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Congratulations to Laurel Cash, a teacher at Highview Elementary School, on earning her National Board Certification—one of the highest professional credentials an educator can achieve. This accomplishment reflects her commitment to professional growth, instructional excellence, and making a lasting impact on the lives of her students.

We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement and grateful to have educators like Mrs. Cash inspiring students every day. Please join us in congratulating Laurel on this incredible milestone!
about 7 hours ago, Crestwood School District
A congratulatory graphic on a dark navy blue background celebrates Laurel Cash for earning her National Board Certification. Decorative gold ribbon-like curves frame the corners of the design, and a thin gold rectangular border surrounds the main content. In the upper left corner is the circular Crestwood School District logo featuring a blue and gold tree with roots and the words “Crestwood School District” surrounding it. Across the center of the tree logo is the district slogan “Your Future. Our Focus.” In large white capital letters across the top of the graphic is the word “CONGRATULATIONS.” Directly below, in large gold serif lettering, is the name “Laurel Cash.” Centered beneath the heading, white text reads: “Crestwood School District proudly celebrates Laurel Cash, a teacher at Highview Elementary School, on earning her National Board Certification!” On the left side of the graphic, additional white text reads: “This prestigious achievement reflects her dedication to excellence in teaching, commitment to continuous learning, and unwavering support of her students. Congratulations on this outstanding accomplishment!” On the lower right side is a large circular photograph outlined with a gold border. The photo shows Laurel Cash smiling while seated outdoors in front of a brick wall. She is wearing glasses, a wide-brimmed tan hat, a light pink shirt, and a patterned rust-colored jumper. She is posing with two dogs, one black-and-white dog on her left and one tan dog on her right, with an arm around each. Partially overlapping the bottom of the photo is a circular National Board Certified Teacher seal. The seal has a dark blue center with large gold letters “NBCT” and a gold outer ring containing the words “NATIONAL BOARD CERTIFIED TEACHER.” The overall design uses the Crestwood School District's navy blue, gold, and white color palette to formally recognize Laurel Cash's achievement in earning National Board Certification while highlighting her dedication to teaching and commitment to student success.
What happens when you challenge 3rd graders with 2-part harmony and lyrics about peace, love, hope, and joy? Carina Pisani, Music Teacher at Highview Elementary School, found out at this year's Winter Concert. Her students didn't just perform, they created a shared moment of emotion and connection for an entire community. This is what's possible when we trust children with meaningful work and stay the course alongside them.
about 20 hours ago, Crestwood School District
A promotional graphic titled “HIGHVIEW Spotlight” features a large group of elementary students standing together on a school stage during a music performance. The word “HIGHVIEW” appears in large white capital letters in the upper left corner, with the word “Spotlight” written below it in large white script over a semi-transparent gray rectangle. In the upper right corner, white text reads: “CARINA PISANI” followed by “Music Teacher” and “Highview Elementary School.” The main photograph shows dozens of students arranged in several rows across a stage, dressed in festive red, white, black, and holiday-themed clothing. The students are smiling and facing the audience, with a microphone stand and a music stand containing sheet music positioned in the foreground at the front of the stage. Behind the students is a colorful winter-themed backdrop decorated with oversized candy canes, holiday lights, snowflakes, and festive artwork. Blue stage curtains frame the performance area, and overhead stage lighting illuminates the students. Across the lower portion of the photograph, large white capital letters read: “NEVER UNDERESTIMATE WHAT” with “CHILDREN CAN DO” displayed directly below in large yellow capital letters outlined in white. The bottom third of the graphic is a golden yellow panel containing centered black text that reads: “Never underestimate children. When we challenge them, stay the course, and choose content that connects to the world they live in, they just might surprise you with their beautiful, tender voices.” The overall design highlights Highview Elementary School’s music program and celebrates students' accomplishments under the guidance of music teacher Carina Pisani.
What happens when families step into the classroom and see learning in action? Lead Teacher Leila Abuhadma at Crestwood Early Childhood Center created family involvement experiences that celebrated the completion of each study, inviting families to witness their children's growth firsthand. The result: families became true partners in education, students felt celebrated, and trust between school and home deepened. This is the kind of intentional connection that strengthens our entire Crestwood community.
