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Only 2 weeks until the first day of school!

Now is the perfect time to complete your Required MiStar Back to School Check-In for every student in your household.

Completing your check-in helps ensure we have your most up-to-date information and allows you to:
• Confirm emergency contacts
• Update address and health information
• Access important medical forms
• Acknowledge district policies

For the best experience, use a desktop or tablet (not a phone).

Need a computer? Visit the Crestwood Board Office (1045 N. Gulley) Monday–Thursday from 9:00 AM–2:00 PM, where Chromebooks are available for families to use in the lobby.

Need help?
English: https://5il.co/3k3nb
Arabic: https://5il.co/3k3na

Complete your check-in today through MiStar ParentConnect:
https://sisweb.resa.net/MISTAR/Crestwood/

Let's get ready for a fantastic first day of school!
about 5 hours ago, Crestwood School District
A blue Crestwood School District back-to-school graphic announces that there are 14 days until school starts. Large white and gold text at the top reads “Back to School,” with a gold box stating “School Starts August 24th.” A large white box on the left displays the number 14 above the words “Days Until School Starts.” On the right, the graphic reminds families to complete the MiStar ParentConnection Back to School Check-In now and includes the Crestwood Back to School Check-In and MiStar logos. The ParentConnection website, https://sisweb.resa.net/MISTAR/Crestwood/, is displayed across the lower portion of the graphic. Along the bottom are the logos for Crestwood High School Chargers, Riverside Middle School Ravens, Crestwood Early Childhood Center Caterpillars, Crestwood School District, Highview Hawks, Hillcrest Huskies, and Kinloch Koalas. The graphic serves as a countdown reminder for families to complete their required online back-to-school check-in before the first day of school.
Help your family get ready for the new school year at the 11th Annual Back to School Health Fair hosted by ACCESS!

Join the event on Wednesday, August 19, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. at the Community Health and Research Center (6450 Maple St., Dearborn). Families can enjoy free health and dental screenings, hygiene kits, hair trims, henna, bicycle raffles, and more while supplies last.

Register today: http://bit.ly/4es6tQJ
about 6 hours ago, Crestwood School District
An event flyer from ACCESS promotes The 11th Annual Back to School Health Fair. The flyer is centered on a light beige background with wide dark red vertical borders on the left and right sides. At the top is a large color photograph showing three smiling children wearing backpacks and event name badges while standing outdoors at a community event. The children are in front of a school or community building, with additional families, children, tents, and event attendees visible in the background. The ACCESS logo appears in white in the upper left corner of the photograph. A large dark red rounded banner across the center of the photo contains bold white text that reads: “THE 11TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL HEALTH FAIR.” Below the title, white text lists the event details: “WEDNESDAY, AUG 19, 2026 COMMUNITY HEALTH AND RESEARCH CENTER (CHRC) 6450 MAPLE ST. DEARBORN, MI 12:00–3:00 PM*” The middle section of the flyer has a dark red background divided into two columns by a thin white vertical line. On the left, a white rounded heading reads “ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:” followed by a bulleted list: Bicycle raffles Hygiene Kits Hair trims Henna Free health and dental screenings and much more! On the right, large white capital letters read: “FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CALL 313-216-2200.” The bottom section has a light beige background. On the left is a maroon-and-white QR code. To its right, large dark red text reads: “SCAN TO REGISTER TODAY!” Below it, black text displays the registration website: “http://bit.ly/4es6tQJ.” Along the bottom edge are two footnotes in black text. The left footnote reads: *“12-3 PM or until supplies run out (first come first serve)” and the right footnote reads: *“Child must be present to receive Hygiene Kits.” The overall design uses dark red, white, and beige with a large welcoming photograph to promote the ACCESS Back to School Health Fair, providing event details, free services, registration information, and contact information for families preparing for the upcoming school year.
Katie Branam discovered something powerful this year: when therapy feels like play, preschool students who are typically quiet start using longer phrases and sentences. Through an interactive Red Tractor storytelling activity, her students didn't just retell the story, they added their own animals and ideas, connecting language directly to action. This is the kind of student-centered, joyful learning that drives growth in our youngest learners and reflects our commitment to literacy from the start.
about 6 hours ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a soft purple background features the title “EARLY CHILDHOOD Spotlight” in large white and gold text at the top left. Decorative light effects appear in the upper right and lower left corners, with a subtle quotation mark graphic in the background. Centered on the graphic is the headline, “WHEN THERAPY FEELS LIKE PLAY,” in bold white text. Below, white text reads: “Students who were typically quieter during structured tasks began using longer phrases and sentences during play. The hands-on props kept them engaged and connected language directly to action.” In the lower right, white text identifies Katie Branam, Speech Pathologist, Crestwood Early Childhood Center. The design highlights the impact of play-based speech therapy in encouraging language development, communication, and student engagement in early childhood learners.
We’re proud to showcase the impactful work and meaningful moments happening across Crestwood School District!

