Safety Notification Regarding Lockdown at Edison Ele...

Safety Notification Regarding Lockdown at Edison Elementary School on April 9th.

Wednesday, Apr 09 2025

Elevate SCH: April Newsletter is Here!

Elevate SCH Elevating Excellence, Restoring Unity A Message from the Superintendent April has arrived with all the energy of spring—renewal, growth, and there’s even a touch of unpredictability in the air (Like, really??? What’s up with Indiana’s weather?). Also in the air are the blaring sounds of possibility and hope. This month marks the final stretch of the academic year, a pivotal time where focus sharpens, achievements blossom, and opportunities for reflection abound. Whether it’s preparing for end-of-year assessments to showcasing student talents in spring performances and competitions; from classroom breakthroughs, championship wins to simply planting seeds of inspiration, our schools are buzzing with achievement, celebration, and preparation. Testing season is also in full swing, as well. While assessments are important, they’re just one lens through which we see the brilliance of our students. Their creativity, compassion, resilience, and determination are the true benchmarks of success. Spring also marks a season of growth—not just in our gardens, but in our classrooms, our hallways, and our hearts. As I’m beginning to get into buildings, I see students rising to new challenges and discovering their voices. I see parents positioned as partners in their student’s academic journey. I see teachers going the extra mile to ensure every learner is equipped for success. I see staff members—often behind the scenes—carrying the mission forward with quiet strength and unwavering dedication. Let me be clear: your work does not go unnoticed. Whether you're leading instruction, supporting operations, guiding buses, serving meals, or ensuring safe, welcoming spaces—you are essential AND appreciated. Thank you for walking this journey with me. Let’s continue to lead with purpose, finish strong, and bloom boldly into the final quarter of the year. With Deep Appreciation and Renewed Hope and Vision For Total Restoration and Elevation, Superintendent TS Reed   April Insights: Growth, Awareness, and Celebrating Every Learner As April greets us with longer days and blooming landscapes, it brings with it a powerful reminder: growth is both a season and a mindset. Our district is embracing this season of renewal with energy, empathy, and excellence.   Honoring April as Autism Awareness Month April is nationally recognized as Autism Awareness Month—a time to foster understanding, celebrate neurodiversity, and ensure that every learner in our district is seen, supported, and valued. This month, we proudly highlight our ongoing commitment to inclusive education. Across our campuses, you’ll see staff, students, and community members engaging in meaningful learning experiences that promote acceptance and awareness. Whether it's through classroom discussions, sensory-friendly activities, or “Light It Up Blue” spirit days, we are cultivating an environment where all students feel safe to be their authentic selves.   Honoring Our Dedicated SCH Staff: Recognizing the Past & Celebrating What's Ahead! At School City of Hammond, we are grateful for the hard work and dedication of our incredible staff. From those who keep our schools running smoothly to those who nurture and educate our students, each role is essential to our success. 🌟 March 2025 Staff Recognition Days: March 2-8 – National School Social Work Week March 3-7 – National School Breakfast Week March 7 – National Employee Recognition Day & Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day 🌿 April 2025 Staff Recognition Days: April 2 – Paraprofessional Appreciation Day April 4 – School Librarian Appreciation Day April 6-12 – National Library Week April 7-11 – National Assistant Principal Week April 21-25 – Public School Volunteer Week / National Volunteer Recognition Week April 21-25 – National Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week April 22 – Earth Day & School Bus Driver Appreciation Day April 23 – Administrative Professionals Day Let’s take a moment to celebrate, appreciate, and thank these outstanding individuals for their dedication to our students and schools!  Staff Spotlight: Celebrating Our Food & Nutrition Service Team The dedication of our School City of Hammond Food and Nutrition Team shines through their involvement in the Local Food for Schools Program with Region Roots. Featured in the March 5, 2025, IDOE School Nutrition Programs Newsletter, their commitment to selecting fresh, locally sourced ingredients has made a lasting impact on our students and community. Pictured is Maria Miramontes from Lincoln Elementary, a shining example of the passion and dedication our team brings to ensuring healthy meals, student well-being, and sustainability. Their efforts are helping to build stronger minds, bodies, and futures—one meal at a time! Cooking Up Excellence: Chef Velazquez Honored as Teacher of the Year! We are thrilled to announce that Chef Jack Velazquez, Culinary Arts Instructor at the Hammond Area Career Center, has been named Teacher of the Year by the Lake County Chamber of Commerce! Chef Velazquez’s dedication and passion extend far beyond the kitchen. He not only teaches the art of cooking but also instills leadership, professionalism, and a deep appreciation for the culinary industry. His commitment to his students is evident every day as he prepares the next generation of culinary professionals for success.   