Hal Henard Happenings
October 19, 2026
Hal Henard families,
I hope everyone was able to enjoy our break. I was able to finish my book, spend some time with family, and enjoy a car ride to see the pretty leaves. Having lived here all my life, I sometimes take it for granted that we live in one of the most beautiful places in our country, and I'm grateful for the reminder.
Before we left for break, I was able to spend time in several classrooms. Spending time in classrooms is always a favorite part of my day, and I enjoy seeing how much they enjoy learning. My goodness at all the wonderful things I got to experience along with our students! I saw them listening to a Morse Code message after reading about the true story of the SS Republic. I watched 4th graders analyze and categorize statements as theme or main idea. I listened to 2nd graders connect addition and subtraction problems. I heard 3rd graders work together to classify which landform they were observing. From reading to math, students took advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow. I am grateful for the hard work of our staff and students and the support of our families. I can't wait to see what exciting learning this next nine weeks brings!
Smiles,
Dr. Gass
Car Line Reminder
Please remember it is illegal to use a handheld cell phone in a school zone, including car line. Drivers can use their mobile phone if they are using the hands-free option. TN Code ยง 55-8-207 (2017)
The information below is a quick reference and some helpful links. More detailed information can be found in our student handbook on our webpage (On the Parents tab under Menu).
Office Hours: Someone is available to answer the phones and door from 7:30 - 3:30. If you call or come to the school outside of these hours, someone may not be available in the office.
Breakfast and Lunch
All students receive free breakfast and lunch for the 2026-2027 school year. Students can purchase additional items, such as extra portions of food, milk, and snacks/treats. If you would like you child to be able to purchase additional items, please make sure there is money on their account. We are excited to announce an additional entree choice. Starting this year, the cafe will offer a toasted cheese sandwich daily.
Free/Reduced Application
While all students receive free breakfast and lunch for this school year, completing this application can provide other funds to help support our students. You can apply here: https://frapps.horizonsolana.com/welcome
Transportation
- Car line opens at 2:30. Please do not enter the car line before because the CarRiderPRO system will not be on, yet.
- If you have questions about your child's bus schedule or need to arrange bus transportation, please call Kristen Rollins at 423-787-8003.
- If you are making a permanent change to your transportation plan, please contact Mrs. Shannon at 423-638-3511. Changes will be required in writing/email.
- If you are making a one-day or short term change, please use our Transportation Changes link on our webpage. Changes should be made before 1pm, but we know sometimes emergencies happen. Please call the school directly if you need to make a change after 1pm. https://halhenard.gcschools.net/o/hhes/forms/transportation-changes
Car Tags
All cars entering the car line must have a CarRider PRO tag displayed. If you do not have a tag, please park and enter the main office at 3:30 with a photo ID to pick-up your child. Students may only be checked out by someone on the approved pick-up list. While we know this takes more time, this ensures we get all students home safely. If you need additional car tags, these can be purchased through our online school store for $5 each.
Arrival/Dismissal
Our school day begins at 8:15am. Students who arrive after this will need to be checked in by a parent/guardian in the main office. Arrivals after 8:15 will be marked as a tardy. Afternoon dismissal begins at 3:15, and all students should be picked up no later than 3:30.
Water Bottles
Hydrated brains are ready to learn! Students may bring an empty water bottle with a screw-on lid to school. Glass water bottles are prohibited. Plastic water bottles are preferred, but metal ones are allowed. Students have multiple opportunities through the day to fill these from our hydration stations.
Personal Communication Devices
Any device that is able to send/receive communication must be turned off and stored for the duration of the school day unless there is an academic or medical exception. Devices not turned off and stored appropriately will be kept in the office until a parent/guardian can arrange to pick it up.
Toys/Items from Home
Please keep toys, stuffed animals, and craft/sports items at home. Teachers may allow students to bring an item to school as a reward.
Attendance
If your child is absent, please send a parent/doctor note within 2 days. There are several ways you can share this with us.
- Use our online absentee reporting option on our webpage (https://halhenard.gcschools.net/)
- Send a note with your child. If your child is younger, you may want to reach out to the teacher in advance to be on the lookout for it.
- Emailing Mrs. Shannon
- Have the medical office fax a note