HC Weekly E-Blast April 16, 2026

Weekly E-Blast   |  April 16, 2026 Hinsdale Central Artists FCCLA, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, returned from the State competition with four Gold medals!  Congratulations to Paolo Tobiao (Fashion Design), Matthew Haggard and Kruthi Sudheendra (Entrepreneurship Food Truck), Anne McFarland and Grace Van Milligen (Preschool Lesson), and Sydney Villarreal (Pastry Arts Decorated Cookie).  It was amazing to see their professionalism, creativity, and dedication. We are incredibly proud of the hard work, preparation, and passion each student demonstrated throughout the competition.  Financial Aid Application Completion Requirement for Seniors State law requires all Illinois public high school seniors to complete either the  Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)  or the  Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid (Alternative Application)  as a prerequisite to receiving a high school diploma. For students who choose not to file an application, a Financial Aid Application Nonparticipation Form may be signed by a parent or guardian. The Nonparticipation Form (used to opt-out of the FAFSA) can be submitted online on ISAC’s Student Portal. See the  Financial Aid Application Nonparticipation Form Instructions  for details on how to complete the electronic form. LAST CALL - Graduation Raffle Four lucky winners will each receive a package that includes one reserved parking space and reserved seating for five guests at  Hinsdale Central High School’s Graduation on May 21, 2026. Raffle Ticket Details: Tickets on sale now through May 4, 2026 Cost: $25 per ticket For every  $100 spent , you’ll receive one extra ticket Participants must be 18 years or older. The raffle drawing will take place on May 6,2026 during the Boosters’ monthly meeting. Winners will be notified by email on May 7, 2026. The graduation raffle package of reserved parking and seating may only be used for the May 2026 HCHS Graduation ceremony. Buy your tickets here Prom Update Seniors who are attending prom , please make sure to check your email as bus and room assignments have been emailed to your school email accounts.  You can also check the graphic below.  Thank you also to all the families who donated toward prom tickets for those in need!  Senior Banners Celebrate your grad in style! Our double-sided, full-color 24"x30" banners will be proudly displayed at the Hinsdale Central Graduation Ceremony! On sale now for $75 — all proceeds support student activities! Deadline to order: May 8, 2026 (Payment must be received by this date to guarantee your order.) Orders placed after May 8 may not be fulfilled and will increase to $100. Don't wait — honor your graduate and support HCHS programming! Order: https://omella.com/rzvsc Be a permanent part of the history of Hinsdale Central High School with an engraved 4"x 8" brick!  Order: https://bit.ly/4l2iAFN Graduation Flowers Celebrate your graduate with beautiful flowers! Order online today and pick up on-site the day of graduation! Simply stop by our booth at the entrance before the ceremony to grab your order. Order: https://www.thecommencementgroup.com/HInsdale/ Getting Nervous For Upcoming Exams? Join P.A.S.S. Now And Get A Head Start! Spring finals are closer than you think, don’t wait until the last minute to start preparing. Get ahead now and set yourself up for success by joining a P.A.S.S. study group! We know this time of year can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing school, sports, and everything else on your schedule. That’s where P.A.S.S. comes in! Whether you need help reviewing key concepts, preparing for exams, or just staying on track, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Getting started early can make all the difference. Study groups are a great way to stay motivated and walk into finals feeling confident and prepared! Don’t wait until it’s too late! Take the first step toward success today! Sign up for a P.A.S.S. session at  this link . Have questions? Reach out to learn more about P.A.S.S. and everything we offer by emailing Milan Bansal at mbansal8001@stu.hinsdale86.org or Connor Mason at  cmason7114@stu.hinsdale86.org . Spirit Wear Sale Mark your calendars for two upcoming sales of Hinsdale Central spirit wear this spring!  Come check out the latest items during these dates and times: Tuesday, April 21 from 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Grant Street Entrance  Thursday, May 7 from 8:30 - 11:00 a.m. in the Auditorium Lobby  These may be the last chances to pick up official HCHS gear before the end of the school year, so don't miss out on the chance to find the perfect item for your graduating 8th graders or current students.   Interested in helping out?  The Boosters are powered by volunteer parents like you, and we need your help selling spirit wear.   Check out the link and sign up for a spot to join us!  Thank you.   PTO Conversations Please join the next PTO conversation on Wednesday 4/29/2026 at 9:00 AM in the HCHS Community Room and on Zoom. The conversation will focus on mental health awareness and local resources available to HCHS families. Hinsdale Central Social Workers and School Psychologists will host a panel providing information on resources available to aid you and your students. There will be time for questions. The HCHS Community Room is located across from the main office. Please enter the school at Door #5 - The Grant Street Entrance. Hope to see you there! Upcoming Dates Prom April 17 Spring Musical,  Hadestown , April 24-26 Cultural Fair, April 29