SCH Spotlights: Celebrating Our Recent Events & Achievements Franklin Elementary College and Career Expo On March 13, hundreds of SCH students attended Franklin Elementary’s 5th Annual College and Career Expo, where they had the opportunity to connect with college representatives and professionals from a variety of career fields. Hosted by Franklin Elementary and sponsored by Pursue Northwest and the Area Career Center, the event continues to provide valuable career exploration opportunities for students.   A Bloomin' Good Time: "Little Shop of Horrors" Takes the Stage! The Hammond Arts and Performance Academy recently delivered an unforgettable show with their production of "Little Shop of Horrors"! From March 14–16, audiences at Morton High School were treated to a night full of laughs, thrills, and a little bit of "planty" drama as our talented students brought this classic to life. The performance was a hit, featuring catchy tunes, quirky characters, and an unforgettable plot twist! Despite its creepy moments, it had something for everyone, and the packed audience was on the edge of their seats. Congratulations to the cast, crew, and everyone involved for their hard work in making this a production to remember! We can’t wait to see what HAPA’s next production has in store for us!    Wolves Howl Night 2025 Military Ball On March 21, our students had a ball at the Military Ball, held at the Dynasty Banquet Hall! It was a night filled with elegance, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories.   Celebrating Our Top 20 Scholars We are proud to recognize the Top 20 students from Hammond Central High School and Morton High School for their outstanding academic achievements! These exceptional seniors have demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and excellence throughout their high school journey. Each student was recently notified of this prestigious honor, marking a significant milestone as they approach graduation. Join us in celebrating their hard work and success as they prepare for the next chapter of their academic and professional careers!    Team Hammond Robotics: Powered by Passion & Spirit! Team Hammond Robotics – FRC Team 71 had an incredible competition season, demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and an unshakable spirit! Competing at Kokomo and Lafayette, the team placed 38th and 34th, respectively, and proudly earned the Spirit Award—marking the third consecutive year they have received this honor! 🏆 About the Spirit Award: "The Team Spirit Award celebrates extraordinary enthusiasm and spirit through exceptional partnership and teamwork furthering the objectives of FIRST. This roaring team is more than a machine—it's a home for all, where their beastly spirit stands tall. Release the Beast! Congratulations Team 71!" While the team did not qualify for state this year, we are thrilled to celebrate Team Captain Melina Mata, who was selected as a Dean’s List Finalist Nominee at the Kokomo competition! She will proudly represent Team 71 at the State Competition this weekend, and we are cheering her on as she competes at the next level. Congratulations to Team 71 on another inspiring season—your passion and dedication continue to make us proud!    Upcoming Events & Enrollment: Everything You Need to Know PowerSchool & ParentSquare Workshop Reminder: Save the Date for the next PowerSchool & ParentSquare workshop! Who: ALL Families are invited! When: April 16, 2025 Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Where: Harding Elementary School        3211 165th Street Join us for an informative and fun workshop! *Learn how to track your student’s grades. *Learn how to stay updated on their progress. *Learn how to easily connect with teachers and staff. At the workshop, you may register your student for the 2025-2026 school year. All returning students who attended any Hammond school during the 2024-25 school year MUST register. Use your parent portal account to register for the 2025-2026 school year. Refreshments served! FREE Giveaways for all participants!   New School Year Registration Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is now open. New and returning students can register today. Scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/4izGAOx to complete registration. Returning students are students who attended any Hammond school during the 2024-25 school year. You MUST register your children using your parent portal account. If you DO NOT have a parent portal account or your child is missing from your parent portal account, please call the your child's school or Student Services department for assistance at 219-933-2461 ext. 2021 Students who were withdrawn from any Hammond school during the 2024-25 school year, MUST register as a new student. Students who are new to our district, must register as a new student.  Complete Registration Here   Kindergarten Round-Up is Almost Here! Do you have a child starting kindergarten in the School City of Hammond next year? Join us for Kindergarten Round-Up at the Early Learning Center Gym (7006 Marshall Ave, Hammond, IN) from 8 AM - 4 PM on: Wednesday, April 23rd – Franklin, Irving, Lincoln, Burns-Hicks, Edison Thursday, April 24th – O’Bannon, Jefferson, Hess, Harding Bring the required documents (birth certificate, physical & shot records, parent ID, and two proofs of residency) to register your child for an exciting school year! Have questions? Call (219) 989-7336     Reminder: No School on April 18 & 21 Just a quick reminder that there will be no school on April 18 and April 21 in observance of Easter weekend. Enjoy the time with family and friends!  

Wednesday, Apr 09 2025