This week began with our amazing Community Open House. This has been in the planning stages for almost three years. There was over 60 people in attendance including Representative Mark Strama, Representative Donna Howard, and a community liaison from Congressman Lamar Smith’s office. There were a few local elected officials as well. The new school board member for the Oak Hill area, Amber Elenz , and from Constable Hernandez’ office, Chief Deputy AJ Johnson, were also in attendance. I must give special thanks to Casie Wenmohs for taking a seed of an idea and creating such an event. I am totally amazed by the quality of programs put on by Oak Hill parents. Thank You!!
I think having Dr. Carstarphen as the keynote speaker really helped to promote the event!
From this event, we already have a volunteer for one of our reading programs as well as Silent Auction items for the carnival. Having said that, we are always looking for volunteers for our 1st and 2nd grade reading programs. We can work around you. You can sign-up online or send an email to soaring@ohepta.org.
On a completely different note, the conversation about campus security continues. Please know that safety is always a priority, and that I feel the campus is safe. Could it be safer – of course. One of the ideas that has been brought to my attention is the “WATCH D.O.G.S.” Program. This is a father involvement initiative from the National Center for Fathering that organizes fathers and father figures in order to provide positive male role models for the students and to enhance school security. Basically, fathers and father figures are on campus daily walking the grounds, hallways and cafeteria. They are just another set of eyes on the school. Because this type of program is completely run by volunteers – you, I need to know if it is something that should happen at Oak Hill. So I am asking parents to talk about this and let me know what you think. If it is something OHE should have, then I would like to get our CAC’s support. Please send me an email letting me know your thoughts.
Also along the lines of safety, the biggest thing we can do, starting immediately, is to change our own behavior - staff, students, and parents. As you know when you enter the building, you must ring the buzzer. This alerts the office. However, when we let someone in behind us, the office doesn't know that person is on campus. Please be cautious when you enter. If someone comes in behind you, make sure they follow you to the office. OHE wants to be proactive and we need you help in this area.
Tonight, Student Council hosted a movie night. It was promoted by Ms. Grotrian’s class this morning as we did the "Sid Shuffle" during morning assembly.
