Heisel Elementary showcases student-led family engagement with weekly 'Hounds in the Hall' events

Heisel Elementary principal Nikki Prindle told trustees the campus reshaped family outreach to “open a door into their child’s world as a learner,” describing weekly “Hounds in the Hall” walks where students lead family members through their morning routines and work.

“Every Friday, we allow families to come in and walk their students in the hallway,” Prindle said, noting the school issues parents special lanyards after sign-in so families can view student work and classroom learning. Teachers who spoke during the presentation described quick pilot events that grew into standing-room-only evenings: one teacher said an initial night drew more parents than expected and the room hummed with conversation as students explained their learning.

Teachers described concrete practices meant to make those encounters academically useful, not just ceremonial. One teacher said students hand parents a letter about their favorite parts of the day and guide families through academic work, and staff said the campus collects feedback after events so they can improve timing and formats. Trustees praised the model and urged staff to document practices that other schools could adapt.

Prindle and staff made practical promises: they will share materials used at family events, offer short takeaways families can use at home, and ensure future events include translated materials where needed. The spotlight concluded with an invitation to trustees to visit Heisel on a Friday morning to see the model in practice.