Making Waves
Old Hammondtown School Weekly Family Newsletter
Dear Old Hammondtown Community,
Some of the most powerful lessons we teach our children are not taught through words, but through the compassion, courage, and care we show one another. Friday was a beautiful example of one of those lessons coming to life at OHS. Everywhere I looked, there was pink. Pink shirts, pink sweatshirts, pink ribbons, and hundreds of students and staff united in a meaningful expression of awareness, compassion, and hope.
As we recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we talked with our students about what awareness really means and why it matters. We discussed how we may not always know what someone else is going through, but we can always choose to show kindness, understanding, and support. I hope our students walked away knowing that wearing pink was about so much more than a Spirit Day. It was about recognizing that even at their age, they have the power to make others feel seen, supported, and a little less alone.
One of the most meaningful moments of the week came when we gathered together in the gym to create a breast cancer awareness ribbon. As students and staff found their places, each person became one small part of something much larger. Looking at the photograph, I hope our students recognize what they helped create. Individually, we were simply people wearing pink. Together, we became a symbol of awareness, strength, and support.
What made this week especially meaningful were the personal stories students came up to share with me throughout the day. Some spoke about loved ones who have faced breast cancer, sharing moments of hope, celebration, and encouragement. Behind every pink ribbon is a person, a family, and a story. Hearing our students speak so openly to me about the people they love made Friday's show of unity that much more meaningful.
And while Friday's sea of pink was certainly a powerful sight, I was equally moved by the quieter moments of kindness throughout our week.
During our Whole-School Meeting, a student asked for the microphone to recognize a teacher who volunteers her own time to help her with learning and homework. Watching her proudly share that appreciation with our entire school was a beautiful reminder of how deeply children are impacted by the people who believe in them. That same spirit of recognition continued as I had the joy of celebrating students with our “I Make a Difference” Spirit Sticks, recognizing their kindness, effort, and positive choices. Whether it's a child thanking someone who has made a difference in their life or a child discovering that their own actions have made a difference to others, these moments remind us how powerful it is to feel seen, valued, and appreciated.
Our sixth graders also put their hearts and creativity into something meaningful this week as they participated in the Lions Clubs International Peace Poster Contest. This year's theme, “Harmony in Humanity,” asks students to consider what peace looks like and how respect, kindness, and understanding can bring people together. As you scroll through this week's newsletter, you'll see photographs of their creative process and the care they're putting into sharing their own visions of peace. I love that our students are being asked not only to think about the world they live in, but also the kind of world they hope to help create.
When I think about all of these moments together, I see a common thread. Whether our students are wearing pink for someone they love, recognizing a teacher who has helped them, celebrating a classmate, or creating artwork that represents peace, they are learning that their actions and their voices have the power to make someone else's day a little brighter.
Our Think. Learn. Care. values were at the heart of this week. As you look at our breast cancer awareness ribbon, I hope you see more than a sea of pink. I hope you see a community where every child is learning that compassion matters, kindness has power, and no one should have to face life's challenges alone. One school. One ribbon. United in awareness. A beautiful reminder that small acts of kindness and hard work create big waves—and every wave starts with you. 🌊💗
Warmest Regards,
Ms. Amanda Chamberlin
Principal
🌊 Weekly Seahorse Spotlight: Sixth Grader, Alden!
Some students remind us that kindness isn't just something we do; it's who we are. Sixth grader Alden is one of those students. Day in and day out, Alden demonstrates genuine care, compassion, and thoughtfulness in the way he treats others.
This past week, Alden noticed a student at lunch who could use a friend. Without hesitation, he gathered his belongings and moved to sit beside that student. During our Whole-School Meeting, when a student accidentally dropped a water bottle, Alden immediately sprang into action to help clean up the spill. These moments may seem small, but they speak volumes about his character.
Every morning, Alden walks through our school doors, makes eye contact, and greets me by name. He extends that same warmth, kindness, and respect to his teachers and those around him. What makes Alden so special is that his kindness is never about being noticed. It's simply who he is.
Alden, thank you for showing us what it truly means to Think. Learn. Care. You are a wonderful example of how small acts of kindness can make big waves, and we are so lucky to have you as part of our OHS community! 💙
Costumes & Classroom Fun at OHS 🎃
On Friday, October 30, students are welcome to wear school-appropriate costumes that are comfortable and allow them to move safely and participate in classroom activities. No masks or weapons, please. Students may bring goodie bags to share with classmates; we simply ask that they contain no food or candy and that there is one for everyone in the class. This is a half day, with dismissal at 11:30 a.m. We look forward to a fun morning together!
Please keep these dates in mind as you plan for the weeks ahead:
- October 29–30: Parent-Teacher Conferences, Early dismissal at 11:30am.
- Tuesday, November 3: Election Day.
- Tuesday, November 10: Picture Day Retakes.
- Wednesday, November 11: Veterans Day.
- Wednesday, November 25: Early Release.
- November 26–27: Thanksgiving Break.
🔢 Making Math Make Sense: Spotlight on Mrs. Lemee-Vidal! 🌊
This week, we're shining a spotlight on our wonderful Math Interventionist, Mrs. Lemee-Vidal! Through small-group instruction, hands-on activities, and individualized support, she helps students strengthen their math skills, build confidence, and approach challenges with new strategies. She celebrates the small victories and reminds students that mistakes and perseverance are all part of learning. We are so grateful for the care, patience, and encouragement she brings to OHS!
Making Waves, One Reader at a Time: Spotlight on Ms. Samost! 📚🌊
At OHS, Ms. Samost plays an important role in helping our students grow as confident, capable readers! Through targeted small-group instruction, individualized support, and encouragement, she helps students strengthen their reading skills and celebrate their progress. And we can't forget her incredible talent for organizing and analyzing student data—our very own spreadsheet queen! Her thoughtful, data-driven approach helps ensure students receive the support they need to succeed. Thank you for your dedication, expertise, and the care you bring to our students each day, Ms. Samost!
PTA Updates : Book Fair and Meadow Farms Fundraiser
SAVE THE DATE: The Book Fair is Coming!
Get ready to shop, browse, and fall in love with a new book! The Scholastic Book Fair is headed to our schools:
Old Hammondtown School: October 26–30
Center School: November 2–9
We’re putting the finishing touches on our Book Fair volunteer opportunities and will have sign-ups coming soon! PTA members get first dibs on volunteer spots, so if you haven’t joined yet, now’s a great time to become a member!
Want to volunteer? You’ll need to have a CORI on file. Not sure about your CORI status, reach out to your school, and they can help you check your status or get you set up.
Meadow Farms Fundraiser
We will be running a Meadow Farms fundraiser Oct 28 - Nov 11. You can shop online or return the paper order form. Again this year, every seller who sells 5 or more items will be entered to win a gift card. There will be one drawing per school. Please return paper order forms to school by Nov 13. Informational packets will be sent home with students this week.
Stay Connected!
In addition to our weekly newsletter, there are a few other ways to stay connected and keep up with all that is happening at OHS!
- Follow us on Facebook for school updates, photos, reminders, and celebrations.
- Download the ORR Connect App on your mobile device to receive the latest school and district news, announcements, and updates. The app can be found in your device’s App Store.
Most importantly, please know that my door is always open. Families are always welcome to reach out to me by phone or email with questions, concerns, or simply to connect, and I am always happy to make time to meet. I truly value hearing from our families and look forward to getting to know you and working together throughout the year!
