Principal's Message

Welcome to Haddam Killingworth High School!

It is my great privilege to serve as principal of Haddam Killingworth High School, an award-winning school community recognized both in Connecticut and across the nation. HKHS was honored as a 2018 National Blue Ribbon School and named a Project Lead the Way School of Distinction in 2025. Year after year, we are recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of America’s Best High Schools. These accolades reflect not only the talent and hard work of our students and staff, but also the deep pride and strong traditions that unite our small, close-knit community.

At HKHS, we believe that excellence in education means offering both breadth and depth of opportunity. Our students choose from a wide variety of courses that evolve regularly to meet their interests and needs, including approximately 35 that carry the potential to earn college credit. Each year, new courses are added, keeping learning fresh, engaging, and forward-looking. Beyond the classroom, our students participate in a rich co-curricular program that includes 26 CIAC (Connecticut Association of Schools and the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference) programs. We are proud to hold the sixth-most state championships in Connecticut in the 2024-25 school year. In addition, we support over 30 student-led clubs (including five national academic honor societies) - a number that is always growing as students bring new ideas to life.

Equally important to us is developing well-rounded, compassionate young people who are prepared to lead and serve. Every student completes a minimum of 30 hours of community service before graduation and leaves HKHS certified in both water safety and CPR. Our culminating Senior Portfolio requires students to showcase their strongest work across five rigorous learning expectations, demonstrating growth, resilience, and readiness for the next stage of life. The result speaks for itself: our graduates are warmly received by colleges, with an average acceptance rate of over 77% across all applications submitted. Our students who choose a path other than college also leave us prepared for success in the next chapter whether that be at a trade school, in the workforce, or joining the military.

Haddam Killingworth High School is proud to be a leader in both the state and nation. Our staff is often called upon to provide training and guidance to other districts, reflecting the innovation and expertise that lives within our walls. As you explore our website, I hope you’ll see what makes HKHS such a special place to learn, grow, and belong. As I tell our students every year, once you’re a Cougar, you’re always a Cougar and the HKHS team is deeply committed to your happiness, success, and well-being. Welcome to the Den!

Respectfully,

Donna Hayward
Principal
Haddam Killingworth High School
Regional School District 17