Read all about their careers and friendship here.
https://www.hfchronicle.com/2026/06/10/d161-teachers-developed-long-friendship-teaching-5th-grade/
To our incredible staff, thank you for your dedication and care throughout the year. We hope you take this time to rest, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with family, friends, and the hobbies you love.
To our students, we hope your summer is filled with fun, adventure, and discovery. Be sure to spend time at your local library, participate in park district programs, explore new interests, and continue learning in ways that inspire you.
If you are enrolled in Summer Academy, we look forward to seeing you on the first day of class at Serena Hills School on Monday, June 15.
Have a safe and happy summer, District 161. We look forward to seeing you again in August!
To catch up on your Flossmoor Hills School news, please click the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/gvpwj
Save the date and make plans to join us for our District End-of-Year Celebration. This year’s event will be held at Serena Hills School. We look forward to celebrating together!
Thursday, June 4, from 5-7 p.m.
A reminder that there is no school on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day. We invite you to join the Parker Junior High Band at the Veterans Memorial in Homewood at 10:15 a.m. for a special ceremony.
The memorial is located at 18161 Morris Avenue.
See you there!
From the opening notes of “Circle of Life,” every moment showcased the talent, dedication, and heart of our students. You brought the Pride Lands to life in the most spectacular way.
A special thank you to Director Mr. Daniel Burke for your vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence. We are also so grateful to the staff members who worked behind the scenes to make this production possible. Your time and talents made all the difference.
To our families, thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and for helping our performers shine. And to our amazing students, your energy, courage, and joy lit up the stage. You truly “Just Can’t Wait to Be King.”
Bravo!!!
We last had the pleasure of connecting with her at the D161 Visual Arts Expo, where talented young artists proudly showcased their work created in her class.
Join the Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee (BPAC) for its final meeting of the school year.
Thursday, May 14
6:00–7:00 p.m.
Serena Hills School
Connect with other bilingual families and gain helpful insights on supporting your child’s growth and success.
Participants will enjoy crafts, games, music, and more!
A sincere thank you to everyone who helped plan and organize this special evening. We’re looking forward to celebrating together as a community.
Congratulations!
Nurturing hearts with steady care
Uplifting others everywhere
Resilient through each passing day
Serving in a selfless way
Every life you touch you change
Happy Nurses Day 💙
Staff Appreciation Week continues, and we want to recognize the incredible dedication of our team.
We are so grateful for our teachers who go above and beyond each and every day, both in and out of the classroom, to support, inspire, and help our students grow. Their impact reaches far beyond lessons and assignments, shaping confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning.
We also want to thank the many staff members who sponsor clubs, coach teams, and lead activities that give our students opportunities to explore their interests, build friendships, and discover new passions. Because of you, our schools offer a wide range of experiences that help every student find where they belong.
Thank you for everything you do to make Flossmoor Hills such a special place.
There’s a lot that goes into a smooth school day, and it doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because people show up, pay attention, and do the work.
We appreciate it more than we can say. Thank you for everything you do.
Join us for the Student Reception on May 6 from 6:00–8:00 p.m., where you can celebrate our talented young artists and view their work.
Community viewing will also be available May 7–8 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Normandy Villa is located at 41 E Elmwood Drive, Chicago Heights, IL 60411.
We hope to see you there as we celebrate the creativity and talent of our students!
Showtimes:
Friday (TONIGHT!), May 1 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 2 at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults & $7 students/seniors
Flossmoor School District 161 is proud to share some exciting news!
Flossmoor Hills Elementary School and Serena Hills Elementary School have both been named 2025–2026 Capturing Kids’ Hearts® National Showcase Schools. This national recognition highlights each school’s commitment to building strong relationships, fostering student engagement, and creating a positive, supportive learning environment.
Under the leadership of Principals Evita McNeil-Dobson and Elizabeth Reich, both schools have created cultures where students feel seen, valued, and connected every day. This honor reflects the meaningful work happening in classrooms and throughout each building, where strong relationships help drive student success.
We are incredibly proud of our students, staff, and school leaders for creating spaces where everyone belongs and thrives.