Thursday, Apr 16 2026

HC Weekly E-Blast April 9, 2026

Weekly E-Blast   |  April 9, 2026 Hinsdale Central Artists Our Art students, both club and academic courses, have created beautiful pieces of art. These productions have been made available for sale at various points during the school year. Students from our ceramics, painting, jewelry and smithmaking courses have the opportunity to showcase their work and make it available for sale to our student body. Spring Pre-ACT & ACT Testing Information On Wednesday, April 15, 2025 - Thursday, April 16, 2025, students in grades 9-11 will take the state-mandated Pre-ACT & ACT assessment.  Students in Grade 12 will not be in attendance.  Please see the schedule below as to when students are testing.    Spring ACT Testing Schedule Grade Level Wednesday, April 15 Thursday, April 16 9 Non-Attendance Day PreACT 9 10 Non-Attendance Day PreACT 11 ACT Non-Attendance Day 12 Non-Attendance Day Non-Attendance Day Dismissal  Information 12:30 PM - All routes Departure 2:15 PM - North / South routes Departure  11:30 AM - All routes Departure 12:45 PM - North / South routes Departure 2:30 PM - Mini-Bus for any Triple Time Testers Buses depart 15 minutes after exams *Students who have ACT-approved extended time per their IEP/504/ML status may be dismissed later than the times listed above or may test over two days. Later bus runs accommodate these students.   Here is important information regarding the testing: Dismissal & Transportation: Busses depart 15 minutes after the end of standardized time testing.  There will be a late bus for students with approved extended time. Student parking is open.  Any student with a license can park in the student parking lot. Cafe & Meal Information: Breakfast:  Will be available from 7:00-7:50.  Cafeteria will close at 7:50 to move students to their testing location. Snacks:  Cafe & Devil’s Roast is CLOSED during testing.   Students should not be in the cafe/commons. Lunch : Quest will have “grab & go” options for students as they finish between 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Supports on Non-Testing Days:  On the days that students are NOT testing, we will have the following supports open for students to use; Testing Center, Excel, and the SSC.  Students should come in Door 5 to use these supports.  This is a great time for students to catch up on missing work. Tips for Success Testing:  We need your help to make sure our testing days are successful. Students should bring their charged school-issued Chromebooks and charger Students should be in their testing location by 7:50 so we can begin promptly at 8:00 and ensure an on-time dismissal  Students should get a good night's sleep and eat a protein-rich breakfast before testing Students should bring a water bottle and a snack Students are not allowed to have their cell phones, headphones, and/or smartwatches.  They should be left in their locker, car, or backpack. For additional information, students should review their testing location email from Jennifer Regnier Financial Aid Application Completion Requirement for Seniors State law requires all Illinois public high school seniors to complete either the  Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)  or the  Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid (Alternative Application)  as a prerequisite to receiving a high school diploma. For students who choose not to file an application, a Financial Aid Application Nonparticipation Form may be signed by a parent or guardian. The Nonparticipation Form (used to opt-out of the FAFSA) can be submitted online on ISAC’s Student Portal. See the  Financial Aid Application Nonparticipation Form Instructions  for details on how to complete the electronic form. Senior Banners Celebrate your grad in style! Our double-sided, full-color 24"x30" banners will be proudly displayed at the Hinsdale Central Graduation Ceremony! On sale now for $75 — all proceeds support student activities! Deadline to order: May 8, 2026 (Payment must be received by this date to guarantee your order.) Orders placed after May 8 may not be fulfilled and will increase to $100. Don't wait — honor your graduate and support HCHS programming! Order: https://omella.com/rzvsc Be a permanent part of the history of Hinsdale Central High School with an engraved 4"x 8" brick!  