Dear Southwest Families, First quarter report cards are scheduled to be posted in ProgressBook Parent Access on Friday, November 5, 2021. You can access ProgressBook by going to https://parentaccess.swoca.net/. (Please note this link has changed from

The Harrison High School senior class is once again teaming up with Hoxworth Blood Center to sponsor two blood drives at the Activity Center this school year.  The first drive will take place on Thursday, October 28 from 7:45 AM - 1:30 PM.  The

This week's Health Update contains two important pieces of information. Click HERE for the weekly SLSD COVID-19 Dashboard. Click HERE for an update on the masking policy at Harrison High School and Harrison Junior

We have come to the end of the first quarter of the 2021-2022 school year.  Thanks to our students and families for partnering with us to achieve our mission of academic and social growth each and every day.  Please enjoy Fall Break and take some

Southwest Local Schools is looking for school bus drivers.  Positions will start full-time (with benefits) on January 1st, but will start earlier if training is needed or if there is an availability to sub on bus routes prior to that date.  If you

Greetings SLSD Parents / Guardians; Please see the attached Health Alert synopsis from last week. Total new cases can be found near the bottom of the page. Our case numbers appear to be following the trend in the community and area. Our number one priority

When we see significant numbers of students and / or staff out due to COVID, we will shift to either universal masking or remote instruction. Like last year, we will do this by grade, then building to start. It is important that families are prepared for

On Friday, October 1, SLSD conducted a test of the School Messenger mass notification system.  School Messenger is used to communicate weather-related delays and closings, and other important information and reminders. The test consisted of three

20+ LOCAL COMPANIES RECRUITING AT HARRISON JOB FAIR  WHEN Thursday, Sept. 30, 20213 to 6 p.m. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC / ADULTS Some employers will be on site throughout the day to meet with students before the job fair opens to the

When we see significant numbers of students and / or staff out due to COVID, we will shift to either universal masking or remote instruction. Like last year, we will do this by grade, then building to start. It is important that families are prepared for

When we see significant numbers of students and / or staff out due to COVID, we will shift to either universal masking or remote instruction. Like last year, we will do this by building to start. It is important that families are prepared for either

Please take a moment to review this information as well as discuss it with your child.  Over the past couple weeks, throughout the United States, school districts have noticed, some areas, specifically within the restrooms, are being

When we see significant numbers of students and / or staff out due to COVID, we will shift to either universal masking or remote instruction. Like last year, we will do this by building to start. It is important that families are prepared for either

We are looking for Substitute Teachers in all SLSD buildings! If interested in being a preschool sub, please contact Christina Curcio at 513-887-5503 or curcioc@bcesc.org.   If interested in being a sub in grades K-12, please review the

When we see significant numbers of students and / or staff out due to COVID, we will be forced to either universally mask or conduct remote instruction. Like last year, we will do this by building to start. It is important that families are prepared for

Southwest Local Schools will be waiving all student academic fees for the 2021/2022 school year, thanks to CARES Act funding.  Pay to play fees for sports and band are not included in the waived fees and should be paid HERE.   Free

In addition to the weekly data update linked below for the period ending August 29, we had multiple additional positive student cases reported today (August 30) at Crosby Elementary and Harrison Junior School.  These cases will be listed in next week's

Again this school year, the Southwest Local School District will provide weekly updates on the number of confirmed positive COVID-19 cases per building, along with the number of students required to quarantine.  The report, released each Monday, will

Our routing for the start of the 2021-2022 school year was finished this weekend.  We processed nearly 1,000 changes over the past week resulting from new enrollees, parent requests, address changes, and a variety of other reasons.  These changes

Our initial routing for the 2021-2022 school year was finished this weekend.  Parents can now log into Final Forms to see their child’s bus information for the coming year.  To view this information, please log in via the Online Forms portion

Please click HERE to read the Southwest Local School District’s Back-to-School Plan for COVID Mitigation.  Additionally, the State of Ohio’s guidance document for K-12 schools may be viewed by clicking HERE.  Please know, the situation

On Sunday, August 1, the Southwest Local School District will cut the ribbon and officially open three new elementary schools and one new middle school.  The new facilities will provide a modern learning environment for students in grades pre-K through

Our district recently received some updated guidance regarding transportation for the 2021-2022 school year.  Like many of our parents, we have been eagerly awaiting information on this topic and we were able to discuss this at our most recent Board

Southwest Local Schools is looking for School Bus Drivers and Van Drivers for the 2021-2022 school year.  School bus drivers are required to have a CDL with appropriate school bus and passenger endorsements, though paid training to get these is

Thank you to our parents, students and staff for your support of our COVID protocols throughout the school year.  There is no doubt that these measures helped us keep our school doors open, and students in class face-to-face.   Please

Remember, for those age 16 and older who received their first vaccination dose on April 29 – your second dose is coming up this Thursday, May 20, between 9:00 AM and 12:00 Noon at the Activity Center. We are also working with Hamilton County Public

This summer, the Southwest Local School District will be offering a Summer Grow to Know intervention program at churches throughout the District. Students will receive intervention and enrichment at each session. During the two-hour period, students will be

