Staff Opening Day Event Kicks Off 2026-27 School Year
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HSD Communications
25-Year Employees Recognized; New Staff Introduced
Highlands School District welcomed over 300 returning and new staff members on Thursday, August 20, 2026, to kick off the new school year at the Staff Opening Day Event! The morning festivities featured RAM-tastic performances by the Highlands Varsity Marching Band, Varsity Cheerleaders, and senior vocalist Chloe Fox. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by junior Braden Petit.
Superintendent Dr. Monique Mawhinney reviewed the district’s “Reframing the Future” goals and the "Golden Opportunities" students will have in the upcoming year. School Board President Dr. Debra Lehew and HEA President Michelle Dickerson also delivered welcome remarks. Additionally, Dr. Mawhinney and the school principals also recognized staff who are working in a new building this year and introduced new staff members -- see slideshow here: https://canva.link/4279s5ce8pui2uk
Eight dedicated staff members were recognized for 25 years of service to Highlands School District:
TRINA COLBERG - High School German Teacher
ERIN CONLEY - Middle School Learning Support Teacher
MARNIE KOSMAL - Central Office Secretary
LEE LYNN - Middle School Band Teacher / Director
MELISSA McCURDY - Second Grade Teacher, HES
LAURALEE MILBERGER - Third Grade Teacher, HES
JAIME MOCHANSKI - Fifth Grade Social Studies Teacher, MS
JOE NOVAK - High School Spanish Teacher
Congratulations and thank you for your years of commitment to our students and school community!
A highlight of the day was the delicious luncheon prepared by the HSD Food Service staff, led by Director Stacey Waffensmith. After lunch, staff met with their principals to discuss goals and procedures for the upcoming school year, which begins on August 26 for students.
SPECIAL THANKS to School Board Director Eli Majocha, who helped secure donations of classroom items for our teachers through the Salvation Army's Paul Field Back to School Bash!
Welcome back, Highlands Staff! Here's to a fantastic year of learning, growth, and GOLDEN opportunities.