2 days ago, Crestwood School District
A promotional graphic titled “EARLY CHILDHOOD Spotlight” features a photograph of a family engagement activity taking place inside a preschool classroom. The words “EARLY CHILDHOOD” appear in large white capital letters on the left side of the image, with the word “Spotlight” written across the bottom in a large yellow script font. Near the top center is a circular headshot outlined in yellow of a woman wearing a light-colored hijab. To the right of the headshot, white text reads: “LEILA ABUHADMA” followed by “GSRP Lead Teacher” and “Crestwood Early Childhood Center.” The background photograph shows several adults and young children gathered around a large rectangular classroom table participating in a hands-on activity together. Adults are seated alongside children, helping them with paper crafts and classroom materials spread across the table. One child sits facing the camera while other children and adults are viewed from the side or behind. The classroom contains colorful educational materials, shelving filled with books and toys, learning posters, cubbies, and backpacks hanging along the wall, creating a welcoming early childhood learning environment. A wide purple banner spans the bottom portion of the graphic. In large white capital letters, the headline reads: “FAMILIES BECOME PARTNERS IN LEARNING.” Below the headline, centered white text states: “When families feel welcomed and understand what is happening in the classroom, they become true partners in their children's education. The joy and feedback from families showed me that connection matters.” The overall design combines the classroom photograph with bold typography and purple and yellow accent colors to highlight an early childhood teacher spotlight focused on family engagement in education.
We’re proud to showcase the impactful work and meaningful moments happening across Crestwood School District!

Targeted support and clear instruction are empowering multilingual learners to build confidence, actively participate, and achieve success in every classroom.

Stay tuned as we continue to share the great work happening across our district!
3 days ago, Crestwood School District
A blue graphic with the Crestwood School District logo at the top and a message about supporting multilingual student success. The text explains that teachers across the district are providing targeted support and clear instruction to help students learning English better understand their lessons, building confidence, increasing participation, and helping students succeed in every classroom. The quote is attributed to Zeina Khanafer, EL Resource Teacher at Crestwood High School, with her headshot shown in the bottom corner.
When David Kuderka's students registered over 100 new voters, they didn't just learn about democracy—they lived it. His work at Crestwood High School shows what happens when we give students real tools and authentic opportunities to participate in civic life. These young people attended School Board and City Council meetings, registered their peers to vote, and discovered firsthand that their actions create measurable change. This is the kind of learning that builds lifelong citizens.
4 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District Crestwood Spotlight graphic recognizing David Kuderka, a teacher at Crestwood High School, for leading a student voter registration initiative that empowered students through civic engagement. The background photo shows David Kuderka standing in the center of a group of approximately 16 high school students in a school hallway. The students are gathered closely together, smiling for the camera, with some standing and others kneeling in front. Several students hold papers, suggesting participation in the voter registration effort. The image conveys pride, teamwork, and student leadership. In the upper left corner, large white text reads: CRESTWOOD Spotlight The word "Spotlight" appears in a gold script font over a translucent gray banner. In the upper right corner, white text identifies the featured educator: DAVID KUDERKA Teacher Crestwood High School A bold blue banner fills the lower third of the graphic. The headline appears in large white capital letters: OVER 100 NEW VOTERS REGISTERED BY STUDENTS Below the headline, the featured quote reads: "When students saw they'd registered over 100 new voters, something shifted. They went from learning about civic participation to proving they could create real outcomes. That tangible result made them believe their actions matter beyond the classroom." The graphic celebrates students' successful voter registration campaign and emphasizes the power of authentic civic learning, demonstrating how real-world experiences help students recognize that their voices and actions can make a meaningful impact in their communities.
What happens when we make space for creativity in unexpected places? Jeremy Phillips, a teacher at Riverside Middle School, shows us exactly that. Through his Wheel of Theodorus project, Jeremy helped 8th graders see geometry not just as formulas and constructions, but as a canvas for individual expression and personal meaning. His commitment to weaving creativity into rigorous academic work exemplifies the kind of teaching that helps students truly own their learning.
