Weekly Hot News Podcast, September 6, 2021

By all accounts, our Proud to be HSD Welcome Back Relay was a huge success! Held Monday through Thursday, Aug. 30-Sept. 2, the Olympic-style torch relay covered more than 72 miles and hit 40 stops - all 37 of our school campuses, plus the new Career and College Pathways Center, Oregon Aerospace for Everyone (O-ACE) classroom at the Hillsboro Airport, and the District Office. We had more than 60 runners and 20 volunteers participate in the event, and we received an enthusiastic welcome from each school. The event concluded with closing ceremonies at the District Office, featuring the final torch run, lighting of an actual fire - approved and overseen by our friends from Hillsboro Fire & Rescue Station 3 - and sweet treats from the Kona Ice food truck. On Thursday, Sept. 2, HSD’s newest school, Atfalati Ridge Elementary, was officially dedicated and opened. Superintendent Mike Scott, Board Chair Mark Watson, North Plains City Councilor Russ Sheldon, and Principal Dani Johnson addressed the crowd, unveiled the dedication plaques mounted just outside the front doors, and then ceremoniously cut a ribbon to commemorate the school’s readiness for students. Despite COVID-related limitations, about 400 people were able to tour the building in small groups afterward.