Please note that all district offices will be closed until 9:30 AM on Thursday, August 20th, as our entire staff comes together for a special Back-to-School event to connect, celebrate, and prepare for a great year ahead.

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to serving our community when offices reopen at 9:30 AM!
1 day ago, Crestwood School District
Crestwood School District announcement graphic stating that on Thursday, August 20, all district offices will open at 9:30 AM while staff come together to kick off the new school year. The message thanks the community for its understanding. District and school logos appear across the top, with colorful pencils along the bottom.
Tomorrow is the Day! Our Back to School Kickoff is almost here, and we can't wait to welcome our Crestwood families!

Thursday, August 20th
Crestwood High School
5:00–7:00 PM

Don't miss:
FREE backpacks (while supplies last)
Food trucks
Bounce houses & inflatables
Free books, crafts, balloon animals & glitter tattoos
Sports physicals
Live entertainment from Crestwood Band, Theatre, Robotics, and more!

Reminder:
Sensory Friendly Time is 4:00–5:00 PM for special needs students and families only.

Bring the whole family and celebrate the start of another amazing school year. We'll see you tomorrow, Thursday, August 20th!
2 days ago, Crestwood School District
Crestwood School District Back to School Kickoff flyer announcing a new day and time: Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Crestwood High School, 1501 North Beech Daly, Dearborn Heights. The event is for Crestwood School District families only and features food trucks, free sports physicals and books, bounce houses, inflatables, glitter tattoos, crafts, balloon animals, entertainment from Crestwood Band, Theatre, Robotics, Charger the mascot and a DJ, plus a free backpack giveaway while supplies last. A sensory-friendly time for special needs students only is scheduled from 4:00–5:00 PM.
Caroline Jakubiec, a paraprofessional at Hillcrest Elementary, helped make magic happen this spring when she supported a student in participating fully in our school musical. Her commitment to meeting students where they are created an opportunity for genuine achievement and visible joy. This is the kind of dedication that defines our Crestwood community and reminds us that with the right support, anything truly is possible.
2 days ago, Crestwood School District
Hillcrest Spotlight graphic on a bright red background featuring the message, “Meeting students where they are.” Supporting text emphasizes that providing students with the right support and opportunities can lead to meaningful achievements and possibilities. The spotlight features Caroline Jakubiec, Paraprofessional at Hillcrest Elementary School.
Tomorrow is the big day, Hillcrest! Join us tomorrow as we celebrate the official Hillcrest Elementary School Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

Wednesday, August 19th
12:30 PM
Hillcrest Elementary School
7500 N. Vernon Street

We look forward to welcoming our families, staff, students, and community members as we celebrate this important milestone and exciting new chapter for Hillcrest Elementary.

We hope to see you tomorrow!
3 days ago, Crestwood School District
Red invitation graphic announcing a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the 2024 Bond Expansion of Hillcrest Elementary. The event will take place Wednesday, August 19 at 12:30 P.M. at Hillcrest Elementary, 7500 N. Vernon Street, Dearborn Heights. The design features the Hillcrest Huskies and Crestwood School District logos, decorative gold ribbon, scissors, and celebratory light effects.
Just 1 week until the first day of school!

Have you completed your Required MiStar Back to School Check-In?

All parents and guardians must complete the Back to School Check-In for each student before the first day of school.

During check-in you can:
• Confirm emergency contacts
• Update address and health information
• Access important medical forms
• Acknowledge district policies

For the best experience, complete your check-in using a desktop or tablet.

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

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

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

We can't wait to welcome our students back!
4 days ago, Crestwood School District
A blue Crestwood School District back-to-school graphic announces that there are 7 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 7 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 one-week countdown reminder for families to complete their required online back-to-school check-in before the first day of school.
The Back-to-School Kickoff has a new date and time! We can’t wait to celebrate the start of the 2026–2027 school year with our Crestwood families on Thursday, August 20th, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Crestwood High School!

