What's Up at Whittier
Week of March 18
Mr. Krugman's Weekly Message
Be sure to read the articles below for more information on:
Registration for 2024-25 - Registration is currently taking place. Please complete the registration process for next school year as soon as possible. Having up to date registration plans assists us in staffing projections. Please let the office staff know if you have any questions. Instructions on how to register can be found in an article below.
Nominate a Whittier Staff Member for the Educational Foundation Distinguished Service Award - Nominations are now being taken for this annual award. All nominated staff members are recognized. Please read the article below with specific information and deadlines.
PTA Spring Fundraiser - Whittier Royale - Tickets are now on sale for this event. Also available are general raffle tickets and raffle tickets for the Grand Prize Raffle for an All Inclusive Trip for Two! Be sure to read below for more information.
IAR Assessments in both ELA (English Language Arts) and Math will take place following Spring Break. More information and schedules will be shared after Spring Break.
Yearbook Orders and Young Authors Deadlines are approaching quickly. Be sure to read both articles below for more information.
As always, thank you for sending your children to us each day - ready to take on new adventures and learn all they can! We appreciate all of your support!
Stay safe, stay healthy, and stay strong!
Michael Krugman - Whittier Principal
Calendar of Events
Monday, March 18 - Choose Happy Orange Day (wear orange as we celebrate happiness each Monday)
Tuesday, March 19 - Craft Club for Grades 2-6, 3:00-3:30pm; Young Rembrandts, 3:00-4:00pm
Wednesday, March 20 - SC Spirit Day - Tropical Day (dress in tropical attire); Language Labs, 3:00-4:00pm; Craft Club for Kindergarten & Grade 1, 3:00-3:30pm
Thursday, March 21 - FunFunFun Spring Fling Trivia Assembly; Chess Scholars, 3:00-4:00pm; BAM Theater, 3:00-4:10pm
Friday, March 22 - WH Spirit Day (wear your favorite Whittier spirit wear or our school colors - blue and gold or blue and yellow); Fun Lunch
Saturday, March 23 - Sunday, March 31 - Spring Break - NO SCHOOL
Making Kindness the Norm
See below for the March Make Kindness the Norm Calendar. There are fun things you can do each day to spread kindness and make it the norm.
Thanks for helping us "make kindness the norm" all year long!
School Hours for 2023-24
Kindergarten Half- Day:
8:15-11:20am (Monday-Friday)
Grades K-6:
8:15am-2:00pm (Monday)
8:15am-3:00pm (Tuesday-Friday)
Whittier Office Hours:
8:00am-4:00pm
Click the link below for the approved District 58 school calendar for 2023-24, which includes all school days off.
Lost & Found
Any Lost & Found items that are left on Friday, March 22 will be donated to a local charity over Spring Break. Be sure to come in and check OR have your child(ren) check the Lost & Found for any items that may have been misplaced.
3rd Grade Learning & Fun at the Museum of Science and Industry
Our 3rd graders spent last Friday at the Museum of Science and Industry for lots of learning and lots of fun! A special thank you to all the parents who helped by being chaperones for this special day. Check out the awesome pictures below. Learning in action!
Jaguar Jackpot - VIP Table
6 of our 3rd-grade students enjoyed lunch at the VIP Table this past week. Fatima S won the Jaguar Jackpot Raffle and chose five of her friends to join her at the VIP Table. Thanks for continuing to spread kindness.
Student Council Spirit Days & Community Service Projects - March
Spirit Days:
Wednesday, March 20 - Tropical Day - dress in tropical attire
Service Project:
Thank you to all who helped support the World Wildlife Fund last week!
The mission of the World Wildlife Fund is to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth.
Order your 2023-2024 Whittier Yearbook!
Hello Parents! The 2023-2024 Yearbook is available for order. Please see the attached flier. Even though the 10% discount is no longer available, you can still order yours today! As with previous years, you are able to create 2 customized pages to add to your child's yearbook FOR FREE. Additional pages can be added for a fee.
Please note the NONNEGOTIABLE deadline of April 12 for completing custom pages.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Mrs. Z (ezagorski@dg58.org)
Whittier Young Authors
Reminder to all students:
Young Authors stories are due to Mrs. Coleman by Friday, March 22nd. That is the Friday before Spring Break. Be sure to finish up your story, graphic novel, or poem and print out a copy to submit to Mrs. Coleman by that date. Once again, Friday, March 22nd is the deadline.
Please open the attachment below for infornation from Ms. Coleman regarding this year's Whittier Young Authors.
Craft Club - Grades 2-6
Craft Club will be making washcloth bunnies with students in 2nd through 6th grade. Craft Club will be on Tuesday, March 19th from 3:00-3:30pm in the Learning Lab. Sign up is now closed.
Please note this month's Craft Club conflicts with a few other after school activities. Your child will need to select which one they would like to attend. Remember sign up is required for Craft Club.
