September 2023

As we begin a new school year and warmly welcome families, I'm excited to be a part of the HPS community. My passion for education started at an early age and I have been a School Director for over 15 years. Bringing happiness comes from helping children learn, grow, and achieve. Through my experience, I've gained insights into early childhood education and effective leadership.

Central to my educational philosophy is the belief in the empowering nature of education. I'm confident that each child possesses unique talents and untapped potential. By fostering an environment that values individuality, curiosity, and creativity, I aim to motivate students to actively participate in their learning.

Outside of the classroom, my interests include competitive ballroom dancing, jogging, and shopping. These activities not only recharge me but also provide fresh perspectives and innovative ideas for my educational work.

Being a mother and an educator has given me a profound understanding of various aspects of education. I'm dedicated to creating inclusive and dynamic learning spaces where students are encouraged to explore, learn from mistakes, and develop a growth mindset. Collaboration is crucial, and I work closely with students, parents, and fellow educators to build a supportive community. This empowers students to lead their learning journey and become confident, lifelong learners.

— n.m.

Back to School Night!

As always, the best night of the start of school is when we welcome families to Back to School Night for a chance to see the magic of the children’s classroom spaces in person! In order to prioritize the classroom experience for the evening, we have gathered some quick FAQ’s and links here so that we can get straight to the in-person classroom joy on the evening of September 21st. Please plan to arrive by 6 pm to enjoy a brief welcome and light refreshments before moving on to your child’s classroom at 6:10 pm.

Notable Info for the 2023-2024 School Year (so many more details are always available at thehillpreschool.org!)

• Did you know that HPS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit? The school is managed by an elected Board of Directors made up of parents, alumni families, and community leaders. The Board supports the Executive Director with the financial, organizational, and long term planning needs of the school. The Board does not participate in the day-to-day management of the school, its curriculum, or staff. Be on the lookout for a call for nominations in late Spring if you would like to participate!

• Be sure you have bookmarked, downloaded, or printed the 2023-2024 HPS Calendar!

• Winter feels far away, but as it makes its approach, it is good to familiarize yourself with the HPS Weather Policy. While you will receive an update/confirmation as soon as possible in the case of inclement weather schedule adjustments via the emergency message system, it is good to be familiar with the policy so you can be prepared for changes as they develop. Our location has also necessitated closures due to events taking place around the Capitol on a few occasions in years past. Please note that we will communicate any such changes as soon as possible should a closure become necessary.

• Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook! We will keep you posted about upcoming events, holidays, etc.

Please note that back to school night is a parents only event.

Picture Day is Around the Corner

It’s almost time for Picture Day! We hope to help you capture a moment of your preschooler’s personality and special spark to commemorate this special time in their lives! As always, Picture Day also serves as an important fundraising opportunity for HPS.

This year’s pictures will be taken on:

• October 11th (Full Week & M-W-F Families)

• October 12th (T/Th Families)

• Make-up photos will be scheduled if they are necessary.

• A rain date will be announced if necessary.

• Siblings in the school will be photographed together as well as separately.

Each family will receive at least five images to choose from - and the opportunity to purchase one or all for digital download, as prints, or cards! HPS will not retain the photos for any use, nor will the photographer unless permission is sought and given.

This year’s photo sessions will be centered around the Children’s Garden. Be on the lookout the week prior for recommendations for clothing from Jenny Thiel Photography. Questions? Contact jenny@jennythielphotography.com.

Don’t Miss out on Pizza Days!

It’s time to sign up for Pizza days for the
2023-2024 School Year! We have partnered with Ledo Pizza’s Barracks Row location for our pizza day fundraiser! Save yourself time and give your child a little fun once or twice a week by singing up! Please contact the HPS main office if you’d like to sign up and haven’t had the chance to yet.

And please stop by and say hello at the new Barracks Row location of this long-standing local pizza shop! They are located at 415 8th St SE and are open for dine-in and carryout! Dean, the owner and Paris, the store manager, will work hard to support our needs and our kiddos!

Community Helper Parade

On September 29th at 10:30 am your children will have a chance to interact with Community Helpers from across our Ward. DC Fire & EMS and MPD will bring equipment and new friends to HPS.

Children on a Tuesday/Thursday schedule are welcome to join us in front of the school at the appointed time with a caregiver.