Exciting news today, as the US Food and Drug Administration has authorized the use of the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine to include people ages 12 and older.  For more information, click HERE to read the Fact Sheet from the FDA, and

The calendar has turned to May and the finish line is in sight.  Stay the course, both academically and with our COVID protocols.  They have proven to be effective throughout the school year as we worked to keep our school doors open and our

As April wraps up, we enter the home stretch of a school year unlike any other.  Currently, we have no positive cases, district-wide.  We will remain vigilant with mask wearing through the end of this school year, or as long as the Governor’s

Hamilton County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the Harrison Activity Center.  This clinic will be providing the Pfizer vaccine, and is open to anyone age 16 and older who would like to be vaccinated.  (Under

The April edition of the "Super Chat" podcast is now online at www.southwestschools.org/podcast. In this episode, Superintendent John Hamstra explains the fundraising campaign for the new schools' playgrounds.  Basic playground equipment is

Do you remember what it was like as a child to hear your parents say that you were going to head to the local park or playground on a sunny afternoon to play? There was not a piece of playground equipment you could not enjoy and there were no long lines

Preschool Registration for the 2021-2022 school year is now closed.

The Harrison High School senior class is once again teaming up with Hoxworth Blood Center to sponsor two blood drives at the Activity Center this school year.  The second and final drive will take place on Monday, March 15 from 7:45 AM - 1:30 PM.

A reminder that students will have a Remote Learning Day on Thursday, March 11 in order for SLSD staff members to receive their second / final COVID-19 vaccination.  Also, there is no school for students on Friday, March 12.  This is the End of

We are pleased to present information for the 2021 season of Harrison's Youth Track & Field program that is available to the entire community. The design of this program is to introduce the sport of track & field to kids in our area. Participants will

For the third consecutive year, Harrison High School senior Raileigh Legner has spear-headed a district-wide campaign called “Acceptance Week”, taking place March 1-5.  A volunteer with Special Olympics since she was in the 6th grade,

A lifelong friend of education has stepped down from the School Board.  Linda Peak, a 13-year member of the Southwest Local School District Board of Education, submitted her resignation, effective February 18, 2021. Prior to her service on the Board,

A reminder that students will have a Remote Learning Day on Thursday, March 11 in order for our staff members to receive their second / final COVID-19 vaccination.  Also, there is no school for students on Friday, March 12.  This is the End of Third

Thursday, February 18:  Southwest Local Schools are CLOSED.

Thursday, March 11 will be a Remote Learning Day, to allow over 350 staff members to receive the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccination and the accompanying side effects of this phase of the process.  Additionally, students will not have classes on

Tuesday, February 16:  Southwest Local Schools are CLOSED.

Whitewater Valley, Harrison Elementary and St. John's families, Due to the deteriorating weather conditions, we will be dismissing students early - as the buses arrive at the buildings.  We will not be waiting until the normal dismissal time. 

Remember that we will be having Remote Learning Days, for all grades, TOMORROW (Thursday, February 11) and Thursday, March 11 in order to allow our staff to receive the COVID-19 vaccination.  We are grateful to Mercy Health and the Harrison Fire and

Tuesday, February 9, 2021:  Southwest Local Schools are CLOSED.  Stay safe and enjoy the day!  

As previously communicated, we will be having Remote Learning Days, for all grades, on Thursday, February 11 and Thursday, March 11 in order to allow our staff to receive the COVID-19 vaccination.  We are grateful to Mercy Health and the Harrison Fire

We are excited to learn that we have confirmed dates for our staff to receive the COVID-19 vaccination!  Shot 1 will take place on Thursday, February 11 and shot 2 will take place on Thursday, March 11.  We will be having Remote Learning Days, for

Kindergarten registration is now open. Click Kindergarten Registration for more information, including a kindergarten packet with required documents, instructions for completing online forms, the link to Online Registration Forms. When your online form

Monday, February 1:  Southwest Local Schools are on a TWO-HOUR DELAY, with no morning kindergarten, pre-school, or head start. We will continue to monitor the weather and road conditions throughout the district.  Our district covers 68 square miles

We appreciate the support we have received, and continue to receive, from families during what can only be described as a school year full of facing the unknown.  With the number of positive student cases currently on the decline, clearing stations that

Thursday, January 28:  Southwest Local Schools are on a TWO-HOUR DELAY, with no morning kindergarten, pre-school, or head start. 

The Southwest Local School District is anxiously preparing for the grand opening of three new elementary schools and a new junior school in August of 2021.  The new buildings will shape the face of education in our community for the next 50+ years and we

SLSD Families, We will be keeping a close eye on the weather overnight, and will be checking back roads, parking lots, and sidewalks early tomorrow morning.  Please stay tuned tomorrow morning in the event a weather announcement becomes necessary. 

As we have mentioned from the start of this school year, our goal is to educate students face to face (F2F), and with the remote option for those that choose that route, for as long as possible. We have also spoken to the criteria that would put a

We are currently seeing a spike in cases at Harrison Junior School, particularly among staff members.  Parents should be prepared for the possibility of going remote temporarily if the current trend continues.  We are keeping a close eye on the

Full-Day Kindergarten Registration will open at the same time as ½ day registration: February 1st, 2021. The optional full-day program is tuition based and will be filled on a first come first served basis. Enrollment paperwork will be completed online

Please click HERE for the bi-weekly health update.

