Dutch Weekly January 18 - 24
Watch the State of the School address
Head of School JP Culley addressed families on Wednesday, covering topics ranging from school finances, a campaign for a new Middle School building, new policies and more. Watch the virtual presentation here.
See the MS play this weekend
The Middle School Theatre Production of "Night at the Wax Museum" will run January 17-18 at 7 p.m. in the Branch Theatre of the Walter Arts Center.
Click here to purchase tickets.
Join the Parents Association for Mahjong
Did you know you can never play a joker in a pair in Mahjong? Come to an Open Play and practice your Mahjong skills with other players. Sign up with three other players to fill a table or as a single.
Parents Association Mahjong Meet-Up
When: Thursday, January 30
Time: 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Where: Self Conference Room, Tandy
Sign-up Link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B044DA8A62FAB9-54460907-mahjong
Watch for Mahjong with instructions for beginners coming Feb. 27!
Almost sold out: Trivia Night tickets going fast!
Our annual Trivia Night is almost sold out! We still have a limited number of individual tickets, tables, and sponsorships available, so don’t miss your chance to join the fun and support our event. Reserve your spot today before they’re gone!
Click here to register.
Good news — extra week to order personalized yearbooks
Jostens has extended our deadline to Jan. 31 for this special addition to your student's yearbook. You can add their name and/or interest and activity icons to the cover. For 2025's design, personalization will appear in a novel spot: the lower back cover.
Click here to purchase your yearbook.
PRIMARY SCHOOL
Update to Student/Family Handbook for 2025-2026
As we move into the spring semester, we want to draw your attention to an update that will be in our Student/Family Handbook for the upcoming school year. Please contact Primary School Head Vanessa Jones if you have any questions or concerns.
Class Placement Policy
Our goal is to create balanced, inclusive, and supportive classrooms where every student can thrive. The placement process involves careful consideration of various factors, including academic diversity, social-emotional well-being, and classroom dynamics. To ensure fairness and equal consideration for all students, we do not accept or honor specific requests for teachers or classmates. This policy allows our faculty to thoughtfully create environments that support each student’s growth and foster a positive learning community. Thank you for trusting us to make decisions with the best interests of your child and the entire school community in mind.
Join Ms. Ariel's Winter Art Studio
Let your young artists expand their creativity as we adventure into January. This class will start with a discussion on winter landscapes, snowflakes, and animals that thrive in cold weather, sparking students' imaginations.
This delightful art enrichment adventure encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and an appreciation for the beauty of winter!
Dates: 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/24, and 3/3; No classes on 1/20 MLK Day and 2/17 Winter Break
Day & Time: Monday - 3:15-4:15 p.m.
Grades: JK-3rd
Where: PS - Multi-purpose room
Pick-up: Primary School flagpole at 4:15 p.m.
Cost: $100 (5 weeks)
Class size: 20
Register: dalmohandis@hollandhall.org
Note: Please let us know if your child will need to go to aftercare.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
MS Students invited to compete in national math competition
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The AMC 8 (American Mathematics Competitions 8) is a prestigious national math competition designed for middle school students in grades 6–8, though younger students may also participate. It consists of 25 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 40 minutes — without the use of calculators. The questions cover a wide range of topics including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number theory, and probability, emphasizing problem-solving and critical thinking. Scheduled every year in January, the AMC 8 aims to inspire a love for mathematics and challenge students with creative and engaging problems. High-scoring participants are recognized with awards .
Holland Hall will administer the AMC 8 contest on Wednesday, Jan. 22. We will start at 8 a.m. and be finished by 8:40 a.m.; interested students can arrive beginning at 7:45 a.m. We administer the test using the print and scan option, the only thing to bring is a couple of pencils. There is no cost. If your child is interested, this is the link to register your child. Please, address questions to either your child's math teacher or Melissa Stirling at mstirling@hollandhall.org.
Reminders about MS absences
Attendance Policy
Parents must inform the Middle School office by 8:15 a.m. at msattendance@hollandhall.org if a student will be absent from school.