5 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District Riverside Spotlight graphic highlighting Jeremy Phillips, a teacher at Riverside Middle School, and celebrating the integration of creativity into mathematics education. The background features a close-up of a student-created geometric drawing of a green chameleon. The artwork is composed of carefully shaded geometric shapes and repeating triangular patterns, demonstrating how mathematical concepts such as geometry, symmetry, angles, and spatial reasoning can be incorporated into creative art. In the upper left corner, large white text reads: RIVERSIDE Spotlight The word "Spotlight" appears in a gold script font over a translucent gray banner. In the upper right corner, white text identifies the featured educator: JEREMY PHILLIPS Teacher Riverside Middle School A dark green banner spans the bottom of the graphic with the headline in bold white text: CREATIVITY BELONGS IN MATH CLASS, TOO Below the headline, the featured quote reads: "Anytime there's an opportunity to weave creativity into a math lesson, it's worth the extra effort. It helps students build confidence, find personal meaning in their learning, and see math as something connected, enjoyable, and truly their own." The overall design highlights how creative, project-based learning can deepen students' understanding of mathematics while fostering confidence, engagement, and a stronger personal connection to the subject.
Wishing our students, staff, families, and community a safe and joyful Independence Day.

In observance of Independence Day, all Crestwood School District schools and District Offices will be closed on Friday, July 3rd.
5 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District Independence Day announcement featuring patriotic colors and American flag graphics, wishing the community a safe holiday and sharing a district closure notice. The graphic has a dark navy blue background with stylized American flags draped across the upper left corner and extending along the top edge. Decorative blue halftone patterns appear in the upper left and lower right corners, reinforcing the patriotic theme. Centered near the top, large white text reads: HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY 4TH OF JULY Below the headline is the Crestwood School District logo. Centered beneath the logo, the message states: "Wishing our students, staff, families, and community a safe and joyful Independence Day." A second paragraph provides an important schedule reminder: "In observance of Independence Day, all Crestwood School District schools and District Offices will be closed on Friday, July 3rd." The overall design uses red, white, and blue colors with clean typography and patriotic imagery to celebrate Independence Day while informing the community of the district's holiday closure.
We're hiring Lunch Monitors!

Make a difference in a child's day by helping create a safe, positive, and welcoming school environment. Lunch Monitors work 2–3 hours each school day, earn $14.05 per hour, and play an important role in supporting our students.

Apply today: https://www.applitrack.com/resa/onlineapp/jobpostings/view.asp?&category=Athletics%2FActivities&applitrackclient=37213&category=Food+Services
5 days ago, Crestwood School District
A colorful Crestwood School District recruitment flyer announces that the district is hiring lunch monitors. The flyer has a dark blue background with bold yellow and white text and the Crestwood School District logo in the upper left corner. The headline reads, "We're Hiring! Lunch Monitors." A speech bubble encourages applicants to "Make a Difference. Brighten a Child's Day!" An illustration shows a lunch monitor high-fiving two smiling elementary students with the caption, "Be a positive role model every day!" A section titled "Your Role Includes" uses illustrated icons to describe responsibilities, including wiping lunch tables, assisting students with opening milk cartons and food packages, picking up and throwing away trays, monitoring students in line, supervising the playground during recess, and supporting teachers by monitoring classrooms. The flyer lists the schedule as Monday through Friday on school days only, with lunch-hour shifts lasting two to three hours. The pay rate is $14.05 per hour. Additional highlights note that the district values dependable, cheerful, positive, and student-focused individuals. A "Why Join Our Team?" section emphasizes supporting students, serving as a positive role model, working with a great team, and helping create happy, safe school days. A QR code is included for applicants to apply, and the flyer closes with the message, "You Make a Big Difference Every Day! Be a Hero at School!" and "We Can't Wait to Meet You!" Social Media Post: Join the Crestwood School District team and make a difference in the lives of our students every day! We're hiring Lunch Monitors to help create a safe, welcoming, and positive environment during the school day. This is a great opportunity to support students, work with an amazing team, and have a meaningful impact in our schools. Position Highlights: • Monday–Friday (school days only) • 2–3 hour lunch shifts • $14.05 per hour Scan the QR code on the flyer to apply today and become part of the Crestwood family. Together, we can help make every school day a great one! #CrestwoodDifference #NowHiring #JoinOurTeam #YourFutureOurFocus
What does meaningful progress look like in a classroom? For Hanine Hachem, a teacher at Kinloch Elementary School, it shows up in the moments when students begin to believe in themselves. Her insight reminds us that transformation happens when we create space for students to take risks, build resilience, and discover their own potential. This is the kind of educator-led reflection that makes our district stronger.
