
Did you know that just 20 minutes of reading daily can significantly impact a child's success? Whether they’re reading independently or being read to, this daily habit:
* Builds vocabulary – Exposure to new words strengthens language skills.
*Boosts brain development – Reading enhances comprehension and critical thinking.
* Encourages a love for learning – Kids who read regularly develop a lifelong appreciation for books.
* Improves academic success – Students who read daily perform better in school.
* Strengthens bonding – Reading together creates special moments and meaningful connections.
Make reading a daily habit and watch young minds grow! Additionally, consider stopping by the Flossmoor Public Library for help in choosing a new book!


We ask parents and guardians to contribute to a statewide survey called the 5 Essentials from the University of Chicago each year. We use this feedback to celebrate areas of strength and determine areas of opportunity as we create our school improvement plans. Please complete this survey to help Flossmoor School District 161 grow! Surveys are counted per child. The 5 Essentials closes on 3/28. Thank you for your support! http://survey.5-essentials.org/illinois/survey/parent/


Presented by the Bilingual Parent Advisory Council—spend an evening with Dr. Valentina, a licensed bilingual clinical psychologist and board-certified expert in clinical child and adolescent psychology. Together, you will explore the benefits of choosing nutritious foods and nutrients, as well as which vitamins can be helpful to your child.
Thursday, March 20, at 5 p.m. at Parker Junior High.



We ❤️ that Friday feeling and judging by the pure joy in this photo, the 8th grade girls volleyball team does too! 🏐 ✨
📸: Mr. O'Keefe


It takes a team to build a great school! Parents, teachers, and students all play a role in shaping the future. Take the Illinois 5Essentials Survey and help strengthen District 161 schools. The deadline is March 31! https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/


Every school needs a strong foundation, and that starts with YOU! Parents and guardians, your feedback in the 5Essentials Survey helps strengthen our schools from the ground up. Share your thoughts today: https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/


We would like to congratulate the PJH UNDEFEATED 7th grade REGIONAL VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONS!!!!
Your determination, hard work, and teamwork is paying off.
The players advance to the sectional finals on Monday!
Wish them congratulations in the comments below.


Want to see real growth in your child’s school? The 5Essentials Survey is like a workout for school improvement—your feedback makes us stronger! Complete the survey today: https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/


Big News for Our Future Kindergarteners!
Tonight's the night! Kindergarten registration is happening, and we can't wait to welcome our newest little learners!
If your child is ready to start their school adventure, be sure to stop by and get them all set for an exciting year ahead!
TONIGHT
Your neighborhood school!
6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
For questions about your neighborhood school, contact the district office!
We’ll see you there—future Class of 2038!


The Flossmoor Public Library has incredible events and programs coming up for children of all ages! Sign up for the library newsletter at https://www.flossmoorlibrary.org.


Check out Dr. Smith’s February wrap-up!
https://conta.cc/41jRhNR

It takes a team to build a great school! Parents, guardians, teachers, and students all play a role in shaping the future. Take the Illinois 5Essentials Survey and help strengthen District 161 schools. The deadline is March 31! https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/


The hallways at Serena Hills were buzzing with excitement this morning as the stars celebrated Read Across America Day. Flossmoor School District 161 would like to thank members of the Chicago Heights Fire and Police Departments, students and staff from Homewood-Flossmoor High School, and Village of Flossmoor Mayor Nelson for spending the morning with our students. A special thanks to Dr. Dana Smith for sharing his favorite book about aiming high, Dream Big.






Reminder!
Friday, February 28, is a School Improvement Day for all Flossmoor School District 161 schools, with early dismissal.
On Monday, March 3, there will be no school in observance of Casimir Pulaski Day.
We will see you back in class on Tuesday, March 4th.


Parents and guardians, your voice matters! The Illinois 5Essentials Survey helps shape the future of your child’s school by gathering insights on leadership, teaching, family involvement, and more. Take the survey by March 31 to help us improve. Start here: https://survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/


We’re excited to share the official 2025-2026 school year calendar for District 161! Plan for the first day of school, breaks, holidays, and more.
View the full calendar here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ypNpNNQ8YJCg0h_F3JUYAYVfpWunA8vf/view
Stay informed and mark your calendars for another great year of learning and growth!


Looking for a great summer job?
Becoming a caddy at a golf course is a fantastic way to earn money, enjoy the outdoors, and build valuable skills. In addition, some hardworking caddies have even gone on to win the Evans Scholarship, a full tuition and housing scholarship for college!
Start your summer with an opportunity that could lead to something even more significant. Stay tuned as we share information from area golf courses with opportunities for your student.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScUfRSDjhlp95NsulA8IHjXzwvTIxasQeiDxckNcVO2HXN0Ug/viewform


We are excited to welcome our newest Kindergarten students to the Flossmoor School District 161 family!
Please note registration begins on Tuesday, March 4, from 6-7:30 p.m. at each of our District's elementary schools.
Information about District 161's KinderPrep Summer Program will also be available at this time.
To be eligible to attend kindergarten, your child must be five years old by September 1, 2025.
If you are unsure which school your child will attend, please contact the District Office at (708) 647-7000.
Please contact your child's school to schedule an appointment to begin the registration process if you are unable to register on March 4.
Parents / Guardians must provide:
• The original birth certificate (with the raised seal) for your child
• Proof of residency
• Guardianship / custody documentation (if applicable)
Information regarding kindergarten registration and residency requirements. as well as additional registration dates, can be found on the District's website at www.sd161.org


Good morning, Flossmoor School District 161.
Kindergarten Registration is right around the corner.
Mark your calendar, tell a friend or neighbor, and read through the following information. Kindergarten Registration begins on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. at each of the District's Elementary Schools.
Information about District 161's KinderPrep Summer Program will also be available at this time.
To be eligible to attend kindergarten, your child must be five years old by September 1, 2025.
If you are unsure which school your child will attend, please contact the District Office at (708) 647-7000.
If you are unable to register on March 4, please contact your child's school to schedule an appointment to begin the registration process.
Parents / Guardians must provide:
• The original birth certificate (with the raised seal) for your child
• Proof of residency
• Guardianship/custody documentation (if applicable)
Visit www.sd161.org for information regarding kindergarten registration and residency requirements, as well as additional registration dates.


There is still time to participate! Help the PJH PTO by participating in their latest fundraiser. Scan the QR code and start buying dozens today. • Digital Dozens fundraiser $14 per dozen • Family and friends worldwide can help raise funds for the Parker Falcons from February 1 to 21 by buying a digital dozen coupon redeemable at a Krispy Kreme near them. • Insert your student's homeroom at checkout. Pizza party for the homeroom who sold the most digital dozens!
