WEEK 1
2025-2026

WELCOME BACK HAWKS!
2025-2026 HMES STAFF (A few not pictured)
Welcome Back to the 2025–2026 School Year! 🚀
Welcome back to a brand-new school year at Henderson Mill Elementary!
Special Thank you to our PTO and volunteers that we had last week. We appreciate you all.
We are so excited to welcome all of our Hawks both new and returning back to the nest for what promises to be an incredible year of learning, growth, and community.
Our team has been working hard to prepare a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where every child can thrive. As we take flight into this school year, our focus remains on academic excellence, student well-being, and strong family partnerships.
We encourage you to stay connected, get involved, and join us in making this year the best one yet! Whether through PTO, volunteering, attending school events, or simply staying in touch with your child’s teacher, your support makes all the difference.
Let’s work together to ensure every Hawk has a successful and soaring year ahead!
Here’s to a fantastic start, go Hawks
Dr. Blanton
Read Aloud Book to share with your child
Important: Action Required Before the First Day of School
If you were unable to attend Open House or have not yet completed the link below, please take a moment to do so as soon as possible. This form includes critical information regarding your child’s dismissal plans and any medical needs, both of which are essential to ensuring your child’s safety and well-being on the first day and every day after.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter, we appreciate your partnership in keeping our Hawks safe and supported!
A FEW SNAP SHOTS FROM LAST WEEK
HMES AFTERCARE, "BRIGHT MINDS"
We’re thrilled to announce that Henderson Mill’s Aftercare Program is now under the leadership of our new director, Ms. Terry-Boyd! She is bringing a fresh and innovative approach that goes far beyond traditional aftercare. Under her guidance, students will benefit from a well-rounded experience that includes:
✔️ Dedicated time and support for homework completion
✔️ Hands-on STEAM activities to spark creativity and critical thinking
✔️ Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) opportunities to build confidence and connection
✔️ Classic board games to encourage teamwork and fun
Ms. Terry-Boyd’s vision is to make aftercare an extension of the school day—where students learn, grow, and thrive in a safe, structured, and engaging environment. If you haven’t signed up for aftercare yet, no problem! Simply complete the registration form using the link below, and be sure to submit your registration payment using the second link below.
We’re excited to support your child after school in BRIGHT MINDS this year! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Ms. Terry-Boyd (Roderika_Terry-Boyd@dekalbschoolsga.org).
🏫 2025 - 2026 PTO School Calendar 🏫
🦅Be Part of the Magic at Henderson Mill! 🦅Join our PTO
Henderson Mill has the BEST events—hands down! From unforgettable family nights to fun fundraisers, spirit wear, staff appreciation, and more… our PTO is behind it all!
But we can’t do it without YOU.
Whether you can volunteer your time, share your ideas, or simply stay connected, your involvement makes a huge difference in our school community. Every parent and guardian is welcome—and every voice matters!
✨ Why join the PTO?
✔️ Help plan amazing events
✔️ Support teachers and students
✔️ Build community
✔️ Stay in the loop
Let’s work together to make this the best year yet at Henderson Mill!
2025–2026 Principal Advisory Council (PAC)
Know someone passionate about education and leadership? Encourage them to declare candidacy for the 2025–2026 Principal Advisory Council (PAC)! We need 2 parents to join us!
Candidate declaration is open now through Friday, September 5, 2025.
PAC members:
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Promote transparency & shared decision-making
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Review the Continuous School Improvement Plan (CSIP)
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Help shape the school’s vision
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Serve as liaisons between school and community
👉 Declare candidacy here:
Candidate Declaration Form
Questions? Contact schoolgovernance@dekalbschoolsga.org or (678) 676-0718.
Let’s build strong parent and staff leaders across DeKalb!
Henderson Mill Elementary
Email: regina_smiley-blanton@dekalbschoolsga.org
Website: https://www.hendersonmilles.dekalb.k12.ga.us/
Location: 2408 Henderson Mill Road, Atlanta, GA, USA
Phone: 678-874-3102
Twitter: @henderson_mill