To provide a welcoming and comfortable experience for all families, a sensory-friendly hour will be offered from 4:00–5:00 PM, prior to the main event.
6 days ago, Crestwood School District
Crestwood School District Back to School Kickoff flyer announcing a new day and time: Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Crestwood High School, 1501 North Beech Daly, Dearborn Heights. The event is for Crestwood School District families only and features food trucks, free sports physicals and books, bounce houses, inflatables, glitter tattoos, crafts, balloon animals, entertainment from Crestwood Band, Theatre, Robotics, Charger the mascot and a DJ, plus a free backpack giveaway while supplies last. A sensory-friendly time for special needs students only is scheduled from 4:00–5:00 PM.
Help us ensure that our meal program is a success! Remind and encourage your child to take advantage of this opportunity and grab a school breakfast every single school day.
7 days ago, Crestwood School District
A colorful square graphic from Crestwood School District promotes the availability of free school breakfast. The background is white with playful blue, green, and gold decorative accents. In the upper left corner is the Crestwood School District logo featuring a tree with blue and gold leaves and the words “Crestwood School District” surrounding it. Beneath the tree is the district motto, “Your Future. Our Focus.” Centered across the top in large decorative navy blue lettering is the headline, “Breakfast is SERVED!” The word “Breakfast” is written in script with a gold rising sun and sun rays behind it, “is” appears in green script, and “SERVED!” is displayed in large bold navy blue capital letters. A smiling green apple with rosy cheeks appears on the left side of the graphic, while a smiling blue-and-white milk carton labeled “MILK” with rosy cheeks appears on the right. Additional hand-drawn-style blue and green hearts and accent lines decorate the design. A large gold brushstroke banner beneath the headline contains navy blue and green text that reads, “A healthy breakfast is available at NO COST in the cafeteria at all Crestwood Schools before the start of the school day.” The words “NO COST” are emphasized in large green capital letters. Three rounded white information boxes outlined in green and blue list breakfast serving times. The first box includes a colorful school building icon and reads, “Breakfast is available at all Elementary Buildings starting at 8:15 AM.” The second box includes the Riverside Ravens logo and reads, “Breakfast is available at Riverside Middle School at 7:30 AM.” The third box includes the Crestwood Chargers logo and reads, “Breakfast is available at Crestwood High School at 7:10 AM.” On the right side of the graphic is a navy blue panel titled in white script, “The meal offers.” Beneath the title is a list with colorful icons that reads: “GRAINS,” “PROTEIN,” “MILK,” and “FRUITS & VEGETABLES.” Below the list, white text reads, “daily to all students.” The panel is decorated with icons of wheat, an egg, a milk carton, and an apple. At the bottom right of the graphic is a blue bowl filled with cereal rings, alongside a yellow banana and a red strawberry. Decorative blue and gold heart doodles surround the food. A wide green banner stretches across the bottom of the graphic. Large white capital letters read, “PLAN ON GETTING TO SCHOOL EARLY,” followed by gold script that reads, “and joining us for breakfast!” A white outlined star appears on the left side of the banner, while a smiling face doodle and decorative accent marks appear on the right. The overall design uses bright, cheerful colors and playful illustrations to encourage students to take advantage of the free breakfast program before school each day.
When Dave Nelson set out to have every grade level at Hillcrest Elementary sing in Arabic at their spring concert, he didn't just plan a performance. He created a year-long journey toward musical excellence and cultural celebration. As a music teacher at Hillcrest Elementary School, Dave proves that rigor and inclusivity aren't competing values, they're partners in deep learning. His commitment to choosing repertoire that reflects our community gave Arabic-speaking families a moment of pride and gave every student an expanded understanding of the world around them. This is what student-centered education looks like in action.
9 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square recognition graphic features a photograph of a large group of elementary students standing shoulder to shoulder in a school gymnasium during a music performance. Colorful tulip artwork decorates the wall behind them, creating a vibrant backdrop. In the upper left, large white text reads “HILLCREST,” with “Spotlight” written below in white script over a translucent gray banner. Near the top center is a circular headshot of Dave Nelson, and to the right, white text identifies him as Teacher, Hillcrest Elementary School. Across the lower portion of the image, bold white text reads, “WHEN MUSIC EDUCATION REFLECTS COMMUNITY.” Below, on a red background, black text states: “Deep, meaningful learning is possible when music education is both rigorous and culturally inclusive. By committing to a year-long vision and choosing repertoire that reflects our community, students achieve excellence and a genuine appreciation for one another.” The design highlights the importance of culturally responsive music education in fostering student achievement, belonging, and appreciation for diverse perspectives.
Hillcrest, it’s time to celebrate!

We are excited to welcome our community to the official Hillcrest Elementary School Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

Wednesday, August 19th
12:30 PM
Hillcrest Elementary School
7500 N. Vernon Street

Please join our families, staff, students, and community members as we celebrate this important milestone and an exciting new chapter for Hillcrest Elementary!

We look forward to celebrating with you!
9 days ago, Crestwood School District
Red invitation graphic announcing a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the 2024 Bond Expansion of Hillcrest Elementary. The event will take place Wednesday, August 19 at 12:30 P.M. at Hillcrest Elementary, 7500 N. Vernon Street, Dearborn Heights. The design features the Hillcrest Huskies and Crestwood School District logos, decorative gold ribbon, scissors, and celebratory light effects.

