Update No. 164
Welcome to 2026! I hope you and your families enjoyed a restful and joyful winter break. One of the things I love most about education is that we get to celebrate a fresh start twice – once in August and again as we begin the new calendar year. This gives us the opportunity to carry fresh momentum into the second semester and build upon the progress we’ve made.
Hamilton Heights is proud to announce that Mr. Lawrence “Sonny” Beck has been selected as our inaugural Distinguished Alumni honoree. A 1958 graduate of Jackson Central High School, Mr. Beck has built a remarkable legacy as CEO of Beck’s Hybrids, guiding the company to become the largest family‑owned retail seed company in the nation.
His impact extends far beyond agriculture – he served 20 years on the Hamilton Heights School Board, is a current Purdue University Trustee, and has been recognized with honors including the Sagamore of the Wabash and an Honorary Doctorate of Agriculture from Purdue University. His lifelong commitment to service, youth education, and community makes him an extraordinary first recipient of this honor.
The community is invited to celebrate Mr. Beck’s enduring impact at a special ceremony on Friday, Jan. 30, in the Hamilton Heights High School media center. Dinner ($10) begins at 6 p.m., followed by the recognition program at 7 p.m. To RSVP for the dinner, contact Mitch Street at mstreet@hhschuskies.org or (317) 984-3551, ext. 1091, by Friday, Jan. 16.
Mr. Beck will also be honored during Winter Homecoming at halftime of the boys’ varsity basketball game, where the Huskies will host the Tipton Blue Devils.
This event is proudly presented by the Hamilton Heights Educational Foundation (HHEF), Title Sponsor of the Distinguished Alumni Program.
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January is School Board Appreciation Month, and Hamilton Heights School Corporation is proud to recognize the dedicated individuals who serve on our Board of School Trustees: Dr. Kevin Cavanaugh, Arnett Cooper, Julie Davis, Benjamin Lehman, and Gretchen Pennington. Their leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment shape the educational experience of every student who walks through our doors.
Our board members give countless hours – often behind the scenes – to ensure that Hamilton Heights remains a place where students thrive, staff feel supported, and families are welcomed as partners. They navigate complex decisions, champion student-centered initiatives, and steward our resources with integrity and care. Their work touches every classroom, every program, and every corner of our community.
Their influence extends far beyond board meetings. It is reflected in the success of our students, the strength of our staff, and the unity of our community. Because of their leadership, Hamilton Heights continues to grow, innovate, and uphold the values that make our district exceptional.
Thank you for your service, your dedication, and your belief in what our students can achieve. Your guidance helps shape futures, strengthen families, and build a district we are all proud to call home. Your commitment is seen, felt, and making a lasting impact.
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Get ready for slam dunks, big laughs, fun for all ages, and an exceptional show of talent on the home court at the high school! Join us this Sunday, Jan. 11 as the Huskers face off against the Hamilton County Fire Fighters in a spirited exhibition game. Click here for more information and to order your ticket.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership in learning! Looking forward to an awesome 2026 for Hamilton Heights!
#WeAreHuskies