Please click HERE for the bi-weekly health update.

Vaccine distribution for school personnel is now expected to begin in early February, with the exact timing a bit up in the air.  The timing could necessitate us having to utilize remote learning day(s) in order complete staff vaccinations. Time will

Vaccine distribution for school personnel is now expected to begin in early February, with the exact timing a bit up in the air.  The timing could necessitate us having to utilize remote learning day(s) in order complete staff vaccinations. Time

Vaccine distribution for school personnel is expected to begin in mid-January.  We will more than likely utilize two remote learning days in order for staff who choose to be vaccinated to receive their shots.  (One remote learning day for the first

As we wrap up the winter holiday break, it is our hope that each of you found time to rest, rejuvenate, and build into family.  Thank you to those families who have kept us informed over the break if their child tested positive for COVID-19.  As of

We are working in close partnership with the Hamilton County Health Department and as a school district, we are excited about the progress being made with vaccine distribution. Our number one priority is student and staff safety - each and every day. As a

Dear Harrison Elementary School Parents and Students, Let me be one of the first people to wish you a Happy New Year. 2020 has given us all many challenges to face and hopefully we have gotten stronger. I hope everyone has had a wonderful holiday break. The

Paper copies of transportation information were sent home the week of December 14 with all elementary students who will be receiving transportation services for the 2nd semester.  For Junior School students, we did not have that opportunity as students

How we conduct the first week of 2nd semester (January 4-8, 2021) will depend on the case count in our schools and community. We aim to give our families as much notice as possible, but with the fluidity of the situation, this decision can be tricky. 

Southwest Local Schools will continue to offer the state minimum required 1/2 day Kindergarten programs at each elementary school as we always have. However, with the increased classroom space at the 3 new elementary schools, we are excited to offer a full

The Harrison High School Art Department presents a virtual art show, highlighting selected works from first semester art students. All artwork represented includes selected pieces from courses taught by Ms. Keller, Mrs. Kravetz, and Mrs. Cummings. Click

Wednesday, December 16:  Southwest Local Schools are on a TWO-HOUR DELAY, with no morning kindergarten, pre-school, or head start. 

Junior School and High School students who are already remote this week, your day will begin at 9:50 AM in your 3rd Period TEAMS page.

As was previously communicated, Harrison High School and Harrison Junior School have moved to Remote Learning this week, due to a spike in positive COVID-19 cases and close contact quarantines amongst both staff and students.  This applies to Harrison

Again this year, the Southwest Local School District is proud to partner with the Harrison Mayor’s Fund, This City His City, Christ’s Loving Hands, and JTM Food Group to provide for those in need in our community this holiday season. Collection

Harrison Elementary currently has no phone service and no internet service.  We will advise when service has been restored.

As we have mentioned from the start of this school year, our goal is to educate students face to face (F2F), and with the remote option for those that choose that route, for as long as possible. We have also spoken to the criteria that would put a

As was previously communicated, Harrison High School will be moving to Remote Learning this coming week, December 14-18, due to a spike in positive COVID-19 cases and close contact quarantines amongst both staff and students.  This applies to Harrison

We are seeing a significant spike in COVID+ cases this week at Harrison High School and Harrison Junior School.  At the high school alone, cases have more than tripled in recent days.  Positive cases, as well as the numbers of both students and

Again this year, the Southwest Local School District is proud to partner with the Harrison Mayor’s Fund, This City His City, Christ’s Loving Hands, and JTM Food Group to provide for those in need in our community this holiday season. The annual

On Friday, December 4, the Ohio Department of Health adopted the updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control regarding the length of quarantines.  The updated information can be found HERE.  For some students currently out on quarantine,

Spikes in both cases and hospitalizations are occurring throughout the State of Ohio and Hamilton County.  Small group gatherings, as well as community events, are major spreader events in our area.  When holiday spikes occur in the community,

Southwest Local Schools' Superintendent John Hamstra and Harrison High School Athletic Director / Assistant Principal Mark Meibers have been recognized by the Greater Harrison Chamber of Commerce.  Mr. Hamstra has been awarded the Mary Lou Smith

Our school community appreciates everyone’s efforts to keep each other safe. Let’s continue this commitment to healthy practices as we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday and weekend. It’s up to all of us to slow the spread of COVID-19.

As we approach the holiday season, vigilance becomes paramount.  It will take everyone doing their part over the holidays by avoiding gatherings outside of immediate family – as challenging as that will be.  A spike in cases could force

As we approach the holiday season, vigilance becomes paramount.  It will take everyone doing their part over the holidays by avoiding gatherings outside of immediate family – as challenging as that will be.  A spike in cases could force

COVID-19 is spreading at an alarming rate in Western Hamilton County.  We are dangerously close to having to close several of our school buildings and shift to remote learning due to community spread and the inability to safely staff our schools. 

COVID-19 is spreading at an alarming rate in Western Hamilton County.  We are dangerously close to having to close several of our school buildings and shift to remote learning due to community spread and the inability to safely staff our schools. 