6 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District Kinloch Spotlight graphic highlighting Hanine Hachem, a teacher at Kinloch Elementary School, and sharing an inspirational message about recognizing student growth beyond grades and test scores. The graphic features a soft blue background with subtle light effects, a decorative pair of quotation marks in the upper right corner, and a small star-like light accent near the lower left. In the upper left, large white text reads: KINLOCH Spotlight The word "Spotlight" is written in a gold script font over a translucent banner. Centered on the graphic is the bold white headline: HOW GROWTH SHOWS UP A thin white line separates the headline from the featured quote, which reads: "Sometimes the most meaningful progress is not immediately visible in test scores or grades, but in a student's confidence, resilience, and willingness to take risks. When students begin to believe in their own abilities, it transforms how they see themselves as learners." In the lower right, the featured educator is identified: HANINE HACHEM Teacher Kinloch Elementary School The clean, text-focused design emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal growth, confidence, resilience, and self-belief as meaningful indicators of student success alongside academic achievement.
When students are genuinely invested, they rise to the occasion. Jessica Eddy, a first grade teacher at Hillcrest Elementary, shared this powerful insight from a spring field trip that brought science and creativity to life beyond the classroom walls. The enthusiasm and problem-solving she witnessed that day reflects the kind of meaningful learning experiences we celebrate across Crestwood. These are the moments that remind us why we do what we do.
7 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District Hillcrest Spotlight graphic highlighting Jessica Eddy, a teacher at Hillcrest Elementary School, and emphasizing the power of engaging learning experiences that inspire student investment. The background features a striking underwater photograph of a large stingray gliding through a blue aquarium exhibit. The scene is illuminated by soft overhead lighting, with fish and bubbles visible throughout the water, creating a sense of wonder and exploration. In the upper left corner, large white text reads: HILLCREST Spotlight The word "Spotlight" appears in a white script font over a translucent gray banner. In the upper right corner, white text identifies the featured educator: JESSICA EDDY Teacher Hillcrest Elementary School A bright red banner spans the bottom of the graphic with the headline in bold white text: WHEN STUDENTS ARE INVESTED, THEY RISE Below the headline, the featured quote reads: "The enthusiasm and creativity we saw that day are an example of what student investment looks like when the experience truly connects with them. When students are genuinely invested, they rise to the occasion." The overall design pairs the captivating aquarium image with an inspirational message about student engagement, illustrating how meaningful, immersive learning experiences can spark curiosity, creativity, and academic growth.
From July 1–24, work on the detention system at Hillcrest Elementary will result in increased construction traffic on Fenton Street. To help reduce congestion, and ensure the safety of the crew, we kindly ask residents on Fenton Street to avoid on-street parking Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., if possible.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as this important project is completed in a safe manner.
7 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District traffic notice informing residents about temporary construction-related traffic and parking impacts near Hillcrest Elementary School during July. The graphic features an aerial map of the neighborhood surrounding Hillcrest Elementary School. The school is labeled in a bright yellow callout near the upper center-right of the map. A bold red line highlights Fenton Street, with a yellow label identifying the roadway. The Crestwood School District logo appears in the upper right corner, and two orange traffic cones decorate the lower left, reinforcing the construction theme. Across the lower portion of the graphic, a large red headline outlined in yellow reads: TRAFFIC NOTICE Below the headline, the announcement states: "From July 1–24, work on the detention system at Hillcrest Elementary School will result in increased construction traffic on Fenton Street." The notice continues: "To help reduce congestion and ensure the safety of the crew, we kindly ask residents on Fenton Street to avoid on-street parking Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., if possible." The message concludes: "We appreciate your patience and cooperation as this important project is completed in a safe manner." The overall design combines a neighborhood map, construction-themed graphics, and high-contrast colors to clearly communicate temporary traffic impacts and parking guidance for residents during the construction project.