Planned Absences
Students who have a planned school-related Absence should communicate with their teachers regarding the schoolwork they may miss during their absence.
Students who have a planned personal absence need to fill out a Planned Absence Form. The Planned Absence Forms can be found in the Middle School office. The form will require students to meet with each teacher before their scheduled absence. A copy of the form should be turned in to Mrs. Danner in the MS Office.
8th grade winter dinner/dance set
UPPER SCHOOL
Freshman Orientation details released
As you will remember we had to postpone Freshman Orientation last fall due to the Wichita Wildlife Refuge being on fire. We wanted you to have these dates so that you can reserve the dates. An email will be sent with all of this information.
Session 1: April 3-5 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)
Session 2: April 6-8 (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday)
As soon as we know what students are going on what session, we will communicate that information.
- The two sessions of Freshman Orientation will take place during this time frame: Half of the class will camp and hike in the Wichita Mountains on Thursday, April 3, through Saturday, April 5, and the other half of the class will participate in the Freshman Orientation program from Sunday, April 6, through Tuesday, April 8.
- Students should be dropped off at school between 6:45 a.m. and 7 a.m. the day they are to leave. They can be picked up around 3 p.m. the day they return. An update on their arrival should be sent out the day of their return.
- Freshman Orientation will be occurring during normal class times so your students will miss two days of school. Your students should speak with their teachers before the trip to find out what they need to do in preparation for their absence. Teachers are aware that students will be out for a school program, so the workload should be lighter.
- If your child is enrolled in a spring sport, we will plan their Freshman Orientation group according to their athletic schedule, there is no need to let us know what sport your child will be in, we are already aware of games and bye weeks. If your student is in a sport outside of HH, please let us know of conflicts if they exist.
- If you need to request a session for your child, please email Grace Weber at gweber@hollandhall.org as soon as possible, by 3:10 p.m. on March 7, 2025. Please keep in mind that we need to limit these requests to major family conflicts, such as attending a wedding, funeral, etc.
- All student medications and waivers must be handed in to either Jenna Alford at the front desk or Kathleen Alabbasi in the middle school nurse office by 3:10 p.m. on March 24, 2025. Due to processing time, no late medications will be accepted.
- A Packing List and a list of Frequently Asked Questions can be found here.
US Winter Warmth Drive to benefit Tulsa homeless
The Upper School will be collecting new or gently used winter clothing and supplies to donate to City Lights - a local non-profit that actively helps the homeless in Tulsa. Students can bring their items to their corner in the commons each day. Community members are welcome to drop off donations in the front office. The drive will begin on Tuesday January 21 and end on Friday February 7. Donatable items include jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, sweats, blankets. socks, warm shoes, gloves, scarves, hats etc. Items for any age group are welcome!
Reminder that senior ads are due soon
If yearbook staff is designing your ad, please submit all materials and ask your pro photographer to email or Dropbox images you've requested. Ava Khorgami '25 is in charge and can be reached via email journalism21@hollandhall.org. If you or another designer is preparing your ad, please have your finished, approved file emailed no later than Jan. 19, 2025.
The 25-26 FAFSA is live
Filling out the FAFSA is a crucial step in securing financial aid for college – and completing it in a timely manner can increase your chances of aid at some schools. If your student is requesting need-based financial aid from any college, please take care to fill it out.
To do:
- Create an FSA ID: Both the student and at least one parent must create an FSA ID at studentaid.gov if you don’t already have one. This ID will be used to sign the FAFSA and access federal student aid information.
- Gather Required Documents: To complete the FAFSA, you’ll need information from your 2023 tax return, W-2s, and any other financial documents for both the student and parent(s). Make sure to have these ready before you begin.
- Complete the FAFSA: Go to fafsa.ed.gov to start the application. Make sure to list all of the schools to which the student is applying.
Check each college’s financial aid deadlines. Some colleges encourage prompt completion of the FAFSA to maximize scholarship opportunities.