Just 1 Week Until the Crestwood Back to School Kickoff!

School is almost here—and so is one of our favorite community events! Bring the family to Crestwood High School on Tuesday, August 18th from 5:00–8:00 PM for an evening of fun, food, and everything you need to start the school year off right.

Enjoy:
Free backpack giveaway (first come, first served)
Bounce houses and inflatable slides
Free books and crafts
Balloon animals & glitter tattoos
Sports physicals
Food trucks
Live entertainment featuring Crestwood students and programs

Sensory Friendly Time: 4:00–5:00 PM (special needs students and families only)

Mark your calendar—we look forward to seeing all of our Crestwood families there!

10 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.
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!
11 days 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.
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.
16 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!

17 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.
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.
23 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.
Join us for the Crestwood School District Back to School Kickoff on Tuesday, August 18th, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. at Crestwood High School!

Enjoy food trucks, free sports physicals, books, crafts, inflatables, entertainment, and more. Plus, free backpacks will be available while supplies last.

We can't wait to welcome our Crestwood families back for another great school year!
30 days ago, Crestwood School District
A square promotional graphic with a dark blue background advertises the Crestwood School District Back to School Kickoff event. Faint outline illustrations of school-themed items such as pencils, leaves, and classroom objects are patterned across the background. In the upper left corner is the Crestwood School District logo, which features a tree with blue and gold leaves and the words “Crestwood School District” surrounding it. Across the upper right portion of the graphic, very large white and gold outlined text reads, “BACK TO SCHOOL.” Beneath it, large black text with a gold outline reads, “Kickoff.” A large gold banner below the title contains black text that reads, “Tuesday, August 18, 2026 • 5:00–8:00 PM.” Across the center of the graphic are four gold information panels outlined in blue. The first panel features a colorful food truck illustration with a sign reading “FOOD TRUCK.” Below it, bold black text reads, “FOOD TRUCKS.” The description reads, “The Custard Co, ElSayed on the Grill, Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Zs Bubble Tea, and Heights Nutrition.” The second panel features illustrations of a flower, an open book, crayons, and an inflatable bounce house. Bold black text reads, “ACTIVITIES.” The description reads, “Free Sports Physicals, Free Books, Bounce Houses, Glitter Tattoos, Inflatable Slides, Crafts, and Balloon Animals.” The third panel displays the logos for Charger Robotics, Crestwood Theatre, and the Crestwood Marching Band. Bold black text reads, “ENTERTAINMENT.” The description reads, “Crestwood Band, Crestwood Theatre, Crestwood Robotics, Chargie the Mascot, and DJ.” The fourth panel features illustrations of a red backpack and a green backpack. Bold black text reads, “FREE BACKPACK GIVEAWAY.” The description reads, “First come first serve. Supplies are limited.” Below the activity panels are two sponsor sections. On the left, large white text reads, “Thank you to Our Sponsors!” Gold text beneath lists, “United Way of Southeastern Michigan • Highview PTA • Hillcrest PTO • Kinloch PTA • RMS KAB • CHS PTA.” On the right, large white text reads, “Thank you to Our Partners!” Gold text beneath lists, “Blue Hands United • Family Doc • Dearborn Heights Police • Dearborn Heights Fire • Dearborn Heights Library • Dean Transportation.” Near the bottom center of the graphic, large curved white text outlined in black reads, “Crestwood School District Families Only.” Beneath it is a large gold rounded rectangle containing bold blue text that reads, “Crestwood High School.” Smaller blue text below reads, “1501 North Beech Daly • Dearborn Heights.” Along the very bottom of the graphic, centered on a white curved border, bold dark blue text reads, “Sensory Friendly Time • 4-5 PM • Special Needs Students ONLY.” The graphic uses Crestwood School District’s blue and gold color scheme with bold typography and colorful illustrations to promote the community back-to-school event.
What does it look like when we truly trust the process with our students? Daniela Pesce, a paraprofessional at Hillcrest Elementary School, reminds us that patience and collaboration can transform a struggling reader into a confident, independent learner who chooses to pick up books on their own. Her dedication to meeting students where they are and celebrating every step forward reflects the heart of our district's commitment to every child's journey. Stories like these are why we do this work.
30 days ago, Crestwood School District
