Last week, Assistant Principal Ms. Dunwoody represented Western Avenue School at the Illinois Principals 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 Liam McKrieth and Charlotte Kelly, who are recognized for their positive impact and contributions to the Western Avenue community. Moments like these highlight the bright future ahead for our students and strong leadership guiding them every day!
Congratulations!
about 1 hour ago, Flossmoor School District 161
students and their families
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
Join us in celebrating Western Avenue School Principal Dr. Mario J. Ford on earning his doctorate in Urban Education Leadership from the University of Illinois Chicago, with a focus on Equity-Driven Leadership.

Dr. Ford’s dedication to advancing equity and excellence in education will make a meaningful impact on students, staff, and the entire Western Avenue School community. Congratulations Dr. Ford!
1 day ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Dr. Ford
Girls on the Run is so much fun!
Congratulations to all our runners, and thank you to the coaches and volunteers who make this event possible.
To catch up on all of your Western Avenue News, please click the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/5as9j
1 day ago, Flossmoor School District 161
girls on the run
Staff Appreciation Week continues, and today we’re giving a special shoutout to our amazing nurse, Ms. Bryant—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 Western Avenue such a special place.
https://app.smore.com/n/fg9pj
7 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
kids at a table
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
The Western Avenue wolves had a TREE-mendous day celebrating Arbor Day! We were thrilled to welcome the Village of Flossmoor Public Works arborist, Dave Becker, who spent time sharing his incredible knowledge about trees and the importance of caring for our environment. Students had the opportunity to learn firsthand about the benefits of native trees, and how they support, local ecosystems, wildlife, and long-term sustainability. A special highlight of the day was planting a beautiful Kentucky Coffee tree on campus. This native tree will grow alongside our students for years to come! Thank you to Mr. Becker for helping our students *branch* out and grow their appreciation for the natural world.
18 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
kids learning
trees
kids learning
kids learning
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. Western Avenue 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, Wolves!
We hope you had a great weekend. Check out the latest school news by clicking the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/k3f9r
29 days ago, Flossmoor School District 161
kids with the principal who is dressed in a silly costume.
Welcome back, Wolves!
We are thrilled to have you back in the den and ready to begin a new week.
Check out the latest school news by clicking the link below.
https://app.smore.com/n/y5jcv
about 1 month ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Finding Nemo!
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
about 1 month ago, Flossmoor School District 161
We are monsters
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.
about 2 months ago, Flossmoor School District 161
Spring Break March 31-April 4 classes resume april 6