Clear, focused reading instruction is helping students build strong foundations, gain confidence, and develop the skills they need for long-term success.

Stay tuned as we continue to share the great work happening across our district!
1 day ago, Crestwood School District
A blue graphic with the Crestwood School District logo at the top and a message about the importance of building strong reading foundations. The text explains that students across Crestwood School District are building confidence and improving their reading skills through clear, focused instruction tailored to their individual needs. It emphasizes that strengthening foundational reading skills helps all students grow and succeed. The quote is attributed to Ms. Allen, a teacher at Highview Elementary School, with her headshot shown in the bottom corner.
Meet Zeina Khanafer, a teacher at Crestwood High School who shows us what's possible when educators lead with empathy and cultural awareness. This year, Zeina worked closely with a student navigating the challenges of adjusting to a new country and school system, and by building authentic relationship and honoring his background, she helped him move from struggling to thriving with an A in ELA. Her insight reminds us that academic excellence grows from belonging, and that our commitment to seeing the whole student is what makes the difference.
2 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a dark blue background highlights a Crestwood High School classroom spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and a subtle light flare appears in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “CRESTWOOD.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large gold script placed on a semi-transparent light blue rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent blue quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large white uppercase text is the headline, “SEEING THE BIGGER PICTURE.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, white text reads: “Grades are only part of the picture. When we take the time to build real relationships with students and honor their cultural experiences, we can unlock potential that might otherwise go unseen.” In the lower right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “ZEINA KHANAFER.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “Teacher,” followed by “Crestwood High School.” The graphic uses Crestwood High School’s blue, gold, and white color theme with a clean, modern layout to recognize a teacher whose relationship-centered approach and appreciation of students’ cultural experiences help uncover strengths and potential beyond academic performance.
When Mohammad Bazzi, a teacher at Riverside Middle School, took students on a field trip they'd earned through positive choices and hard work, he witnessed something powerful: students reminding each other that their decisions create real opportunities. That ripple effect is exactly the kind of culture we're building across Crestwood, where every student feels valued and motivated to show up at their best.
3 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a dark green background highlights a Riverside Middle School classroom spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and a subtle light flare appears in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “RIVERSIDE.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large gold script placed on a semi-transparent light green rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent green quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large white uppercase text is the headline, “STUDENT CHOICES CREATE A RIPPLE EFFECT.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, white text reads: “I heard students encourage each other to keep making positive decisions so they could earn future opportunities, and that ripple effect says everything about the culture we can build when we recognize their growth in meaningful ways.” In the lower right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “MOHAMMAD BAZZI.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “Teacher,” followed by “Riverside Middle School.” To the right of the name is a circular headshot outlined in gold showing Mohammad Bazzi with short dark hair, a neatly trimmed beard, and rectangular eyeglasses. He is wearing a white button-up shirt over a light-colored T-shirt and is looking off to the side with plants visible in the background. The graphic uses Riverside Middle School’s green, gold, and white color theme with a clean, modern layout to recognize a teacher whose focus on positive reinforcement and student ownership fosters a school culture where encouraging choices create a lasting ripple effect.
