Half Day School
Learning About Our World
Third-graders created three-dimensional models of the Earth using a balloon. Using the equator and prime meridian, they properly mapped out the continents and oceans of the world.
“Hey, that’s where I’m from,” one boy said pointing to Brazil.
This social studies project helps students learn important geography terms like equator, hemisphere, compass rose, and continent.
After students build their model Earth, teachers quiz them about places on the map such as
Which continents are completely south of the equator?
Which ocean is the largest?
“This project is one of several lessons to help students develop their geography skills, one of the key focus areas for social studies in third grade,” explained Amy Grayes, third-grade teacher, who collaborated on the models with her third-grade team. For pictures of the project, please visit the school's Google Doc folder.
Principal Coffee for New Families
If you are new to District 103 or if your oldest child just started school at Half Day, this is a perfect opportunity to have Principal Jill Mau answer questions you may have about the school. Join us for an informal coffee with Mrs. Mau at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20. Please register for this PTO sponsored event through our Google Form. Tours of the school are not given during these events.
District News
Transportation Update
While the District has been forced to cancel bus routes this month due to a shortage of drivers, Dr. Scott Warren, Superintendent, said during a school board meeting this week that the driver shortage will improve with the hiring of seven drivers. Last month, the Board increased bus drivers’ hourly rates making them competitive with surrounding districts and companies. Dr. Warren explained that driver training takes time and it could be as late as the end of October before the District is fully staffed.
Unpaid Lunch Balances Growing
Please check your child's Quest lunch balance through the MySchoolBucks platform. Turn on the auto replenish option so your child's account doesn't go into a negative balance. Families may also sign up for low balance alert emails, which lets them know when they need to replenish a lunch account. Access lunch menus on the FD MealPlanner platform.
Community
School Bus Safety
Lincolnshire police officers are noticing an increase in dangerous driving during school drop off and pick up times. Speeding and distracted driving creates unsafe conditions for students who walk to school or wait at bus stops. The Lincolnshire Police Department and School District 103 ask parents to make back-to-school safety a priority. Please check your driving behavior to ensure you are practicing safe driving habits. Motorists can assist with keeping children safe by following these tips:
- Plan ahead and leave home earlier than normal to allow enough time to reach you destination without rushing.
- Always come to a complete stop at stop signs and be sure to check carefully for children on sidewalks and in crosswalks before proceeding. Obey crossing guards, police officers, traffic signals, and traffic signs.
- Slow down! Remember, school speed zones are reduced for a reason. When entering a school zone, slow down to 20 mph and be extra alert for children on foot and on bicycles.
- Eliminate distractions while driving. Put the cell phones away! Remember, Illinois bans the use of all hand-held devices while driving, including texting.
- Follow each school’s traffic/parking plans and signage. Avoid parking or stopping on non-designated roadways when dropping off or picking up students. Doing so impedes the flow of traffic and creates an unsafe environment for students and other motorists.
- Do not pass a loading school bus when the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, unless permitted by law.
Half Day Information
- Principal Jill Mau
- Assistant Principal Laura Delagrange
- 847-634-1484
- Hd_attendance@d103.org