The Heritage Herald

The Chicago Bears have won 5 consecutive games! If they win on Sunday, against the Packers👎, students and staff are welcome to wear Bears gear or blue and orange on Monday, December 8th!

Happy Holidays!

As temperatures drop, please make sure your middle schooler is dressing appropriately for the cold. Doors open at 7:30 each day for breakfast. Please make sure that your child is not arriving earlier than 7:30; as they will be waiting in the cold. If you need support, please reach out to the HMS main office at 708-458-7590.

Uniform Reminder:

Per our district uniform policy, plain black or maroon sweaters, sweatshirts, or hooded sweatshirts may be worn over a collared maroon polo or dress shirt or a plain white or black undershirt. Hooded sweatshirts must be worn with the hood down.

Shoes:

Appropriate footwear must be worn at all times. Open-backed footwear is not permitted (sandals, slippers, slides, including all Croc style footwear) Gym shoes must be worn during physical education classes and athletic programs.

Warm wishes & GO BEARS🐻!

Mrs. P. Malone

Principal, HMS

pmalone@sd104.us

708-458-7590

• December 8 ~ 7th Grade MSI Trip
• December 12 ~ Pictures with the Grinch
• December 12 ~ Winter Sports Pictures
• December 14 ~ Breakfast with Santa [info below]
• December 17-18 ~ Spanish Placement Testing [8th grade]
• December 19 ~ Holiday Movie & Early Release Day [1:50]
• December 22-January 2 ~ NO SCHOOL-Winter Break

The December target behavior is: Being on Task and Cooperative!

If a student receives 3 minors = 1 major referral in the Off-Task Disruptive category in the month of December, then they cannot participate in the December monthly event.

The December, monthly event is Winter Movie Day & Treat on December 19, 2025.

Oh Snap, December is here bringing festive fun and winter weather! Here are a few reminders to help our students enjoy a safe and cheerful month!

Spread Joy, Not Germs

With winter concerts, sports, clubs, and hangouts, there are lots of chances to pick up germs. Handwashing is still the easiest way to avoid getting sick. Wash after activities, before eating, and when you get home to stay healthy for the holiday season!

Weekly Lice Checks

Middle school = hats, hoodies, sports gear, and shared spaces. We still occasionally see lice. A quick weekly check at home can keep it from spreading. Early is easier.

Fresh Air Matters

Even when it is cold, short periods of fresh air and open windows help reduce indoor germs. A few minutes of ventilation can make a difference during the height of cold and flu season.

Holiday Treats & Dental Health

Seasonal treats are part of the fun, but brushing and flossing twice a day helps protect teeth. Drinking water after sweets can also help. A quick brush after enjoying gingerbread cookies keeps smiles bright through winter break.

Speaking of teeth.. Miles of Smiles Dental Program will be coming to HMS & Graves on Monday & Tuesday, February 2-3, 2026. Permission slips are due 12/17. If you would like to sign up online, please click on the QR Code attached or link PowerForm Signer Information | Docusign

Wishing our school community a warm, joyful, and healthy December! ❄️

Nurse Anita, Nurse Tina & Ms. Oli

January 13, 2026--Walsh Elementary School

February 10, 2026--Admin Center

March 10, 2026--Wharton Elementary School

April 14, 2026--Admin Center

May 12, 2026--Graves Dual Language School

June 9, 2026--Admin Center