Craft Club - Kindergarten & Gr 1
Craft Club will be making Cotton Ball Chicks with students in Kindergarten and 1st grade. Craft Club will be on Wednesday, March 20 from 3:00-3:30pm in the Learning Lab. Sign up is now closed.
Please note this month's Craft Club conflicts with a few other after school activities. Your child will need to select which one they would like to attend. Remember sign up is required for Craft Club.
Another Isolation Match
It was Morning Announcements in Mrs. Lyons' class last week, which meant time for another Isolation Match. This time it was Anthony vs. Mr. Krugman. It had been a while since our last match. Great strategy and skill took place on each move. Great game, and in the end, Mr. Krugman came out victorious! Problem solving, critical thinking, and strategizing was at its best! Nice game, Anthony!
Kane County Cougars Reading Club
Whittier will be participating in the Cougars Reading Club, a reading incentive program sponsored by the Kane County Cougars baseball team. Your child will have the opportunity to improve his or her reading skills while earning a ticket to a Cougar game, a Cougars drawstring bag, and a free hot dog and drink to enjoy during the game.
This reading incentive runs from March 1st to April 1st. Please complete the parent verification form (below) and return to your classroom teacher by April 2nd.
Attention 6th Grade Parents & Students - Upcoming Herrick PTA Events!
Check out the upcoming Herrick PTA events that current 6th graders and parents are invited to!
Reporting Student Absence from School - Now an Electronic Option is Available
As a reminder - we ask that parents report their child(ren)'s absence to the school office.
There are a variety of ways you can now report your child(ren)'s absence from school:
1. Call the school office at (630) 719-5865 (24 hours a day), and leave a message regarding your child's absence from school.
2. Email the Whittier secretaries (ccasella@dg58.org and kpeters@dg58.org) indicating the reason for your child's absence.
3. Report absences electronically. Just click on the link below, complete the information, and submit the form. This form can also be found on the Whittier webpage.
https://forms.gle/1Q3gXFonR3by2ppR9
While many parents contact the classroom teacher with absence information, the school office MUST also be notified. Please report student absences using one of the 3 methods above. Thank you for your assistance!
Special PTA Family Fun Night - Dinner Out
Check out our Island Fin Poke night on Monday, March 18. Open the attachment below for all the information.
PTA Spring Fundraiser - Tickets are ON SALE NOW!
The PTA Spring Fundraiser - Whittier Royale is coming - Saturday, April 20.
Have you purchased your Whittier Royale Spring Fundraiser ticket yet? If not, click on the link below. Raffle tickets are available here too, along with tickets for the Grand Raffle - An All Inclusive Trip for Two!
Complete details can be found in the information below.
Nominate a Staff Member for District 58 Distinguished Service Award
Do you know an exemplary District 58 employee who has made a positive difference in your life or the life of a student? Please consider nominating that individual for a Distinguished Service Award! The Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58 annually hosts the free Distinguished Service Awards program to recognize the many contributions of District 58 employees.
Any District 58 staff member, parent/guardian or student may nominate a District 58 employee for a Distinguished Service Award. The nominee should be an individual who:
Consistently performs above and beyond the scope of job duties
Positively affects children in a significant manner
Has a sustained dedication to the education of children
Cares about the child as a whole person
Has earned the respect of his/her peers and superiors
Serves as a good role model to other district employees
Nominees must work at least 20 hours per week. They must have worked at least one full school year at District 58.
The Education Foundation will accept nominations now through Friday, March 29. To nominate an employee, please review the Frequently Asked Questions and complete the Nomination Form. You may also access these materials at www.dg58.org/dsa. Please share or email completed nomination forms to District58DSA@gmail.com or mail them to:
DSA Chair Mia Churma
c/o District 58 Office
2300 Warrenville Road, Suite 200NE
Downers Grove, IL 60515
If you choose to mail your application, please send it early to ensure its timely arrival. Late nominations will not be considered. The Education Foundation will surprise the two 2023-24 DSA winners at school on Wednesday, May 15. After school on Wednesday, May 15, the Foundation will hold the 2023-24 Distinguished Service Award Ceremony at O’Neill Middle School. Learn more information about the Education Foundation at www.58foundation.org.
Parent and Student Survey Information
There is still time to take our School Surveys!
Parent Survey Information:
As a reminder, parents are invited to take the District 58 School Environment Survey here. The survey should take just a few minutes yet provides valuable information that guides our school improvement efforts. All responses are anonymous.
In addition, parents are also invited to take the Illinois State Board of Education’s 5Essentials Parent Survey. This survey gathers data related to five indicators that can predict important student outcomes. Your identity and survey responses will be kept confidential and will not be connected to you or your child.
Student Survey Information:
Additionally, grade 4-8 students will be asked to participate in a 5Essentials student survey during the month of March.
A District 58 email was sent to all parents/guardians about the surveys . Learn more about the surveys here.
2024-25 School Registration is NOW OPEN!
