This week, Parker Junior High proudly celebrates Staff Appreciation Week.
At Parker, it takes an entire team to create a strong, supportive environment where students can learn, grow, and prepare for what’s next. From our dedicated teachers who challenge and inspire, to our support staff who ensure every student feels connected, each person plays an essential role in our school community. We are grateful for our bus drivers and crossing guards who keep our students safe, our administrative assistants who keep everything running smoothly, our custodians who care for our building, and our principal who leads with purpose and commitment.
Every role matters. Every day, you make a difference.
Thank you for your dedication to our Parker Junior High students and community.
At Parker, it takes an entire team to create a strong, supportive environment where students can learn, grow, and prepare for what’s next. From our dedicated teachers who challenge and inspire, to our support staff who ensure every student feels connected, each person plays an essential role in our school community. We are grateful for our bus drivers and crossing guards who keep our students safe, our administrative assistants who keep everything running smoothly, our custodians who care for our building, and our principal who leads with purpose and commitment.
Every role matters. Every day, you make a difference.
Thank you for your dedication to our Parker Junior High students and community.
You don’t have to travel downtown to experience incredible art. Come see fine artwork created by our very own District 161 students at the Visual Arts Expo this week at Normandy Villa.
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!
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!
Don't miss your chance to see the Evil Queen and her mirror in Parker Junior High's production of The Rockin' Tale of Snow White
Showtimes:
Friday (TONIGHT!), May 1 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 2 at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults & $7 students/seniors
Showtimes:
Friday (TONIGHT!), May 1 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 2 at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults & $7 students/seniors
Don't miss the Parker Junior High Spring musical!
The Rockin' Tale of Snow White
Showtimes:
Friday, May 1 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 2 at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults & $7 students/seniors
The Rockin' Tale of Snow White
Showtimes:
Friday, May 1 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 2 at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults & $7 students/seniors
#ICYMI earlier this week we were treated to a fantastic concert.
Thank you to our dedicated teachers that help our students showcase their talents!
Flossmoor School District 161 students are bringing local history to life in a meaningful way.
Eighth-grade students at Parker Junior High and students are learning about the service and sacrifice of Flossmoor Veterans through an innovative program called The Flossmoor Veterans’ Time Machine.
Developed by the Flossmoor Veterans’ Memorial, Inc., the curriculum connects students to the stories of nearly 1,000 local veterans while building research, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. The program, inspired by Fragments of Flossmoor by Dr. Kristine Condon, was recently recognized with a 2025 “Best of Illinois History” award from the Illinois State Historical Society.
As part of the experience, students will create their own replicas of the Veterans’ Wall of Honor, which will be on display at the Flossmoor Public Library this May in recognition of National Military Appreciation Month.
This powerful partnership is helping students connect classroom learning with community history while honoring those who have served.
Eighth-grade students at Parker Junior High and students are learning about the service and sacrifice of Flossmoor Veterans through an innovative program called The Flossmoor Veterans’ Time Machine.
Developed by the Flossmoor Veterans’ Memorial, Inc., the curriculum connects students to the stories of nearly 1,000 local veterans while building research, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. The program, inspired by Fragments of Flossmoor by Dr. Kristine Condon, was recently recognized with a 2025 “Best of Illinois History” award from the Illinois State Historical Society.
As part of the experience, students will create their own replicas of the Veterans’ Wall of Honor, which will be on display at the Flossmoor Public Library this May in recognition of National Military Appreciation Month.
This powerful partnership is helping students connect classroom learning with community history while honoring those who have served.
Tomorrow, Friday, April 24, will be an early dismissal for our students as SD 161 holds a districtwide School Improvement Day. Staff will be busy collaborating and planning to support student success. Parker Junior High will dismiss at 10:45 a.m.
Big things are ahead for our future Parker Falcons!
If your child is currently in 5th grade, it’s time to start getting excited for the transition to Parker Junior High. We have several important (and fun!) opportunities coming up to help students and families feel confident and ready for 6th grade.
