Category: News

Step 1 – Log into SchooLinks

Step 2 – on the left side, click on “finances”

Step 3- Click on “Scholarship Match”

Step 4 – Students will need to fill out an “eligibility chart” only takes a couple minutes

Step 5 – Click on “District Posted” in top right

Step 6 – Complete the applications

What do you get when you combine a mathematical and creative mind? In Jarren Vink’s case, you get a successful commercial/still life photographer and director. 

A 2003 graduate of Davidson High School, Jarren shined in academics, including AP courses, was active in band, and it’s where he first discovered his love for photography.

“I excelled at math and physics so thought I’d be an architect. On a whim, someone suggested Ohio University’s photography program so I applied and got accepted,” he said. He earned his degree in commercial photography in 2007.

During his junior and senior year at OU, he got the opportunity to do an internship in New York. He said, “Once I got into that world, I realized there was so much more to it than I thought.” That experience is what helped him narrow his focus to luxury brand still life work such as cosmetics, jewelry, beverages and timepieces. Describing himself as a little obsessive compulsive, he said this segment of photography is the perfect fit as it’s all about control.  

Jarren said Hilliard Schools provided him a well-rounded education, setting him up for success in college and beyond.

“I had a lot of great teachers across the board, but Thad Ricker, my photography teacher, is the reason I’m where I am today,” said Jarren. “A lot of teachers teach you what you need to know, but he took it a step further and was always very encouraging.”  Jarren continues to be well rounded, taking photographs by day and producing maple syrup by night. He and his family moved out of the Big Apple to the Hudson Valley a few years ago and when they discovered several maple trees on their farm, they decided to give it a try. Today, they have a small-scale operation, retaining their product as gifts. 

He was recently featured on PetaPixel. Read more here.

    If you have an alumni you would like to see spotlighted, click here to send us an email!

We are thrilled to announce that the Board of Education has approved three outstanding partners to lead critical projects in Phase 1 of our Master Facilities Plan, Blueprint for Tomorrow. These companies bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and innovation to their respective roles, and we are confident they will help us create facilities that meet the needs of our students, staff, and community.

Fanning Howey

Fanning Howey will serve as the architectural firm responsible for designing the new schools included in this phase of the plan. With a strong reputation for creating innovative and student-focused learning environments, Fanning Howey has decades of experience working with educational facilities across the country. They have worked with the district many times, including designing Bradley High School, Memorial Middle School, and our Preschool additions, to name just three.  Their designs prioritize collaboration, sustainability, and flexibility—ensuring our new schools will serve the district well for generations to come.

Ruscilli Construction

Ruscilli Construction has been selected as the Construction Manager at Risk for the new school building projects. Known for their attention to detail and commitment to excellence, Ruscilli has a proven track record of managing large-scale construction projects efficiently and effectively. Their expertise will ensure the timely and budget-conscious completion of these transformative projects, setting the stage for our district’s bright future.

Schorr Architects Inc.

Schorr Architects Inc. will lead several exciting upgrades across the district. This summer, they will oversee playground improvements at six schools (Avery, Britton, Crossing, Horizon, J.W. Reason, and Norwich), ensuring these spaces are accessible, safe, and engaging for all students. More school playgrounds will be addressed next summer.  Additionally, they will manage upgrades to security entrances at our high schools, middle schools, Tharp sixth-grade school, and the design of the Darby High School weight room facility. Schorr Architects Inc. is known for their commitment to community-focused design and meticulous project execution.

We are excited to work with these outstanding partners to bring our Master Facilities Plan to life. Each company shares our commitment to creating safe, modern, and innovative spaces where our students can learn and thrive.

Stay tuned for updates as we move forward with these projects. Thank you for your continued support of our schools and our vision for the future!

We are proud to announce that our Treasurer, Melissa Swearingen, has been named the recipient of the Regional Distinguished Service Award – Central by the Ohio Association of School Business Officials (OASBO). This award is a testament to Melissa’s exceptional dedication and contributions to our district.

As part of this honor, Hilliard City Schools will receive a $1,000 scholarship to award to a graduating senior, further supporting our students’ futures. Melissa will officially receive her award at the OASBO 2025 Annual Conference & Expo during the Gathering of Gratitude Awards Luncheon on April 9, 2025.

Please join us in congratulating Melissa on this well-deserved recognition!

If you are a senior, or the parent of a senior, looking to go directly into the workforce after graduation, we are hosting an evening to share some of the many opportunities available to you. We will highlight careers in different sectors and areas of work and highlight a few of the benefits of each industry. If there is an area you wish to explore further, we can collaborate on making those connections to assist you on your journey.

Please join us on Thursday, Feb. 20 in the Darby High School PAC from 6:30-7:30. Hope to see you there!

 If you would like to RSVP, you may do so HERE.