Skip to main content

Hardinsburg Elementary School

The Story Continues Newsletter

Posted Date: 05/31/26 (06:00 PM)


From The Principal's Desk

Welcome to the first edition of The Story Continues! I hope everyone is enjoying a wonderful summer filled with family, fun, and a little time to relax.

As we prepare for the start of a new school year, I want you to know how excited I am to join the Hardinsburg Elementary family and begin writing the next chapter of our story together. This year, our theme is "Once Upon a Time... We Became Extraordinary," and I truly believe that every student, staff member, family, and community member plays an important role in what makes HES such a special place.

This newsletter will be one of the ways I communicate throughout the year. My goal is to keep everyone informed about important events, celebrations, and the great things happening in our school. I want our families and staff to always feel connected and know what is going on at HES.

As we move forward together, please never hesitate to reach out if you need anything. My door is always open, and I look forward to building strong relationships with our students, families, staff, and community.
Enjoy the rest of your summer. I can't wait to see everyone soon as we begin the next chapter of our extraordinary story!

-Justin Arnold, Ed.D.

HES Bearcat Apparel Store


HES Bearcat Apparel Store is Open!


Gear up and show your Bearcat pride with official HES apparel through X-Grain!
Shop now for Bearcat spirit wear and fan favorites.
Store closes June 15, 2026 — don't miss out!

Once Upon a Time... We Became Extraordinary

This year at Hardinsburg Elementary School, our theme is "Once Upon a Time... We Became Extraordinary."

At first glance, the phrase "we became" may sound like it is talking about the past. In reality, it is a celebration of the journey that has brought us to where we are today. Great schools are not built overnight. They become extraordinary through years of dedication, strong relationships, hard work, perseverance, and a shared commitment to helping children succeed.

Every student, staff member, family, and community partner has helped write the story of Hardinsburg Elementary. Together, those stories have created something truly special.
Throughout the year, we will embrace a storybook theme as we continue writing the next chapter of HES. Hallways, classrooms, and school activities will help bring our story to life while reminding us that every person who walks through our doors plays an important role in our success.

While we celebrate the extraordinary school we have become, we also recognize that our story is still being written. Each day brings a new page, a new opportunity, and a new adventure as we continue growing, learning, and achieving together.

We can't wait to see what the next chapter holds!

Upcoming Events


  • June 3, 10, 17, 24 - Summer Feed 11:00-12:30 PM
  • June 18th- Longest Day of Play 10-3 at the Hardinsburg Community Pool
  • July 1, 8, 15, 22- Summer Feed 11:00-12:30 PM
  • August 4th- Open House 4-6 PM
  • August 2nd- Community School Supply Giveaway at the Fairgrounds
  • August 10th- First Day of School

Summer Feed 2026

Every Wednesday from June 3 through July 22, you can drive through to pick up a bulk meal pack containing 5 breakfast meals and 5 lunch meals per child!

Important Program Notes:
Weekly Sign-Up is Required: To secure your meals, you must fill out the sign-up form every week by Monday night at 11:00 PM. Meals are not guaranteed if you do not sign up.


Pickup Rules: Meals can only be picked up by a parent or guardian. If someone else is picking them up for you, the children must be riding in the vehicle with them.

For a look at the delicious weekly menus (including chicken nuggets, pizza, and fresh fruit) and home-prep instructions, please check out the attached flyer!

Questions? Contact Valerie Dowell at 270-756-3007.

📞 Contact Information

Hardinsburg Elementary School 1340 E US-60 Hardinsburg, KY 40143 (270) 756-3020