October is Principal’s Month, and we’re celebrating the outstanding school leaders who help make District 161 a special place to learn, grow, and belong.
Our principals do so much more than lead their schools. They build relationships, support teachers and staff, connect with families, celebrate students, and help create the culture that makes each school uniquely its own.
Each Friday in October, we’ll highlight one of our building principals.
This week, we’re celebrating Carol Humm, Principal of Heather Hill Elementary School!
Known for her thoughtful leadership, commitment to high-quality instruction and care for students, staff and families, Principal Humm helps make Heather Hill a special place to learn and grow.
Here’s what members of the Heather Hill team have to say about her:
“Carol was my principal when I served as the K-1 Instructional Teacher here at Heather Hill, and now I’m fortunate to serve alongside her as Assistant Principal and co-leader of our Hive. I learned so much about what it means to be a compassionate, steady and thoughtful school leader from working with Carol, and I continue to learn from her every day. I’m grateful for our partnership and for the care and commitment she brings to our students, staff and families. Happy Principals Month, Carol!” - Seena Purnam, Assistant Principal
“One thing I appreciate about our principal is her commitment to high-quality instruction and student growth. She believes in students being challenged, supported, and given opportunities to succeed academically.” -Danielle Callahan
Please join us in celebrating Principal Humm and all of our Flossmoor School District 161 principals this month. We’re grateful for the leadership they provide every day!
ALL IN. EVERY DAY.
Our principals do so much more than lead their schools. They build relationships, support teachers and staff, connect with families, celebrate students, and help create the culture that makes each school uniquely its own.
Each Friday in October, we’ll highlight one of our building principals.
This week, we’re celebrating Carol Humm, Principal of Heather Hill Elementary School!
Known for her thoughtful leadership, commitment to high-quality instruction and care for students, staff and families, Principal Humm helps make Heather Hill a special place to learn and grow.
Here’s what members of the Heather Hill team have to say about her:
“Carol was my principal when I served as the K-1 Instructional Teacher here at Heather Hill, and now I’m fortunate to serve alongside her as Assistant Principal and co-leader of our Hive. I learned so much about what it means to be a compassionate, steady and thoughtful school leader from working with Carol, and I continue to learn from her every day. I’m grateful for our partnership and for the care and commitment she brings to our students, staff and families. Happy Principals Month, Carol!” - Seena Purnam, Assistant Principal
“One thing I appreciate about our principal is her commitment to high-quality instruction and student growth. She believes in students being challenged, supported, and given opportunities to succeed academically.” -Danielle Callahan
Please join us in celebrating Principal Humm and all of our Flossmoor School District 161 principals this month. We’re grateful for the leadership they provide every day!
ALL IN. EVERY DAY.
🎃 SAVE THE DATE! 🎃
District 161 families, mark your calendars for the Student Council and FEA-sponsored Trunk or Treat!
Thursday, October 29
Parker Junior High School
This district-wide event is open to all District 161 students and families. Admission is one nonperishable food item.
We’re also looking for District 161 parents who would like to host a trunk and help make the evening special for our students.
Parents interested in hosting a trunk should sign up by October 23. Space is limited, and registration may close early if we reach capacity.
Sign up to host a trunk: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScOrxhYSW99tH6ZR_1B3hZztA9MBRk6wE3sfp4NRFRekFtafg/viewform?usp=dialog
More event details are included in the flyer. We hope to see you there!
District 161 families, mark your calendars for the Student Council and FEA-sponsored Trunk or Treat!
Thursday, October 29
Parker Junior High School
This district-wide event is open to all District 161 students and families. Admission is one nonperishable food item.
We’re also looking for District 161 parents who would like to host a trunk and help make the evening special for our students.
Parents interested in hosting a trunk should sign up by October 23. Space is limited, and registration may close early if we reach capacity.
Sign up to host a trunk: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScOrxhYSW99tH6ZR_1B3hZztA9MBRk6wE3sfp4NRFRekFtafg/viewform?usp=dialog
More event details are included in the flyer. We hope to see you there!
Happy National Custodian Day!
Today, we’re celebrating the custodians who help make Flossmoor School District 161 a place where students and staff can learn, work and feel at home.
So much of what they do happens behind the scenes, but their work makes a difference every single day. From caring for our buildings to helping keep our schools clean, safe and welcoming, our custodians are an important part of our school community.
Thank you to our Flossmoor School District 161 custodial teams for all you do. Type a note of thanks to our amazing custodial staff in the comments below!