Stephanie Lapshan, a teacher at Kinloch Elementary, turned a simple pen pal exchange into a powerful lesson in authentic communication. Her students discovered that writing becomes exciting when there's a real person waiting to hear from them. This is the kind of creative, student-centered teaching we celebrate at Crestwood.
4 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a light blue background highlights a Kinloch Elementary School classroom spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and a subtle light flare appears in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “KINLOCH.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large gold script placed on a semi-transparent light gray rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent light blue quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large white uppercase text is the headline, “GIVE STUDENTS A REAL REASON TO WRITE.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, white text reads: “When students know a real person is waiting to hear from them, writing stops feeling like an assignment. Getting creative about how we reach kids where they are can spark engagement no isolated lesson ever could.” In the lower right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “STEPHANIE LAPSHAN.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “Teacher,” followed by “Kinloch Elementary School.” To the right of the name is a circular headshot outlined in gold showing Stephanie Lapshan smiling at the camera. She has long brown hair pulled back, wears rectangular eyeglasses, and is dressed in a dark-colored top. The graphic uses Kinloch Elementary School’s light blue, gold, and white color theme with a clean, modern layout to recognize a teacher whose authentic writing opportunities inspire greater student engagement and meaningful learning.
When we create the right conditions, students surprise us every time. Batoul Hossein, teacher at Hillcrest Elementary School, designed a cross-grade collaboration that put 2nd and 4th graders in conversation together. The result? Students leading, listening, and building mathematical confidence in real time. This is the kind of student-centered learning that drives our commitment to math improvement across Crestwood.
5 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a bright red background highlights a Hillcrest Elementary School classroom spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and a subtle light flare appears in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “HILLCREST.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large black script placed on a semi-transparent light pink rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent pink quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large black uppercase text is the headline, “STUDENTS RISE TO THE LEVEL OF OPPORTUNITY.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, black text reads: “This experience showed that younger students don't need to wait to 'be ready' to engage in deep thinking and discussion. With the right support and models, they rise to the level of the opportunity.” In the lower right corner, large black uppercase text reads, “BATOUL HOSSEIN.” Beneath the name, smaller black text reads, “Teacher,” followed by “Hillcrest Elementary School.” To the right of the name is a circular headshot outlined in black showing Batoul Hossein smiling at the camera. She is wearing a light-colored hijab and a light top. The graphic uses Hillcrest Elementary School’s red, black, white, and light pink color theme with a clean, modern layout to recognize a teacher whose instructional approach encourages young students to engage in meaningful thinking, discussion, and learning when provided with appropriate support and opportunities.

