Welcome to the 2026-27 School Year!

Student Achievement – Ensuring every student is challenged, supported, and equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve academic success and prepare for college, career, and life.

Teaching and Learning – Continuing to strengthen instructional practices, expand innovative learning opportunities, and provide meaningful professional learning that empowers our educators to meet the diverse needs of every learner.

Safety and Security – Maintaining safe, secure, and welcoming schools where students and staff can focus on teaching and learning. We remain committed to continually enhancing our safety procedures, emergency preparedness, and partnerships with local first responders.

Operational Efficiency – Responsibly managing district resources while improving systems, 
facilities, technology, and services that support student learning and ensure fiscal responsibility.

Collaborative Community and Culture – Fostering strong relationships among our students, families, staff, Board of School Directors, and community partners while promoting a culture built on respect, belonging, communication, and shared purpose.

These priorities are more than goals. They reflect our commitment to continuous improvement and our belief that every decision we make should positively impact students. Together, they help create the golden opportunities that allow our students to thrive while strengthening the bonds that unite us in our shared purpose.

This year also brings exciting additions to our Highlands Family. We are pleased to welcome our new administrators, teachers, and support staff, who have chosen to serve our students and community. Each brings unique experiences, talents, and perspectives that will strengthen our schools and enrich our students’ educational experiences. We are excited to have them join the Highlands team and know they will quickly discover what makes our district such a special place to learn, work, and grow.

To our returning faculty and staff, thank you for your unwavering dedication, professionalism, and passion for serving our students. Your commitment to excellence continues to shape the future of every child who enters our doors. The positive relationships you build and the high expectations you set are essential to fulfilling our shared purpose and ensuring student success.

To our parents and guardians, thank you for your continued trust and partnership. Your involvement is one of the most significant contributors to student success. Together, we will continue to foster an environment where every student is supported academically, socially, and emotionally.

To our students, welcome back! Each new school year offers a wealth of golden opportunities to set goals, embrace challenges, discover possibilities, and make meaningful connections. We encourage you to work hard, be kind, get involved, and make the most of every opportunity available to you. Believe in yourselves, support one another, and never stop striving to become the best version of yourselves.

As we embark on the 2026–27 school year, let us continue working together to build on the traditions of excellence that define the Highlands School District. By staying focused on our shared purpose and remaining committed to supporting one another, we will continue to create outstanding golden opportunities for our students and schools to succeed.

On behalf of the entire administrative team and the Highlands Board of School Directors, I wish each of you a safe, successful, and rewarding school year.

Welcome back, Go Rams!

Sincerely,

Dr. Monique Mawhinney 
Superintendent of Schools