Order: https://bit.ly/4l2iAFN Graduation Flowers Celebrate your graduate with beautiful flowers! Order online today and pick up on-site the day of graduation! Simply stop by our booth at the entrance before the ceremony to grab your order. Order: https://www.thecommencementgroup.com/HInsdale/ 2027 Italy Trip Hinsdale D86 is sponsoring a travel opportunity to Italy, Spring Break 2027. The opportunity is for sophomore-Senior students (particularly our Latin, Art History and Social Studies students) to take their learning out of the classroom and into a real-world environment. Students will leave Chicago March 25, 2027 and arrive in Sicily, then travel to Taormina, Aetna and Palarmo, then to Sorrento (by overnight ferry), Pompeii and finally to Rome. Among other highlights will be ancient Missena, the archaeological site of Pompeii, the Vatican, the Roman forum, the Colosseum and others T.B.A. This trip will offer a wealth of linguistic, artistic, historical and cultural experiences, and develop students' independence.   If you are interested: 1) please join this email list ( https://tinyurl.com/5n969n69 ) for updates, registration and additional information; 2) come to a 40 minute informational meeting this coming Tuesday, April 14 at 7:00 pm at Hinsdale Central, Conference Room 2536.   After the meeting, registration will open and be capped at 25 students. Please email Dr. Peter DeRousse with any questions ( pderouss@hinsdale86.org ).  Getting Nervous For Upcoming Exams? Join P.A.S.S. Now And Get A Head Start! Spring finals are closer than you think, don’t wait until the last minute to start preparing. Get ahead now and set yourself up for success by joining a P.A.S.S. study group! We know this time of year can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing school, sports, and everything else on your schedule. That’s where P.A.S.S. comes in! Whether you need help reviewing key concepts, preparing for exams, or just staying on track, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Getting started early can make all the difference. Study groups are a great way to stay motivated and walk into finals feeling confident and prepared! Don’t wait until it’s too late! Take the first step toward success today! Sign up for a P.A.S.S. session at  this link . Have questions? Reach out to learn more about P.A.S.S. and everything we offer by emailing Milan Bansal at mbansal8001@stu.hinsdale86.org or Connor Mason at  cmason7114@stu.hinsdale86.org . PTO Conversations Please join the next PTO conversation on Wednesday 4/29/2026 at 9:00 AM in the HCHS Community Room and on Zoom. The conversation will focus on mental health awareness and local resources available to HCHS families. Hinsdale Central Social Workers and School Psychologists will host a panel providing information on resources available to aid you and your students. There will be time for questions. The HCHS Community Room is located across from the main office. Please enter the school at Door #5 - The Grant Street Entrance. Hope to see you there! Community Speaker Series, April 28 Please join us on Tuesday, April 28 at 7pm for a Community Speaker Series in-person event at the Hinsdale Central High School auditorium.  In his latest book, Dream School , New York Times bestselling author Jeffrey Selingo helps families reimagine the college search process. Drawing on extensive research and insights from thousands of parents, he encourages students and families to broaden their view of what makes a school truly great—emphasizing career readiness, hands-on learning, and a strong sense of community. Jeffrey Selingo is the author of three other books, including Who Gets In and Why and  There Is Life After College . He is a regular contributor to The Atlantic, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal, and co-hosts the popular higher education podcast, Future U.  Jeffrey Selingo Tuesday, April 28, 2026 7:00pm – 8:30pm In-person at Hinsdale Central Auditorium This program is for students and parents Register here: https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E127580&id=67 The Community Speaker Series is committed to fostering a sense of community through hosting in-person and virtual events that inform and inspire. CSS is funded jointly by District 86 and District 181 and is supported by the D181 Foundation. Our events are free and open to the public. We encourage everyone to join our events, connect and learn together.  Food Drive Hinsdale South's Community Action Team is hosting a food drive on April 11, 2026, with one simple goal: to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry. We invite you to join us in making a difference—every donation brings us one step closer to supporting families in need. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind. Upcoming Dates Prom April 17 Spring Musical,  Hadestown , April 24-26 Cultural Fair, April 29

