August 2023

Dear Parents, Staff, and Community Members,

The anticipation is palpable in these days before our schools reopen. We are joyfully awaiting welcoming our students and staff back to school to kick off our 23/24 school year. I wanted to share a brief video message with you as your families prepare for a return to school!

If you’re new to our school community, I’d like to extend a warm welcome! You have chosen an outstanding place to send your children to learn and grow. We are dedicated to academic excellence, balanced with a commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and enthusiasm for learning amongst all students. Recently, one of our rising fifth graders said it best: “We have fun ways to learn through creative experiences and we have amazing, special teachers to help us learn…they don’t only help you, but they care about you, no matter what the situation is.”

If you are a Hubbard Woods or Greeley Family, you know some very exciting things have been happening in your schools this summer. We are excited to show you what’s new, still underway and yet to come as we witness long-awaited improvements take shape in all five of our schools over the next two summers.

As you balance savoring the final weeks of summer along with preparing for the school year, know that #youbelonghere (as we say on social media) and we are here to support you and your families as you transition to a new routine. It is my pleasure to serve as your Superintendent and I look forward to greeting you at our various back-to-school events in the coming weeks.

Most Sincerely,

Dr. Kelly Tess

Superintendent of Schools

The next School Board meeting will be held at Carleton Washburne School on August 22, 2023. The Regular Meeting is at 7:15 p.m.

The following presentations are on the agenda:

1. Construction Update

2. Tentative Budget

In-person seating for the public is on a first-come, first-served basis.

To observe via Zoom:

https://winnetka36.zoom.us/j/88090707037?pwd=NG5odzg5ejhac3Frb05HK0lYQmZTUT09

Meeting ID: 880 9070 7037

Passcode: 353337

The meeting will include an opportunity for in-person public comment. Please note, the Board will be following policy 2:230 and limit public comment to three minutes - however, if there is a high volume of public comment, the Board may need to limit the amount of time dedicated to public comment in order to efficiently conduct business. Community members can send communications to board members at board@winnetka36.org which will be individually reviewed by each board member prior to the meeting.

Crow Island, Greeley & Hubbard Woods

Wednesday, September 20 - 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

The Skokie School

Wednesday, September 13 - 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Carleton Washburne School

Thursday, September 14 - 6:00-7:30 p.m.

ALL optional fees, programs or services are accessed via RevTrak https://winnetka.revtrak.net/. These include:

iPad Insurance

Transportation Services

Elementary and Skokie Milk Fees

Kindergarten Stay & Play (registration deadline September 30, 2023)

Before/After School Care - Right at School Program

Central PTO Dues

Construction is currently underway at Hubbard Woods and Greeley Schools, as part of the first phase of projects we are addressing that were approved during the 2022 Referendum.

Highlights at Hubbard Woods:

• The entry vestibule area renovation is nearly complete, with the new transaction window, and major security upgrades included

• Concrete footings and foundation wall pours are in progress

• Upgraded classroom lighting has been installed

• All auxiliary and upgraded mechanical heating elements are in place

Highlights at Greeley School:

• The entry vestibule area renovation is nearly complete, with the new transaction window, and major security upgrades included

• Installation of ductwork and electrical items is in progress in the corridor ceilings to facilitate ventilation, lighting upgrades, and more

• Auditorium and Resource Center lighting and heating upgrades are complete

Winnetka Voices is a podcast hosted by The Winnetka Public Schools, featuring candid conversations on issues relevant to education and shared resources to support our students and families.

Listen to all seven episodes from our inaugural 2022/2023 season here!

Apple Podcast

Amazon

Spotify

iHeart Radio

Google

For upcoming events (& videos of past events) with an array of highly-regarded authors, educators, and more, access FAN’s website here.

Please follow the District via the following social media platforms in order to see day-to-day happenings and more.

Facebook and Twitter: @Winnetka36

Instagram: @WinnetkaPublicSchools