HCS November 2026 Newsletter

Homewood City Schools Families,

As we move into November, it is a wonderful time to reflect on all that is happening across Homewood City Schools and recognize the many people who make our school community so special.

November also reminds us of the importance of gratitude. I am thankful for our students, our incredible faculty and staff, and our parents and families who partner with us in this important work. We are fortunate to be part of a community that cares so deeply about its children and schools.

As we approach Thanksgiving, I hope each of you has an opportunity to slow down, enjoy time with family and friends, and reflect on the many things for which we are grateful.

Thank you for being part of the Homewood City Schools family. I am proud of our schools and grateful to be part of this community.

With gratitude,

Dr. Justin Hefner, Superintendent

The Homewood City Schools Foundation is now accepting nominations for the 2027 Teacher Impact Award!

This award honors exceptional teachers across our district who inspire a love of learning, challenge their students, and go above and beyond every day. One teacher will be selected from each school and recognized at the Homewood Grown event this spring.

Students, parents, fellow educators, and administrators are all invited to submit a nomination. Selections are based on the personal impact the teacher has made rather than the number of nominations received, so a single, thoughtful submission can make all the difference.

Take a few minutes to celebrate an educator who has made a meaningful difference in our school community!

In Homewood, we are thankful to work with community groups that support our students and families. In the current economy, it can be hard to make ends meet. Families seeking help during the holidays can apply for Christmas gifts through organizations like Toys for Tots and Grace Klein Ministries as well as reach out to Homewood Helps.

Parents and guardians may also contact their children’s school counselor for information regarding assistance with Thanksgiving meals or Christmas gifts.

Two of our local community organizations are helping Homewood families in need this holiday season. 

Trinity’s Outreach Hub is hosting a Christmas store where families can choose new gifts for their children. Visit the Outreach Hub's website (link) for information about how to donate gifts. 

Homewood Soccer Club has partnered with Homewood City Schools with a goal to donate 200 holiday meals to families in the community. Give a holiday meal through this link! 

The Homewood Patriot Marching Band is preparing to make history in September 2027 as the first American band to march in the Corso Zundert parade in the Netherlands.

Two weeks ago the band hosted Luda and Leon Leenders, the music chairs for the parade, who attended Friday night's football game to officially extend the invitation. Their visit marked an exciting milestone for the program as students and staff begin preparations to represent the community on an international stage!

Thank you to all families and guests who have been using Circool to visit our schools and check students in and out this year. It has helped our front office team, increased safety measures, and made it easier to manage attendance.

We’re excited to share that Circool has launched a brand-new app to simplify pulling up your code and managing contacts. You may download the app here.

Throughout the school year, be sure to use the hashtag #WeAreHWD or tag our schools on Instagram as we celebrate this school year together.

Homewood City Schools: @homewoodcityschools

Homewood High School: @homewood_high

Homewood Middle School: @homewood_middle

Edgewood Elementary: @edgewoodelem

Hall-Kent Elementary: @hkelemschool

Shades Cahaba Elementary: @shadescahaba