COVID-19 is spreading at an alarming rate in Western Hamilton County.  It is vitally important to limit group gatherings both large and small, and to wear masks and practice social distancing.  Keep the same COVID prevention protocols in place

Hello, SLSD Families! Below you will find the link to go into Final Forms and enter your preference for your child's or children's Second Semester placement (January 4 - May 28, 2021), either attending school in-person, face-to-face, or participating in the

Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Good Afternoon, SLSD Parents and Guardians, This afternoon (Wed. Nov. 4) between 4:00-5:00 PM, there will be a test of the School Messenger mass notification system.  School Messenger is used to communicate weather-related

Please click HERE for the bi-weekly health update from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School

The USDA recently received approval from Congress to extend the meal waiver program through the end of this school year.  Originally slated to end on December 31 (or when the money was completely spent), our waiver will now expire in June when our school

Please click HERE for the bi-weekly health update from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

SLSD Families: It’s hard to believe that we finished the first quarter of our school year on Thursday, October 29! Time flies when you are having fun! It has been incredible witnessing the resilience of our in-person and at home learners, as well as

Southwest Local School District families, This afternoon, Officer Willig, our School Resource Officer on the secondary campus, was struck by a hit-and-run driver during junior school dismissal.  The driver ignored his command to stop, attempted to pull

By now you have likely seen on the news that Hamilton County is approaching the Alert Level 4 (Purple) designation in the Ohio Public Health Advisory System, indicating severe exposure and spread of COVID-19 in the County.  Please know that as a school

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

The Harrison High School senior class is once again teaming up with Hoxworth Blood Center to sponsor two blood drives at the Activity Center this school year.  The first will take place on Thursday, October 29 from 7:45 AM - 1:30 PM.   The drive is

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Student fees for 2020-2021 have been assigned for all grades.  The fee for elementary students is $50.  The fees for grades 6-12 depend on the courses the student is taking. You may view your assigned fees at payforit.net, accessible through the

Once again this morning (Friday 10/9) I awarded two students a gift card for early order turn in for our annual Magazine/Cookie Dough Fundraiser. Students receive a slip with their name on it for each order that is submitted. Packets were sent home on

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

To the Parents/Guardians of Third Grade Virtual Students: Third Grade Fall English Language Arts state testing begins the week of October 19, 2020.  These tests are required by federal and state law and, at this point in time, are still required for the

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

The Southwest Local School District has multiple openings for full-time school bus drivers.  Drivers work a "split shift" of 6 hours per day on days where school is in session for students, plus they receive paid holidays and benefits.  A CDL with

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Another great week behind us. On Tuesday we kicked off our annual Magazine/Cookie Dough Fundraiser. Packets went home that day and orders can be taken up till October 14th. Special drawings will begin NEXT Friday for any orders turned in before October 14th.

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

We have posted the codes that parents, and students need for our Parent Portal and ProgressBook Parent Access to the “Student and Parent Access Codes” form in FinalForms.  You may access these codes by signing into your FinalForms

Another great week behind us. Student pictures on Tuesday went on flawlessly along with opportunities for virtual students to come in later that evening to get their pictures taken. We are hoping to have picture packets back towards the end of October. Retake

Please click HERE for an important Health Alert from Hamilton County Public Health and the Southwest Local School District.

Virtual students and parents, please click HERE for a webinar orientation, led by Southwest Local School District Assistant Superintendent Corinne Hayes, explaining how students can log in and navigate the virtual learning platform.  Mrs. Hayes also

The USDA and the state of Ohio have determined that all students, regardless of your financial situation, may participate in school breakfast and lunch programs for free through December 31, 2020.  Beginning on Tuesday September 8th, 2020 no child will

SLSD pushed out the final transportation update prior to the start of the school year Friday afternoon.  Families can again log into their students’ Final Forms accounts via the Abre Student/Parent portal, and click on Forms to view the

The Southwest Local School District administrative team provides the yearly "State of the Schools" presentation, a yearly update to stakeholders covering all facets of district operations. Our design and construction team, SHP and Skanska-Megen, provide a

On August 28, our district pushed out preliminary bus routes, times, and pick-up locations to our families via Final Forms.  Please log into your Final Forms account via the Online Forms portion of the Abre Parent/Student Portal.  You will click on

Southwest Local Schools has switched programs for our lunchtime software this coming school year as a part of the upgrades to our existing buildings and in preparation for a move to new buildings next summer.  As a result of this move, the district will

The Harrison Elementary School administration, teachers, and staff have been working diligently to safely re-open our K-5 school building for the 2020-21 school year.  Safety is our number one priority and several changes have been made to help protect

Southwest Local School District Superintendent John Hamstra and Assistant Superintendent Corinne Hayes provide updates to stakeholders as students prepare to return for the 2020-2021 school year. Mr. Hamstra speaks to the safety and protocols in place, and

For students and families who have selected the Virtual Learning Model for the first semester of the 2020-2021 school year, we have compiled the following list of FAQs based on parent feedback.  Please click HERE for the list.

