Happenings (June 10, 2025)
Congratulations to our Teachers of Excellence 2025: Mr. Doug Schwartz & Ms. Serene Deuth!
At Hill-Murray, our teachers are more than instructors — they’re mentors, encouragers, and lifelong learners who are passionate about their work and the students they serve. We’re excited to highlight two of our incredible educators: Mr. Doug Schwartz and Ms. Serene Deuth, who share what drives their love of teaching and what makes Hill-Murray such a special place.
What Makes Teaching at Hill-Murray So Special?
For Mr. Schwartz, it all comes down to community and connection.
“Teachers truly get to know the students, and most students have that one teacher — their person — who makes a lasting impact. I’ve taught in big schools, small schools, and even overseas in China, but what stands out at Hill-Murray is the opportunity to build real relationships. The staff is outstanding — talented, dedicated, and supportive. Many of us form lifelong friendships, and some of us even travel together to New York after graduation — a testament to the bonds we share, not just with students, but with each other.”
Ms. Deuth echoes that sentiment, adding that it’s the students themselves who make Hill-Murray so unique:
“They’re kind, fun, and eager to learn. They come to class ready to engage, and that energy makes teaching here incredibly rewarding. The relationships we build — with students and their families — create such a strong, supportive community.”
Teachers Who Inspired Them
Behind every great teacher is often a teacher who once inspired them. For Mr. Schwartz, it was his college professor, Dr. Kramer:
“He advocated for me to continue my college journey and believed in my potential when I needed it most. His mentorship reminds me daily of the power of teacher-student relationships.”
For Ms. Deuth, it was her high school AP Biology teacher, Ms. Fahey, who left a lasting impression:
“She pushed us and reminded us, ‘You can do hard things’ — a phrase I now share with my own students. She helped us believe we had everything we needed to succeed.”
Why They Chose Teaching
Mr. Schwartz traces his passion for education back to third grade with Mrs. Linda Zacherson.
“It was the first time I said, ‘I want to be a teacher.’ I struggled that year, but she never gave up on me. Her belief in me inspired a passion that has never faded.”
Advice for Future Teachers
To those considering a career in education, both educators offer powerful insights.
Mr. Schwartz encourages students to trust themselves:
“Don’t listen to the noise around you. Teaching is meaningful, purpose-driven work. It’s about relationships, growth, and creating a sense of hope.”
Ms. Deuth highlights a special part of teaching high school:
“One of the joys of high school is getting to teach students over multiple years. Having them as sophomores and again as seniors lets me watch their growth and deepen our connection. You don’t just get one year—you get to walk with them through an important part of their journey.”
Thank you, Mr. Schwartz and Ms. Deuth, for your dedication, wisdom, and the lasting impact you have on the Hill-Murray community!
STEM I Students Host Cardboard Carnival for Preschoolers
Our STEM I students recently brought their creativity and engineering skills to life by hosting a Cardboard Carnival at Maple Tree Monastery Childcare! Using only cardboard and recycled materials, our middle schoolers designed, built, and tested exciting carnival games especially for preschoolers. While the students had a fantastic time creating and problem-solving, the real joy came from seeing the preschoolers’ bright smiles as they played and enjoyed every minute of the games. This hands-on project was truly the highlight of the semester, showcasing teamwork, innovation, and the joy of giving back to the community!
The Nicholas Center Summer Programs
2025 Summer Reading Program
Click here to learn about the Summer Reading Program and to register.
Brilliant Strengths Course
Click here to learn about the Brilliant Strengths course for students with dyslexia.
Alumni, current and past parents, grandparents, and friends of Hill-Murray are invited to join us for the 2025 Pioneer Golf Classic at Indian Hills Golf Club on Monday, June 16, 2025.
11:00 AM Check-in & boxed lunch
12:00 PM Shotgun start time
Dinner to follow the tournament
Cost: $150/golfer
Includes lunch, golf, carts, and dinner.
Click here to register.
Partner with Student Designers – Get Free Graphic Design Work!
Do you own a business?
Or do you work for a company where you’re in charge of social media posts and branding? Do you need a new logo or help creating graphics for printed materials?
All of these are great opportunities for Hill-Murray students to gain authentic, real-world experience in graphic design!
The only cost to you is up to three hours of your time, spread out over a few months. In return, you’ll receive sophisticated, creative graphic design work—completely free—while giving students the valuable experience of working with a real client.
We are currently looking for clients for the 2025–26 and 2026–27 school years.
If you’re interested in learning more, please contact Mr. Dahl, Hill-Murray’s Computer Graphics instructor, at sdahl@hill-murray.org.
Important Uniform Information
We now have a uniform page on the school website, complete with links to policies and the uniform ordering portal! You can find the link in the Student/Parent Portal section of the school website.
The Uniform Ordering Portal is open until the 15th of June. The Uniform Order Portal will open on the 1st of each month and close on the 15th of each month. All orders will ship to school and families will be notified when those orders are available for pick up. Uniform Samples will be available at the front entrance to try on throughout the summer. Order forms will be available on site and will be filled from available inventory on hand. If we do not have inventory to fill your order, you will be notified and you can then order online from the portal.
If you have any questions, please contact uniforms@hill-murray.org
Free Sports Physicals
TRIA and TCO are offering free sports physicals this summer! Click here for more information.
Trading Post
The Trading Post will be closed June – August. Have a great summer!
Italy Trip Summer 2026
We have some exciting news, we are planning an amazing HM student trip to ITALY, not this summer…but NEXT Summer! This trip is open to current 9th, 10th, and 11th-grade students.
It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Italian history, art, and theology! This trip starts in Venice, then off to Florence, and we’ll end in Rome! We will able to see things like the famous Canals and Bridges of Venice, The Duomo and the David in Florence, and the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican with the beautiful Sistine Chapel.
We will enjoy Italian food like authentic pizza and gelato! See a glass blowing demonstration, and explore these great cities! Connect with Mr. Misenor or Ms. Fandrich if you are interested in more information.
