Spring Break is here, and it is a wonderful time to pause, recharge, and enjoy a change of pace. We hope our students, families, and staff take this opportunity to rest and enjoy the signs of spring all around us.
Looking for something to do? Consider checking out a new book from the library or visiting a local park to enjoy the fresh air.
Whether your plans include traveling, staying close to home, or simply relaxing, we wish you a safe, healthy, and happy Spring Break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready to learn, on April 6.
Looking for something to do? Consider checking out a new book from the library or visiting a local park to enjoy the fresh air.
Whether your plans include traveling, staying close to home, or simply relaxing, we wish you a safe, healthy, and happy Spring Break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready to learn, on April 6.
Herbicide Application Notification:
On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, March 30th, 31st, and April 1st, 2026, weather permitting, Flossmoor School District 161 will be applying an herbicide and a fertilizer to the field areas at Normandy Villa, Serena Hills, Flossmoor Hills, Heather Hill, Western Ave, and Parker Junior High. The products to be used for this application are The Andersons Turf Products Fertilizer with Barricade Herbicide and Trimec 992 Broadleaf Herbicide. These products comprise a selective broadleaf herbicide and a lawn fertilizer that will be used to control weeds/dandelions in these areas and to fertilize all district lawns.
If you have any questions, please contact Scott Stachacz, Director of Buildings and Grounds, at (708) 647-7005.
On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, March 30th, 31st, and April 1st, 2026, weather permitting, Flossmoor School District 161 will be applying an herbicide and a fertilizer to the field areas at Normandy Villa, Serena Hills, Flossmoor Hills, Heather Hill, Western Ave, and Parker Junior High. The products to be used for this application are The Andersons Turf Products Fertilizer with Barricade Herbicide and Trimec 992 Broadleaf Herbicide. These products comprise a selective broadleaf herbicide and a lawn fertilizer that will be used to control weeds/dandelions in these areas and to fertilize all district lawns.
If you have any questions, please contact Scott Stachacz, Director of Buildings and Grounds, at (708) 647-7005.
Family Reading Night is tonight at Parker Junior High.
Join us for “Escape Into a Good Book,” an evening filled with food trucks, fun, puzzles, surprises, and a little mystery along the way. It is a great opportunity for families to come together, explore reading in a new and engaging way, and enjoy time as a community.
Food trucks will be available starting at 5:30 p.m. The event runs from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
We look forward to seeing our PJH families there for a night of reading, connection, and fun.
Join us for “Escape Into a Good Book,” an evening filled with food trucks, fun, puzzles, surprises, and a little mystery along the way. It is a great opportunity for families to come together, explore reading in a new and engaging way, and enjoy time as a community.
Food trucks will be available starting at 5:30 p.m. The event runs from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
We look forward to seeing our PJH families there for a night of reading, connection, and fun.
Families, we invite you to share your feedback through the Illinois 5Essentials Parent Survey, open now through March 13, 2026. Your input helps us understand what we are doing well and where we can grow, ensuring the best possible learning environment for every student.
To participate, visit https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ and select the Parent Survey to begin. Please complete one survey for each child you have enrolled in SD 161 schools.
The survey is confidential, takes only a few minutes, and plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools. Thank you for partnering with us and helping our community continue to thrive.
To participate, visit https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ and select the Parent Survey to begin. Please complete one survey for each child you have enrolled in SD 161 schools.
The survey is confidential, takes only a few minutes, and plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools. Thank you for partnering with us and helping our community continue to thrive.
The Community Engagement meeting scheduled for tonight, March 10, has been canceled.
ICYMI: Parker Junior High students recently represented the school at the Regional National History Day Competition, and we couldn’t be more proud. Our students did a wonderful job showcasing their hard work, creativity, and research.
A big thank-you also goes to their teacher, Ms. ODwyer, for the time and care she puts into guiding students through this process. Way to represent, Parker Junior High!
