We’re nearing the middle of May, and Flossmoor School District 161 continues to offer meaningful ways to connect with our community.

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.

1 day ago, Flossmoor School District 161
english flyer
spanish
Join us tomorrow for the Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration at Serena Hills Elementary School from 5:30–7:00 p.m.

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.
1 day ago, Flossmoor School District 161
AANHPI Heritage Month
Check out the latest news from Serena Hills!
https://app.smore.com/n/egpqn-the-serena-scoop?ref=email
1 day ago, Flossmoor School District 161
kids in a photo
Assistant principal, Ms. Rodriguez proudly represented Serena Hills at the Illinois Principles Association Student Recognition breakfast, where outstanding students from across the state are honored for their leadership, character, and academic achievement. We are proud to celebrate Kaidyn Dixon and Vincent Mendoza-Fernandez, who are recognized for their positive impact and contributions to the Serena Hills community. Moments like these highlight the bright future ahead for our students and strong leadership guiding them every day! Congratulations!
5 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
teachers and family
teacher
Staff Appreciation Week continues, and today we’re giving a special shoutout to our amazing nurse, Ms. Lindsey—and to our English teachers, who taught us how to write an acrostic poem:

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 💙
6 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
School Nurses day
This week, we celebrate Staff Appreciation Week and 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 Serena Hills such a special place. https://app.smore.com/n/u1wkc-the-serena-scoop?ref=email
7 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
kids smiling

During Staff Appreciation Week, we’re recognizing the people who keep things running every single day. From teachers to support staff, administrative assistants, custodians, bus drivers, crossing guards, and school leadership—everyone plays a role in making Serena Hills work.

It’s a team effort, and it shows. The consistency, the care, and the way people step in wherever they’re needed make a difference for students every day.

Thank you for everything you do to keep our Stars shining bright!

9 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Serena Hills
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!
10 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Visual Arts expo
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
11 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Evil queen and her mirror

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.

15 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
National Showcase School
As warmer weather arrives, more families are out walking, biking, and enjoying time outdoors. It is a great time to remind everyone to stay alert and prioritize safety in our neighborhoods. Parents are encouraged to talk with their children about practicing safe habits while riding bicycles, including wearing helmets, watching for traffic, and being mindful of their surroundings.

The City of Chicago Heights Municipal Code also includes regulations related to motor-driven scooters:

ARTICLE XXIII. – PROHIBITION OF MOTOR-DRIVEN SCOOTERS

Sec. 28-470. – Motor-driven scooter defined
For purposes of this article, a “motor-driven scooter” is any electric or gas-driven wheeled scooter, motor-driven cycle, or similar motor-driven vehicle for which the state does not issue a title document, license plates, or registration.

Sec. 28-471. – Operation of motor-driven scooters restricted
Motor-driven scooters are not permitted to be operated on any public street, sidewalk, parking lot, bike path, park, or other public property.

Taking a few moments to review these guidelines and reinforce safe riding practices can help ensure a fun and safe season for everyone.
19 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
News you can use
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. Serena Hills will dismiss at 11:40 a.m.
19 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Early Dismissal
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.
20 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
5th to 6th grade transition day!

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

21 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Superintendent Search

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

22 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Superintendent Search
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!
22 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
health expo

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

23 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Superintendent Search
Happy Monday, Stars!
Check out the latest school news by clicking the link below!
https://app.smore.com/n/at6suw-the-serena-scoop?ref=email
29 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Serena Scoop
Check out all of the fabulous programming available from our friends at the Chicago Heights Park District. Schedule some summer fun for the kids today!
https://chparkdistrict.net/
about 1 month ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Chicago Heights Park District
Catch up on all of your Serena Hills School news by clicking the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/vqbzh-the-serena-scoop?ref=email
about 1 month ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Serena Hills family