When Rebecca Fitzgerald invited mothers into her Highview Elementary classroom this spring for an Author's Chair celebration, she created something bigger than a writing lesson. She gave students an authentic audience, families a reason to be proud, and our entire community a reminder that learning matters most when it's shared. This is the kind of thoughtful, student-centered teaching that makes Crestwood special.
8 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District Highview Spotlight graphic highlighting Rebecca Fitzgerald, a teacher at Highview Elementary School, and celebrating student writing growth through a special family engagement activity. The background photo shows an elementary classroom filled with students and family members. Several students are seated on the floor in the foreground while adults sit at classroom desks in the background, watching attentively. The atmosphere suggests a classroom celebration or presentation, with families gathered to support and encourage student learning. In the upper left corner, large white text reads: HIGHVIEW Spotlight The word "Spotlight" is displayed in a white script font over a translucent gray banner. In the upper right corner, white text identifies the featured educator: REBECCA FITZGERALD Teacher Highview Elementary School A gold banner across the bottom of the graphic features the headline: CELEBRATING WRITING GROWTH Below the headline, the featured quote reads: "I'm grateful for our Mother's Day Author's Chair because of the pride it sparked in every student who stepped up to share. Writing growth deserves to be celebrated, and families love any opportunity to be part of their child's school day." The overall design emphasizes the importance of recognizing student achievement in writing while strengthening school-family partnerships through meaningful classroom experiences.
Saherah Shahin, GSRP Relief Aide and SACC Paraprofessional at Crestwood Early Childhood Center, knows that even our youngest learners thrive when trusted to explore and create. By designing an inventor-focused activity this year, Saherah gave preschoolers the freedom to build, design, and share their work with pride. This is exactly the kind of student-centered approach that strengthens engagement and confidence across all grade levels in our district.
9 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District Early Childhood Spotlight graphic highlighting Saherah Shahin, a GSRP Relief Aide and SACC Paraprofessional at the Crestwood Early Childhood Center, and celebrating the value of hands-on learning in early childhood education. The graphic features a soft lavender-purple background with subtle light effects and decorative quotation marks in the upper right corner. In the upper left, large white text reads: EARLY CHILDHOOD Spotlight The word "Spotlight" appears in a gold script font over a translucent banner. Centered on the graphic is a bold white headline: REAL LEARNING THROUGH HANDS-ON INVENTION Below the headline, separated by a thin white line, the featured quote reads: "We grew creativity, confidence, and pride in our preschool learners by giving them the freedom to build and invent through hands-on play. Real learning is possible when students are trusted to explore, create, and take ownership of their own ideas." In the lower right, the featured staff member is identified: SAHERAH SHAHIN Below her name, smaller white text reads: GSRP Relief Aide/SACC Paraprofessional Crestwood Early Childhood Center The design focuses entirely on the inspirational message, using clean typography and a calming color palette to emphasize the importance of creativity, exploration, and student ownership in early childhood learning.
We’re proud to showcase the impactful work and meaningful moments happening across Crestwood School District!

Educators are working together with shared strategies and a common purpose to strengthen instruction and ensure every student has the support they need to succeed.

Stay tuned as we continue to share the great work happening across our district!
10 days ago, Crestwood School District
A blue graphic with the Crestwood School District logo at the top and a message about the power of collaboration in improving student outcomes. The text explains that educators across the district are aligning their efforts and using shared strategies to better support student learning, noting that when teams work together with purpose and focus, students receive the support they need to grow and succeed. The quote is attributed to Joel Fabris, Curriculum Assessment Specialist for Crestwood School District, with his headshot shown in the bottom corner.