A big thank-you also goes to their teacher, Ms. ODwyer, for the time and care she puts into guiding students through this process. Way to represent, Parker Junior High!
Even a little rain could not keep our families away from math night. We were thrilled to see so many students and parents come out to explore, play, and discover just how fun math can be. Students moved from table to table solving puzzles, tackling challenges, and trying hands-on activities that brought math to life. We were especially grateful to have support from our district math departments, The Homewood Science Center, and the Homewood Flossmoor High School math department, who helped make the evening engaging and full of great learning opportunities. Thank you to everyone who braved the drizzly weather to join us! A special shout out to the Department of Learning and Instruction for putting this evening together.
SD161 Summer Academy Location: Serena Hills Elementary School
Dates: June 15–July 16, 2026
Time: 8:30–11:30 a.m., Monday–Thursday (No classes on Fridays)
Due to construction projects taking place this summer, the Summer Academy program will be smaller than in previous years. Students who are required to attend Summer Academy will receive an email with priority registration information on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
If additional spaces remain available, registration will open on April 1, 2026, on a first come, first served basis for current SD161 families.
For families seeking additional summer options, our community partners have also begun releasing their summer programming. The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District has shared information about its Summer Camp programs for families who may need childcare or enrichment opportunities during the summer months, and the Homewood Science Center has also released details about its summer camps.
https://hfparks.com/seasonal-camps/
https://homewoodsciencecenter.org/programs/summer-camps/
Dates: June 15–July 16, 2026
Time: 8:30–11:30 a.m., Monday–Thursday (No classes on Fridays)
Due to construction projects taking place this summer, the Summer Academy program will be smaller than in previous years. Students who are required to attend Summer Academy will receive an email with priority registration information on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
If additional spaces remain available, registration will open on April 1, 2026, on a first come, first served basis for current SD161 families.
For families seeking additional summer options, our community partners have also begun releasing their summer programming. The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District has shared information about its Summer Camp programs for families who may need childcare or enrichment opportunities during the summer months, and the Homewood Science Center has also released details about its summer camps.
https://hfparks.com/seasonal-camps/
https://homewoodsciencecenter.org/programs/summer-camps/
Families, we invite you to share your feedback through the Illinois 5Essentials Parent Survey, open now through March 13, 2026. Your input helps us understand what we are doing well and where we can grow, ensuring the best possible learning environment for every student.
To participate, visit https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ and select the Parent Survey to begin. Please complete one survey for each child you have enrolled in SD 161 schools.
The survey is confidential, takes only a few minutes, and plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools. Thank you for partnering with us and helping our community continue to thrive.
To participate, visit https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ and select the Parent Survey to begin. Please complete one survey for each child you have enrolled in SD 161 schools.
The survey is confidential, takes only a few minutes, and plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools. Thank you for partnering with us and helping our community continue to thrive.
The countdown is on for Math Night. Flossmoor School District 161 invites families to a Math Carnival and Game Night on Wednesday, March 4, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Parker Junior High.
Students and families can explore hands on math games, enjoy refreshments, enter raffles, and experience engaging activities designed to make math come alive. The evening will also feature a special presentation from the Homewood Science Center.
Bring the whole family and join us for an hour of learning, laughter, and plenty of number powered fun. We look forward to seeing you TOMORROW!
Students and families can explore hands on math games, enjoy refreshments, enter raffles, and experience engaging activities designed to make math come alive. The evening will also feature a special presentation from the Homewood Science Center.
Bring the whole family and join us for an hour of learning, laughter, and plenty of number powered fun. We look forward to seeing you TOMORROW!
Do you have a little one who will be starting kindergarten next school year? Or do you know a family getting ready for that big milestone?
Tomorrow, March 3, is Kindergarten Registration Day. Bring your future kindergartener to their home school to get registered for next year. We cannot wait to meet our newest students, see those big smiles, and welcome the Class of 2038.
For more information, click the link below.
https://www.sd161.org/page/kindergarten-registration
Tomorrow, March 3, is Kindergarten Registration Day. Bring your future kindergartener to their home school to get registered for next year. We cannot wait to meet our newest students, see those big smiles, and welcome the Class of 2038.