Save the dates:
• April 29 – In-person presentation and campus tours at Parker (6:00 PM) for parents and students
• April 30 – Spring musical visit (during the school day with 5th grade teachers)
• June 5 – Step Up Day at Parker (9:30–11:00 AM)
• August – Schedule Pick-Up Day (date and time coming soon)
We can’t wait to welcome our newest group of students to Parker. It’s going to be a great year ahead.
If your child is currently in 5th grade, it’s time to start getting excited for the transition to Parker Junior High. We have several important (and fun!) opportunities coming up to help students and families feel confident and ready for 6th grade.
Save the dates:
• April 29 – In-person presentation and campus tours at Parker (6:00 PM) for parents and students
• April 30 – Spring musical visit (during the school day with 5th grade teachers)
• June 5 – Step Up Day at Parker (9:30–11:00 AM)
• August – Schedule Pick-Up Day (date and time coming soon)
We can’t wait to welcome our newest group of students to Parker. It’s going to be a great year ahead.
Thank you to everyone who joined us.
We appreciate the time and thoughtful input shared during the community forum as part of the superintendent search for Flossmoor School District 161. Your voice plays an important role in shaping the future of our district.
If you were unable to attend or would still like to share your feedback, the survey will remain open through April 22.
Learn more and access the survey link below.
https://www.sd161.org/o/flossmoor-sd161/article/2819119?fbclid=IwY2xjawRR5kRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeE9qs88xBMNfPjibayo8AnU0RYwuG7EpkHSAf5BfsrSqnh95d6bA8BP-G6Xg_aem_e9b8YZ-DEQuCRlREv5bAWQ
Flossmoor School District 161 wants to hear from you.
As part of the superintendent search, the Board of Education is inviting families, staff, and community members to share their input through a brief survey and upcoming community forums.
Join us TODAY, Monday, April 20 at 7:00 p.m. for a community forum. Attend in person or via Zoom.
Your voice will help shape the future leadership of our district. Take a few minutes to complete the survey by April 22.
Learn more and access the survey and meeting links below.
https://www.sd161.org/o/flossmoor-sd161/article/2819119?fbclid=IwY2xjawRR5kRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeE9qs88xBMNfPjibayo8AnU0RYwuG7EpkHSAf5BfsrSqnh95d6bA8BP-G6Xg_aem_e9b8YZ-DEQuCRlREv5bAWQ
Get ready for an evening full of energy, wellness, and fun! 🎉 The Flossmoor Hills PTO is excited to invite you to our Family Wellness Night—a FREE community event for all SD 161 families!
🗓 Wednesday, April 22
⏰ 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Flossmoor Hills Elementary
Bring the whole family and enjoy a variety of engaging activities focused on health and well-being:
✨ Fun Physical Activities
🥗 Nutrition Information
🩺 Health Screenings
🧠 Mental Health Services
🎁 Giveaways & More!
We’ll also have amazing wellness partners on-site offering resources, services, and interactive experiences for both kids and adults.
👨👩👧👦 Please note: All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This event is completely FREE and open to everyone in the community—so feel free to invite friends and neighbors!
👉 For full event details and to sign up, please visit our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../flossmoor-hills-family...
We can’t wait to see you there for a fun and impactful evening of health and wellness!
🗓 Wednesday, April 22
⏰ 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Flossmoor Hills Elementary
Bring the whole family and enjoy a variety of engaging activities focused on health and well-being:
✨ Fun Physical Activities
🥗 Nutrition Information
🩺 Health Screenings
🧠 Mental Health Services
🎁 Giveaways & More!
We’ll also have amazing wellness partners on-site offering resources, services, and interactive experiences for both kids and adults.
👨👩👧👦 Please note: All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This event is completely FREE and open to everyone in the community—so feel free to invite friends and neighbors!
👉 For full event details and to sign up, please visit our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../flossmoor-hills-family...
We can’t wait to see you there for a fun and impactful evening of health and wellness!
Flossmoor School District 161 wants to hear from you.
As part of the superintendent search, the Board of Education is inviting families, staff, and community members to share their input through a brief survey and upcoming community forums.
Join us tomorrow, Monday, April 20 at 7:00 p.m. for a community forum. Attend in person or via Zoom.
Your voice will help shape the future leadership of our district. Take a few minutes to complete the survey by April 22.
