September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, when mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention and awareness across the country. Suicide Prevention Month provides a dedicated time to come together with collective strength around a difficult topic and educate ourselves on how we can help those who may be struggling.
Our Featured Staff Member is Olga Acuña, HSD’s executive director of federal programs and family engagement. She was honored with the Latina Leadership Award during the Adelante Mujeres Fiesta of Hope event on Saturday, August 27th, in downtown Forest Grove. Dr. Acuña began working for HSD as an instructional assistant and recruiter at Glencoe High School in 1985. In 1992 she completed her Master’s degree and began teaching, then transitioned to administration when she accepted the assistant principal position at Hilhi in 2006. Since 2013, she has overseen federal programs for the District, and along the way earned her Doctorate, served on the Hillsboro City Council, developed a strong family engagement program, and continues to expand the District’s preschool offerings. She is a champion and advocate for students and families and is very deserving of this recognition. Way to go, Olga! You make us Proud to be HSD!
The first day of school for students in grades 1-6, 7, and 9 is Tuesday, Sep. 6. The first day for students in grades K, 8, and 10-12 is Wednesday, Sep. 7. Please note that Wednesdays are Academic Seminar days, which means that middle and high schools will start their day 30 minutes later than normal, and elementary schools will end their day 30 minutes earlier than normal.
Students, staff, and family members are encouraged to share their favorite back-to-school photos with us for possible inclusion in the back-to-school photo gallery on our website! Please make sure to only share photos you have permission to use by uploading to the Google Form on our website or emailing to communications@hsd.k12.or.us.
Hot News is produced and emailed to HSD families and staff each week school is in session. Please add the address to your “safe sender” list to make sure you always receive the latest issue. Please also bookmark our district website: hsd.k12.or.us and the 2022-23 School Year page: hsd.k12.or.us/202223schoolyear to stay informed about what’s happening in our district and schools.