For more information, click the link below.
https://www.sd161.org/page/kindergarten-registration
Families, we invite you to share your feedback through the Illinois 5Essentials Parent Survey, open now through March 13, 2026. Your input helps us understand what we are doing well and where we can grow, ensuring the best possible learning environment for every student.
To participate, visit https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ and select the Parent Survey to begin. Please complete one survey for each child you have enrolled in SD 161 schools.
The survey is confidential, takes only a few minutes, and plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools. Thank you for partnering with us and helping our community continue to thrive.
To participate, visit https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ and select the Parent Survey to begin. Please complete one survey for each child you have enrolled in SD 161 schools.
The survey is confidential, takes only a few minutes, and plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools. Thank you for partnering with us and helping our community continue to thrive.
Kindergarten is calling!
Flossmoor School District 161 is excited to welcome our newest learners at Kindergarten Registration on Tuesday, March 3, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at each of our elementary schools.
📍 Flossmoor Hills Elementary School – 3721 Beech Street
📍 Heather Hill Elementary School – 1439 Lawrence Crescent
📍 Serena Hills Elementary School – 255 Pleasant Drive
📍 Western Avenue Elementary School – 3200 Western Avenue
This is an important first step in your child’s school journey, and we cannot wait to meet our future kindergarteners. Families will have the opportunity to complete registration, learn more about the school experience, and begin building connections within our District 161 community.
We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2039!
Flossmoor School District 161 is excited to welcome our newest learners at Kindergarten Registration on Tuesday, March 3, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at each of our elementary schools.
📍 Flossmoor Hills Elementary School – 3721 Beech Street
📍 Heather Hill Elementary School – 1439 Lawrence Crescent
📍 Serena Hills Elementary School – 255 Pleasant Drive
📍 Western Avenue Elementary School – 3200 Western Avenue
This is an important first step in your child’s school journey, and we cannot wait to meet our future kindergarteners. Families will have the opportunity to complete registration, learn more about the school experience, and begin building connections within our District 161 community.
We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2039!
You are warmly invited to an evening of reflection, celebration, and student voice at Parker Junior High School’s “Then, Next, and Now” Assembly, honoring 100 years of Black history. This meaningful program will highlight the past, present, and future through powerful performances and presentations by our students.
📍 Parker Junior High School 2810 School Street
📅 Friday, February 27, 2026
🕕 Program begins at 6:00 p.m.
🚪 Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
This event is open to the entire community. Families, neighbors, and friends are all welcome to attend and share in this special evening as we learn, reflect, and celebrate together. We hope to see you there.
📍 Parker Junior High School 2810 School Street
📅 Friday, February 27, 2026
🕕 Program begins at 6:00 p.m.
🚪 Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
This event is open to the entire community. Families, neighbors, and friends are all welcome to attend and share in this special evening as we learn, reflect, and celebrate together. We hope to see you there.
Calling all PJH girls who are interested in STEAM!
Is your child curious, creative, or still figuring out what she loves?
The Girls STEAM Celebration gives 6th–8th grade girls from Parker Junior High and James Hart a chance to explore what’s possible—before high school even begins.
👩🏽🔬 Meet women in STEAM
🎓 Explore Homewood-Flossmoor High School’s Net Zero Science Building
🎨 Create a vision board that reflects their dreams
🍕 Lunch + swag included
📅 Saturday, April 11 | 10am–2pm
🚌 Transportation & chaperones provided by the school
⚠️ Space is limited to 50 students per school. First come, first served.
👉 Register now using the link or QR code on the flyer!
homewoodsciencecenter.org/girls
Be sure to act quickly! Spots are filling fast!
Is your child curious, creative, or still figuring out what she loves?
The Girls STEAM Celebration gives 6th–8th grade girls from Parker Junior High and James Hart a chance to explore what’s possible—before high school even begins.