Today, we’re celebrating the custodians who help make Flossmoor School District 161 a place where students and staff can learn, work and feel at home.
So much of what they do happens behind the scenes, but their work makes a difference every single day. From caring for our buildings to helping keep our schools clean, safe and welcoming, our custodians are an important part of our school community.
Thank you to our Flossmoor School District 161 custodial teams for all you do. Type a note of thanks to our amazing custodial staff in the comments below!
October is Principal’s Month, and we’re celebrating the outstanding school leaders who help make District 161 a special place to learn, grow and belong.
Our principals do so much more than lead their schools. They build relationships, support teachers and staff, connect with families, celebrate students and help create the culture that makes each school uniquely its own.
Each Friday in October, we’ll highlight one of our building principals.
First up: Evita McNeil-Dobson, Principal of Flossmoor Hills School!
Known for her commitment to students, her support of staff, and her strong connection to the Flossmoor Hills community, Principal McNeil-Dobson brings leadership, heart, and a true belief in her school to her work each day.
Here’s what members of the Flossmoor Hills team have to say about her:
Evita, never forget how amazing you are and how much of an impact you have made on Flossmoor Hills Elementary School!” Kelly Rosales, Kindergarten Teacher
“Evita has an incredible ability to see the potential in the people around her, sometimes even before they see it in themselves. She recognizes what her teachers and staff are capable of and encourages them to grow, lead, and take on new challenges. She has been one of my biggest cheerleaders, and I am so grateful for the confidence she has placed in me and the opportunities she has given me to grow.” Lisa Ciesielski, Reading Specialist.
Please join us in celebrating Principal McNeil-Dobson and all of our Flossmoor District 161 principals this month. We’re grateful for the leadership they provide every day!
ALL IN. EVERY DAY.
Our principals do so much more than lead their schools. They build relationships, support teachers and staff, connect with families, celebrate students and help create the culture that makes each school uniquely its own.
Each Friday in October, we’ll highlight one of our building principals.
First up: Evita McNeil-Dobson, Principal of Flossmoor Hills School!
Known for her commitment to students, her support of staff, and her strong connection to the Flossmoor Hills community, Principal McNeil-Dobson brings leadership, heart, and a true belief in her school to her work each day.
Here’s what members of the Flossmoor Hills team have to say about her:
Evita, never forget how amazing you are and how much of an impact you have made on Flossmoor Hills Elementary School!” Kelly Rosales, Kindergarten Teacher
“Evita has an incredible ability to see the potential in the people around her, sometimes even before they see it in themselves. She recognizes what her teachers and staff are capable of and encourages them to grow, lead, and take on new challenges. She has been one of my biggest cheerleaders, and I am so grateful for the confidence she has placed in me and the opportunities she has given me to grow.” Lisa Ciesielski, Reading Specialist.
Please join us in celebrating Principal McNeil-Dobson and all of our Flossmoor District 161 principals this month. We’re grateful for the leadership they provide every day!
ALL IN. EVERY DAY.
#ICYMI
Last Friday night we joined the Homewood Flossmoor Marching Vikings along with our friends from Homewood School District 153 for a combined halftime performance.
Thank you to our hosts for the amazing experience and to our very own Ms. Reid and Mr. Lopez for the excellent leadership!
October is National Bullying Prevention Month.
Preventing bullying starts with the way we treat one another every day.
Sometimes it’s as simple as noticing who is sitting alone. Inviting someone to join your group. Speaking up when something doesn’t feel right. Getting an adult when someone needs help.
Small choices can make a big difference.
In Flossmoor School District 161, we want everyone to know: You belong here.
We are also encouraging families to talk about bullying and kindness at home. Ask your child what they would do if they saw someone being left out, teased, or treated unfairly. Talk about when to speak up, when to get help and how they can be part of making sure others feel welcome.
Let’s make room for each other SD 161!
Preventing bullying starts with the way we treat one another every day.
Sometimes it’s as simple as noticing who is sitting alone. Inviting someone to join your group. Speaking up when something doesn’t feel right. Getting an adult when someone needs help.
Small choices can make a big difference.
In Flossmoor School District 161, we want everyone to know: You belong here.
We are also encouraging families to talk about bullying and kindness at home. Ask your child what they would do if they saw someone being left out, teased, or treated unfairly. Talk about when to speak up, when to get help and how they can be part of making sure others feel welcome.
Let’s make room for each other SD 161!
Are you a nurse looking for a flexible way to support students in your community?
Flossmoor School District 161 is looking for substitute nurses to help provide care and support in our schools when our regular nurses are away.
