10/21/2026
HER VOICE, HER LEGACY: Hamilton Crossing Elementary School grieves the loss of Ms. Cindy Phillips.
For 24 years, Ms. Cindy was a Knight. During her time at Hamilton Crossing, she served as an instructional clerk, administrative assistant and, for the last 12 and a half years, bookkeeper.
But a job title could never fully capture her impact.
Students knew her as the “candy sale lady.” Families recognized her voice as the familiar voice of the afternoon announcements. And colleagues knew they could always count on her for sage advice, a warm embrace or a clever comeback.
Long before the school day ended, Ms. Cindy had already made her rounds, checking on students, helping staff and making sure people had what they needed. She had a way of making every person feel seen, valued and cared for.
Her absence has already been felt in a big way.
As family, friends and coworkers gather Friday to say goodbye, many will wear bright colors in her honor because that's exactly what Ms. Cindy would have wanted.
And if she could offer her school family one final reminder, it would likely be the same one she shared during afternoon announcements each day: “Get out and touch some grass.”
Then, as always, she'd sign off with her favorite farewell:
“Tootles!”