Ann Johnson has watched countless students cross finish lines, but this season brought something special. When Bella broke 50 seconds at Regionals, then came back to win Wayne County with a 48.83, it wasn't luck. It was the result of never missing a practice. Ann's story reminds us that extraordinary outcomes start with ordinary commitment, and that our role as educators is to create the conditions where both can thrive.
11 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Crestwood School District "Spotlight" graphic highlighting Ann Johnson, a teacher at Crestwood High School, and celebrating student perseverance and achievement through athletics. The main image shows a student-athlete in a blue and gold Crestwood track and field uniform clearing a hurdle during a race on the school's outdoor track. The athlete is captured midair with a focused expression, emphasizing determination, strength, and athletic skill. Several hurdles labeled "Crestwood" line the track, while a chain-link fence, neighborhood homes, and trees form the background. In the upper left corner, large white and gold text reads: CRESTWOOD Spotlight In the upper right corner, white text identifies: Ann Johnson Teacher Crestwood High School A blue banner across the bottom of the graphic features the headline: SEEING STUDENTS' HARD WORK PAY OFF Below the headline, the following message appears: "If we encourage students to set goals, show up every day, and keep raising the bar for themselves, we'll keep watching extraordinary results happen right in front of us." The graphic celebrates the connection between encouragement, perseverance, and student success, using the hurdler's performance as a visual representation of overcoming challenges and achieving personal goals.
Ken Bajorek, teacher at Riverside Middle School, captures something powerful here: when we give students opportunities to create, collaborate, and connect their work to the real world, they show us what they're truly capable of. This insight comes from Ken's experience taking RMS News students to CBS Detroit, where they saw their classroom skills come alive in a professional newsroom. It's a perfect example of the career-connected, authentic learning experiences happening across Crestwood.
12 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Riverside Middle School “Spotlight” graphic highlighting Ken Bajorek, a teacher, and celebrating authentic, real-world learning experiences. The graphic features a group photo of approximately a dozen middle school students gathered with their teacher in front of a colorful patterned backdrop made up of brightly colored squares and circular logos. The students are smiling and standing together, while one student sits at a table in the foreground. The teacher stands at the center of the group, emphasizing collaboration and shared achievement. In the upper left corner, large white and gold text reads “RIVERSIDE Spotlight.” In the upper right corner, text identifies: Ken Bajorek Teacher Riverside Middle School Across the lower portion of the photo, bold white text states: “WHEN SCHOOL WORK MEETS THE REAL WORLD” A dark green banner fills the bottom section of the graphic with the message: "When schools invest in programs that let students create, collaborate, and take ownership of meaningful work, students rise to the occasion in incredible ways. They start to see that what they're doing has real purpose and real world relevance." The overall message highlights the value of project-based and authentic learning experiences, emphasizing how meaningful, collaborative work helps students develop confidence, ownership, and an understanding of how classroom learning connects to the real world.
Tomorrow - June 27th! Stop by the Crestwood Marching Band Car Wash from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Riverside Middle School. Get a clean car, support our students, and help keep the music playing! Suggested donation: $5.
12 days ago, Crestwood School District
A flyer promoting a Crestwood Marching Band Car Wash Fundraiser. The flyer has a light gray background with colorful cartoon illustrations of smiling cars being washed. A yellow cartoon car spraying water appears in the upper left, a pink cartoon car covered in soap bubbles is in the upper right, and a green car with soap suds and a sponge is shown in the lower left. The Crestwood Marching Band logo appears in the lower right. Centered at the top in large blue letters is the title: “CAR WASH” Event details are listed below: Where: Riverside Middle School 25900 W Warren Ave. Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 When: Saturday, June 27th, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Suggested Donation: $5 per automobile A message in large black script-style text reads: "PLEASE COME SUPPORT THE CRESTWOOD MARCHING BAND ALLOWING THE BAND MEMBERS TO GET YOUR CAR NICE AND CLEAN!!!" The flyer encourages community members to attend the fundraiser, support the Crestwood Marching Band, and have their vehicles washed by band members in exchange for a suggested donation.
