I wanted to use this week to make sure parents know about the Winnetka Parents Institute -- an amazing effort by our District to offer engaging and helpful talks on topics that parents care about. Often these events are not well attended, which is a shame, because those who go come away amazed by how helpful the information was and how it was a chance to get to know other parents concerned about the same issues. For example, a recent WPI talk was about a parent's role in navigating their child's IEP. I've heard it was hugely helpful to those who attended. That said, here are some upcoming WPI events you may want to cram into your busy schedule! If you cannot attend an event -- the good news is they record them and post them at the following link:

Upcoming Winnetka Parents Institute Events (RSVP to any of the below by clicking HERE:

Why Learning Space Design Matters with Dr. Robert Dillon

Monday, October 22 at 6:30 p.m.

The Skokie School

Join  Dr. Robert Dillon  (author, educator and  Director of Innovation Learning at University City in St. Louis)  and members of the Learning Space Design Team (a D36 and Winnetka Public Schools Foundation partnership) to learn more about the impact of learning space design to create brain-friendly, modern classrooms for active, collaborative, experiential learning.

Not Quite Little Kid, Not Quite Teenager: The Developmental Progression of the Middle School Child

Friday, October 26 at 9:30 a.m.

The Skokie School Community Room

Join Principal Tess and Assistant Principal Weir (The Skokie School) and Principal Kanne and Assistant Principal Horwitz (Carleton Washburne School) for an informational session focusing on the ins and outs of the growing middle school child. We will spend time exploring both the academic and social-emotional needs appropriate to 5th-8th grade children, how they change over that four year span, as well as the neurological changes that contribute to these needs.  Parents with current middle schoolers, or soon-to-be middle schoolers, are encouraged to join us for an engaging, encouraging and educational hour together.

From Washburne to New Trier:

A D36 Parent's Guide to the New Trier Transition

Thursday, November 15 at 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Carleton Washburne School,  515 Hibbard Rd .

Paul Waechtler, Principal at the New Trier High School Freshman

Campus, and Lori Worth, 8th Grade Transition Faculty, will discuss the New Trier freshman placement process and the efforts made to ensure a smooth transition to high school.  A Q & A will provide an opportunity for parents to learn more about how to best support their child(ren) as they prepare for their New Trier experience. 

D36 & Winnetka-Northfield Public Library: What Can We Do for You?

Friday, November 16 at 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Winnetka Library, 768 Oak Street

Our school and Village libraries aren't quite like the libraries many adults remember as children--they are dynamic learning environments that include opportunities for creating and collaborating--from exploring a vast collection of books and digital materials to experimenting with 3-D printing and embroidery. D36 Resource Directors and leaders at Winnetka-Northfield Public Library will share resources that are available to enhance reading and creating at home, school and the public library. All community members are welcome to attend!