Heights Superintendent Celebrates School Start
The first day of school always brings a unique kind of energy—and yesterday was no exception. It was truly fantastic to see our buildings once again filled with the smiles and voices of students, the dedication of our staff, and the steady enthusiasm of our faculty. There’s nothing quite like the moment school springs back to life.
Each new year holds the promise of growth, connection, and opportunity. Whether students are returning or walking our hallways for the first time, they’re stepping into a place designed to inspire, engage, and support them. And behind every lesson and locker is an incredible team of educators and staff ready to help each student find purpose and become the best version of themselves.
We’re excited to welcome new faces and familiar voices to Hamilton Heights. Whether they are starting fresh or continuing their careers, our new additions bring with them talent, experience, and energy that will enrich and strengthen our learning environments. I think they will be an excellent addition to our vibrant, committed, and engaging roster of faculty and staff.
With the new school year upon us, we’re shining a spotlight on the power of attendance. I have always believed that students achieve best when they are present in school and connecting with teachers, staff, and peers. Being present at school fuels learning, builds relationships, and lays the foundation for future success. Any school time missed means valuable instructional time lost which grows faster over time. Even occasional absences can add up causing students to fall behind academically and socially. Research shows that strong attendance during the early grades predicts achievement through high school and beyond.
We are committed to raising the bar for consistent school attendance. We have updated our attendanceguidelines to help families gain a better understanding of excused, parent/guardian verified, and unexcused absences, and working together to help families reduce barriers that may impact their students’ ability to be in school. For help and/or resources to ensure your child can be present at school, please reach out to your student’s building principal or staff. Thank you for partnering with us to support student success by keeping student attendance strong!
“Great kids doing great things.” You hear me say and write this often and for good reason. It’s more than a phrase; it’s a reflection of what I see across campus every day. Sometimes it’s quiet growth, and other times, it’s history in the making—like last Friday. I was at the State Fair where I had the joy of watching the HHHS Marching Huskies perform their way into the spotlight. For only the fourth time since 1966, Heights participated in the Indiana State Fair Band Day and made history earning a coveted spot in the Sweet 16 night show, placing 15th overall (8th in Class AA) and winning Class AA Best Percussion. The last three appearances have all come under the leadership of Heights’ Band Director Mark Snelson and Assistant Director Billy Cox – a testament to their passion, vision, and dedication. You can experience the incredible sights and sounds of the Marching Huskies for yourself during halftime at the August 22 football game and at the ISSMA Summer Showcase in Kokomo on August 29.
As I begin my 11th and a half year at Hamilton Heights and my 35th year in public education, I remain deeply grateful to serve as superintendent for this exceptional school district. The commitment of our families, staff, and supporters is the backbone of everything we do—and I’m proud to be a part of the impact we continue to make together. Here’s to another incredible year of learning, leading, and lifting one another up. #WeAreHuskies