Hexter Hawks April 2025 Newsletter

Message from the President

Happy April, Hawk Families!

Kindergarten Roundup was a great success! It was such a treat to see the new and familiar faces in one place- the excitement about coming to Hexter was contagious! If only one thing can be true, it is that Hexter is an amazing community and grows stronger with every year! Thank you to our VP of Programs, Lisa Causey, and Rachel Yockey for putting this event on.

As we enter into the month of April, the excitement for the White Rock Home Tour grows. If you have NOT signed up for your docent shift, then what are you waiting for?! What is a "docent", you ask? A docent is someone who helps to direct foot traffic, and serves as a guide in our Home Tour homes. The job is not only a breeze, but it is FUN! In addition to this, as a volunteer you will receive complimentary admission to the Tour.

Make sure you're following along on the Tour's socials, both on Facebook and Instagram. The homes have been announced, so take a peek, pick up a docent shift (links below in our Volunteer feature) and get ready to TOUR!

Have a great month, everybody!

Elizabeth DuFlo

Hexter Elementary PTA President, 2024-2025

Become a Member of Hexter PTA Today!

Interview with Principal Smith

1. What are you most excited about at the new school?

A new building provides an environment that matches the quality of our students, families and staff. It provides adequate space to nurture and develop our students.

2. Can you explain what the different phases of construction mean?

Phase I is the new building. Once we move into the new space, Phase II begins and our current building will be leveled to build out two parking lots, a garden, and a 2nd-6th grade playground.

3. Given the old school will need to be torn down in subsequent phases, what is the plan to ensure kids get outdoor time/recess?

When we move into our new building, we will have a completed PK3-1st grade playground along Peavy. The contractors will temporarily relocate the current structure at the front of the new school. It will remain until the second phase is nearly finished.

4. What does Hexter mean to you? What is your favorite thing about Hexter?

Hexter is an extension of my family. I truly love our students, families, and staff. It reminds me of the close-knit community that I raised my own children in.

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities

Attention Hexter Families!

We need more volunteers for the upcoming White Rock Home Tour, and we would love your help! Please consider reserving some time that weekend to volunteer so we can make this fundraiser a huge success!

Community Members / Feeder Pattern House

Pk/Kinder/5th grade House

1st/2nd grade house

FLS/3rd/4th House

Volunteer of the Month

Our Hexter volunteer of the month is Shaun Whitehorse! From Hexter Howl to the Hexter Kindergarten Round Up; Shaun is one of the first volunteers to sign up. He doesn't just stop at events. During the week you can catch Shaun out in the middle of Waterview Rd and Brookhurst Dr, ensuring the safety at our Hexter crosswalk. Here is a Q & A with Shaun.

1) You dedicate your personal time to volunteering at Hexter, why?

I was lucky enough to buy a house right around the corner from Hexter in 2001. My family has been closely associated with Hexter since the kids were born.

2) Volunteering can be a dread, what's different about volunteering at Hexter?

The families at Hexter are more involved and are closer knit than other schools.

3) Was there a volunteering moment that made you smile this year?

We just had Kinder Roundup last Thursday. I worked the popsicle cart with my daughter Lily, who has moved on from Hexter to Alex W. Spence TAG Academy. It brought a smile seeing the excitement on the incoming Kindergarteners and their parents.

4) Any hobbies? Favorite restaurant? Interesting facts about yourself?

Hobby: My son Matt (5A Byler) has skated and played hockey since he was 3, which got me involved in the sport. I now coach his team, and I'm on three adult league teams myself. Restaurant: I love visiting John and the gang at El Vecino. Interesting Fact: I've recently been appointed as a Director on the Board for the Kiowa Casino Operations Authority.

As we joyfully approach the 17th Annual White Rock Home Tour, we invite you to join us in this wonderful celebration of community, architecture, and education. Happening on April 26th and 27th, this event showcases six extraordinary homes within our neighborhood, each a testament to the timeless elegance of mid-century and modern design. This year, we proudly highlight a Ju-Nel home, renowned for its architectural sophistication.

The White Rock Home Tour was born from the passion and vision of a group of committed parents in 2006. Their love for Mid-Century Modern architecture fused seamlessly with their dedication to elevating Hexter Elementary School in Old Lake Highlands. This event not only honors the legacy of two visionary Dallas architects from the 1950s but also highlights the indelible impact of their designs on the northeast side of White Rock Lake. It's a gathering of design enthusiasts who cherish the beauty of our neighborhood and the flourishing schools that enrich it.

The Hexter Hawks can play a vital role in ensuring the success of this beloved event:

Volunteer as a Docent: Share your passion for architecture and community by guiding visitors through the homes. Not only is this a rewarding experience, but you'll also receive a complimentary tour ticket. Reach out to your Room Reps to find out how you can get involved.

Become a Sponsor: With sponsorship opportunities starting at just $250, you can support a great cause alongside friends and family. Visit our website at wrhometour.com for more information on how to become a sponsor.

Purchase Tickets and Attend: Experience the beauty of these stunning homes firsthand. Secure your tickets online today at wrhometour.com.

Spread the Word: Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram and help us reach a wider audience by sharing our posts.

The White Rock Home Tour is more than just an architectural showcase; it's a celebration of our vibrant community. It unites people from Dallas-Fort Worth and beyond, delighting the senses while supporting the dedicated students and teachers of Hexter Elementary. Join us in making this event a resounding success!

WRHT Spirit Weekend- 4/26 and 4/27

Be on the lookout for more information regarding our April Spirit Nights which will coincide with the dates of our White Rock Home Tour and support local restaurants.

Music Updates

The talent show is Friday, April 11 at 6:30 PM in Hexter Auditorium.

Also, KA, KB, KC and KD/1D will be performing ‘What A Wonderful World’ at the April General PTA meeting. Participation forms will be going out in Tuesday folders on April 8.

Spirit Wear Updates

The Spring spirit shirts are almost ready! If you did not place a presale order and would like to order a shirt now, extra inventory will be added to the spirit store on Membership Toolkit this week. For all pre-orders and orders received by 4/2, Meggie Orgain will be at school drop-off and pick-up on Thursday, April 3 to distribute. If this day/time does not work for you, please email orgainm@gmail.com to make other arrangements.