Talking HF Tigers 5/17

The arrival of our UPK and kindergarteners – Class of 2037 and 2038 – to register for the 2024-25 school year marked one of those annual milestones we all come to love in this community. It is truly a pleasure to know these students will have the next 13 years with us to become confident lifelong learners and successful, engaged members of the larger Tiger community. 

As our District mission further states: “For all students, we believe supportive relationships, broad opportunities, and high expectations pave the way for each individual to grow, reach their potential, and fulfill their purpose.” We thank you for giving us the opportunity to fulfill this mission.  

Annual Budget Vote May 21: Polls Open Noon to 8:00 p.m.

On Tuesday, May 21 the vote for the 2024-25 proposed budget will be conducted from noon to 8:00 p.m. in the gymnasium. The 2024-25 budget has a 1.9% tax levy increase. Also on the ballot are:

  • a $420,000 bus proposition for three school buses and three passenger vans;
  • and two Board of Education seats, each seeking a five-year term.

For more information about the vote, you can visit our Budget & Finance page or read our community budget newsletter.

Celebrate

The Celebration of the Arts will take place on the same day as the Budget Vote and from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. the High School halls will be converted into exhibits of student art projects from across the district. Included in this year’s return of a full scale celebration will be performances from our music department with a formal schedule to be announced on Monday, May 20. 

Help Support Genetic Disorders  

Saturday, May 18, Middle School students from Ms. Gillis’s Living Environment class will be  hosting events at Derby Park to support their genetic disorders research projects. One way that you can help is by making a contribution to the Alzheimer’s Walk-a-thon. Monetary donation pledges based on the number of laps the Alzheimer’s team can complete around Derby Park in a two-hour span or a lump sum donation using the Google Form attached. All donations from this event will go to the Longest Day Foundation to help people that suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease.

Another opportunity to support these students in their fundraising quest is to participate in person or virtually in the Basket Raffle for Turner Syndrome. Team Turner will be set up at Derby Park to sell raffle tickets or can convert a digital raffle ticket from this Google Form.
Finally, if you are available on Saturday between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m.,  a group of students have organized a Dwarfism Kickball Tournament. by providing Food, drinks and candy will be offered by our students representing  Osteogenesis Imperfecta and Tourette’s Syndrome  Come cheer on Superintendent Dan Ward as he walks laps to support Alzheimer’s research.

Prom Awareness

As part of our ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of our students, a distracted driving and mock crash drill occurred for our Junior class. This event was designed to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving, especially during prom season.The drill involved a simulated crash scene, complete with emergency responders from our local police, fire and medical services.  School counseling services were also on hand for any students that may have experienced difficult emotions. All Juniors concluded with an assembly to reinforce the message with a presentation from our Sheriff’s Dept. Thank you for your support in helping us promote a safe and enjoyable Prom weekend.

Stepping Back into the 18th Century 

4th and 5th grade students were treated to a day of living and working in the 18th century with the return of the annual Colonial Fest.  Early American life came alive with oxen pulling heavy loads and the smell of boiling sap demonstrating the traditional art of maple sugaring. Adding to the authenticity and excitement were appearances by historical reenactors portraying George Washington and James Madison.  The festive atmosphere sparked curiosity and appreciation about the founding of the nation.  Thank you to our Building Team and PTSA for their efforts in planning and bringing this event to life.

School, District & Community Calendar 

May Athletics: https://www.schedulegalaxy.com/schools/466
Saturday, May 18, 2024: Junior Prom Coronation, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. at the High School Auditorium 

Saturday, May 18, 2024: Genetics Disorders Fundraiser at Derby Park, 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Tuesday, May 21, 2024: Budget Vote, Noon – 8:00 p.m. at the High School Gymnasium

Tuesday, May 21, 2024: Celebration of the Arts, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the High School 

Thursday, May 23, 2024: 6-8 Orchestra and 7-8 Choir concert, 7:30 p.m. at the High School Auditorium 

Friday, May 24, 2024: No Classes, School Holiday for unused snow day (Contingent on no emergency closures prior)

Monday, May 27, 2024: No Classes, Memorial Day

Tuesday, May 28, 2024: No Classes, School Holiday for unused snow day (Contingent on no emergency closures prior)

Wednesday, May 29, 2024: Science Research Symposium, 6:00 p.m. at the High School Auditorium 

 

Happy Prom Weekend,

 

Dan Ward, Superintendent

Check out this amazing performance of Led Zeppelin’s Kashmir with the HS Orchestra and Jonathan Newell ’82 and Band (Better Off Led)