In this episode of H2Know, we’re joined by Whitney Hobbs, Hamilton Community Schools’ Preschool and Before & After School Childcare Coordinator, to take a closer look inside one of the district’s most impactful early learning programs — Hawkeye Preschool.

Located at Sandyview Learning Center, Hawkeye Preschool offers both 3-year-old and 4-year-old (PreK for All) programs designed to nurture curiosity, creativity, and confidence. Whitney breaks down how families can enroll, what forms and documentation are required, and how the district’s Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) and PreK for All options help make preschool more accessible for every family.

Listeners will also get to hear about Hawkeye Preschool’s dedicated staff, its “whole child” philosophy, and the play-based learning approach that prepares students for success in kindergarten and beyond. Plus, Whitney shares heartwarming stories of growth and connection that show why this program is such a special part of the Hawkeye Family.

Topics Covered:

• What makes Hawkeye Preschool unique within Hamilton Community Schools
• Overview of the 3-year-old and 4-year-old (PreK for All) programs
• What is GSRP (Great Start Readiness Program) and how does it work?
• Step-by-step: how to enroll your child in Hawkeye Preschool
• Required forms and documentation (Child Information Record, Immunization Record, Physical Form, etc.)
• What is ECSE and the goals of the program?
• Eligibility details and age cutoffs for both programs
• Tuition details and scholarship opportunities for the 3-year-old program (Ready for School)
• What families can expect from the daily preschool experience

Email: whobbs@hamiltonschools.us

Learn more: https://www.hamiltonschools.us/schools/hawkeye-preschool/

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In this episode of H2Know, we sit down with Hamilton Community Schools Director of Career, College & Innovative Programs Mat Rehkopf to dive into the exciting new Ignite Program — a unique opportunity for 9th and 10th grade students who are passionate about the trades.

Ignite blends the flexibility of online learning with hands-on training at ROUTE, where students learn valuable skills like framing, plumbing, electrical, and more under the guidance of local professionals. Students also take part in community partnerships with Habitat for Humanity, the Outdoor Discovery Center, and other organizations — giving them real-world experience while giving back.

Mat explains how the program works, what families need to know, and how Hamilton Community Schools continues to prepare students to be Prepared for Purpose through innovative pathways like Ignite.

Program Highlights:

• Designed for 9th and 10th grade students interested in the trades
• Combines virtual coursework with in-person learning at ROUTE in Holland
• Students gain real-world experience through projects with Habitat for Humanity and the Outdoor Discovery Center

Email Mat: mlrehkopf@hamiltonschools.us

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In this episode of the H2Know Podcast, we sit down with Whitney Hobbs, coordinator of Hawkeye Kids Before & After School Childcare and Hawkeye Preschool, to explore how Hamilton Community Schools supports students and families beyond the traditional school day.

Whitney shares how the Hawkeye Kids program provides a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for students before and after school — allowing parents flexibility while ensuring children continue learning, building friendships, and having fun.

Listeners will hear about:

• The mission and purpose of Hawkeye Kids within the HCS community
• Daily activities that blend play, learning, and creativity
• How staff members create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere
• Registration and enrollment details, including how families can sign up

Whether you’re a Hamilton parent looking for childcare options or simply curious about how HCS serves the whole child, this episode offers a meaningful look at the people and programs making a difference every day.

Learn more about Hawkeye Kids or register today: https://www.hamiltonschools.us/for-parents/hawkeye-kids/

Or email Whitney: whobbs@hamiltonschools.us