Only 2 Weeks Until Our Back to School Kickoff!

The countdown is on! Join us for one of Crestwood School District's biggest family events of the year as we celebrate the start of an exciting new school year. Join us on Tuesday, August 18th at Crestwood High School for an evening filled with:

Free backpacks (while supplies last)
Bounce houses and inflatable fun
Free books and crafts
Balloon animals and glitter tattoos
Sports physicals
Food trucks
Entertainment from Crestwood Band, Theatre, Robotics, and more!

There is a special Sensory Friendly Hour from 4:00–5:00 PM (for special needs students and their families) and all Crestwood School District families are welcome from 5:00-8:00 PM.

We can't wait to kick off another incredible school year with you!

6 days ago, Crestwood School District
A colorful promotional flyer announces Crestwood School District's Back to School Kickoff event. The graphic features a blue background with the Crestwood School District logo in the upper left and the headline "BACK TO SCHOOL Kickoff" prominently displayed across the top. The event takes place Tuesday, August 18, 2026, from 5:00–8:00 PM at Crestwood High School, 1501 North Beech Daly, Dearborn Heights. Four illustrated panels highlight event attractions: Food Trucks featuring The Custard Co, ElSayed on the Grill, Auntie Anne's Pretzels, Zs Bubble Tea, and Heights Nutrition; Activities including free sports physicals, free books, bounce houses, glitter tattoos, inflatable slides, crafts, and balloon animals; Entertainment by Crestwood Band, Crestwood Theatre, Crestwood Robotics, Chargie the Mascot, and a DJ; and a Free Backpack Giveaway available while supplies last on a first-come, first-served basis. The flyer thanks sponsors including United Way of Southeastern Michigan, Highview PTA, Hillcrest PTO, Kinloch PTA, Riverside Middle School KAB, and the Crestwood High School PTA, along with community partners including Blue Hands United, Family Doc, Dearborn Heights Police and Fire Departments, Dearborn Heights Library, and Dean Transportation. A banner notes the event is for Crestwood School District families only. At the bottom, the flyer announces a Sensory-Friendly Time from 4:00–5:00 PM for special needs students only before the main event begins.
Lisa Witoslawski, a teacher at Highview Elementary School, reminds us that our youngest learners are more capable than we often imagine. Her students moved from simple shapes to complex 3D constructions because she trusted them with an open-ended challenge. This is exactly the kind of student-centered teaching we celebrate across Crestwood.
6 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a full-background classroom photograph celebrates a Highview Elementary School teacher. In the upper left corner, large white uppercase text reads, “HIGHVIEW.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large white script placed on a semi-transparent light gray rectangle. In the upper right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “LISA WITOSLAWSKI.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “Teacher,” followed by “Highview Elementary School.” Soft white light rays shine from the upper right corner of the graphic as a decorative effect. The photograph shows a preschool or kindergarten classroom where four young students are seated around a round gray table engaged in a hands-on math and pattern-building activity using colorful pattern blocks. One student looks toward the camera from the lower left, another sits at the upper left with part of their face obscured by the spotlight title, a third student sits at the upper right with a finger resting near their mouth while concentrating on a design, and a fourth student sits at the lower right holding green pattern blocks while smiling. On the table are several sheets of paper with completed and partially completed geometric pattern designs, a clear plastic container filled with colorful pattern blocks, and additional loose yellow and green blocks. The classroom background includes a colorful alphabet rug with illustrated animals and objects, low shelving filled with educational materials, storage bins, chairs, and classroom supplies, creating an inviting early elementary learning environment. Across the lower portion of the photograph, large white uppercase text reads, “TRUST YOUNG LEARNERS WITH OPEN CHALLENGES.” The bottom third of the graphic is a gold panel containing centered black text that reads: “When we trust young learners with open-ended challenges, they rise to meet them. Even our youngest students can think creatively and solve complex problems when we give them the space to try.” The graphic uses Highview Elementary School’s gold, white, and black color theme to recognize a teacher whose instructional approach encourages creativity, problem-solving, and confidence through open-ended learning experiences.
When Racha Akil celebrates the small moments that led to big growth. As part of our district-wide commitment to social and emotional learning, Racha worked intentionally to help students communicate their feelings, solve problems independently, and advocate for themselves. The result? Children who are more confident, capable, and ready for what comes next. That's the kind of everyday impact that defines Crestwood.
7 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a lavender-purple background highlights an Early Childhood classroom spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and a subtle light flare appears in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “EARLY CHILDHOOD.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large gold script placed on a semi-transparent light gray rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent lavender quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large white uppercase text is the headline, “WHEN CHILDREN LEARN TO USE THEIR WORDS.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, white text reads: “Everyday moments can make a big difference in a child's growth. I started seeing children communicate their feelings and solve problems during everyday activities without needing help, asking for what they needed instead of getting frustrated.” In the lower right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “RACHA AKIL.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “GSRP Associate Teacher,” followed by “Crestwood Early Childhood Center.” The graphic uses the Crestwood Early Childhood Center’s lavender-purple color theme with a clean, modern layout to recognize an educator whose support helps young children develop communication, problem-solving, and self-advocacy skills.
We’re proud to showcase the impactful work and meaningful moments happening across Crestwood School District!

Students are building confidence and strengthening their understanding by leading discussions, supporting one another, and taking an active role in their learning.