What happens when you give kindergarteners high expectations and meaningful learning experiences? Danielle Fleming and her students at Kinloch Elementary showed us this year. Through an informational writing unit on ocean animals that culminated in a Talking Zoo celebration, her young learners became confident researchers, writers, and public speakers. Their growth is a powerful reminder that purposeful instruction unlocks potential at every grade level.
13 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Kinloch Elementary “Spotlight” graphic highlighting Danielle Fleming, a teacher, and celebrating high expectations for kindergarten learners. The graphic features a classroom photograph showing several kindergarten students engaged in a learning activity. The children are standing in a circle, holding colorful paper plates with drawings or writing on them while interacting with one another. A teacher is standing among the students, guiding the activity. The classroom walls display student artwork and learning materials, creating an engaging and colorful environment. In the upper left corner, large white and gold text reads “KINLOCH Spotlight.” Near the top right, a circular headshot of Danielle Fleming appears alongside the text: Danielle Fleming Teacher Kinloch Elementary School Across the lower portion of the photograph, bold white text states: “YOUNG LEARNERS RISE TO HIGH EXPECTATIONS” A blue banner fills the bottom section of the graphic with the message: "Kindergarten students are capable of rising to high expectations when they are given meaningful learning experiences, support, and opportunities to take ownership." The overall message highlights the importance of providing young students with engaging learning experiences, encouragement, and responsibility, demonstrating that kindergarten learners can achieve high expectations when supported in a positive classroom environment.
Cathy Mitera, Paraprofessional at Hillcrest Elementary, knows that the right support can unlock courage in every student. Through our Paws to Read Book Club this year, students found safety, connection, and confidence alongside therapy dogs Theo and Scout. Cathy's dedication to creating spaces where students can grow both academically and emotionally reflects the heart of what we value as a district: belonging, growth, and the belief that every child deserves to thrive
14 days ago, Crestwood School District
A Hillcrest Elementary “Spotlight” graphic highlighting Cathy Mitera, a paraprofessional, and the positive impact of a therapy dog on student engagement and well-being. The graphic features a large photograph taken in a school library. A group of elementary students sit in a circle on chairs around a colorful rug while a light-colored therapy dog sits calmly in the center. Bookshelves filled with children’s books surround the group, creating a warm and welcoming learning environment. Cathy Mitera is seated with the students, smiling as they participate in the activity. In the upper left corner, large white text reads “HILLCREST Spotlight.” In the upper right corner, text identifies: Cathy Mitera Paraprofessional Hillcrest Elementary School A bright coral-red banner spans the bottom section of the graphic. Large white text reads: “PAWS, PAGES, AND BELONGING” Below, the message states: "While pursuing stronger reading engagement and social-emotional growth, we discovered what's possible when a therapy dog joins the circle. A therapy dog can help students feel safe, make connections, and find the courage to try." The overall message highlights how incorporating a therapy dog into learning activities can support reading engagement, social-emotional development, confidence, and a sense of belonging among students.
Congratulations to Crestwood graduate Hannah Hamka on being named a 2026 Metro Bureau Scholarship recipient! Hannah’s achievement reflects her hard work, dedication, and bright future ahead. Watch her scholarship recognition video and hear a special message for graduating seniors: https://youtu.be/5hpQIigxXjs
14 days ago, Crestwood School District
A congratulatory recognition graphic honoring Hannah Hamka for receiving a Metro Bureau Scholarship. The graphic features a dark navy-blue background with a gold border framing the design. At the top, large white capital letters read: “CONGRATULATIONS TO HANNAH HAMKA” On the left side is a professional portrait of a young woman smiling at the camera. She is wearing a light beige hijab and a black top. A soft golden glow behind her portrait adds emphasis and celebration to the recognition. On the right side, large white text reads: “A 2026 Metro Bureau Scholarship Recipient!” The overall design is formal and celebratory, recognizing Hannah Hamka’s academic achievement and scholarship award. The navy-and-gold color scheme conveys prestige and accomplishment while highlighting her recognition as a Metro Bureau Scholarship recipient for 2026.