District 58 student registration for the 2024-25 school year is now open! Downers Grove Grade School District 58 invites families to register their student(s) for the 2024-25 school year using the District’s PowerSchool Enrollment system. The District asks all returning students to please register by Monday, April 8. This includes all returning District 58 students who attend an outplacement or specialized program. New student registration is open indefinitely. District 58 encourages families to register their student(s) promptly, as early registration helps the District determine its hiring, staffing, classroom, and transportation needs for the upcoming school year. With a national teacher and staff shortage, this is important to ensure that we continue to attract quality candidates to our school district!
District 58 recommends families register their student using a computer when possible (although you can also use a mobile device). Please do not use the PowerSchool mobile app as it does not support registration. If you have technical questions during registration, please contact District 58’s Technology Help Desk by filling out a Technology Help Ticket here or calling 630-719-2768. If you have general registration questions, please contact your school office.
Registration Update for 2024-25: Residency
District 58 will continue to contract with Thomson Reuters CLEAR, a third-party vendor, to automatically verify student address information. The vendor will use parent and/or guardian names and addresses to crosscheck the information against other public electronic databases, such as utility companies, DMV records and property tax records. This service has been safely used by many surrounding school districts to verify student residency information, including District 99.
In some circumstances, additional documentation will be needed:
Families of all new students
Families of all kindergarten students (regardless of preschool attendance or current siblings in the District)
Families that annually lease their residence
Families that provide an affidavit of residency
Families whose residency is not able to be electronically verified
If the District is unable to verify your address, you will receive a letter directly from District 58. The letter will provide details regarding the additional information you will need to provide in order for your child to start the 2024-25 school year.
Verifying residency is an effort to protect taxpayers and district resources by identifying non-residents attending District 58 schools. Illinois law mandates that parents demonstrate residency prior to enrollment in school and allows for periodic verification to validate compliance with the law.
How to Register: Returning Students
Step 1: Complete registration forms and submit documents.
Log on to your PowerSchool account. (Do you still need to create a PowerSchool account? Click here for instructions.)
If you have multiple children, please select a student from the menu on the upper left. (Please remember to complete a separate registration for each of your children).
On the left-hand navigation menu, please click on “Returning Student Registration”
If you are not automatically signed in and you are prompted to make an account, please select “New Account,” and then enter your child’s birthday to proceed.
Completing Enrollment Forms: These are the enrollment forms tailored to your student(s). They contain essential information that we need to properly enroll your child for the upcoming academic year.
Reviewing and Submitting: Before submitting your enrollment forms, carefully review all information to ensure its accuracy. Once you are satisfied with the provided details, you can submit the forms electronically.
Confirmation and Follow-Up: Upon successful submission, you will receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your enrollment forms. Should we require any additional information or clarification, our team will reach out to you promptly.
Step 2: Pay student fees.
After District 58 processes your child’s registration, you will receive an email invoice from the District’s PushCoin system with all registration fees for 2024-25.
The PushCoin email will arrive after May 1.
Fees are due by the first day of school.
While we encourage families to use the PushCoin system to pay registration fees, families may also pay by check. If paying by check, please clearly identify the student(s) for whom the fees are being paid. Please make checks payable to “Downers Grove Grade School District 58” and send the check to your school or the District office at District 58 Office, 2300 Warrenville Road, Suite 200NE, Downers Grove, IL 60515
How to Register: New Students
Please follow the below steps to register your new student for 2024-25.
If your child currently or previously attended Grove Children’s Preschool, please follow the Returning Student Registration process outlined above.
If your child currently attends a District 58 elementary school and will be entering middle school, please also follow the Returning Student Registration process.
If your child will enter kindergarten in 2024-25, you may also visit www.dg58.org/kindergarten for helpful kindergarten-specific information.
Step 1: Determine your school. View our School Boundary Map to determine the correct school for your child.
Step 2: Navigate to the Enrollment Portal using one of these links: (English/Spanish)
Step 3: Create an Account
If you're a new user, you'll need to create an account. Look for the option to "Create Account" or "Sign Up".
Fill in the required information such as your name, email address, and create a password. Make sure to remember these credentials as you'll need them to log in later.
Step 4: Begin Enrollment
Once logged in, locate the option for "New Student Registration 2024-2025
Follow the on-screen instructions to provide information about your student(s) and family. This may include contact details, student information, emergency contacts, medical information, etc.
Be sure to fill out all required fields accurately. Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are typically mandatory.
Step 5: Review and Submit
Once you've completed filling out the enrollment forms and uploading any necessary documents, review all the information you've provided.
Double-check for accuracy and completeness. Make any necessary corrections before proceeding.
Step 6: Confirmation
After submitting your enrollment application, you may receive a confirmation message on the screen or via email.
Paying Student Fees
After District 58 processes your child’s registration, you will receive an email invoice from the District’s PushCoin system with all registration fees for 2024-25.
The PushCoin email will arrive after May 1.
Fees are due by the first day of school.