Stay tuned as we continue to share the great work happening across our district!
8 days ago, Crestwood School District
A blue graphic with the Crestwood School District logo at the top and a message about the importance of student ownership in learning. The text explains that young learners across Crestwood School District are building confidence by leading discussions, helping one another, and taking ownership of their learning, emphasizing that when students support each other, their growth and understanding accelerate. The quote is attributed to Fadwa Selameh, EL Resource Teacher at Hillcrest Elementary School, with her headshot shown in the bottom corner.
When students lead, culture shifts. Yasmeen Nasr, Transition Liaison at Crestwood High School, witnessed this firsthand through our Link Leader program. Her story reminds us that sustainable change doesn't come from the top down, it happens when we trust students to support and hold each other accountable. That's the kind of student-centered environment we're building across all Crestwood schools.
9 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a dark blue background highlights a Crestwood High School staff spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and a subtle light flare appears in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “CRESTWOOD.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large gold script placed on a semi-transparent light blue rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent blue quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large white uppercase text is the headline, “CULTURE CHANGE THROUGH STUDENT LEADERSHIP.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, white text reads: “Real culture change happens when students support and hold each other accountable. When a Link Leader redirected a peer's misbehavior and that student corrected themselves, it showed true ownership of our school culture.” In the lower right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “YASMEEN NASR.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “Transition Liaison,” followed by “Crestwood High School.” The graphic uses Crestwood High School’s blue and gold color theme with a clean, modern layout to recognize a staff member whose work empowers students to take ownership of their actions and strengthen the school's culture through peer leadership.
What does it take for multilingual learners to move from hesitant participation to confident, independent communication? Klodiana Myftiu, a teacher at Riverside Middle School, reminds us that growth happens when students are given repeated opportunities to engage in supportive, structured environments. Her intentional work with our ELL cohort this year exemplifies the kind of patient, skillful teaching that helps all students thrive. We're proud to celebrate stories like this from across our district.
10 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a dark green background highlights a Riverside Middle School classroom spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and a subtle light flare appears in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “RIVERSIDE.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large gold script placed on a semi-transparent light green rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent green quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large white uppercase text is the headline, “WHEN STRUCTURE BECOMES CONFIDENCE.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, white text reads: “Growth in language proficiency is not immediate, but it is deeply visible when students are given repeated chances to read, write, speak, and listen in environments where they feel supported.” In the lower right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “KLODIANA MYFTIU.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “Teacher,” followed by “Riverside Middle School.” To the right of the name is a circular headshot outlined in gold showing Klodiana Myftiu with long dark brown hair, wearing makeup with red lipstick, smiling at the camera while wearing a dark-colored top. The graphic uses Riverside Middle School’s green and gold color theme with a clean, modern layout to recognize a teacher whose structured, supportive classroom environment helps students build language proficiency and confidence.
When the Dearborn Heights Fire Department rolled up to Kinloch Elementary during National Fire Safety Week, teacher Mary Laney saw something special happen. Her young students didn't just learn about fire safety—they experienced it firsthand, meeting real firefighters and exploring equipment up close. Mary's commitment to creating real-world connections reminds us that the most powerful learning happens when we open our classroom doors and invite the community in. These are the moments that make education come alive.
