Dr. Shaneena McDonnaugh Holland, Principal | shane.colemcdonnaugh@pgcps.org |
Dear Heather Hills Community,
Welcome back to a new and exciting school year at Heather Hills Elementary School! As we step into the 2024-2025 academic year, I am thrilled to share our theme for this year: “Passing the Torch of Excellence.” This theme aligns perfectly with the spirit of the current World Olympics, where athletes from around the globe come together to showcase their dedication, perseverance, and pursuit of excellence.
Just like the Olympic torch symbolizes the light of spirit, knowledge, and life, our theme represents our commitment to fostering a culture of excellence in education. We aim to inspire our students to strive for their personal best, support one another, and carry forward the legacy of success that defines our school.
Throughout the year, we will celebrate achievements, recognize efforts, and encourage every member of our community to pass the torch of excellence in their own way. Whether in academics, sports, the arts, or community service, each student’s unique contributions help to create a vibrant and thriving school environment.
I am excited to share with you my three primary goals that will guide our efforts and initiatives. These goals are designed to enhance the educational experience and personal growth of our gifted and talented students.
Our first goal is to create and foster an environment that maximizes learning for our gifted and talented students. This involves implementing advanced instructional strategies, providing access to challenging coursework, and ensuring our classrooms are equipped to meet the diverse needs of our students through flexible seating. We are committed to offering an academically stimulating environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and achievement.
The second goal focuses on addressing the unique social and emotional needs of gifted students. We recognize that these students often face specific challenges, such as heightened sensitivities and asynchronous development. To support them, we will integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) programs, provide access to counseling services, and create peer support groups. Our aim is to ensure that every gifted student feels understood, supported, and connected within our school community.
Finally, our third goal is to increase enrichment opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. We will offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, competitions, and field trips, designed to stimulate our students’ interests and passions. By providing these experiences, we aim to cultivate well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also engaged and enthusiastic about their broader education.
As we embark on this journey together, I am confident that our collective efforts will illuminate the path to greatness for all our students. Let us work collaboratively, with the Olympic spirit of unity and determination, to make this year one of our best yet.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our school’s mission. Let’s make 2024-2025 a year to remember!
Warm regards,
Dr. Shaneena McDonnaugh Holland