While we encourage families to use the PushCoin system to pay registration fees, families may also pay by check. If paying by check, please clearly identify the student(s) for whom the fees are being paid. Please make checks payable to “Downers Grove Grade School District 58” and send the check to your school or the District office at District 58 Office, 2300 Warrenville Road, Suite 200NE, Downers Grove, IL 60515
District 58 encourages families to register online. If you are unable to register online, please contact your child’s school for assistance. Please visit www.dg58.org/registration for more information.
El Distrito 58 abre las inscripciones de estudiantes para 2024-2025
Inscriba a su estudiante que regresa
¡La inscripción de estudiantes del Distrito 58 para el año escolar 2024-2025 ya está abierta! Downers Grove Grade School District 58 invita a las familias a inscribir a sus estudiantes para el año escolar 2024-2025 utilizando el sistema de inscripción PowerSchool del distrito. El Distrito pide a todos los estudiantes que regresan que se registren antes del lunes 8 de abril. Esto incluye a todos los estudiantes del Distrito 58 que regresan y que asisten a un programa especializado o de reubicación.
El registro de estudiantes nuevos está abierto indefinidamente. El Distrito 58 recomienda a las familias a inscribir a sus estudiantes de manera oportuna, ya que la inscripción temprana ayuda al Distrito a determinar sus necesidades de contratación de personal, aulas y transporte para el próximo año escolar. ¡Debido a la escasez de maestros y personal a nivel nacional, esto es importante para garantizar que sigamos atrayendo candidatos de calidad a nuestro distrito escolar!
El Distrito 58 recomienda que las familias inscriban al estudiante usando una computadora cuando sea posible (aunque también puede usar un dispositivo móvil). No utilice la aplicación móvil PowerSchool, ya que no es compatible con la inscripción. Si tiene preguntas técnicas durante la inscripción, comuníquese con la Mesa de ayuda tecnológica del Distrito 58 completando un Ticket de ayuda tecnológica aquí o llamando al 630-719-2768. Si tiene preguntas generales sobre la inscripción, comuníquese con la oficina de su escuela.
Actualización de inscripción para 2024-2025: Residencia
El Distrito 58 continuará contratando a Thomson Reuters CLEAR, un proveedor externo, para verificar automáticamente la información de la dirección del estudiante. El proveedor utilizará los nombres y direcciones de los padres o tutores para cotejar la información con otras bases de datos electrónicas públicas, como empresas de servicios públicos, los registros del Departamento de Vehículos Motorizados (Department of Motor Vehicles, DMV) y los registros de impuestos sobre la propiedad. Muchos distritos escolares de los alrededores han utilizado este servicio de manera segura para verificar la información de residencia de los estudiantes, incluido el Distrito 99.
En algunas circunstancias, se necesitará documentación adicional:
Familias de todos los estudiantes nuevos
Familias de todos los estudiantes de jardín de niños (independientemente de la asistencia al preescolar o hermanos actuales en el Distrito)
Familias que alquilan su residencia anualmente
Familias que aportan declaración jurada de residencia
Familias cuya residencia no se puede verificar electrónicamente
Si el Distrito no puede verificar su dirección, recibirá una carta directamente del Distrito 58. La carta proporcionará detalles sobre la información adicional que deberá proporcionar para que su hijo comience el año escolar 2024-2025.
Verificar la residencia es un esfuerzo para proteger a los contribuyentes y los recursos del distrito al identificar a los no residentes que asisten a las escuelas del Distrito 58. La ley de Illinois exige que los padres demuestren su residencia antes de inscribirse en la escuela y permite la verificación periódica para validar el cumplimiento de la ley.
Cómo inscribirse: Estudiantes que regresan
Paso 1: Complete los formularios de inscripción y envíe los documentos.
Inicie sesión en la cuenta de PowerSchool. (¿Aún necesita crear una cuenta de PowerSchool? Haga clic aquí para obtener instrucciones).
Si tiene varios hijos, seleccione un estudiante del menú en la parte superior izquierda. (Recuerde completar una inscripción por separado para cada uno de sus hijos).
En el menú de navegación de la izquierda, haga clic en "Registro de estudiantes que regresan".
Si no ha iniciado sesión automáticamente y se le solicita que cree una cuenta, seleccione "Nueva cuenta" y luego ingrese el cumpleaños de su hijo para continuar.
Cómo llenar los formularios de inscripción: Estos son los formularios de inscripción adaptados a sus estudiantes. Contienen información esencial que necesitamos para inscribir adecuadamente a su hijo para el próximo año académico.
Revisión y envío: Antes de enviar sus formularios de inscripción, revise cuidadosamente toda la información para garantizar su exactitud. Cuando se sienta satisfecho con los detalles proporcionados, puede enviar los formularios de manera electrónica.
Confirmación y seguimiento: Después del envío exitoso, recibirá un correo electrónico de confirmación acuse de recibo de sus formularios de inscripción. Si necesitamos información adicional o una aclaración, nuestro equipo se comunicará con usted de inmediato.
Paso 2: Pague las tarifas del estudiante.
Después de que el Distrito 58 procese la inscripción de su hijo, recibirá una factura por correo electrónico del sistema PushCoin del Distrito con todas las tarifas de inscripción para 2024-25.
