About Us

The Kisthardt School community (parents, teachers, students) believes that each of us has a role in establishing and promoting academic excellence through innovative programs and community involvement, thereby nurturing and encouraging the whole child to learn and succeed. To be successful in our endeavors to educate children, the parents and the school work cooperatively. This can be accomplished by communicating our needs and expectations, establishing common goals, and striving to improve.

Our specials program provides instruction by certified teachers in Art, Music, Physical Education, Library, and Social and Emotional Learning. Kisthardt participates in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which means all students receive free breakfast and lunch. We follow the Multi-Tiered System of Support to identify students in need of intervention to achieve grade-level proficiency. English as a Second Language is available to our multi-lingual students. Special Education, Recovery Reading, and ALPS (gifted and talented) are available for students who qualify for those services.

Students participate in assembly programs, class trips, community/state-wide contests, and the Safety Patrol Program, which enrich their curriculum throughout the year. Our “Character Education” Program is designed to improve school climate, foster acceptable behavior, and raise self-esteem. This program tells children what is expected and acknowledges positive behavior rather than focusing on the negative.

Alignment of our philosophy, State Standards-based curriculum, and instructional materials has produced a meaningful and relevant educational program. Our students’ academic and social growth can be attributed to our highly qualified, dynamic teaching staff. Our teaching staff takes advantage of professional development opportunities to investigate current trends in education, teaching methods, technology, and classroom strategies.

HTSD is a 1:1 Chromebook District.  All students have daily access to a Chromebook to enhance their 21st-century skills. Students use programs such as iReady, First in Math, Google Apps for Education, Epic, and Raz-Kids to enhance their learning. Staff use Class DOJO to communicate with families and share all the wonderful experiences their students have throughout the day.  

The continued support and contributions from our PTA and parent volunteers help sustain our excellent school climate and academic growth for all students.