Hello Hardy Families
Highlights from the Past Week
Last Sunday we had Trunk or Treat as families who celebrate Halloween had the opportunity to bring students to school for Trick or Treating from some very creatively designed trunks. A special shout out to parent Marah Thornhill for organizing this event for our community.
On Friday we had the 2nd annual Pumpkin Parade. Students showed off their very creatively designed pumpkins at school. These are a few fourth graders showing off their amazing pumpkins.
Half Day Thursday
As a reminder, we will have a half-day (12 noon dismissal) this upcoming Thursday for parent-teacher conferences. We will have our regular half day on Wednesday as well.
Student Council Update
We have relaunched the Hardy Student Council. As part of this, groups of 5th graders are meeting during their lunch block on Friday. Students identify an area for improvement at Hardy and then develop a plan to address this area. Our first Student Council group suggested introducing current events into our morning announcements. So right now students are developing a daily announcement that names school specific events (Trunk or Treat, Bingo Nights etc), holidays (Veterans Day), or even more child-friendly special days (National Hot Dog Day). With each current event, there will be a description to help educate students. These current events will be announced by 5th grade students right before the student shares a joke of the day.
For Families Facing Financial Hardship/Food Insecurity
As a reminder, we have a program at Hardy known as Hardy Cares. This program exists for Hardy families facing an extraordinary event or having difficulty meeting needs of their children such as hospitalization, a loss, surgery, a birth, school supplies, clothing needs etc. Knowing that there are some families who receive SNAP benefits who are currently not receiving these benefits during the Government shutdown, you can reach out if you would benefit from a grocery store gift card. If you have a need, please reach out to any of the following staff members: Principal Grant Smith, Assistant Principal Kellie O’Brien, Psychologist Lisa Goodman, Psychologist Rebecca Hoitash, or School Adjustment Counselor/Social Worker Julie McMenamy. We will exercise confidentiality in sharing needs to Hardy Cares organizers.
Halloween Candy Donations
If families have any unwanted Halloween candy that you’d like to donate to the school, we have a candy bin in the main office that teachers and staff enjoy throughout the year. The PTO is also collecting donations to support teachers and PTO activities. So any donations are appreciated. Feel free to send these donations to the main office, 4 High Ledge Avenue, or 33 Edgemoor Avenue.
Have a great week!
Respectfully yours,
Grant Smith
Principal