Challenger Families,
I am going to do some shameless bragging, but don't tell other schools in the district...shhhh! I am going to brag about our teachers and support staff. Although I believe that all HPS staff members are amazing, I truly believe that Challenger has a uniquely awesome group of people!
I can't tell you how proud I am to lead such an amazing staff. It doesn't matter what the title of their position may be, I know that each person working at Challenger brings a passion for children that is unmatched. I have watched teachers create that "light bulb" moment for a student. I have seen staff bend down to reassure a student that is crying that it will be OK. I have seen people spend their own resources to ensure that a child has Christmas gifts (adamantly not wanting recognition). I have seen a child crying that doesn't want to leave their dad or mom in the morning, being greeted with a gentle voice and a hand to hold from a staff member as they walk to class. I could truly go on and on about the hundreds of things I see each day that reiterates the quality of our team.
I know that you see these moments as well. I hope that you may take a moment to recognize these awesome staff members by submitting a nomination for "Teacher or Support Person of the Year." Even if the staff member doesn't win the award, they do receive a copy of the nomination form that you submit. I would love for as many of our staff members as possible to receive a letter from families recounting a moment when they impacted their child. The nomination window for the 2025/2026 Howell Public Schools Teacher of the Year and Support Person of the Year is open. Nominations will be accepted through Monday, February 6th at 4 p.m.
New this year! Nominations for both awards can be completed at https://bit.ly/4jw1sHV.
Thank you for considering writing a nomination for our awesome staff!
Mr. Cherry
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Hope Squad Dances
Howell High School’s Hope Squad will once again host its popular Mother–Son and Daddy–Daughter Dances next month. This year’s theme, “The Greatest Dance on Earth,” will feature an evening of dancing, crafts, desserts, and circus performers. Proceeds support Hope Squad, a peer-to-peer suicide prevention and mental health awareness program that empowers students to support one another. Families are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as last year’s dances sold out quickly. Learn more and find additional details at https://bit.ly/3YsdXdV
Teacher and Support Person of the Year Award Nominations
Howell Public Schools is currently accepting nominations for the district’s Teacher of the Year and Support Person of the Year Awards. These awards celebrate the dedication and hard work of our outstanding staff members, who make a difference in the lives of our students every day. The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, February 6, at 4 p.m. To read more about the awards or to submit a nomination, please visit https://bit.ly/4jw1sHV.
Annual Community Connect is Set for Saturday, February 7
Save the date for the annual Community Connect event at 2 | 42 Community Church on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This free event brings together more than 50 local organizations to offer resources, services, and information. Attendees can receive free items, including laundry detergent, coats, hats, gloves, personal care items, boxed lunches, blankets, food, socks, and diapers. Complimentary services include attorney consultations, health screenings, haircuts, immunizations, hearing care, and more. The Secretary of State Mobile Office will also be on-site to assist with select services. To learn more about the event, please visit https://bit.ly/4jHWQhT.