If you’re interested in working with our students and joining the District 161 team, we’d love to hear from you!
Learn more about the position and application process by emailing Dr. Marti at Hmarti@sd161.org
Flossmoor School District 161 is looking for substitute nurses to help provide care and support in our schools when our regular nurses are away.
If you’re interested in working with our students and joining the District 161 team, we’d love to hear from you!
Learn more about the position and application process by emailing Dr. Marti at Hmarti@sd161.org
Please join us in welcoming two new members to the District 161 Board of Education.
On Monday, the Board officially appointed Dr. Crystal Cleggett and Mr. James Ulwick to fill the vacancies left by Dr. Carolyn Griggs and Mrs. Christina Vlietstra.
Cleggett brings more than 20 years of experience in mental health, higher education, leadership and community engagement. Ulwick is an Illinois attorney with more than a decade of legal experience.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Cleggett and Mr. Ulwick to the District 161 team,” said Board President David Linnear. “Both are invested in our community, and we look forward to beginning our work together.”
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Cleggett and Mr. Ulwick to District 161!
On Monday, the Board officially appointed Dr. Crystal Cleggett and Mr. James Ulwick to fill the vacancies left by Dr. Carolyn Griggs and Mrs. Christina Vlietstra.
Cleggett brings more than 20 years of experience in mental health, higher education, leadership and community engagement. Ulwick is an Illinois attorney with more than a decade of legal experience.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Cleggett and Mr. Ulwick to the District 161 team,” said Board President David Linnear. “Both are invested in our community, and we look forward to beginning our work together.”
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Cleggett and Mr. Ulwick to District 161!
Thank you to everyone who joined us last night at Parker Junior High School for the presentation hosted by the Flossmoor School District 161 Community Engagement Committee and the Department of Learning and Instruction.
Director Amabel Crawford and Curriculum Coordinator, Christina Bollenbacher shared information and answered questions from our community.
We loved seeing such a great turnout, and especially appreciated all of the questions from those in attendance. Your questions and participation are an important part of these conversations.
This is what being ALL IN looks like, asking questions, participating, and staying engaged in the work happening across District 161!
Congratulations to the Parker Junior High Baseball team on their win last night over James Hart.
The Falcons advance in the regional tournament and will face off against Crete, today, at 4:15.
The game will be played at Lion's Club field in Homewood.
Come on out and cheer them on to victory!
EVERY DAY MATTERS.
When students come to school regularly, they have more opportunities to learn, ask questions, make connections, build friendships, participate in activities and be part of all the little moments that make school special.
And the numbers matter, too. Missing just 10% of the school year, about 18 days, is considered chronic absenteeism. Research shows that students who miss school regularly are more likely to experience academic challenges and fall behind.
We know that life happens. Kids get sick. Families face challenges. Sometimes an absence just can’t be avoided.
But when your child is healthy and able to be at school, please help them get there. Those days add up. And so do the opportunities they would otherwise miss.
Every day. Every connection. Every opportunity to learn.
It all matters.
ALL IN. EVERY DAY.
When students come to school regularly, they have more opportunities to learn, ask questions, make connections, build friendships, participate in activities and be part of all the little moments that make school special.
And the numbers matter, too. Missing just 10% of the school year, about 18 days, is considered chronic absenteeism. Research shows that students who miss school regularly are more likely to experience academic challenges and fall behind.
We know that life happens. Kids get sick. Families face challenges. Sometimes an absence just can’t be avoided.
But when your child is healthy and able to be at school, please help them get there. Those days add up. And so do the opportunities they would otherwise miss.
Every day. Every connection. Every opportunity to learn.
It all matters.
ALL IN. EVERY DAY.
Parent Night: Standards-Based Grading
Join us tomorrow evening for a special Parent Night at Parker Junior High focused on standards-based grading and learning in District 161.
Parents and guardians will learn more about how standards-based learning supports student success and get practical tips and resources to support their students at home.
The evening will also include:
• Information about standards-based learning in SD161 schools
• Tips for supporting your student at home
• Student binders
• BPAC sign-up
• A D’s Cookies raffle
• Community resources and local organizations offering support and services
• A special Hispanic Heritage Month celebration sponsored by the SD161 BPAC
Wednesday, September 23
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Parker Junior High School, 2810 School Street
We hope you’ll join us for an informative and family-friendly evening. Let’s celebrate learning together!
Join us tomorrow evening for a special Parent Night at Parker Junior High focused on standards-based grading and learning in District 161.
