachers inspire a lifelong love of learning, curiosity, and discovery. They make a difference in the well-being and long-term success of our students even under the most stressful, and at times, difficult, and fluid conditions. Our principals and teachers are true superheroes whose commitment and dedication to their field and their students is unmatched.

Our school environment is one where both students and staff thrive, and everyone belongs. I sing our employees praises whenever I can because of their positive impact on our students, large and small, from the office to the classroom, to the field. The work of many of our staff and volunteers is unseen but not unnoticed. Every person in every role contributes to the collective educational experience of our students. Human connections and interactions are at the heart of education and throughout our campus. There is truly no place like Hamilton Heights. I am so proud of the people who choose to work here in every capacity and equipping the next generation of graduates with the skills, knowledge, and experiences to be successful in whatever direction they choose after high school.

Even at its most challenging, our work matters more than ever today. I am a proud Heights graduate and proud to be the Superintendent at Hamilton Heights. I am grateful for the chance to make a difference alongside a talented team that feels as passionate about public education as I do.

Thank you for your continued involvement, support, and partnership. #WeAreHuskies

– Dr. Derek Arrowood is the Superintendent of the Hamilton Heights School Corporation.