Thursday, Apr 09 2026

Hinsdale South Weekly Newsletter - April 9, 2026

Weekly Newsletter April 9, 2026 National Assistant Principals Week Every day you set the plans, people, and possibilities in motion that make Hinsdale South a place where students and staff do their best work. I want to thank you for setting a tone of high expectations and belonging that lifts students and staff, for noticing when our staff need time, and for providing support to all of our students and families. The example you set elevates what students and staff can achieve together, and I'm proud to serve with you in this work. Dr. Kari Peronto Principal   Faculty Variety Show - Tonight! Be sure to come to the Faculty Variety Show TONIGHT at 7:00 PM in the auditorium. Tickets are $5 at the door. Come see your favorite teachers and staff take the stage. They sing, they dance, and they entertain. This show is open to all students and families! It's going to be a blast, and we can't wait to see our staff take the stage and perform!   Spring ACT Testing Spring testing will take place in April as part of our ongoing efforts to assess student progress and readiness in accordance with state requirements. All 11th-grade students will take the ACT, while 9th and 10th-grade students will take the PreACT Secure. Any student interested in taking the SAT exam must register on their own through the College Board website. Any student who is approved to take the DLM test in lieu of the ACT will receive additional information. Below is the schedule for testing. Typically, ACT scores are available 3-5 weeks after testing. Score reports will be available on the ACT student portal. For students in Grades 9-10, Pre-ACT scores are not uploaded by ACT to the ACT portal. Therefore, District 86 will upload all scores to Infinite Campus approximately 4-6 weeks after testing. For additional information on these exams, please see the links below: Information about the ACT  Information about the PreACT    Summer School Families can now register for Summer School course offerings on the Summer School webpage. District 86 offers several types of summer learning opportunities to meet the needs of students: "Get Ahead” Program: Courses designed for students who want to get ahead on graduation requirements or strengthen their academic preparation. Both in-person and online options are available. Credit Recovery Program: Courses for students who need to recover credit or repeat a course to improve understanding of the material. Intervention, Enrichment, & Workshops: Sessions focused on skill development, enrichment opportunities, and targeted academic support. Summer School will run in two sessions. Semester 1 will take place from June 1 to June 18, and Semester 2 will run from June 22 to July 9. Courses are available both in-person and online. In-person courses are held at Hinsdale South, where students must be in their assigned classroom between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Online courses are 100 percent asynchronous, allowing students to work at their own pace and complete coursework within the established deadlines. For any questions, please contact Jordan Stob at jstob@hinsdale86.org.   Spring Break 2027 - Italy Hinsdale D86 is sponsoring a travel opportunity to Italy, Spring Break 2027. The opportunity is for sophomore- and senior-level students (particularly our Latin, Art History, and Social Studies students) to take their learning out of the classroom and into a real-world environment. Students will leave Chicago on March 25, 2027, and arrive in Sicily, then travel to Taormina, Aetna, and Palermo, then to Sorrento (by overnight ferry), Pompeii, and finally to Rome. Among other highlights will be ancient Missena, the archaeological site of Pompeii, the Vatican, the Roman forum, the Colosseum, and others, T.B.A. This trip will offer a wealth of linguistic, artistic, historical, and cultural experiences and develop students' independence.   If you are interested: 1) please join this email list for updates, registration, and additional information; 2) come to a 40-minute informational meeting this coming Tuesday, April 14, at 7:00 pm at Hinsdale Central, Conference Room 2536.   After the meeting, registration will open and be capped at 25 students.  Please email Dr. Peter DeRousse with any questions (pderouss@hinsdale86.org).    New Artwork from Sergio Farfan You may have noticed our new mural on the entry wall to the Fine Arts Hallway. If you have not seen it yet, it's hard to miss, stop by! Sergio Farfán is a Chicago-based contemporary artist whose work draws from his upbringing in Peru and his experiences living in Chicago. His art explores themes of innocence and the human condition—capturing emotions such as happiness, anxiety, and playfulness that resonate with a wide audience. Blending influences from pop art, cubism, and urban contemporary styles, Farfán combines classical techniques with expressive, childlike imagery using mediums like spray paint, acrylic, and graphite. Farfán collaborated with the National Art Honor Society to create a mural commissioned as part of an ongoing effort to bring contemporary art into the school and enhance shared spaces. As a full-time artist working out of the Zhou B Art Center in Chicago, his work reflects both personal storytelling and a commitment to making art accessible and meaningful within the community. Farfan is a graduate of Leyden High School and was recently inducted into their hall of fame and was honored to have his artwork grace our walls.    Counseling Office   College Representative Visits Students wishing to visit with a college representative should sign up on SchooLinks and then come to the Counseling Office to get a pass for the visit from Mrs. Alvarez. Passes need to be signed by the teacher whose class the student will be missing. Students must have this pass in order to attend the college visit. Without it, they will not be admitted to the meeting. The College Rep Visit will usually last about 30- 45 minutes. Friday, April 10 10:45 AM - McKendree University Monday, April 13 10:45 AM - University of Missouri-Columbia  11:40 AM - Nova Southeastern University   12:35 PM - Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville    Tuesday, April 14 10:45 AM -Missouri State University-Main Campus 11:40 AM - Savannah College of Art and Design   12:35 PM - Northern Illinois University      Multi Tiered Systems of Support   Deans Office   Academic Integrity District 86 maintains and updates the student handbook, which includes a section on Academic Integrity. Board Policy 7:190, Student Behavior, explicitly prohibits, “Engaging in academic dishonesty, including cheating, intentionally plagiarizing, wrongfully giving or receiving help during an academic examination, altering report cards, and wrongfully obtaining test copies or scores.” The improper use of Artificial Intelligence is an example of an academic integrity violation. Unless otherwise directed by your instructor, the Use of AI and representing the work of these tools as your own constitutes cheating and/or plagiarism. Further, even when AI is allowed, the use of the wrong level of AI constitutes plagiarism/cheating and violates the Academic Dishonesty/Honor Code and Board Policy 7:190. If AI is not explicitly allowed by the teacher, students should not use AI in any form. If the student is confused or has a question as to the acceptable use of AI it is the responsibility of the student to ask for clarification prior to beginning the assignment.   