Guest Column: Rooted to Grow-Indian Hill Primary School, Where Dreams Take Root

By Indian Hill Superintendent Dr. Melissa Stewart

When we talk about preparing students for the future, it is easy to picture a high school graduate taking that next step into college, a career or service.

But that preparation begins much earlier.

It begins with a young Brave asking a question, discovering a favorite book, working through a challenge or realizing that something they do can help someone else. At Indian Hill Primary School, those moments build the roots for a lifetime of learning.

Our district commitment is clear: Every student is known, challenged, and supported to demonstrate meaningful academic growth. For our students in kindergarten through second grade, that means pairing strong academic foundations with opportunities to lead, learn, and play.

Dedicated reading specialists at every grade level, Orton-Gillingham-trained educators and thoughtful early learning supports help children develop essential literacy skills at Indian Hill Primary School. Hands-on STEM experiences, design thinking, and play-based learning in our unparalleled Play Studio, encourage them to investigate ideas and solve problems together.

Indian Hill Primary School’s 2023 STEM designation recognizes this work. Our educators have shared innovative practices through published work and earned Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, George B. Chapman Jr. Awards for Excellence in Mathematics Education. Our students have been recognized as Ohio STEM Learning Network State Challenge finalists.

Those accolades matter because of the learning behind them: children developing confidence, educators strengthening their practice, and classrooms where curiosity has room to grow.

Just as meaningful is what our youngest Braves are learning about caring for others. Student-led service initiatives have provided more than 5,300 pounds of food to Inter Parish Ministry, while the Kids Who Care Club has donated more than 1,800 books to Queen City Book Bank.

These experiences teach a powerful lesson: You do not have to wait until you are older to make a difference.

Our community helps make these opportunities possible. We have documented $26,000 in external funding and support for Indian Hill Primary School. Ohio STEM Learning Network grants, PTO grants, and Indian Hill Foundation support have helped provide robotics tools, hydroponics, field trips, author visits, and other classroom experiences. These investments expand learning opportunities while helping us make the most of district resources.

And all this work depends on belonging. Sensory-friendly programming, social communication supports, and accessible learning environments help children participate, connect, and discover their strengths.

I am grateful to Principal Cash Hayden – who himself was a kindergarten student at Indian Hill Primary School, a 13-Year Club graduate, and is a current district parent – and our entire primary school team for the care and expertise they bring to this work, and to the families and community partners who help our youngest Braves thrive.

Strong roots begin with people who know you, challenges that help you grow and support that gives you confidence to try.

At Indian Hill Primary School, that is where dreams take root.

Privileged to make students’ dreams come true,

Melissa

Dr. Melissa Stewart

Superintendent

Indian Hill School District

Pictured: Indian Hill Superintendent Dr. Melissa Stewart during a recording of the nationally awarded Student Ambassadors Newscast at Indian Hill Primary School. Photo provided.