If you are looking for a part-time job that aligns with your SLSD child's school calendar, we have an opportunity for you!  SLSD Food Service is looking for part time cooks to assist with serving lunch in our kitchens.  Shifts are generally about 3

Harrison Elementary Reopening Plan - 2020-2021 Rev. 8-18-2020 Welcome to another exciting new school year. As we prepare for our first day on September 8th, I know many of you have a million questions. I hope you find the information below informative and

UPDATE:  August 6, 2020 SLSD Parents and Guardians, Thank you for your patience and support as we continue to refine our “Back to School 2020” plan to reflect the latest guidance we continue to receive from the State of Ohio and Hamilton

August 3, 2020 Dear Southwest Local School District parents / guardians; At our July 30th Board of Education meeting, we had a deep discussion and ultimately a unanimous vote to reduce our transportation services to Ohio’s state minimums.  After

Please see the following from our friends at Church on Fire!   Highlighter is coming! "What's Highlighter", you ask?Highlighter is a back-to-school event, hosted at Church on Fire for students that have a need for school supplies. It's on Friday,

The Southwest Local School District is hiring an internal substitute teacher for each of their school buildings (Crosby Elem., Miamitown Elem., Harrison Elem., Whitewater Valley Elem., Harrison Junior School and Harrison High School). Substitute teachers

The Southwest Local School District has multiple openings for full-time school bus drivers.  Drivers work a "split shift" of 6 hours per day on days where school is in session for students, plus they receive paid holidays and benefits.  A CDL with

Thank you, parents and guardians, for the phone calls and emails giving input on the 2020-2021 re-opening plan.  In response to several concerns regarding the masking requirements in the heat, our administrative team has made the decision to delay

Hoxworth Blood Center has an urgent need for donors.  To help facilitate this, the Southwest Local School District has partnered with Hoxworth to hold a Summer Blood Drive.  The drive will take place in the air-conditioned Harrison Junior School

Southwest Local School District elementary Field Days are always one of the highlights of the end of the school year.  Of course, they were cancelled due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) school closures. To keep this annual tradition alive, SLSD P.E.

Kindergarten registration is now open.  Click this link for more information, including the kindergarten packet with required documents, instructions for completing online forms, the link to online registration forms, and the required Ohio Health History

The indoor walking track at the Activity Center has been re-opened to the public as of Monday, June 8.  The track is open during the normal summer hours of 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Monday-Friday.   While enhanced cleaning/sanitizing procedures

Due to the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 we are not scheduling in-person appointments at this time. However, once you have completed your online registration through Final Forms, you may scan the required documents as PDFs, and we will accept them via

All four Southwest Local School District elementary schools had just celebrated the grand opening of the Elementary Art Show at the Harrison Branch of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, when the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered life as we know

One of the highlights of the end of the school year is Field Day.  Since we can't be together to enjoy this tradition with each other, we have created some activities that you can participate in at home to create your own Field Day! If you don’t

Welcome to our Incoming 6th Grade Parents & Families, We are so excited to welcome you to Harrison Junior School.  Even with COVID-19, we still want to find ways to connect with our families and students! Over the coming weeks, we will be sending

Harrison Elementary is scheduling student supplies pick-up through a web-based program called Signup Genius. Each grade level has been assigned a day of the week between May 18th – May 27th to pick up the items that were left in their

Brain Bag #2 Turn-in and Brain Bag #3 Pick-up Information Monday, May 4, from 8:00 am – 2:00 pm will be our collection day for Brain Bag #2. Grade level boxes will once again be located outside the school lobby for you to deposit Brain Bag #2. Please

Around April of each year, the transportation department begins to work on the bus routes for the following year.  While it isn't as feasible to send out a personalized form for each students as we have in year's past, we would like to know who is

Looking at the Weeks Ahead By now, most of you should have heard that Governor DeWine has determined that schools in Ohio will be working remotely for the remainder of the school year. The students WILL NOT be going back to school in our building for the

We hope that you are continuing to live out our four core values, despite our distance!  During the upcoming week, take pictures highlighting students performing acts of TRUST, RESPECT, OWNERSHIP, AND LEADERSHIP.  Post them on Twitter, Instagram

On April 20, 2020, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced that remote learning would continue for the remainder of the academic year.  Please click HERE for details on how it will impact the 4th quarter, and the traditional end-of-year activities. 

BRAIN BAG #1 TURN-IN: Monday, April 13 Brain Bag #1 drop-off will be at the front doors between 8AM-2PM.  Large containers, labeled by grade level, will be available for you to drop your child’s packet in. Please make sure your child’s name

With the closure of Ohio schools now stretching until May 1, we will be canceling the Harrison Youth Track program (Grades K-6) for 2020. If you have already registered, you will be receiving a check from the Athletic Boosters to refund your money. We look forward to seeing you in 2021.