11 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a full-background photograph celebrates a Kinloch Elementary School staff member. In the upper left corner, large white uppercase text reads, “KINLOCH.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large gold script placed on a semi-transparent light gray rectangle. In the upper right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “MARY LANEY.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “Teacher,” followed by “Kinloch Elementary School.” Soft white light rays shine from the upper right corner of the graphic as a decorative effect. The photograph shows a group of young elementary students standing in front of a red Dearborn Heights Fire Department ladder truck during a community learning experience. The children are lined up across the front of the fire truck and many are wearing pink plastic firefighter helmets while smiling toward the camera. Three firefighters stand behind the children. The large ladder mounted on the truck displays the words “DEARBORN HEIGHTS” with “EST. 1963” beneath it, and the side of the truck reads “PARAMEDIC.” The truck door displays the Dearborn Heights Fire Department emblem and the words “DEARBORN HEIGHTS FIRE DEPARTMENT.” A traffic cone hangs beside the truck, and another fire truck is visible in the background on the right. The visit takes place outdoors under dark, cloudy skies, with utility poles, power lines, wet pavement, and a small airplane visible in the distance overhead. Across the lower portion of the photograph, large white uppercase text reads, “REAL-WORLD CONNECTIONS SPARK REAL LEARNING.” The bottom third of the graphic is a muted blue panel containing centered white text that reads: “When we invite the community into our classrooms, learning feels relevant, memorable, and meaningful. The genuine excitement and curiosity those partnerships spark in children is the kind you simply can't manufacture.” The graphic uses Kinloch Elementary School’s blue and gold color theme to recognize a teacher whose community partnerships create authentic, engaging learning experiences for students.
Maria Watt, a paraprofessional at Hillcrest Elementary, reminded us all that breakthrough moments often come through the simplest connections. Through a dice game and consistent care, she helped a student find his voice and build the confidence to communicate in full sentences. Her story reflects the heart of what we do at Crestwood: meeting every student where they are and celebrating every step forward.
12 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a full-background classroom photograph celebrates a Hillcrest Elementary School staff member. In the upper left corner, large white uppercase text reads, “HILLCREST.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large white script placed on a semi-transparent light gray rectangle. In the upper right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “MARIA WATT.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “Paraprofessional,” followed by “Hillcrest Elementary School.” Soft white light rays shine from the upper right corner of the graphic as a decorative effect. The photograph shows Maria Watt smiling at the camera while standing beside a young student in a classroom. Maria has shoulder-length brown hair and is wearing a bright yellow shirt, blue suspenders, a black lanyard that reads “HILLCREST HUSKIES,” and a yellow knit hat with black goggles resting on top, creating a playful costume. The student is smiling with eyes closed and is wearing a blue and red costume top. The classroom in the background includes a large wall-mounted television, an analog clock, an American flag, storage cabinets, classroom equipment, blue beanbag-style seating, and a patterned carpet with leaf designs. Across the center of the image, large white uppercase text reads, “SIMPLE, FUN, AND REAL CONNECTION WORKS.” The bottom third of the graphic is a bright red panel containing centered black text that reads: “No challenge is too big when the approach is simple and the connection is real. No matter what challenges your student may have, you can still reach them through a simple, fun activity, and that moment will stay with you forever.” The graphic uses Hillcrest Elementary School’s red, white, and black color theme to recognize a paraprofessional whose positive relationships and engaging approach help students succeed.
When Tara Spencer talks about her resource room students making more than a year's growth in reading, she's talking about something even more powerful: students who now see themselves as learners. As a Resource Room Teacher at Highview, Tara doesn't just teach skills, she builds confidence and cultivates a genuine love for reading. That's the kind of educator-student relationship that drives real, measurable impact and aligns perfectly with our commitment to ELA improvement across the district.
13 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a bright gold background highlights a Highview Elementary School classroom spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and a subtle light flare appears in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “HIGHVIEW.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large black script placed on a semi-transparent light gold rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent gold quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large black uppercase text is the headline, “MORE THAN A YEAR'S GROWTH IN READING.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, black text reads: “When we invest in students' confidence alongside their skills, remarkable things happen. Many of my students made more than a year's growth in reading this year because they leaned into the hard work and started to see themselves differently as learners.” In the lower right corner, large black uppercase text reads, “TARA SPENCER.” Beneath the name, smaller black text reads, “Teacher,” followed by “Highview Elementary School.” The graphic uses Highview Elementary School’s gold color theme with a clean, modern layout to celebrate student achievement and recognize the educator’s impact on reading growth.
Congratulations to Eric Voydanoff on being named Crestwood School District's new Technology Supervisor at tonight's Board of Education meeting!

