Home

WE ARE HERITAGE HEIGHTS

PANTHER PRIDE

Heritage Heights Elementary provides the building blocks for future learning. The goal is to prepare every student to be a lifelong learner who will grow to become a productive, contributing member of a diverse society. Students in grades K-5 receive a strong foundation in mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies with specialized instruction in technology, art, music, library, and physical education.

NEWS FEED

We are Hiring!

We are hiring! Current openings: teacher aide, cafeteria monitor, and HS hall monitor.

Benefits include NYS retirement, NYS pension, health benefits, family-friendly schedule, and on-the-job training. Please call (716) 250-1413 with any questions! #WeAreSweetHome

Read More about We are Hiring!

Board of Ed Discusses NY State Portrait of a Graduate Initiative

Last evening, the Board of Education, Dr. Ginestre, and our public heard an in-depth presentation from Dr. Toyia Wilson, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, about the NY State Portrait of a Graduate.

From the NYS Education Department: "At the July 2025 Board of Regents meeting, the Board formally adopted the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, a critical milestone in the Department’s NY Inspires initiative. The Portrait provides a unifying vision of what it means to be a graduate in New York State and describes the essential skills and dispositions that all students should develop to be successful in college, careers, and civic life."

These changes to graduation pathways will be rolled out slowly and with intention and stakeholder input. Dr. Wilson showed the many parallels to our own work with our Strategic Plan. The Sweet Home Board of Education discussed differences between current graduation requirements, what will be available in the future, and how we would have local control over students' options. Student BOE member Jaevon Coleman asked insightful questions about diploma types and AP classes. Dr. Ginestre highlighted the initiative's focus on ensuring students are practically prepared for the modern workforce and cutting edge careers.

To view the full presentation and/or watch video of the discussion from last evening, visit our BOE page.

We look forward to doing this work together as a Sweet Home community! #WeAreSweetHome

Dr. Ginestre Shares Details of Capital Project at First Public Forum

Last night, we welcomed families, staff, and community members to the first of our two Capital Project Public Forums. Thank you to everyone who attended, asked thoughtful questions, and shared valuable feedback. Your engagement is vital as we work together to shape the future of our schools.

Superintendent Dr. Michael Ginestre and Assistant Superintendent Donald Feldmann led the presentation, sharing details about the proposed improvements designed to support modern learning, strengthen safety and accessibility, and responsibly preserve our district’s facilities for generations to come.

We extend our appreciation to the members of our Board of Education and our architectural and construction management partners who joined us as well. For more information on the project, please visit our website sweethomeschools.org.

If you were unable to attend, we hope you’ll join us at our next Public Forum on:

Tuesday, December 10, 2025, 6:30 p.m.
Sweet Home Middle School Auditorium

Please make your voice heard on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, when polls will be open from 7 AM to 9 PM in the Norman C. Vergils Community Center at Sweet Home High School, 1901 Sweet Home Road, Amherst, NY. #WeAreSweetHome

Annual Heart Award Winners Honored

Congratulations to our 2025 Heart Award Winners!

During this week’s districtwide Professional Development Day, we had the honor of recognizing three outstanding Panthers who embody the very heart of Sweet Home. The Heart Award is presented annually to staff who go the extra mile for our students, uplift our culture, build strong relationships with families and colleagues, and truly live our mission of “Every Student, One Community, Ready for the Future.”

Service Staff Award — Patty Foels (Middle School Monitor)

For nearly 30 years, Patty has led with kindness, calm, and integrity. Her bright smile lights our hallways, and her steady presence supports students and staff every day. Patty balances responsibility with compassion and continually goes above and beyond to ensure every Panther feels valued.

Teacher Award — Sheila Connors (Ready Academy)

Sheila is often the reason students show up ready to learn. She provides morning support, encouragement, and accountability, forming powerful connections with students who rely on her presence. She welcomes every learner, especially those who need the most care, and never takes the easy way, always doing what’s best for kids.

Administrator/Supervisor Award — Kristi Sajdak (Food Service Director)

Kristi plays a vital role in nourishing our entire community. She ensures all 3,800+ students receive free meals daily, supports multiple private schools, listens to student feedback, partners with SHEF to feed families in need, and leads her team with creativity, compassion, and pride.

Please join us in celebrating Patty, Sheila, and Kristi for their extraordinary dedication, leadership, and HEART. We are so grateful for everything you do to make Sweet Home stronger.

#WeAreSweetHome