Governor DeWine extended the closure of all Ohio schools through at least Friday, May 1.   Click HERE for the latest updates from Superintendent John Hamstra. Thanks to our staff, students and parents for a great start to Remote Learning.  If

Food Distribution began on March 30, 2020.  All elementary schools as well as the junior school have meal bags and power packs on hand to distribute to ANY STUDENT in SLSD with a food need - not just for those on Free and Reduced.  Distribution

The staff at Harrison Elementary has sent you a very important surprise video! Please click on the YouTube link below to view this very special message, and make sure your children see it as

Please note the following information from Lisa Daniel at Church on FireMarch 24, 2020 IMPORTANT COMMUNITY FOOD UPDATES: We have some important food updates we want to make you aware of:  FOOD TRUCK FEEDINGS: In an effort to keep our community as

Third Quarter report cards were due to be distributed on March 20, 2020.  Due to the school closure, we are making the report card available via your ProgressBook ParentAccess account. You may login to your ProgressBook Parent Access account and

Greetings, SLSD Parents and Guardians, We are now one week into our unexpected school closure due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.  I’ve been impressed at the resilience of our staff, students, and parents.  From day one, teachers have

Linked below are the first round of "Brain Bags" which have been prepared by grade level / content area, by teachers at each school.  Contact the respective teacher via email with any questions.  Students should be prepared to return these

Local churches and food pantries have partnered with the Southwest Local School District to ensure that no child goes hungry during the extended school closure due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak. Power Packs will be available for pickup beginning

Governor DeWine and the Department of Health closed K – 12 schools in Ohio this afternoon, March 12, for three weeks. Obviously, the decision to close schools, and cancel athletics and other performance events, was not made lightly. The primary

Stay current on the latest news and guidance regarding the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and its effect on the Southwest Local School District by visiting southwestschools.org/wellness.

March 11, 2020 Due to recent cases of the Coronavirus (COVID – 19) making their way into Ohio, under the advisement of the Hamilton County Health Department, school districts across the State of Ohio are making contingency plans for both academics and

Pre-School registration is now closed.  Thank you for your interest.

The Southwest Local School District's Elementary Art Show is taking place at the Harrison Public Library.  An opening reception will take place Tuesday, March 10 from 6:30-8:00 PM, and work will be on display through the end of March. Selected works from each class will be featured (about 3-4 pieces per class).

Enrollment is now underway for Head Start for the 2020-2021 school year.  The program is run by the Hamilton County Educational Service Center, is housed at Harrison Elementary School, and is open to any family living within the Southwest Local School

The "Empty Bowls" dinner makes its return to Harrison on Wednesday, March 18 in the Activity Center Bistro.  The first seating will be from 5:00-6:00 PM, and the second seating from 6:30-7:30 PM. Empty Bowls is a grassroots movement by artists and

Harrison High School Student Council invites you to this year's Mom Prom and Daddy Daughter Dances.  Tickets can be purchased at the links below.  There are two separate order forms, so please select the dance you will be attending when purchasing

Preschool Registration for the 2020-2021 school year will open Monday, March 9th, 2020 (Registration packets will only be available on-line beginning midnight March 9th)   Registration is processed on a first come first served basis.   What you

Each month, SLSD Superintendent John Hamstra holds informal “coffee chat” sessions, designed as a way for any parent, guardian or community member to get a better understanding of our school district and get answers to any questions they may

The Harrison Wellness Coalition is pleased to partner with several local organizations to offer Building Healthy Families, a free workshop on Saturday, Feb. 22.  The purpose of this workshop is to help local families overcome barriers and learn skills to

Construction of our new school buildings is in full swing, with the project remaining on time and on budget.  The endeavor consists of three new elementary schools, one new middle school, and extensive renovations to the current high

UPDATE:  Friday, February 7, 2020:  Southwest Local Schools are now CLOSED.

The Harrison High School Creative Arts Theatre is proud to present the 50's and 60's rock and roll band, "The Belairs" in concert on Saturday, January 18. Formerly known as "Hot Wax", The Belairs Show is dedicated to those who can appreciate the memorable

The Southwest Local School District is looking to fill multiple transportation positions.  Hours are typically 6-9  AM and 1:30-4:30 PM.  Positions can be for 3-6 hours per day, or as a "sub" on an as-needed basis.  Job descriptions for

An important piece to our new schools (and renovated High School) is telling our story through our Pride Wall project. Connecting our rich history with the future is extremely powerful.  Each building will have a Pride Wall installed near the entrance; a

Acting on a recommendation by the School Naming Committee, the Southwest Local School District Board of Education has officially named the new elementary school located on the central campus, "Miami Whitewater Elementary".   The committee was led

SLSD Service Project Benefits Those in Need This Holiday Season Again this year, the Southwest Local School District is proud to partner with the Harrison Mayor’s Fund, This City His City, Christ’s Loving Hands, and JTM Food Group to provide for

Check everyone off your holiday shopping list with Harrison Wildcats gear from "The Den" Spirit Shop!  In addition to our normal operating hours, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM on school days, we are pleased to offer special evening hours leading up to

The Southwest Local School District is proud to present a visit by an author and guest speaker to focus on bullying.  Michele Eich is a teacher, author, speaker, and encourager – and she is offering her message free of charge to parents from

Elementary Parents and Guardians,   When you completed your online forms through Final Forms, you should have received a test text message from School Messenger (our mass notification platform) if your number was newly registered or was

Harrison Drama is FLYING through the air! Bring the family to our Creative Arts Theater production of Disney’s Classic, Peter Pan, on November 15 & 16! Tickets are now on sale at southwestschools.org/tickets and from the cast members. Student and