Attendance Matters - Every Day Counts Click on any of the buttons below to learn more about important attendance topics. Attendance Matters Student Attendance Policy Pre Arranged Absences Bell to Bell, No Cell   Staff Highlights   Heddi Sirovatka - Math Teacher As we start preparing for AP exams, the Math Department wanted to spotlight a teacher who has consistently excelled at preparing our AP Calculus students for their exam, Heddi Sirovatka. After graduating from ISU, Heddi started her teaching career at Hinsdale South. She has taught AP Calculus BC for over 3 decades, as well as just about every other course our department offers, including Multivariable Calculus. Even in her last year, Heddi continues to learn and grow professionally. She took on a new prep and helped develop the new AP Precalculus course. Her meticulous planning, deep content knowledge, and strategic approach to instruction ensures that her AP students are not only well versed in the content but confident in their ability to succeed. Beyond the classroom, Heddi’s steady presence, witty comments, and collaborative spirit make her a dependable and respected colleague who helps elevate the entire department. Heddi stands out as a pillar of excellence in our department.   Throughout her time at Hinsdale South, Heddi has served on a variety of committees (too numerous to list), has coached soccer, and also continues to be one of the coaches for our Math Team. She is excited to accompany the mathletes to the ICTM State later in April. We are grateful for Heddi’s many years of service and all she does for our math students!   Student Highlights   Gracie Linarez - State Qualifer Hinsdale South is proud to announce that senior Gracie Linarez will be representing our school at the FCCLA Fashion Apparel Display state competition. Through FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America), students like Gracie develop essential leadership skills while exploring career paths in fashion, culinary arts, education, and community service. We wish Gracie the best of luck as she showcases her talent at the state level!   Stinger - Student News Site   Athletics   IHSA Updates: New "No Contact Week" and Earlier Football Start We want to keep our Hinsdale South families informed about important updates from the Illinois High School Association (IHSA): Mandatory "No Contact Week": From June 29 to July 5, 2026, there will be a statewide "No Contact Week." During this time, no practices, open gyms, or weight training sessions will be allowed for any sport. This update replaces the previous "dead week" that traditionally took place in August. Football Season Kicks Off Early: The 2026 football season will start one week earlier than usual. Football practices are now scheduled to begin on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Please mark your calendars and plan your summer accordingly. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our athletic department for more information.     Athletic Results   Senior News   Graduation Yard Sign - Due Tomorrow Senior year is flying by… celebrate it in style! Your senior has worked so hard to get here—now it’s time to show them off! A personalized yard sign is the perfect way to recognize them and make this milestone feel even more special. Great for photos, fun for graduation parties, and a daily reminder of how proud you are. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate your senior. Order your yard sign by tomorrow, Friday, April 10! Visit HERE.     Booster Clubs   3rd Annual Rock Your Tees Bowling Night Tickets are now available for our biggest fundraiser of the year! Grab a friend and join us for a laid-back night of bowling, food, and tons of fun on Saturday, April 25, at 7 PM! Click here to get your tickets today! Watch for the online auction link coming out in April. Auction and raffle prizes include: Cubs and other sports tickets Broadway in Chicago Chicago Symphony Orchestra Joffrey Ballet Navy Pier Shakespeare Theater Field Museum and more! Check out the invitation for more information.   Community News   60th Anniversary 60 years of SouthPride! Just a few weeks remain to purchase your South swag! From shirts and hoodies to Crocs and ornaments, our online store will close soon. Be sure to pick up your merch featuring the limited-edition 60th anniversary logo!  Check out the merch HERE!     Community Speaker Series Please join us on Tuesday, April 28, at 7 PM for a Community Speaker Series in-person event at the Hinsdale Central High School auditorium.  In his latest book, Dream School, New York Times bestselling author Jeffrey Selingo helps families reimagine the college search process. Drawing on extensive research and insights from thousands of parents, he encourages students and families to broaden their view of what makes a school truly great—emphasizing career readiness, hands-on learning, and a strong sense of community. Jeffrey Selingo is the author of three other books, including Who Gets In and Why and There Is Life After College. He is a regular contributor to The Atlantic, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal, and co-hosts the popular higher education podcast, Future U.  Jeffrey Selingo Tuesday, April 28, 2026 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM In-person at Hinsdale Central Auditorium This program is for students and parents Register HERE The Community Speaker Series is committed to fostering a sense of community through hosting in-person and virtual events that inform and inspire. CSS is funded jointly by District 86 and District 181 and is supported by the D181 Foundation. Our events are free and open to the public. We encourage everyone to join our events, connect, and learn together. This is an example of a sentence to begin a paragraph.   Tuesday, April 14 - Young Hearts for Life Testing Wednesday, April 15 - ACT Testing: Grade 11 Thursday, April 16 - PreACT Testing: Grades 9 & 10 Friday, April 17 - No School / Non-Attendance Day Wednesdays, April 22, and 29 - Early Release Saturday, May 2 - Prom Wednesday, May 20 - Senior Send-off/Last Day Thursday, May 21 - Graduation Rehearsal and Ceremony Wednesday, May 27 - Finals (Periods 4, 3, 5) Thursday, May 28 - Finals (Periods 7, 8, 6) Friday, May 29 - Finals (Periods 1, 2, Make-ups)