Some private colleges may also require the CSS Profile in addition to the FAFSA. The CSS Profile costs $25 for the first school and $16 for each subsequent school.
Contact your counselor for assistance with applying for financial aid.
Weekly summer program suggestions from College Counseling
Please contact Ashlee Lowry at alowry@hollandhall.org for more information about any of these programs.
FROM THE NURSES: Norovirus is in full swing
According to the CDC, the Flu and RSV are currently being seen across the nation at rates similar to last year. COVID is still being seen, but at about half what it was last year. Meanwhile, norovirus rates have reached a five-year high.
Norovirus, often called the “stomach bug” or “stomach flu,” although it is not related to the flu, is a highly contagious stomach virus. It typically causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Less common symptoms include fever, headaches, fatigue, and/or body aches.
The best prevention for norovirus is hand washing with soap and water (hand sanitizer is ineffective against norovirus), cleaning contaminated surfaces and laundry, and staying away from others who are sick. You should also always wash your fruits and vegetables well before eating them, since they can be easily contaminated.
There is no specific treatment for norovirus, and most people get better in 1-3 days. If you (or your child ) has norovirus, stay home for at least 24 hours after the vomiting and diarrhea have stopped. Drink plenty of fluids, and ask your physician for guidance in case of severe dehydration.
See the CDC for more information on norovirus.
Good info from your school nurses: Fueling Strong Bodies and Minds
As we head into a new year, it's the perfect time to talk about how we can fuel our minds and bodies with healthy, balanced meals. It is important for students to stay energized and focused throughout the school day. A nutritious lunch plays a significant role in boosting energy, improving concentration, and supporting overall well-being. Here are some simple and practical tips for packing healthy school lunches and encouraging healthy eating habits.
- Make fruits and vegetables part of their daily routine, with the goal of making ½ of your lunchbox fruit and vegetables. Find fun and creative ways to add fruit or vegetables at every meal.
- Include protein as it is an essential for muscle growth and repair and also keeps energy levels steady throughout the day. .
- Choose whole-grains for essential nutrients and fiber.
- Limit fast food and processed foods and snacks, such as chips, cookies, and candy. But don't completely ban your favorite snacks. Instead, make them "once-in-a-while" foods. This helps kids to not feel deprived.
- Limit sugary drinks, such as soda and fruit-flavored drinks. Serve water instead.
- Introduce new foods slowly. Children often do not like to try new foods. Introduce one new food at a time in small portions. Serve new foods with other foods you know your child likes.
- Involve kids in planning One of the best ways to ensure that kids eat what you pack is to involve them in the lunch planning process. Ask them to help pick out fruits, vegetables, and proteins they enjoy. You can also let them choose between different healthy lunch options, so they feel invested in their meals and more likely to eat them.
Here are a few simple ideas to get you started.
- Sandwiches: Make your child a sandwich on whole-wheat bread with protein, such as chicken or turkey. Add healthy vegetables, such as lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and/or avocado.
- Wraps: Wraps are another great option for lunch. You can fill whole-wheat tortillas with lean protein, healthy vegetables, and hummus or guacamole.
- Quesadillas: Quesadillas are quick and easy. You can fill them with cheese, beans, vegetables or meat.
- Fruit and yogurt parfait: Parfaits can be a healthy and refreshing lunch option. You can layer yogurt, fruit (berries are a great option), and granola in a bowl.
- Vegetables: Carrot sticks, celery sticks, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber sticks, and small salads are great options. To make them more appealing, consider serving them with Ranch dressing.
- Mini quiches: Add your child’s favorite veggies and place in a thermos to keep warm.
- Smoothies: These are quick, easy and can also be put in a thermos. Look for nutrient-rich foods like yogurt, vegetables, colorful fruits, and seeds.
Remember to send a water bottle with your child every day. It is important for your child to stay hydrated.
Healthy lunches support strong minds and bodies, so let’s make every school day a chance to fuel up right. A little planning can make all the difference!
Click here for information about the benefits of healthy eating for children from the CDC.