Months of planning and preparation have lead up to the start of construction on our new school buildings!  Early site work began in earnest in early October.  This included removing current obstacles, earth moving, and site

Due to the extreme heat, Southwest Local Schools will dismiss elementary and junior school students two hours early on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday - September 30, October 1, and October 2.  In addition, there will be no PM Kindergarten, PM Pre School,

Construction is ready to begin and fencing is going up. Our new schools are on their way, which is certainly an exciting time for Harrison! With that progress though, comes its challenges. Losing the area in the back of Harrison Elementary for bus

SLSD one of 85 districts across the State to release Quality Profile, used in conjunction with state report card In Southwest Local Schools, we take pride in the outstanding opportunities that we make available to our students. We live our mission of helping

Construction site preparation for our new building begins the week of September 23. With this said there will need to be some changes made for recess, bus drop off in the morning and at dismissal. On Friday, the students practiced a new dismissal process.

SLSD Parents / Guardians,   The heat is not letting up. Throw in temps in the 70’s at night with 90% humidity to start the day and you’ve got sauna like conditions in our K – 8 classrooms, before the sun comes up. Temps are going jump

Students throughout the Southwest Local School District will unite to make a difference in our community at the second annual "Day of Service" on Saturday, September 14.  Every athletic team, along with many service groups/clubs, churches, schools,

We believe it’s our job to care for one another.  That means stepping in to help our neighbor when they have a need.  Our second annual Day of Service is coming up on Saturday, September 14.  In advance of this community-wide event, we

On Friday, August 23, 2019 the Southwest Local School District broke ground on three new elementary schools and one new middle school that, when complete, will provide a modern learning environment for students in grades pre-K through

On Friday, August 23, the Southwest Local School District will break ground on three new elementary schools and one new middle school that, when complete, will provide a modern learning environment for students in grades pre-K through 8.  Combined with

We are very excited to get started with the new school year!  There have been HUNDREDS of adjustments to the routes, stops, and times since our mailing in early August due to all of the new students entering our district and requested

The Southwest Local School District held its annual "State of the Schools" night on August 7.  The evening provided a wrap up of last school year and a preview of the year to come.  Extensive updates were presented on curriculum, finances, district

Get ready for the 2019-2020 school year by joining us for the State of the Schools Night on Wednesday, August 7.  The event, which is free and open to the public, will begin at 7:00 PM in the Martin Marietta Performing Arts Theater at the Activity

Three veteran educators will be taking on new leadership roles in the Southwest Local School District this year.

The Southwest Local School District is pleased to present our third Town Hall Meeting, designed to provide a comprehensive update on the design of our new schools!  Our project includes three new elementary schools, one new middle school, and a renovated

Opportunities abound in the Southwest Local School District this summer!  From athletics to STEAM to robotics, there are camps available for your children to keep them active, engaged and off their

STEAM Summer Camp will take place from June 24-28.  Two sessions will be held, with multiple course offerings available during each session.  The morning session will run from 9:00-11:00 AM and the afternoon session will follow from 12:00-2:00

The Reds Baseball/Softball Camps presented by UnitedHealthcare are back for an eighth season in 2019.  The camp will again be returning to Harrison High School from June 24-28.  The camps are open to boys and girls ages 6 to 14.  Each camp

This is an invitation for ALL Harrison groups and activities, K to 12, to take part in the pregame parade for Harrison night at Great American Ball Park on Tuesday, April 23.  If you have a group, club or organization that is interested, please contact

Harrison Robotics is pleased to present the annual Robotics Summer Camp.  The camp is for any student in grades 3-5 during the 2018-2019 school year.  The camp will take place July 22-26 from 9:00 AM - Noon at Harrison High School. For more

We are pleased to present information for the 2019 season of Harrison's Youth Track & Field program that is available to the entire community.  The design of this program is to introduce the sport of track & field to kids in our area. 

Harrison High School Student Council invites you to this year's Mom Prom and Daddy Daughter Dances.  Tickets can be purchased at the links below.  There are two separate order forms, so please select the dance you will be attending when purchasing

The Southwest Local School District teamed up with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for our third district-wide fundraiser of the year, following the Day of Service in the fall and the Food and Clothing Drive at holiday time. Students were encouraged to

The Southwest Local School District invites you to leave your mark on the design of the new school facilities by joining the Pride Wall committee.  Each of the three new elementary schools will have a Pride Wall, along with the new middle school and the

As of March 5, 2019 - Preschool Registration for the 2019-2020 school year is closed.

This week our students will continue to collect money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.    Our school is joining over 28,000 other schools across the nation to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  We are encouraging students to

Wednesday, February 20:  Southwest Local Schools are on a Two-Hour Delay, with no morning kindergarten, preschool, or head start.

The Southwest Local School District is "Proud, P-R-O-U-D, Proud" to announce that we have 2 students who qualified to compete in the WCPO 9 On Your Side Regional Spelling Bee on March 16, 2019 at Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy. They are Elijah Snyder from

Preschool Registration for the 2019-2020 School Year will open Monday, March 4, 2019. (Registration packets will only be available on-line beginning midnight March

Friday, February 1: Southwest Local Schools are CLOSED.