Thursday, Apr 09 2026

Board Briefs: April 6, 2026

D86 Board Briefs Highlights From Meeting On April 6, 2026 REMINDER: Please SUBSCRIBE to receive alerts when Board of Education and Committee meeting agendas are posted. Action Items APPROVED: SY2027 Certified Staffing Recommendation The Board approved a total reduction of 10.3 FTE for the 2026–27 school year, adopting the administration’s recommendation of 351.7 FTE for combined classroom/teaching and direct student/support staffing. The reduction also reflects the decision not to fill two administrative positions–a director of professional learning and director of data and analytics—following previously approved resignations. Additional adjustments at the Transition Center remain possible as the administration continues to review the consultant’s recommendations. APPROVED: Advancement and Tenure of Probationary Licensed Staff The Board approved the continued employment of non-tenured staff and those who will earn tenure upon successful completion of the 2025–26 school year, in accordance with School Code. APPROVED: Non-Renewal of Full-Time Non-Tenured Probationary Teachers The Board approved the non-renewal of full-time non-tenured probationary teachers for the 2026–27 school year. APPROVED: Non-Renewal of Part-Time Non-Tenured Teachers The Board approved the non-renewal of part-time non-tenured teachers for the 2026–27 school year. APPROVED: FY27 Cabinet Administrator Salaries The Board approved cabinet-level administrator salary increases of 2.9 percent, which are consistent with the District’s historical practice of aligning adjustments with PTELL and the District’s financial forecast. APPROVED: FY27 Single-Year Administrative Contracts and Salaries The Board approved contracts and salaries for administrators on single-year contracts, which include a salary increase of 2.9 percent. This increase is consistent with the District’s historical practice of aligning adjustments with PTELL and the District’s financial forecast. APPROVED: 2026-2029 Hinsdale South Principal Contract The Board approved a three-year contract, effective July 1 2026-June 30 2029, for Hinsdale South Principal Dr. Kari Peronto. The contract includes a recommended administrator salary increase of 2.9 percent, which is consistent with the District’s historical practice of aligning adjustments with PTELL and the District’s financial forecast. APPROVED: 2026-28 Chief Information Officer Contract The Board approved a two-year contract for Michael Swanson to serve as the District’s Chief Information Officer. Swanson brings more than a decade of experience in educational technology leadership, most recently serving as Director of Technology at Proviso Township High School District 209, where he led major infrastructure upgrades, improved service delivery, and achieved significant cost savings. He holds a master’s degree in Information Design & Strategy from Northwestern University and has a strong background in cybersecurity and systems integration, with a focus on creating efficient, student-centered technology environments. RS (Robbins Schwartz) Litigation The Board directed its attorney to file a counter-claim in the Robbins Schwartz Litigation, and to direct President Catherine Greenspon to produce associated documents and sign all interrogatories.   Discussion Items Nexts Steps for Implementing Transition Programming Recommendations The current licensed staff FTE projection for the Transition Center for the 2026-27 school year is 15.5, which is a decrease of 1.2 FTE from the current school year. This is an additional 1.0 decrease from what was originally proposed to the Board of Education at the March 12 meeting. District and Transition Center administrators are continuing to meet with incoming Superintendent Dr. Chip Pettit to discuss the recommendations of consultant Dr. Daniel Cates, who conducted a comprehensive review of the District’s post-secondary transition programming.  The administrative team is continuing to finalize a plan, which will be shared in the coming weeks.   Audience Comments An audience member questioned why orchestra was not recommended at Hinsdale South, and suggested that shuttle options between schools should be introduced gradually rather than every period. The individual also shared concerns about single-site course offerings and proposed reallocating a district data position into department chair roles. An audience member suggested offering orchestra at Hinsdale South. The audience member also proposed using a hybrid, live synchronous approach for smaller advanced classes integrated into the school day (e.g., AP Seminar). The audience member also questioned why the Transition Center, viewed as a highly successful program, is being targeted. An audience member recognized Hinsdale South Principal Dr. Kari Peronto for building an outstanding culture at the school.   Future Board Meetings Thursday, April 30 Thursday, May 28 Thursday, June 25   Board Briefs are meant to provide highlights of each Board of Education meeting, and are not intended to be an all-inclusive recap. Please use the following link to View a Complete Recording of the Meeting.

