Weekly Communique
October 29, 2021
Thoughts from Dr. Pacatte
This week, the Gurnee School District 56 family celebrated the life of our friend, teacher, and colleague, Mr. Tim Brackmann. Tim joined our district as a middle school Social Studies teacher for the reopening of Gurnee Grade School in 2005 and remained with the program when it became River Trail School. Tim had a knack for reaching out to the kids who needed a trusted adult. He worked hard to make them a part of his classroom and make sure they knew he was there for them, whenever they needed someone. His passion for Social Studies, especially current events and history, was clear and present everyday.
Mr. Brackmann leaves behind his wife, Denise, and two daughters, Beth and Lily, countless friends, and our D56 family. His impact was great and his loss profound. Treasure every day and make sure you live your life with kindness and passion, just like Mr. Brackmann.
Principal Appreciation October 2021
District 56 encourages members of our community to join us in celebrating Principal Appreciation Day on Friday, October 29th. This is an opportunity to recognize the work, commitment, and importance of principals and assistant principals in our schools. Each leader selflessly dedicates themself to the success of every student, and we appreciate their time, energy, and passion in leading our schools.
District 56 values their relentless determination to move education forward and service to our community in a meaningful way, especially while also navigating the ever-changing landscape of the pandemic. We are grateful and feel fortunate to have them on our team!
Covid-19 Update
Tweet of the Week
What's for Lunch in November
Mark Your November Calendar
Viking Drama Club & Thespian Honor Society
The Viking Drama Club and Thespian Honor Society are doing their part for the community and the environment. They had a Viking School and park trash cleanup on a misty Friday, Oct. 15.
Prairie Trail's Storybook Pumpkin Patch
Prairie Trail's Storybook Pumpkin Patch is growing great stories!
River Trail Library PJ's Day
It’s a PJ and snuggling with our book kind of day in the library.
STEAM Club
STEAM Club challenge for this week was based on the book, Room on the Broom. Create a balance with a ruler, Play-doh, and a pencil and balance the characters on the “broom”.
The Five Little Pumpkins
Preschoolers retold the story “The Five Little Pumpkins” by acting it out and parents were able to see their performances on seesaw.
Stem Club
15 students participated in Viking STEM Club's annual rocket launch this past Wednesday.
Mrs. Carnduff's Questers
During Makers’ Mayhem, the Questers worked in teams to create STEM spider webs using only pipe cleaners and string. Some were more successful than others… but we had fun, and worked together, and that’s what matters!
Spaulding School Pre-K team CARES!!!
2021-2022 Destination Imagination
Viking Drama Pasta Dinner
PTO NEWS
27th Annual Turkey Trot
Message from The Illinois Department of Public Health
With Halloween approaching this weekend, remember to follow these tips from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on COVID-19 safety guidelines for Halloween and fall festivities! https://bit.ly/3b0qLzp
Gurnee School District 56
Email: returningstudent@d56.org
Website: www.d56.org
Location: 3706 West Florida Avenue, Gurnee, IL, USA
Phone: 847-336-0800
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GurneeD56
Twitter: @GurneeD56