El correo electrónico de PushCoin llegará después del 1.º de mayo.
Las tarifas vencen el primer día de clases.
Si bien recomendamos a las familias que usen el sistema PushCoin para pagar las tarifas de inscripción, las familias también pueden pagar con cheque. Si paga con cheque, identifique claramente a los estudiantes por quienes se pagan las tarifas. Haga los cheques a nombre de “Downers Grove Grade School District 58” y envíe el cheque a su escuela o a la oficina del Distrito a:
District 58 Office
2300 Warrenville Road, Suite 200NE
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Cómo inscribirse: Estudiantes nuevos
Siga los pasos a continuación para registrar a su nuevo estudiante para 2024-2025.
Si su hijo asiste actualmente o asistió anteriormente a Grove Children's Preschool, siga el proceso de inscripción de estudiantes que regresan descrito anteriormente.
Si su hijo actualmente asiste a una escuela primaria del Distrito 58 y va a ingresar a la escuela secundaria, siga también el proceso de registro de estudiantes que regresan.
Si su hijo ingresará al jardín de niños en 2024-2025, también puede visitar www.dg58.org/kindergarten para obtener información útil específica para el jardín de infantes.
Paso 1: Determine su escuela. Consulte nuestro Mapa de límites escolares para determinar la escuela correcta para su hijo.
Paso 2: Vaya al Portal de inscripción usando uno de estos enlaces: (Inglés/Español)
Paso 3: Cree una cuenta
Si es un usuario nuevo, deberá crear una cuenta. Busque la opción "Crear cuenta" o "Registrarse".
Ingrese la información requerida, como su nombre, dirección de correo electrónico y cree una contraseña. Asegúrese de recordar estos datos, ya que las necesitará para iniciar sesión más adelante.
Paso 4: Comience la inscripción
Una vez que haya iniciado sesión, busque la opción "Inscripción de nuevos estudiantes 2024-2025".
Siga las instrucciones en pantalla para proporcionar información sobre sus estudiantes y su familia. Esto puede incluir detalles de contacto, información del estudiante, contactos de emergencia, información médica, etc.
Asegúrese de llenar todos los campos obligatorios de manera correcta. Los campos marcados con un asterisco (*) suelen ser obligatorios.
Paso 5: Revise y envíe
Una vez que haya llenado los formularios de inscripción y cargado los documentos necesarios, revise toda la información proporcionada.
Vuelva a verificar que todo sea correcto y esté completo. Haga las correcciones necesarias antes de continuar.
Paso 6: Confirmación
Después de enviar su solicitud de inscripción, puede recibir un mensaje de confirmación en la pantalla o por correo electrónico.
Pague las tarifas del estudiante.
Después de que el Distrito 58 procese la inscripción de su hijo, recibirá una factura por correo electrónico del sistema PushCoin del Distrito con todas las tarifas de inscripción para 2024-2025.
El correo electrónico de PushCoin llegará después del 1.º de mayo.
Las tarifas vencen el primer día de clases.
Si bien recomendamos a las familias que usen el sistema PushCoin para pagar las tarifas de inscripción, las familias también pueden pagar con cheque. Si paga con cheque, identifique claramente a los estudiantes por quienes se pagan las tarifas. Haga los cheques a nombre de “Downers Grove Grade School District 58” y envíe el cheque a su escuela o a la oficina del Distrito a:
District 58 Office
2300 Warrenville Road, Suite 200NE
Downers Grove, IL 60515
El Distrito 58 recomienda a las familias que se inscriban en línea. Si no puede registrarse en línea, comuníquese con la escuela de su hijo para obtener ayuda.
Visite www.dg58.org/registration para obtener más información.
2024-25 Health Requirements
It is never too early to consider an appointment for your child's school physical.
As you begin to think about the 2024-2025 school year, we wanted to remind you of the health requirements for your incoming second or sixth-grader. All second and sixth graders will need to have a dental exam completed and turned in no later than May 15, 2025. This form can be dated anytime between November 15, 2023 - May 15, 2025. The form can be downloaded and printed here: Dental Form
All sixth graders are required to have a physical and two additional vaccinations; Meningococcal and Tdap, which are required at the age of 11. If your child is not 11 years old at the start of the year, they still should have their physical completed with a note from their physician stating when they are scheduled to return for their required vaccinations. This physical can be dated as early as August 16, 2023, and must be turned in by October 15, 2024. Prior to turning it in, be sure to complete and sign the top of the backside! The form can be downloaded and printed here: Physical Form
The completed forms can be dropped off to the school office, mailed, or emailed to the school nurse. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out!
Kindergarten Dual Language Information Night
Join us on Monday, April 29 if you are interested in learning more about the Kindergarten Dual Language Program in District 58.
ReferralGPS
Mental Health Resources Info -
District 58 strives to create a culture of well-being for students, parents, staff and community. To further support this endeavor, the District has invested in an additional support service through ReferralGPS.