👩🏽🔬 Meet women in STEAM
🎓 Explore Homewood-Flossmoor High School’s Net Zero Science Building
🎨 Create a vision board that reflects their dreams
🍕 Lunch + swag included
📅 Saturday, April 11 | 10am–2pm
🚌 Transportation & chaperones provided by the school
⚠️ Space is limited to 50 students per school. First come, first served.
👉 Register now using the link or QR code on the flyer!
homewoodsciencecenter.org/girls
Be sure to act quickly! Spots are filling fast!
Families, we invite you to share your feedback through the Illinois 5Essentials Parent Survey, open now through March 13, 2026. Your input helps us understand what we are doing well and where we can grow, ensuring the best possible learning environment for every student.
To participate, visit https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ and select the Parent Survey to begin. Please complete one survey for each child you have enrolled in SD 161 schools.
The survey is confidential, takes only a few minutes, and plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools. Thank you for partnering with us and helping our community continue to thrive.
To participate, visit https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/ and select the Parent Survey to begin. Please complete one survey for each child you have enrolled in SD 161 schools.
The survey is confidential, takes only a few minutes, and plays an important role in shaping the future of our schools. Thank you for partnering with us and helping our community continue to thrive.
Calling all PJH girls ready to explore, create, and dream BIG in STEAM!
Does your child love science, art, technology, building, or solving problems? Or is she still discovering what excites her? This inspiring day is designed to spark curiosity, confidence, and big dreams.
The Girls STEAM Celebration invites 6th–8th grade girls from Parker Junior High and James Hart School to discover exciting possibilities before high school even begins.
✨ What’s in store:
👩🏽🔬 Meet inspiring women working in STEAM careers
🏫 Explore the cutting-edge Net Zero Science Building at Homewood-Flossmoor High School
🎨 Create a vision board that captures bold goals and bright futures
🍕 Enjoy lunch, fun swag, and a day with other curious, creative girls
🚌 Transportation and chaperones provided by the school
📅 Saturday, April 11 | 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
⚡ Only 50 spots per school — first come, first served.
👉 Register using the QR code or details on the flyer.
⏳ Don’t wait — spots are filling fast, and this is a day she won’t want to miss.
Step right up for a night of numbers, games, and family fun. Flossmoor School District 161 invites you to a Math Carnival and Game Night on Wednesday, March 4, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Parker Junior High.
Enjoy hands-on math activities, exciting games, refreshments, raffles, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment. The evening will also feature a special presentation by the Homewood Science Center.
Bring the whole family and discover just how fun math can be. We hope to see you there.
Enjoy hands-on math activities, exciting games, refreshments, raffles, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment. The evening will also feature a special presentation by the Homewood Science Center.
Bring the whole family and discover just how fun math can be. We hope to see you there.
Registration is now open for the 2026 season with Flossmoor Baseball & Softball. This program is available for players ages 4 and up and is a wonderful way to get children involved in a fun, community building sport.
As a valued community partner, we are pleased to share this opportunity with District 161 families. Youth athletics help children build confidence, teamwork, friendships, and a strong sense of belonging. And let’s be honest, kids are not the only ones who make new friends on the sidelines. Parents do too.
Learn more and register at FlossmoorBBSB.com. Now is the perfect time to get your child in the game and connected with our community.
As a valued community partner, we are pleased to share this opportunity with District 161 families. Youth athletics help children build confidence, teamwork, friendships, and a strong sense of belonging. And let’s be honest, kids are not the only ones who make new friends on the sidelines. Parents do too.
Learn more and register at FlossmoorBBSB.com. Now is the perfect time to get your child in the game and connected with our community.
Early Dismissal Reminder — Friday, February 20
This is a friendly reminder that students will be dismissed early at 11:40 a.m. on Friday, February 20, so our staff can participate in School Improvement Planning.
This is a friendly reminder that students will be dismissed early at 11:40 a.m. on Friday, February 20, so our staff can participate in School Improvement Planning.
