HSD News Round-Up

Hockinson School District Nurses Molly Scott and Shawn Cass were drawn to the profession by a passion for meaningful care and connection. School nurses provide immediate medical care for students at school, but their duties don't end there. Molly (HHES) and Shawn (HMS and HHS) help all Hockinson students arrive in the classroom healthy and ready to learn. Without community support the HSD would only have funding for 1/3 of a nurse!

Both nurses love serving students. "The best part to me is watching my little friends grow up. This year's fourth graders were kindergarteners the year I started working in the district. It's awesome to see students grow year to year," said Molly Scott. "The most rewarding part is being able to spend as much time as I need with each student who comes to see me," said Shawn Cass.

Both nurses were asked what advice they had for Hockinson School District students to stay healthy over winter break. Their recommendations?

"Wash your hands often, especially before you eat. If you don't have immediate access to soap and water, use hand sanitizer. This is especially important when you're at school or out in public." - Nurse Shawn Cass

"I hope over winter break staff, students and their families can make time for some self-care. The holidays can be a very stressful time and it's easy to put ourselves last. My go to when I feel stressed is to exercise - even just a walk, and preferably outdoors. Exercise improves your mood, even in the rain and cold! Additionally, research has shown exercise is as effective as anti-depressant medications for moderate depression. Whatever your favorite way to care for yourself is, please make a little time for it over break. Of course, we can't forget about all those germs being shared out there either, so wash your hands well and wash them often!" - Nurse Molly Scott

Practices for girls basketball began in mid-November and the season is now in full swing with both Hockinson Middle and High School Girls Basketball teams gearing up for two games next week.

HHS competes next on Dec. 12 vs. Ridgefield High School and again on Dec. 14 versus Columbia River High School. HMS hosts Castle Rock Middle School on Dec. 12 and will travel to Canyon Creek Middle School in Washougal on Dec. 14.

HMS 7th Grade Coach Janell Morley looks forward to 2023 as a year of growth for Hockinson Middle School basketball. "I'm looking forward to seeing growth, not just for these girls, but also for me. This is my first year coaching the 7th grade varsity team. Previously, I served as the JV/blended team coach. I feel like I have an opportunity to learn just as much from the girls as they will from me," said Morley. The middle school girls basketball team consists of students from a variety of backgrounds and experience levels.

Through participation in afterschool activities, students in middle school basketball hone teamwork skills and work ethic. "Participation in basketball and any extracurriculars, really, is really important at the middle school age at a time when these girls are looking for a place to belong and connect with others with similar interests," said Morley. "Being involved in sports and activities builds a sense of community. The girls support each other."

At HHS, Head Coach Damon Roche' looks forward to new beginnings, and building up the skills of newcomers to the team. "​I look forward to the positive energy inside of the gym during practices and at games. We are rebuilding this year after graduating eight seniors, so there is an opportunity for a lot of newcomers to make a Varsity team and play big roles in the rebuilding process," said Roche'. "These athletes are learning the very important life skill of working with others, dealing with adversity, and problem solving to achieve a shared goal. There are also great friendships formed and lifelong memories made - all in a team atmosphere."

Learn more about Hockinson Middle School and Hockinson High School winter athletics on our school websites!

Levy dollars defray a majority program costs, but not all. Proceeds from ticket sales, along with donations from our Boosters, help to cover expenses relating to coaching, transportation, equipment, officials, facilities, and uniforms. All funds generated by ticket sales do directly to our schools' ASB accounts. These funds support our athletic and activity programs.

Recognizing that not all families carry cash, the HSD is offering online ticket sales. This service, which carries a small convenience fee, will be up and running at both HMS and HHS in January 2023.

Winter Sports fans will need to purchase a ticket or pass to attend an HSD middle or high school athletic event. Ticket prices are:

SWWMSL Ticket Prices (Middle School)

ADULTS, STUDENTS W/O ASB - $3

VISITING STUDENTS W/ASB, MILITARY, VETERANS, GRADES K-6 - $2

Home Students w/ASB, Seniors (65+), Age 5 and under-FREE

Per Game Family Pass (2 adults and 2 or more children) - $8