ReferralGPS is a service providing assistance to our community in finding local mental health and substance use-related treatment resources. The service compliments the District’s existing systems of support as a tool for student service teams and families to connect with treatment. Along with a searchable database of treatment options, ReferralGPS assists families in triage and appointment setting.
School district staff and families may access ReferralGPS in two ways:
Contact Student Services (social workers, psychologists, counselors) to seek out treatment options
Visit this link at https://referralgps.com/find-help/DG58 to search for treatment resources or connect with a Care Navigator anonymously
The platform has the ability to filter by mental health concern, clinician gender/specialty, location, and insurance acceptance. The service is available for all types of private and public insurance options including PPO, HMO, Medicaid, and families that are uninsured or underinsured.
ReferralGPS is available for use by district students, staff, and families at no cost. All information entered on the ReferralGPS tool is completely confidential and securely stored.
Whittier PTA Mission: To make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.
Our mission requires that diversity, equity, and inclusion be central to our work and used in our day-to-day decisions and actions. Learn more HERE.
★ OUR PTA HAS EARNED GOLD STAR RECOGNITION! ★
More than 80% of families are Members and our PTA has earned IL PTA Gold Membership (1 of 7 in the state) for the second year in a row!
★ IMPORTANT DATES! ★
Mon, March 18 (4-9pm): Island Fin Poké Fundraiser. More info HERE
Tues, April 2: Young Rembrandts begins. Register HERE
Thurs, April 4 (7-8pm): Do You Know Your Child’s Digital Footprint? Digital Safety Seminar for Parents and Guardians. More information and Zoom link HERE
Sat, April 20: Casino Royale Spring Fundraiser (Adult Event). INFO, TICKETS
★ ISLAND FIN POKÉ FAMILY FUN DINNER ★
Mon, March 18th from 4-9pm. 20% of sales will be donated back to the Whittier PTA Family Fun Committee. INFO HERE.
★ SPRING WALKING CLUB - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED ★
Whittier Walking Club will be starting up again after break and is in need of volunteers! This is a fun (and easy!) opportunity to give back. Sign up for a Wed midday slot (11:20am -12:15pm) HERE.
★ SPRING FUNDRAISER TICKETS AND MORE! ★
The Whittier Royale Spring Fundraiser is coming up on Sat, April 20th! Don’t forget to:
Purchase your entry tickets
Pre-purchase your raffle tickets for fun prizes (think grade level baskets, Principal for a Day or an amazing teacher experience and much much more!)
Purchase a raffle ticket for a 3-night All-Inclusive Cancun trip for two + roundtrip airfare! ONLY 1,000 tickets will be sold - get them now!!
All proceeds go to the Whittier PTA General Fund. The Whittier School PTA supports students throughout the year with various programs, resources, field trips and more! Some larger upcoming projects include updating our library and a new playground.
★ KEEPING YOUR KIDS SAFE ON THE INTERNET ★
Please join us on Tuesday, April 4th at 7:00pm for a free virtual presentation hosted by your PTA! Karilyn Orr, Internet Safety Specialist at the Illinois Attorney General's Office (ICAC Task Force) will be presenting valuable information to parents/guardians on how to stay safe and avoid online risks. Topics include:
Safe Accounts & Privacy Settings
Cyberbullying & Digital Citizenship
Image Sharing & Predatory Risks
Sexting & (S)extortion
More info and Zoom link HERE
WHITTIER GENERAL INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND RESOURCES
Reporting Student Absence from School
As a reminder - we ask that parents report their child(ren)'s absence to the school office.
There are a variety of ways you can now report your child(ren)'s absence from school:
1. Call the school office at (630) 719-5865 (24 hours a day), and leave a message regarding your child's absence from school.
2. Email the Whittier secretaries (ccasella@dg58.org and kpeters@dg58.org) indicating the reason for your child's absence.
3. Report absences electronically. Just click on the link below, complete the information, and submit the form. This form can also be found on the Whittier webpage.
https://forms.gle/1Q3gXFonR3by2ppR9
While many parents contact the classroom teacher with absence information, the school office MUST also be notified. Please report student absences using one of the 3 methods above. Thank you for your assistance!
Phone/Wearable Technology Use
School Supply Lists for 2023-24
Can We Reach You in an Emergency?
If you have not yet opted into the District’s text messaging service, please text “Y” or “yes” to 67587 to ensure that you will receive text messages from District 58. Text messages will only be sent rarely and only for critical information such as a school closing.
Arrival and Dismissal Procedure 2023-24
Student safety is always at the forefront of our mind when planning at school. It is extremely important for all individuals who are driving students to and from school to follow all the rules of the road, along with our Whittier procedures. Please share this information with anyone transporting students.
Arrival
Students may arrive at Whittier beginning at 8:05am each day when adult supervision begins. In order to assist with a timely and safe arrival process, the school playground will be closed before school. Upon arrival, students should line up by their assigned door. Students will be directed to enter the building beginning at 8:15am. Anyone arriving after 8:15am should enter through Door One for an office pass.