Tuesday, Apr 07 2026

Board Briefs: March 26, 2026

D86 Board Briefs Highlights From Meeting On March 26, 2026 REMINDER: Please SUBSCRIBE to receive alerts when Board of Education and Committee meeting agendas are posted. Good News The Hinsdale Central Good News Report celebrated student excellence across academics, arts, and athletics, including state championships, all-state honors, and statewide recognition. Kiran Singla delivered the Hinsdale Central Student Board Liaison Report, with a Student Voice Report focused on bathroom conditions, while Asmitha Pallath arranged the Hinsdale South Student Board Liaison Report, with a Student Voice Report focused on mental health awareness.   Discussion Items Nexts Steps for Implementing Transition Programming Recommendations District and Transition Center administrators have met with incoming Superintendent Dr. Chip Pettit to discuss the recommendations of consultant Dr. Daniel Cates, who conducted a comprehensive review of the District’s post-secondary transition programming. The administrative team is continuing to meet, and while the plan is not yet final, the team has identified a reduction of an additional 1.0 FTE. As part of this conversation, the Board also discussed the Transition Center’s three “Cost Calculation Methods” presented in Dr. Cates’ report earlier this month. The site-based expenditure report of $89,000 per student is the amount reported on the Illinois Report Card.   Action Items APPOINTED: Board Representatives to HHSTA Contract Negotiations Team Board Members Mary Satchwell, Liz Mitha and Catherine Greenspon offered their service to the HHSTA Contract Negotiations Team. The current HHSTA contract expires in the spring of 2027. POSTPONED: SY2027 Certified Staffing Recommendation The Board postponed its vote on the SY2027 Certified Staffing Recommendation to allow administration more time to continue reviewing the Transition Center recommendations, as well as for further conversations with incoming Superintendent Dr. Chip Pettit. The recommendation presented at the meeting included a FTE of 352.7, which is a reduction of 7.3 across the district. An additional reduction of 1.0 FTE has already been identified at the Transition Center as administration continues to analyze the results of the Transition Center audit. The District is also holding the posting of vacancies where an individual has resigned from their position. During the staffing presentation, members of the District administrative team provided updates to the Board on the four staffing-related tasks assigned at the last meeting: A plan for shuttle service for cross-campus course opportunities A review of the A&O observations memo for opportunities for adjustments to the staffing recommendation Speaking with incoming Superintendent Dr. Chip Pettit to evaluate moving department chairs back into the classroom for a portion of the day. Speaking with Dr. Pettit to establish the recommended staffing plan for the next school year, including a hold on backfilling vacancies until a plan is in place.  APPROVED: Health Life Safety Proposal The Board approved a proposal from Wight & Company to provide architectural and engineering services to complete a Ten-Year Life Safety Survey for all school buildings in Hinsdale Township High School District 86. AWARDED: E-Rate Access Point Replacement Project The Board approved a proposal Advizex Technologies LLC to replace and update the wireless infrastructure in District facilities. DISCUSSED: Agenda Items Related to Contracts, Salaries, and Non-Renewals The Board amended its agenda to discuss, rather than act, on several items related to administrator contracts and salaries, as well as non-renewals of non-tenured teachers, to provide additional time for thorough review of the materials. The Board discussed their support of the individuals involved and opted to postpone taking action to ensure they have the opportunity to review and ask questions or seek clarification prior to approval. The Board plans to take action on these items during a special meeting on April 6. STRUCK: Possible Action on RS Matter This item was removed from the agenda.   Board Committee Reports PTAC January Report Academic Committee March Report World Language Department Update Multilingual Department Update 2025-2026 Student Services Report Student Services Presentation A&O Committee March Report A&O SY27 Staffing Observations Finance & Facilities Committee March Report HR Committee March Report   President's Report Board President Catherine Greenspon thanked the administration for their work, patience, and clarity throughout recent discussions. She reminded the community that the Board will take action on staffing at a special meeting on April 6. She wished students, staff, and the community a safe and restful spring break, encouraging time to recharge. President Greenspon also highlighted recent successes across the district, including Hinsdale South’s drama program advancing to state and student-led efforts like the Polar Plunge raising $18,000—reflecting the strong support students receive from staff and administration. Finally, she shared insights from attending IASB Advocacy Day, where discussions with legislators focused on key issues impacting school districts, including mandates and categorical reimbursements, part-time employee health insurance, unfunded curricular requirements, proposed FOIA legislation, and TIF reform. Board Priorities and Development As part of an effort for ongoing board self-evaluation, the Board checked in on progress made on their areas of focus detailed in Board Priorities and discussed practices and procedures for continuous improvement. As part of this process, each member shared a strength about the board and a “raise the bar” to work on going forward. Board Comments Board Secretary Liz Mitha encouraged participation in the Hinsdale South Community Action Team’s Food Drive. There are two easy ways to help: Shop the Amazon Wishlist and have items shipped directly to Hinsdale South: https://bit.ly/3JDhi64 Create your own meal kits and drop them off at designated locations: http://bit.ly/49DGMJv All donations are due by Wednesday, April 6, 2026 Superintendent’s Report Superintendent Dr. Michael Lach thanked students, parents and staff for their participation in the 5Essentials survey, and wished the community a safe and restful spring break.   Audience Comments An audience member questioned why students were allowed to participate in a walkout last month. An audience member urged the Board to take more time before approving staffing for the 2026-27 school year, and requested the Board not approve the presented recommendation. Board member Baron Leacock shared that he has been absent for several meetings due to an unscheduled medical issue, but he is now back and grateful for the support he has received. An audience member asked the Board to provide Hinsdale South students with access to all courses only running at Hinsdale Central. An audience member expressed appreciation for the shuttle discussion, noting its complexity, and encouraged early communication with students about courses that may not run, particularly alternating-year classes, so they can plan accordingly.   Future Board Meetings *New Special Meeting on Monday, April 6 Thursday, April 30 Thursday, May 28 Thursday, June 25   Board Briefs are meant to provide highlights of each Board of Education meeting, and are not intended to be an all-inclusive recap. Please use the following link to View a Complete Recording of the Meeting.