Parents and guardians will learn more about how standards-based learning supports student success and get practical tips and resources to support their students at home.
The evening will also include:
• Information about standards-based learning in SD161 schools
• Tips for supporting your student at home
• Student binders
• BPAC sign-up
• A D’s Cookies raffle
• Community resources and local organizations offering support and services
• A special Hispanic Heritage Month celebration sponsored by the SD161 BPAC
Wednesday, September 23
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Parker Junior High School, 2810 School Street
We hope you’ll join us for an informative and family-friendly evening. Let’s celebrate learning together!
Join us Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to noon for an engaging morning celebrating Hispanic heritage, culture and community.
The Village of Flossmoor and Flossmoor Public Library are hosting this special celebration in partnership with the BPAC Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee. Families are invited to come together for a morning of learning, connection and celebration.
We hope you’ll join us as we kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month together!
The Village of Flossmoor and Flossmoor Public Library are hosting this special celebration in partnership with the BPAC Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee. Families are invited to come together for a morning of learning, connection and celebration.
We hope you’ll join us as we kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month together!
⛳️ Good luck, Imani Green!
We’re cheering on Imani Green as she represents Parker Junior High at the State Golf Championship today! This marks Imani’s second consecutive year competing at State, an incredible accomplishment!
Imani will be competing at Metamora Fields Golf Course in Metamora, IL. We’re so proud of you, Imani, and can’t wait to see you represent Flossmoor School District 161 on the state stage!
Good luck, Imani!
Follow results and live scoring here:
https://www.iesa.org/activities/go/
There are two vacancies on the Flossmoor School District 161 Board of Education due to the recent resignations of Mrs. Christina Vlietstra and Dr. Carolyn Griggs. Please see the attached document with an update on the process that the Board of Education is using to fill the vacancies.
Our Parker Junior High softball season came to a close yesterday, and we are proud of our girls and all they accomplished this season. They competed with determination, supported one another and represented Parker with pride every step of the way.
At the regional game, Maggie Goesel was recognized with the Sportsmanship Award, a wonderful honor that reflects the way she represented her team throughout the season. Congratulations, Maggie!
A big thank you to our softball coaches for the time, energy and encouragement they gave our athletes all season long, and to our parents and families for cheering the girls on every step of the way. Your support makes a difference!
At the regional game, Maggie Goesel was recognized with the Sportsmanship Award, a wonderful honor that reflects the way she represented her team throughout the season. Congratulations, Maggie!
A big thank you to our softball coaches for the time, energy and encouragement they gave our athletes all season long, and to our parents and families for cheering the girls on every step of the way. Your support makes a difference!
A quick calendar reminder, families!
There are two upcoming days when students will be out of school:
Friday, September 18
Teacher Institute Day
No school for students.
Monday, September 21
Yom Kippur Observed
No school for staff and students. The District Office will also be closed.
Be sure to mark your calendars!
There are two upcoming days when students will be out of school:
Friday, September 18
Teacher Institute Day
No school for students.
Monday, September 21
Yom Kippur Observed
No school for staff and students. The District Office will also be closed.
Be sure to mark your calendars!
National Hispanic Heritage Month begins today, and we’re excited to celebrate with our families and community!
Join us Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to noon for an engaging morning celebrating Hispanic heritage, culture and community.
The Village of Flossmoor and Flossmoor Public Library are hosting this special celebration in partnership with the BPAC Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee. Families are invited to come together for a morning of learning, connection and celebration.
We hope you’ll join us as we kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month together!
Join us Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to noon for an engaging morning celebrating Hispanic heritage, culture and community.
The Village of Flossmoor and Flossmoor Public Library are hosting this special celebration in partnership with the BPAC Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee. Families are invited to come together for a morning of learning, connection and celebration.
We hope you’ll join us as we kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month together!
Good luck to our Parker Junior High softball team as they take the field today in the sectional game!
This team has worked hard all season, and we couldn’t be more proud of everything they’ve accomplished. From an undefeated regular season to becoming Regional Champions, these girls have shown what it means to work together, compete and never give up.
Good luck, Falcons! We’re proud of you, on and off the field!
This team has worked hard all season, and we couldn’t be more proud of everything they’ve accomplished. From an undefeated regular season to becoming Regional Champions, these girls have shown what it means to work together, compete and never give up.
Good luck, Falcons! We’re proud of you, on and off the field!
Happy Monday Flossmoor School District 161!
Thank you to everyone that was out along the race course cheering on the Hidden Gem Half Marathon runners. Your enthusiasm made a big impact.
This is going to be a great week!