On Thursday, January 24 the Southwest Local School District presented the second Town Hall meeting, updating the community on the design process of the new school facilities. The presentations were led by our architecture firm, SHP Leading Design, and our

The Harrison High School Creative Arts Theatre is proud to present the 50's and 60's rock and roll band, "The Belairs" in concert on Saturday, January 26. Formerly known as "Hot Wax", The Belairs Show is dedicated to those who can appreciate the memorable

The Southwest Local School District is pleased to present our second Town Hall Meeting, designed to provide a comprehensive update on the design of our new schools!  Our project includes three new elementary schools, one new middle school, and a

Dear Incoming 6th Grade Parents, It is hard to believe, just a few years ago your students were starting their first day of Kindergarten.  Nervous children and nervous parents were watching their children walk into our great Elementary Schools, stomachs

2017-18 Overall A Award: The Overall A Award is presented by the State Board of Education and recognizes schools that earned an Overall A on their report card.  Only 23 schools out of 100 in Hamilton County earned this award, 310 total out of

Mercy Health has a long history of partnering with area schools to help students, teachers and staff be well. Today, Mercy Health announces that it has partnered with the Southwest Local School District to promote the health and wellness of the school’s

Harrison Wildcats Athletics is warning business owners about a scam where a company calling themselves "Sports Media" purports to be soliciting advertising dollars on behalf of the school.     To verify the legitimacy of any fundraising

A process more than two years in the making, is finally coming to fruition.  SLSD has added 4 new buses to our fleet from a grant that was approved back in 2016.  Via this grant, our district paid for the cost of just one bus and the grant covered

Southwest Local School District recently was honored as one of only four school districts in Hamilton County to be named a “2018 Momentum Award” recipient by the Ohio Department of Education. In addition, SLSD is one of only two school districts

Families in need throughout the Southwest Local School District got a little relief this holiday season, thanks to the generosity of students, staff and community members.  A record number of canned goods and other non-perishable food items – more

Again this year, the Southwest Local School District is proud to partner with the Harrison Mayor’s Fund, This City His City, Christ’s Loving Hands, and JTM Food Group to provide for those in need in our community this holiday season. The annual

Southwest Parents and Guardians, If you did not receive the two-hour delay call on Thursday, November 15, please read the following instructions:   Please check your US Mail for a letter which will include the emergency contact information we have on

Harrison Elementary Parents and Guardians, This morning at approximately 8:15, a suspicious odor was detected on the grounds of Harrison Elementary.  As a precaution, students were held outside the building on school buses to keep warm while the

November is National Novel Writing month! In honor of NaNoWriMo, we have novels on display at the Harrison Public Library. These novels were written last year for the NaNoWriMo Young Writers' Program. The novels were written by some of our very own 4th and

Junior year is an important year regarding college entrance exams. Those exams are the ACT and the SAT. All Juniors will have an opportunity to take the ACT for free at school during the school day on February 20th, 2019. Students can participate in the

It has come to our attention that an email is circulating which uses the Southwest Local School District name and logo to insinuate that the school district is promoting a GoFundMe campaign regarding a child's medical needs.  The email appears to come

The Senior Class of William Henry Harrison High School is sponsoring the first of two Hoxworth Blood Drives this school year.  The first drive is coming up on Thursday, October 11 from 7:45 AM - 1:00 PM at the Activity Center.     This

Mark your calendars for a fun-filled night at the Skatin’ Place on Thursday, October 11th from 6:30 – 9:00 pm. Students are off school the following day which makes this event even better. Cost is $5.50 per skater with skate rental available for

Each school year, our buildings run about 16 safety drills that focus on fire, tornado, and intruder scenarios in accordance with state laws.  Similarly, the State of Ohio requires our students to practice bus evacuations.  In September, we

Southwest Local Schools is looking for substitute bus drivers.  Substitute drivers are needed to fill in on routes when drivers are ill or unable to work, generally during the hours of 6-9 AM or 2-4:30 PM.  Sub bus drivers are also eligible to take

Did you know? All Southwest Schools serve breakfast daily for 30 minutes prior to the start of the school day. Breakfast is served in the Cafeteria and costs $0.95. The free and reduced price of $.30 applies to those who qualify. It’s the most important meal of the day... don't miss it! All are welcome!

Southwest Local Schools is looking for part-time cafeteria workers.  We have immediate openings at Harrison High School and will be interviewing in the coming weeks.  These positions consist of 15 hours a week, working each school day

We are pleased to release the SLSD Quality Profile (QP) from the 2017-2018 school year.  The Quality Profile is meant to serve as a companion to the State of Ohio Report Card that is released soon after the Quality Profile. This year's QP again

Mobile app provides quick access to school information In addition to our updated website, Southwest Local Schools is pleased to roll out a new mobile app. If you visit our school website www.southwestschools.org from a phone or tablet, you

The July edition of the "Super Chat" podcast is now online at www.southwestschools.org/podcast. In this episode, Superintendent John Hamstra provides an update on the home stretch of the new building construction project, including the Ribbon

The Southwest Local School District in Harrison, OH has selected GovDeals, a leading online auction marketplace for government agencies and educational institutions to offer their surplus equipment for sale. The district joins more than 14,000