Dismissal/After School
Following daily dismissal at Whittier (2:00 pm on Monday and 3:00 pm Tuesday through Friday), all students who are not scheduled to remain in the building must leave the school grounds and check in at their destination as there is no supervision on school grounds. We want to ensure the safety of all students.
Students may return to the playground after school hours and/or on the weekends. This will be done at family discretion, as our district playgrounds also function as community parks outside of school hours.
Hill Street traffic - travels WEST ONLY from 8:00am-4:00pm (One Way Street)
- Hill Street will be used as a Student DROP OFF ONLY during school hours.
- Hill Street will be used as a Student PICK UP ONLY during school hours.
- Car drivers will need to travel west down Hill Street entering the Drop-off/Pick-up Lane.
- As you enter the Drop-off/Pick-up Lane, please pull all the way up to the white street
markings and drop-off or pick-up. The car does not need to be at the ramp to drop-off
or pick-up students. Driver stays in the car. Students should exit the vehicle from the
passenger side.
- If car drivers want to park and walk their child(ren) to their designated area, they may do so after parking in a designated parking space at the west end of Hill, or on Blodgett or Grand. Parents may walk students to the sidewalk.
Grand Crosswalk at the Intermediate Playground
- Students should cross the street at the Grand crosswalk at the Intermediate Playground.
- Car drivers who travel south on Grand, may drop off intermediate-level students on Grand.
- If car drivers want to park and walk their child(ren) to their designated area, they may do
so after parking in a designated parking space at the west end of Hill, or on Blodgett or
Grand. Parents may walk students to the sidewalk.
Hill & Blodgett Crosswalk
- A crossing guard will be stationed at Hill & Blodgett to assist students in crossing to
school.
Blodgett Street
- We continue to ask parents NOT to drop off students on Blodgett.
- There is no parking on the west side of Blodgett, south of Randall from 2:30-3:30pm. Please follow these parking regulations.
Staff Parking Lot
- Please do NOT use the Staff Parking Lot as a drop-off or pick-up location.
- Students should NOT walk through the parking lot, they should only use the sidewalks.
Student Entrance and Exit
- Each class has been assigned to a specific door for entrance and exit to the building. (See the article below for specifics for each class).
- Please follow these guidelines to assist us in maintaining safety for all.
You may also review this information in the attachment below.
Student Entrance and Exit from the Building
Student Arrival
Parents may not escort their students to entry doors. Parents may walk students to the sidewalk, at which time students will join the line to enter the building.
Students may arrive at Whittier beginning at 8:05am each day when adult supervision begins. In order to assist with a timely and safe arrival process, the school playground will be closed before school. Upon arrival, students should line up by their assigned door. Students will be directed to enter the building beginning at 8:15am. Teachers will direct students to their cubby area. Anyone arriving after 8:15am should enter through Door One for an office pass.
Upon arrival to school, students in these classes will line up at the Main Entrance (Door 1):
1Q - Mrs. Quill
1R - Mrs. Richards
2Su - Ms. Sullivan
2Sw - Mr. Swade
Upon arrival to school, students in these classes will line up at the Primary Entrance at the west end of the building off the Staff Parking Lot (Door 2):
KB - Miss Boehm
KL - Mrs. Hedman
3K - Miss Karius
3M - Mrs. Modine
Upon arrival to school, students in these classes will line up at the Intermediate Entrance off the Intermediate Playground (Door 4):
4M - Mr. Miller
4S - Mrs. Smitley
5H - Mrs. Hodkowski
5L - Mrs. Lyons
6M - Mrs. Miller
6Z - Mrs. Zagorski
Student Dismissal
Following daily dismissal at Whittier (2:00 pm on Monday and 3:00 pm Tuesday through Friday), all students who are not scheduled to remain in the building must leave the school grounds and check in at their destination as there is no supervision on school grounds. We want to ensure the safety of all students.
Students may return to the playground after school hours and/or on the weekends. This will be done at family discretion, as our district playgrounds also function as community parks outside of school hours.
Primary Students will dismiss from Door 2 (west end of the building near the Staff Parking Lot).
Intermediate Students will dismiss from Door 4 off the Intermediate Playground.
Student Arrival Reminders
As we continue to observe and live through Student Arrival, please remember to follow these helpful procedures:
1. As our Kindergarten and 3rd graders arrive at the Primary Wing Entrance, we ask that parents allow students to line up on the blacktop, and then move to the grass area or sidewalk to wait for the bell to ring. Parents are welcome to drop students off and then head home, as well. Staff supervision and student safety patrols begin at 8:05am and remain with students until they enter the building at 8:15am.
2. As our 1st and 2nd graders arrive at the Main Entrance, we ask that parents line up along the sidewalk. Please do not wait in the street or too close to the street, as this is our Drop-off Lane. Parents are welcome to drop students off and then head home, as well. Staff supervision and student safety patrols begin at 8:05am and remain with students until they enter the building at 8:15am.