Learn more and access the survey and meeting links below.
https://www.sd161.org/o/flossmoor-sd161/article/2819119?fbclid=IwY2xjawRR5kRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeE9qs88xBMNfPjibayo8AnU0RYwuG7EpkHSAf5BfsrSqnh95d6bA8BP-G6Xg_aem_e9b8YZ-DEQuCRlREv5bAWQ
We hope you have a great week, Falcons!
We’re also wondering if you had a chance to watch any of the Masters Tournament this past weekend. Pictured is 8th grader, Wakana Hill from her tournament play in 2024.
Catch up on all of your school news by clicking the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/1ubap
We’re also wondering if you had a chance to watch any of the Masters Tournament this past weekend. Pictured is 8th grader, Wakana Hill from her tournament play in 2024.
Catch up on all of your school news by clicking the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/1ubap
As the weather gets nicer, we’re seeing more students walking home and spending time outdoors after school. They’re excited to be out for the day, and that energy can sometimes mean they’re not always focused on traffic.
We are asking all motorists to please stay alert and watch carefully for children, especially in school zones and in areas around our schools during times of high pedestrian activity. Your attention and caution make a real difference in keeping our students safe.
Thank you to the Village of Flossmoor and the Flossmoor Police Department for acquiring the new RBF signals shown in the photo of our students using them. These improvements are an important step in enhancing safety for everyone.
Have a great week, Falcons.
We are asking all motorists to please stay alert and watch carefully for children, especially in school zones and in areas around our schools during times of high pedestrian activity. Your attention and caution make a real difference in keeping our students safe.
Thank you to the Village of Flossmoor and the Flossmoor Police Department for acquiring the new RBF signals shown in the photo of our students using them. These improvements are an important step in enhancing safety for everyone.
Have a great week, Falcons.
We look forward to seeing our Falcon friends tomorrow morning!
Be sure to catch up on all of your school news by clicking the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/z0mws
Be sure to catch up on all of your school news by clicking the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/z0mws
The District 161 Summer Academy Musical Program offers a wonderful opportunity for students of all experience levels interested in theater. We are excited to provide this program for current 3rd–7th grade students who have not already been recommended for Summer Academy.
Classes will be held at Serena Hills School, 255 Pleasant Drive, Chicago Heights, IL 60411, Monday through Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. There are no classes on Fridays. Final performance dates and locations will be announced soon. Please review the Musical Flyer for additional details.
The SD 161 Summer Academy Musical Program is free of charge. Transportation will be provided for qualifying students, and breakfast will be available for all students attending Summer Academy.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdtktr-2YE7sV5cvpZEUYgfr80X1aN7p25QP5lA7AWz45qTAA/viewform
Classes will be held at Serena Hills School, 255 Pleasant Drive, Chicago Heights, IL 60411, Monday through Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. There are no classes on Fridays. Final performance dates and locations will be announced soon. Please review the Musical Flyer for additional details.
The SD 161 Summer Academy Musical Program is free of charge. Transportation will be provided for qualifying students, and breakfast will be available for all students attending Summer Academy.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdtktr-2YE7sV5cvpZEUYgfr80X1aN7p25QP5lA7AWz45qTAA/viewform
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.
Parker Junior High Family Reading Night brought together families, students, and staff for an evening full of connection, creativity, and a shared love of reading.
A special thank you goes to Sarah Rudenga, Mattison Schneider, Tiffaney Washington, and Tamika Britten for creating such a thoughtful and engaging experience for our school community.
A clear favorite of the night was the student led Maker’s Market, where PJH entrepreneurs had the opportunity to showcase and sell their own merchandise. It was incredible to see their ideas come to life and to watch them shine.
We have to know, did you try one of the famous ladybug-shaped sugar cookies?
A special thank you goes to Sarah Rudenga, Mattison Schneider, Tiffaney Washington, and Tamika Britten for creating such a thoughtful and engaging experience for our school community.
A clear favorite of the night was the student led Maker’s Market, where PJH entrepreneurs had the opportunity to showcase and sell their own merchandise. It was incredible to see their ideas come to life and to watch them shine.
We have to know, did you try one of the famous ladybug-shaped sugar cookies?
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.
