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/

Subscribe to H2Know on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1URXIfj0UqQadGruC8eV9f?si=0d66d35249b34529

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

Subscribe on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/1URXIfj0UqQadGruC8eV9f?si=6568a9cadd0041d4

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

In this episode of the H2Know Podcast, we sit down with Hamilton Community Schools Athletic Director, Eric Talsma, to take a deep dive into the exciting upgrades and innovations happening across Hawkeye athletics — from new infrastructure and technology to community engagement and accessibility.

From improved Wi-Fi on the athletic campus and game streaming options, to the new athletic walkway, ADA-accessible paths, and the boosters’ deck at the football stadium, Eric shares how each project reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to creating a top-tier experience for athletes, parents, and fans alike.

You’ll also hear updates on new systems designed to make things easier for spectators and volunteers — including QR codes, digital payments, and point-of-sale systems — plus a look at the dedicated people behind the programs, including Rachel Melvin, Jeremy Vance, and Dan VanHekken.

Episode Highlights:

• Overview of new and ongoing athletic facility improvements
• How Wi-Fi and digital tools enhance the fan experience
• The importance of ADA accessibility across the athletic complex
• The role of the Hamilton Athletic Boosters
• Introducing new staff Rachel Melvin, Jeremy Vance, and Dan VanHekken
• The broader vision for Hamilton athletics — connection, community, and pride

Tune in to hear: How Hamilton is building more than just better facilities — it’s building connection, accessibility, and community pride through every upgrade and initiative.

Every school day, Hamilton’s buses travel nearly 1,954 miles, transporting more than 1,300 students safely across 135 square miles. Behind that incredible effort is Transportation Supervisor Kathy Dykema and her team of dedicated drivers and aides — a close-knit crew united by care, community, and purpose.

In this episode of the H2Know Podcast, Kathy shares what it’s like to lead the transportation department, the steps it takes to become a bus driver, and why now is the perfect time to join the Hamilton team. From paid CDL training and flexible hours to strong relationships with students, this episode shines a spotlight on the people who ensure learning starts and ends safely every single day.

Topics Covered:

• How to obtain a CDL and become a bus driver
• Paid training and onboarding process
• Flexible schedules of a bus driver
• Positive culture within Hamilton’s transportation department
• Fun transportation facts and daily logistics
• Why every driver matters in shaping a student’s school experience

Call to Action:

Interested in becoming a Hamilton bus driver? Visit hamiltonschools.us/employment or contact the Transportation Office for more information: 269-751-5191.

Why is Hamilton Community Schools starting a podcast? Find out from HCS superintendent, Dr. Brad Lusk in this episode of the H2Know podcast!

In this episode of the H2Know Podcast, Hamilton Community Schools Director of Career, College, and Innovative Programming, Mr. Mat Rehkopf, joins us to dive deep into the district’s innovative approach to Early College.

Mat explains what Early College really means, how it’s helping Hamilton students earn free college credits while still in high school, and what makes the new Hope College partnership so unique. He also shares insights into how this model prepares students for the future, what parents should know if their child is interested, and what the next steps might look like as Hamilton continues to expand college and career opportunities.

Whether you’re a parent, community member, or student looking ahead, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of how Hamilton is helping students graduate prepared for purpose — in college, career, and life.