Inspired by the collection of portraits in Portraits of Courage—a powerful tribute by former President George W. Bush honoring wounded veterans—Woodward Parkway Art Teachers, Mrs. Weisfelner and Mrs. Jordan, launched a meaningful project with their students. They invited local veterans into the classroom to share their stories through interviews and portrait sessions, creating a unique opportunity for students to connect with these heroes on a personal level.

View all the 2025 portraits HERE!!!

The goal was to help students understand that service to our country comes in many forms—and that those who serve do so with a deep commitment to the freedoms and safety of all Americans, often at great personal sacrifice. Through thoughtful questions and genuine curiosity, our students gained a heartfelt appreciation for the veterans’ experiences. Their portraits reflected not only artistic effort but also profound respect and gratitude for the men and women who have served.

The Filmmaking Club at Howitt Middle School has recently completed an exciting project aimed at helping incoming sixth graders. After spending several years in the same building, the move to a larger school can be intimidating. Welcome to Howitt was created to ease the transition into middle school.

The film showcases the daily life at Howitt, introducing students to their new environment with warmth and enthusiasm. Through interviews and behind-the-scenes tours, the video paints a vivid picture of what new students can expect.

In addition to being a helpful resource for newcomers, the project provided club members with invaluable hands-on experience in all phases of filmmaking. Working collaboratively, they honed their skills in storytelling, cinematography, and editing, creating a final product that is both professional and heartfelt.

Welcome to Howitt stands as a testament to the creativity and hard work of the Filmmaking Club and will be a cherished resource for incoming students for years to come.

Watch the Welcome to Howitt video HERE!!!

Howitt Middle School Filmmaking Club

Advisor: Ron Rudaitis

Students: Samuel Bjarnson, Maddie Burfitt, Conor Carroll, Riley Clevinger, Robert Goldman, Matthew Huallanca, Mikey Igneri, Stella Levenson, Noah Loor, Yaison Maldonado Lugo, Ethan Maniscalco, Jason McAllister, Kylan Murphy, Noah Nivar, Nikkan Polizzi-Rothman, Jason Rivera, Dominic Rolon-Fischer, and Benjamin Sinisi

The Northside Elementary 2025 Moving-Up Ceremony was a heartwarming celebration of achievements and new beginnings. Students, teachers, and families gathered in the brightly decorated auditorium, which was filled with excitement and anticipation for the future.

The ceremony began with a heartfelt welcome from Principal Dr. Christopher Peterson, who praised the students for their hard work and resilience. These students were in Kindergarten when the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in school closures and a shift to virtual learning. Highlights of the event included a touching slideshow of memories from their time at Northside, capturing moments of learning, laughter, and friendship. Beaming with pride, the fifth graders performed a special musical piece they had been rehearsing for weeks, leaving the audience in awe of their talent.

As the Dalers left the auditorium, they carried with them certificates, cherished memories, and a sense of accomplishment, eager to embark on the exciting path ahead.

WATCH NOW!!! Northside's 2025 Moving-Up Ceremony