HMC-1 School Messenger

At the Wednesday, November 11 Special Board of Education Meeting, the Hickman Mills School District Board of Education approved a plan to target January 19, 2021 as the date students begin returning to school buildings in the Yellow Health Status on a hybrid schedule.

As a reminder, when the district moves to the Yellow Health Status students will return to buildings in a hybrid model with pre-k through second grade returning first, then third through eighth grade followed by high school.

The ability to have students and staff report to school on this date is dependent on several factors around COVID-19 cases in the Kansas City area. Leading up to January 19, the district leadership team will monitor COVID-19 trends each week and will review the guidance of local and state health officials. Click here to read the full, updated information on the district's Return to Learn Plan.

It is time for our annual parent survey. This is an opportunity for parents to provide important feedback on your child’s classroom environment, school/district leadership, safety, and more. We value your opinion and strongly encourage you to complete the survey! The survey is open to parents now through Tuesday, December 1. Click here to take the survey now.

Congratulations to two HMC-1 students for being the first recipients of the 'Above and Beyond' Superintendent award.

As an entry initiative, Superintendent Yaw Obeng is thrilled to announce that he is donating $10,000 of personal funds to motivate and inspire students through the Above and Beyond award. The award recognizes HMC-1 scholars who demonstrate a commitment to their education and community in a variety of ways.

The district’s first two recipients are Jett J., second grade student at Truman Elementary, and Diamond O., student at Ruskin High School. For more information on the 'Above and Beyond' awards, click here.

Congratulations to Kayden C., senior at Ruskin High School, for moving up to 1st team All-Metro this year!

Kayden has remained dedicated and motivated throughout his cross country career. To cap off his senior season this year, he placed 11th at the MSHSAA Class 4 State Championships on November 6. Last year, Kayden made the Greater Kansas City Cross Country Coaches Association honorable mention team but was voted as 1st team All-Metro this year, in addition to being the Suburban Blue Conference champion and Class 4, District 7 champion.

“Kayden is a great kid that has worked incredibly hard throughout his career at Ruskin,” said Carla Sole, Head Cross Country Coach.

Congratulations to Kristi Howery, Truman Elementary Fifth Grade teacher, for being recognized as one of Arvest Bank’s 'We Heart Teachers' awardees!

Arvest awarded a total of 157 $500 gifts to individual teachers to support classroom needs throughout Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Ms. Howery was one of those 157 honorees.

“It means a lot to me to win this award,” said Ms. Howery. “I know there are thousands of teachers out there working hard every day, especially right now, to do their best for their students. To know that someone nominated me, and that Arvest Bank felt I was deserving, makes me proud.”

Thank you for your continued dedication and support of your students, and making a difference in the classroom both big and small.

Congratulations to our November Applause Applause honorees!

Janelly J. is a 7th grade student at Burke Academy. She participates daily and is a leader in the classroom, and always has positive things to say about her peers, teachers and staff.

Rhilya D. is a senior at Burke Academy. She has finished five courses in Plato so far this semester, and was selected for HireKC's Internship program. She also participated in the “A Day in the life of a Police Officer” internship.

Paytin A. is a 6th grade student at Smith-Hale Middle School. She was selected as the school's Peer Restorative Practice Leader for her entire grade. She is an honor roll student, with 95+ attendance, and an excellent peer role model, always striving to lead by example.

Kiff S. is currently enrolled in the Missouri Options Program. Kiff is a non-traditional high school student who has returned to obtain his high school diploma. He’s passed three of his exams and if he continues his hard work and dedication, he should finish the Missouri Options Program by winter break.

Thank you for being such wonderful students! We can't wait to hear about all of the exciting things you continue to do!

America is a vast land of many cultures dating back thousands of years to the original inhabitants of the land. November is a time to celebrate the rich history and heritage of the Native American community, and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. You can learn more about Native American Heritage Month by clicking here.

At the start of the month, the Hickman Mills Educational Foundation held their 18th Annual Silent Auction and Gala. Thanks to the community's ongoing support, HMEF was able to raise more the $14,500 in funds that directly benefit HMC-1 students and staff through financial scholarships, classroom grants, donations, and much more. A special thank you to the sponsors and donors of the event, who helped to make this virtual event a success.

Mark your calendars!

• No School- Thanksgiving Break: Wednesday, Nov. 25 - Friday, Nov. 27
• Because We Care Holiday Giveaway: Monday, Dec. 19, 12 - 4 p.m. (11700 Grandview Road, Kansas City, MO 64137)
• Board of Education Meeting: Thursday, Dec. 17 6 p.m.
• No School- Winter Break: Monday, Dec. 21 - Monday, Jan. 4

Email: PIO@hickmanmills.org
Website: www.hickmanmills.org
Location: 5401 E. 103rd St. Kansas City, MO 64137
Phone: (816) 316-7000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HMC1Proud/
Twitter: @HMC1Proud