Update No. 160
November ushers in a season of gratitude and generosity, a time to reflect on those who enrich our lives and to extend kindness to those who need it most. It’s a month filled with opportunities to celebrate everyday heroes, offer support, and build connections that strengthen our community. Let’s come together to uplift one another, nurture our children, and lend a helping hand to those facing challenges. In giving thanks, we also give hope, and that’s the heart of this season.
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We’re pleased to share that Hamilton Heights has ratified a new one-year contract for our teachers and approved compensation increases for our classified and administrative staff. These increases are the result of months of thoughtful collaboration between our Board, Leadership Team, and HHCTA. It reflects our shared commitment to taking care of the people who take care of our kids.
In a tough year for public education across Indiana, we stayed focused on what matters: competitive pay, respect for our staff, and a process built on trust. I’m proud of where we landed, and even prouder of the team that made it happen.
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We have received some questions regarding Free/Reduced meal status in light of SNAP benefits. Please note that students who qualified for Free or Reduced meals through SNAP will not be impacted at this time – they will continue to receive free breakfasts and lunches as usual. We also want to encourage federal workers and contractors who have been furloughed, or otherwise impacted by recent Reductions in Force (RIFs), to apply for Free/Reduced meals if you have experienced a loss of income.
If you are need of food assistance or interested in supporting local pantries please follow this link to Indiana 211, an online resource to search for services by location. Additionally, a mobile food truck from Gleaners visits our High School every second Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon. Hamilton Heights Elementary School students may also participate in the Weekend Feeding (“backpack”) program. Please contact Tricia Rudy at trudy@hhschuskies.org for more information on the backpack program.
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This week, we proudly recognize National School Psychology Week and shine a spotlight on the incredible work of our school psychologists Rachel Johnson (HHES) and Pat Jones (HHMS/HHHS). Their expertise and compassion make a lasting impact on the lives of our students, especially those navigating barriers to learning.
Rachel and Pat are champions for student well-being, addressing social, emotional, behavioral, and academic needs with care and precision. They work hand-in-hand with families, educators, and administrators, using a multidisciplinary approach to create safe, supportive environments where every child can thrive. Thank you for your dedication, your advocacy, and your unwavering commitment to our students. You make Heights stronger.
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Hamilton Heights High School Drama Department invites you on a magical journey with its upcoming production of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll next weekend. From the moment you enter the auditorium, prepare to be swept into the curious and chaotic world of Wonderland, where nothing is quite as it seems, and every twist of Alice’s adventure comes to life around you.
Directed by theatre teacher, Brooks Myers, in collaboration with her theatre arts class, this immersive experience promises fun for the whole family. Embrace the delightful madness and see the world through Alice’s eyes at one of three performances on Nov. 14 (7 p.m.), Nov. 15 (7 p.m.), and Nov. 16 (2:30 p.m.). Tickets are $5 and will be available online on the high school website a week before the performances and at the door (cash or card) beginning 30 minutes before each performance. All proceeds benefit the High School Drama Department.
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As Veteran’s Day approaches, we honor all who have served or are currently serving in the United States military. I especially want to recognize those veterans and their families who are also part of the Hamilton Heights community. Thank you for your dedication to preserving our freedoms and for promoting peace and justice in the world. 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.
Thank you. We are forever in your debt.
#WeAreHuskies