A proud Crestwood graduate, Eric has served the district for more than 25 years. Since joining Crestwood in 1999, he has become a trusted resource for students and staff, earning a reputation for his technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and unwavering commitment to helping others. His dedication, reliability, and continuous pursuit of learning have made a lasting impact across our district.

We are excited to see Eric lead our Technology Department and continue supporting innovative learning opportunities for our students and staff.

We also extend our sincere gratitude to David Green for his years of dedicated service to Crestwood School District as the Technology Supervisor and wish him a happy, healthy, and well-deserved retirement.
13 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a dark navy blue background celebrates Eric Voydanoff on his appointment as Crestwood School District's new Technology Supervisor. At the top of the graphic, large gold uppercase text reads, “CONGRATULATIONS ERIC VOYDANOFF.” On the left side is a photograph of Eric Voydanoff standing behind a black podium with a microphone. He is smiling and looking toward the audience. He has short gray hair, wears black rectangular glasses, and is dressed in a navy blue patterned polo shirt. The background of the photograph shows a light-colored wall, suggesting the image was taken during a school board meeting or presentation. Overlapping the lower right corner of the photograph is the Crestwood School District logo, featuring a tree with blue and gold leaves surrounded by the words “Crestwood School District” and the district motto, “Your Future. Our Focus.” On the right side of the graphic is centered white text that reads: “A proud Crestwood graduate, Eric has dedicated more than 25 years of service to the district, earning the trust and respect of students, staff, and colleagues through his expertise, reliability, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Congratulations, Eric, on this well-deserved appointment!” Across the bottom of the graphic, large gold uppercase text reads, “NEW TECHNOLOGY SUPERVISOR.” The overall design uses Crestwood School District’s official navy blue, gold, and white color palette to recognize Eric Voydanoff’s appointment and celebrate his years of dedicated service to the district.
Rawana Shukur knows that kindness starts young. Through Crestwood's GSRP Building Study project, she created space for preschoolers to collaborate, problem-solve, and support one another using recycled materials from home. The result? Even our youngest learners recognized when a friend needed help and stepped up to encourage them. That's the foundation of a learning community we're proud to build.
14 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic with a lavender-purple background highlights an Early Childhood classroom spotlight. Soft light rays shine from the upper right corner, and subtle light flares appear in the lower left corner. In the upper left, large white uppercase text reads, “EARLY CHILDHOOD.” Overlapping the lower portion of the title is the word “Spotlight” in large gold script placed on a semi-transparent light gray rectangle. Near the upper right of the graphic is a pair of oversized, semi-transparent lavender quotation marks used as a decorative design element. Centered on the page in large white uppercase text is the headline, “EVEN OUR YOUNGEST LEARNERS STEP UP.” A thin white horizontal line separates the headline from the body text below. Centered beneath the line, white text reads: “We built a classroom culture of kindness and collaboration by giving students the freedom to create, support one another, and take pride in their work. Watching students recognize when a friend needed help and step in to encourage them was heartwarming.” In the lower right corner, large white uppercase text reads, “RAWANA SHUKUR.” Beneath the name, smaller white text reads, “GSRP Associate Teacher,” followed by “Crestwood Early Childhood Center.” The graphic uses a simple, clean layout with the Crestwood Early Childhood Center’s lavender-purple color theme to celebrate a positive classroom achievement and recognize the educator’s contribution.
We’re proud to showcase the impactful work and meaningful moments happening across Crestwood School District!

Building meaningful relationships with students is creating positive classroom environments where every learner feels supported, respected, and ready to succeed.

Stay tuned as we continue to share the great work happening across our district!
15 days ago, Crestwood School District
A blue graphic with the Crestwood School District logo at the top and a message about the importance of building strong relationships in the classroom. The text explains that when students feel known, respected, and supported from the start, behavior improves and classrooms become more positive places to learn, emphasizing that connection is the foundation for student success. The quote is attributed to Michael Bright, Assistant Principal at Riverside Middle School, with his headshot shown in the bottom corner.