Dear Hillcrest Families,

As we step into May, it’s hard to believe how quickly this school year has flown by! This is a busy and exciting time filled with celebrations, learning milestones, and end-of-year activities. We are incredibly proud of the growth our students have demonstrated—academically, socially, and emotionally.

Students will continue wrapping up state assessments this month. You can support your child by ensuring they get a good night’s sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school on time. As we approach the end of the year, students are also completing important learning goals—ask your child what they’re most proud of!

We’re looking forward to several special events that celebrate our students’ hard work, including music performances, field trips, the Family BBQ, and Field Day. Field Day will provide a fun opportunity for students to enjoy outdoor activities and teamwork. Please remember to send your child with water, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Be sure to review the important dates listed throughout the rest of the newsletter.

Please begin checking for any school library books or classroom materials that may still be at home. Returning these items helps us prepare for next year and ensures all students continue to have access to valuable resources.

As we look toward the 2026–2027 school year, we will transition from a 4/5 combination class to a 5/6 combination class. Mrs. Arrington will teach the 5/6 combo. Mrs. Brandner and Ms. Eaton will be swapping roles—Ms. Eaton will teach fifth grade, Mrs. Brandner and Ms. Shields will teach fourth grade.

We also want to share some staffing updates. Mrs. Lubiens, our Student Learning Coach, has completed her administrative degree and will step into her new role as Assistant Principal at Morley Nelson next year. We are excited to welcome our new Student Learning Coach, Keri Simpson, who will be joining us from Liberty Elementary. Mr. Skinner, our head custodian, has decided to retire after 30 years and we welcome our new head custodian, Irina Zakharchuk who will be joining us from East Junior High. 

Additionally, Mr. Leatham, who is also working toward his administrative degree, will be moving to East Junior High to gain experience at the secondary level. We are pleased to welcome Noelle O'Sickey who will be joining us from West Ada. Mrs. Smith will be making the shift to Horizon next year and we will be in the process to hire her replacement. While it is bittersweet to see these valued colleagues move on, we are deeply grateful for their dedication to our students, families, and school community. We are proud of their accomplishments and wish them all the best in their next chapters.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We are grateful to be part of your child’s educational journey.

Warm regards,

Dr. David

Family Celebration Volunteer Sign Up (Click link or check Parent Square Post)

Family Celebration Food Contribution Sign Up (Click link or check Parent Square Post)

On behalf of the Hillcrest staff, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Assistance League of Boise for their generous donation of $6,339.99 in school supplies for our K–6 students for the 2026-2027 school year. Thank you!!

Eligibility: All children and teens aged 18 and younger, regardless of income.

Did you know there are still 4 ways to save on a week-long fun-filled STEM camp for your child?

Visit www.invent.org for more information as well as links to register!