Dear District 153 Family,

Where did the first trimester go? Seems like yesterday was the first day of school!

At the start of a new school year, teachers often ask their new class to write about what they wish their teachers knew about them as a "get acquainted" exercise. This past week, District 153 celebrated American Education Week by shining a well-deserved spotlight on our incredible educators. We turned that "first day of school" question around on six of our staff members and recorded their answers. If you haven't had a chance to see our video series on Facebook, I encourage you to click the link below and watch them. They are a wonderful illustration of why District 153 educators are so special.


Finally, I just want to remind our parents and guardians that school is not in session next week for parent-teacher conferences and the Thanksgiving holiday. We look forward to seeing all our parents and guardians next week at parent-teacher conferences. Educating kids is a team sport, so these team huddles are really important!

On behalf of all of us at District 153, I want to wish our extended District 153 family a very happy and healthy Thanksgiving. We remain profoundly grateful for this community and its support of our students and schools. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Dale Mitchell
Superintendent
A Tale of Two Thanksgivings

Thanksgiving came a little early for Churchill School's Daily Living Skills Class. Celebrating Friday with their loved ones, students read from their "thankful journals," performed a short play, "Don't Eat the Turkey!", and feasted on the traditional turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce they helped to prepare.

Over at Willow School, Ms. Van Etten's 1st-grade class celebrated a "Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" by watching the movie and toasting the things and people they are thankful for. And, of course, they feasted on the same dinner as Charlie Brown and his friends: toast, popcorn, pretzels, and jellybeans.
Parents/Guardians: Please Take the Annual Parent Survey

The annual parent survey about our schools is available online through Feb. 14, 2020. Please take a few minutes to tell the State Board of Education how wonderful our schools are and what needs improvement.

*5% of our state report card grade depends on parent participation in this survey, so your participation is important!

District Welcomes Veterans and Service Members
ANNUAL VETERANS DAY PROGRAM AND BREAKFAST
For the past several years, District 153 has elected to hold school on Veterans Day, instead of closing, with the goal of teaching our students about the true meaning of the day. In addition to classroom discussions and lessons about the sacrifices of our military service men and women, we invite members of the community-both veterans and active duty personnel-to James Hart School for a special student assembly and breakfast. The event provides a wonderful opportunity for our student musicians and
artists to show their appreciation.

You'll find photos and videos from this year's special observance by CLICKING HERE.
Get a Jump Start on Your Holiday Shopping &
Support  6th-Grade White Pines Trip
Future Dates
 
Nov. 24-Nov.30 Fundraiser for White Pines 6th-Grade Trip at 5 Below
Nov. 25 No School: Parent-Teacher Conferences
Nov. 26 No School: Parent-Teacher Conferences
Nov. 27 No School
Nov. 28 No School: Happy Thanksgiving!
Nov. 29 No School: Thanksgiving Holiday
Dec. 2 Winter Choir Concert, JH Gym, 7:00 PM
Dec. 4 James Hart Gold Jazz Band performs at The Quarry, 7:30 PM
Dec. 5 HF High School Voyage to Excellence (for 8th-graders), HF High School North Building Field House, 7:00-8:30 PM
Dec. 9 School Board Meeting, JH Media Center, 7:00 PM
Dec. 10 James Hart Cheerleaders Fundraiser at Chipotle, 4:00-8:00 PM
Dec. 16 Homewood Children's Choir Concert, JH Gym, 7:00 PM
Dec. 20 Early Release
Dec. 23 No School: First Day of Winter Break


Don't forget to check the VIRTUAL BACKPACK on our website from time to time for local programs and activities that may interest you and your family.