Dear Hawthorne Families,
I hope you and your family enjoyed a wonderful and memorable summer. As we prepare to welcome our students back to school, we are looking forward to the start of a new school year and all that it will bring!
The 2026–2027 school year marks an exciting new chapter for our district, and our theme, “Every Student, Every Lesson, Every Day,” captures what we believe is at the heart of our work. Every student deserves to feel known, supported, challenged, and valued. Every lesson should have purpose and provide meaningful opportunities for students to learn and grow. And every day is an opportunity to make a difference in the life of a child.
Over the past several weeks, our teachers, administrators, and support staff have been working diligently to prepare for the return of our students. Classrooms have been organized, curriculum and instruction have been planned, professional learning has taken place, and our schools have been preparing to ensure that students return to safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environments.
This year, we will continue to place a strong emphasis on high-quality instruction and bell-to-bell learning. We believe every minute of the school day matters. Our goal is to maximize instructional time and create classrooms where students are actively engaged, thinking critically, collaborating with others, and taking ownership of their learning. At the same time, we will continue to support our educators with the professional learning, resources, and collaboration necessary to meet the needs of every learner.
While academics remain at the center of our work, we know that school is about so much more. It is about belonging. It is about relationships. It is about discovering new interests, building confidence, developing character, and creating memories that students will carry with them long after they leave our classrooms.
As we begin this new school year, I am especially excited about the opportunities ahead for our students. From new academic pathways and expanded opportunities to athletics, the arts, clubs, activities, and experiences inside and outside of the classroom, our goal is to ensure that every student has an opportunity to find a place to belong and a way to shine.
I also want to thank our families for the important role you play in the success of our schools. A strong school district is built on strong partnerships between our schools, our families, and our community. Your support, communication, and partnership make a tremendous difference in the lives of our students.
As we get ready to open our doors, please continue to look for important information from your child’s school regarding schedules, transportation, procedures, and other details to help ensure a smooth start to the school year.
Welcome back, Bears! Let’s make it a great one.
Matthew Mignanelli
Superintendent
Hawthorne Board of Education