A promotional graphic titled “HILLCREST Spotlight” features a clean, text-focused design on a bright red background. In the upper left corner, the word “HILLCREST” appears in large white capital letters, with the word “Spotlight” written beneath it in large black script over a semi-transparent light pink rectangle. Decorative rays of light shine diagonally from the upper right corner, and a pair of oversized translucent quotation marks appear near the upper right portion of the graphic. A subtle white starburst light effect is displayed near the lower left corner. Centered in the middle of the graphic is a bold black headline in all capital letters that reads: “TRUSTING THE PROCESS.” A thin white horizontal line appears beneath the headline. Below the line, centered black text reads: “It takes time and patience, but the hard work pays off. If we trust the process and stay patient, we can keep unlocking breakthrough moments for the students who need it most.” In the lower right portion of the graphic, the staff member's name appears in large black capital letters reading “DANIELA PESCE.” Beneath the name, smaller black text reads: “Paraprofessional” and “Hillcrest Elementary School.” The overall design uses a bold red, black, white, and light pink color palette with clean typography and subtle decorative elements to emphasize the inspirational message about perseverance while recognizing Daniela Pesce, paraprofessional at Hillcrest Elementary School.
Kathleen Rutz knows something powerful: trust students with real questions, and they'll rise to meet them. This year, her second graders at Hillcrest Elementary became true scientists, investigating whether plants could grow without soil and proving that even our youngest learners are ready for authentic inquiry. This is the kind of teaching that lives at the heart of our mission to develop curious, capable problem solvers.
about 1 month ago, Crestwood School District
A promotional graphic titled “HILLCREST Spotlight” features a classroom science investigation displayed on a large window. The word “HILLCREST” appears in large white capital letters in the upper left corner, with the word “Spotlight” written beneath it in large white script over a semi-transparent gray rectangle. In the upper right corner, white text reads: “KATHLEEN RUTZ” followed by “Teacher” and “Hillcrest Elementary School.” The main photograph shows numerous clear resealable plastic bags taped to a classroom window in neat rows. Each bag contains different natural materials, including rocks, soil, leaves, moss, and other outdoor objects collected by students for observation and comparison. Through the window, a grassy area, trees, and two yellow school buses are visible outside, reinforcing the connection between the outdoor environment and the classroom investigation. Colorful student artwork and classroom displays can be seen along the edges of the window, framing the science activity within the classroom. Across the bottom of the photograph, large white capital letters read: “TRUST STUDENTS WITH REAL QUESTIONS.” The bottom third of the graphic is a bright red panel containing centered black text that reads: “Even our youngest learners are capable of thinking like scientists. When we trust students with real questions and give them the space to find real answers, hands-on learning excites their curiosity and prepares them to become problem solvers.” The overall design combines a real classroom science investigation with bold typography and red accents to recognize Kathleen Rutz of Hillcrest Elementary School while highlighting the value of inquiry-based, hands-on learning that encourages students to think critically, explore their environment, and develop problem-solving skills.
When Daniel Vokal challenges his students to think like engineers, something powerful happens. His tower-building project this year showed what's possible when we create classroom environments where curiosity leads and failure becomes fuel for innovation. This is the kind of teaching that defines our commitment to hands-on, student-centered learning across Crestwood.
about 1 month ago, Crestwood School District
A promotional graphic titled “HILLCREST Spotlight” features a close-up photograph of a hands-on classroom engineering activity. The word “HILLCREST” appears in large white capital letters in the upper left corner, with the word “Spotlight” written beneath it in large white script over a semi-transparent gray rectangle. Near the top center is a circular headshot of a smiling man outlined in black. To the right of the headshot, white text reads: “DANIEL VOKAL” followed by “Teacher” and “Hillcrest Elementary School.” The main photograph shows a small structure built from colorful plastic drinking straws in shades of blue, green, and orange. The straws are taped together to form angled support legs that hold a white paper cup upright at the top of the structure. The project sits on a dark brown tabletop and appears to be part of a STEM or engineering challenge focused on design, stability, and problem-solving. A subtle beam of light shines diagonally from the upper right corner of the graphic, drawing attention to the engineering project. Across the bottom of the photograph, large white capital letters read: “WHEN CURIOSITY DRIVES THE WORK.” The bottom third of the graphic is a bright red panel containing centered black text that reads: “Hands-on learning shows just how much students are capable of when the stakes feel real. It's what's possible when we create classrooms where curiosity drives the work and failure is part of the process.” The overall design emphasizes experiential learning, creativity, and problem-solving while recognizing Daniel Vokal and the engaging classroom experiences taking place at Hillcrest Elementary School.
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.
about 2 months 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.
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.
about 2 months 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.