3. As our 4th, 5th, and 6th graders arrive at the Intermediate Entrance, as ask that parents wait on the other side of the fence. Parents are welcome to drop students off and then head home, as well. Staff supervision and student safety patrols begin at 8:05am and remain with students until they enter the building at 8:15am.
While we all love our furry four-legged friends, and many of them are so cute, we do ask that you keep all pets off of school property. Some of our students may be allergic or scared of dogs and other pets. You are welcome to walk to school with them, but then please stay on the sidewalks across the road on Hill, Blodgett, and Grand.
Thank you for your cooperation, and for assisting us in maintaining the safety of our students.
Additional Drop-Off and Pick-up Information
When entering the Drop-Off/Pick-Up Lane, please notice that there is NO PARKING along Hill Street in this area. This lane is strictly drop off and pick up. All drivers need to remain in their vehicles and exit the lane once students have exited or entered the vehicle. Again, please do not allow children to exit the vehicle on the driver's side and into traffic.
Please DO NOT double park on Hill, Grand, or Blodgett in order to avoid traffic and either drop off or pick up students. This is very dangerous.
Together, we can all assist in providing the safest environment for our children. Thank you!
Safety and Security at School
The District has instituted the RAPTOR security system this school year, which requires ALL visitors to show a state-issued ID, have it scanned, and then the visitor receives a name badge to wear during their entire stay in the building. Please be prepared to show your ID upon arrival at Whittier.
The District and School Emergency Management Plans are reviewed with all staff at the start of the school year, as well as re-visited throughout the school year.
Safety Drills are held throughout the school year.
- Intruder/ALICE Drills are practiced in coordination with the DG Police Department.
- Fire Drills are practiced in coordination with the DG Fire Department.
- Tornado/Take Cover Drills are practiced.
A Parent Guide, developed in conjunction with MAVinS (Mothers Against Violence in Schools), on talking to children about safety drills is sent home in early fall.
We do our best each and every day to maintain the safety of all who are in our school.
When Visiting Whittier
As everyone knows, safety is always at the forefront of our mind, especially when students are in the building. Many safety protocols have been established and are followed on a daily basis by both staff and students.
One of these safety measures is that no staff member or student should allow a visitor into the building at any time. Even if the visitor is recognized, they still need to enter the building at the main entrance and be buzzed in after identifying themselves to an office staff member.
We would ask that parents and other visitors to our building during the school day, be aware of this procedure and follow this protocol when already authorized to be in the building. Please do not allow entry to anyone - even if you know them. This is the responsibility of our office staff. If you are waiting or walking in the hallway and you see someone at the door, please allow them to be recognized and acknowledged by our office staff. This is the only way we can maintain who is in the building at any given time. We appreciate your assistance and follow through with this very important safety protocol.
Fruit/Snack Break
Gym Shoes for PE Class & Shoes at Recess
As the school year begins, we want to remind you about wearing appropriate and safe footwear to school. Please review the article below.
It is important for students to be prepared for PE class. In order to participate safely in PE class, we ask that ALL students wear closed-toe gym shoes during each PE class. This allows for maximum safety during PE activities, and does not mark up the gym floor. Students can keep a pair of gym shoes at school to change into, or wear gym shoes on PE days. If a student arrives to PE class without the appropriate shoes, he/she will be given an alternate activity to complete. He/she will not be able to participate in the regular class activity that day, due to safety concerns. Thank you for helping us keep our students safe during PE class.
In addition, we want to maintain safety at recess, too; and having students wear the proper shoes to play outside is very important. Please make sure that your child wears closed-toe shoes for outdoor recess. While sandals and flip-flops are cute and comfortable, they are not always safe for kids when they are playing. Thank you for your assistance and cooperation in keeping kids safe!
Delivering or Dropping Off Items for your Child(ren)
Homework Requests
We wanted to share with you how we handle homework and classwork when a student is absent. If you have any specific questions, please contact your child's teacher; otherwise, we ask that parents honor the homework request process that is followed by teachers at Whittier.
If a student is absent 3 or more days, on the third day, homework can be requested if they are feeling well enough to complete it. Otherwise, the teacher will touch base with the student upon his/her return to school and work on what needs to be made up.
If a student is going to be absent due to a vacation or other out-of-town obligation, daily homework will not be provided. Upon return to school, the teacher and student will touch base to discuss what was missed and what needs to be made up. During their time out of school, we recommend that students read, keep a journal of experiences on the trip, and practice math facts or current concepts.
Whittier Vision Statement
Whittier strives to develop lifelong learners within a caring, safe, and healthy learning environment. Our staff will be responsive to each student and collaborate with families and community. Our students will solve problems with perseverance, and develop a social conscience which enables them to contribute to their school, family, and community. Together we will be respectful of diversity and inclusivity, and we will positively impact the world.
Whittier School
Email: mkrugman@dg58.org
Website: www.dg58.org/wh
Location: 536 Hill Street, Downers Grove, IL, USA
Phone: 6307195865
Twitter: @MKrugmanDG58