Friday, Mar 27 2026

HC Weekly E-Blast March 26, 2026

Weekly E-Blast   |  March 26, 2026 Scholastic Art and Writing Award We would like to share that Elizabeth Zhu won two national awards in Scholastic Art and Writing. Not only did she win a gold medal, but she also won an American Vision Award which means she is one of two Speople nationally who got this award out of thousands of submissions. They described this as "Over 110,000 students entered more than 335,000 original works of art and writing to the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Elizabeth's work was selected by some of the foremost leaders in the visual and literary arts for excellence in originality, skill, and the emergence of a personal voice or vision". Spring Pre-ACT & ACT Testing Information On Wednesday, April 15, 2025 - Thursday, April 16, 2025, students in grades 9-11 will take the state-mandated Pre-ACT & ACT assessment.  Students in Grade 12 will not be in attendance.  Please see the schedule below as to when students are testing.    Spring ACT Testing Schedule Grade Level Wednesday, April 15 Thursday, April 16 9 Non-Attendance Day PreACT 9 10 Non-Attendance Day PreACT 11 ACT Non-Attendance Day 12 Non-Attendance Day Non-Attendance Day Dismissal  Information 12:30 PM - All routes Departure 2:15 PM - North / South routes Departure  11:30 AM - All routes Departure 12:45 PM - North / South routes Departure 2:30 PM - Mini-Bus for any Triple Time Testers Buses depart 15 minutes after exams *Students who have ACT-approved extended time per their IEP/504/ML status may be dismissed later than the times listed above or may test over two days. Later bus runs accommodate these students.   Here is important information regarding the testing: Dismissal & Transportation: Busses depart 15 minutes after the end of standardized time testing.  There will be a late bus for students with approved extended time. Student parking is open.  Any student with a license can park in the student parking lot. Cafe & Meal Information: Breakfast:  Will be available from 7:00-7:50.  Cafeteria will close at 7:50 to move students to their testing location. Snacks:  Cafe & Devil’s Roast is CLOSED during testing.   Students should not be in the cafe/commons. Lunch : Quest will have “grab & go” options for students as they finish between 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Supports on Non-Testing Days:  On the days that students are NOT testing, we will have the following supports open for students to use; Testing Center, Excel, and the SSC.  Students should come in Door 5 to use these supports.  This is a great time for students to catch up on missing work. Tips for Success Testing:  We need your help to make sure our testing days are successful. Students should bring their charged school-issued Chromebooks and charger Students should be in their testing location by 7:50 so we can begin promptly at 8:00 and ensure an on-time dismissal  Students should get a good night's sleep and eat a protein-rich breakfast before testing Students should bring a water bottle and a snack Students are not allowed to have their cell phones, headphones, and/or smartwatches.  They should be left in their locker, car, or backpack. For additional information, students should review their testing location email from Jennifer Regnier Financial Aid Application Completion Requirement for Seniors State law requires all Illinois public high school seniors to complete either the  Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)  or the  Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid (Alternative Application)  as a prerequisite to receiving a high school diploma. For students who choose not to file an application, a Financial Aid Application Nonparticipation Form may be signed by a parent or guardian. The Nonparticipation Form (used to opt-out of the FAFSA) can be submitted online on ISAC’s Student Portal. See the  Financial Aid Application Nonparticipation Form Instructions  for details on how to complete the electronic form. Mental Health Resources You can find these helpful mental health resources available on both the school and PTO website. Social Work Department website (everything from community mental health organizations to helpful articles and resources including a fun virtual office that offers links to coping strategies, self-care tools, etc.) https://central.hinsdale86.org/student-support-resources/social-work Hinsdale Central PTO Parent List (Angie's List style resource where parents may read and anonymously write positive reviews regarding local support services that have been successful in handling childhood developmental, emotional, learning and health issues) https://hcpto.org/parent-list/ LEAP Into Africa Flower Sale Senior Banners Celebrate your grad in style! Our double-sided, full-color 24"x30" banners will be proudly displayed at the Hinsdale Central Graduation Ceremony! On sale now for $75 — all proceeds support student activities! Deadline to order: May 8, 2026 (Payment must be received by this date to guarantee your order.) Orders placed after May 8 may not be fulfilled and will increase to $100. Don't wait — honor your graduate and support HCHS programming! Order: https://omella.com/rzvsc Be a permanent part of the history of Hinsdale Central High School with an engraved 4"x 8" brick!  Order: https://bit.ly/4l2iAFN Graduation Flowers Celebrate your graduate with beautiful flowers! Order online today and pick up on-site the day of graduation! Simply stop by our booth at the entrance before the ceremony to grab your order. Order: https://www.thecommencementgroup.com/HInsdale/ Senior Yard Signs  Celebrate your senior and the Hinsdale Central Class of 2026 with an official Red Devils senior yard sign! Show your school spirit, honor your graduate, and cheer on our seniors as they finish their final year at Central. Last day to order your sign is April 6 th . Cost:  $25 per sign Pickup: After school on April 21 st Time: 3:00-5:00 pm https://www.theboosters.com/fundraising/ Graduation Raffle Four lucky winners will each receive a package that includes one reserved parking space and reserved seating for five guests at Hinsdale Central High School’s Graduation on May 21, 2026. Raffle Ticket Details: Tickets on sale now through April 6, 2026 Cost : $25 per ticket For every $100 spent , you’ll receive  one extra ticket Participants must be 18 years or older . The raffle drawing will take place on A pril 8, 2026 at 7:00  PM during the Boosters’ monthly meeting. Winners will be notified by email on  April 9, 2026 . The graduation raffle package of reserved parking and seating may only be used for the May 2026 HCHS Graduation ceremony . https://www.theboosters.com/fundraising/ Summer School Information Registration for 2026 Summer School opened on Monday, March 16. Families can review course offerings now by visiting the Summer School webpage . District 86 offers several types of summer learning opportunities to meet the needs of students: “Get Ahead” Program:  Courses designed for students who want to get ahead on graduation requirements or strengthen their academic preparation. Both in-person and online options are available. Credit Recovery Program:  Courses for students who need to recover credit or repeat a course to improve understanding of the material. Intervention, Enrichment, & Workshops: Sessions focused on skill development, enrichment opportunities, and targeted academic support. Summer School will run in two sessions. Semester 1 will take place from June 1-June 18 , and Semester 2 will run from June 22-July 9 . Courses are available both in-person and online . In-person courses are held at Hinsdale South , where students must be in their assigned classroom between 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Online courses are 100 percent asynchronous, allowing students to work at their own pace and complete coursework within the established deadlines. Tuition for a one-semester course is $300, while a two-semester course costs $600. Driver Education is $350, and enrichment or intervention sessions range from $75 to $300 depending on the course. Tuition fees must be paid at the time of registration.  We encourage families to review the Summer School Program of Studies on the Summer School webpage before registration opens on Monday, March 16. Catch the P.A.S.S.! Spring sports and activities are in full swing! Come out and get some free extra studying and test prep with P.A.S.S. this spring and Hinsdale Public Library. We have students available to study through peer to peer support in all levels of Math, Science, Spanish, English, and Social Studies. P.A.S.S. tutors have proven track record of success, provide free mentorship and peer tutoring and study groups and are available evenings and weekends. All student tutors have been through the class and can share testing tips, study skills, and review study guides and all materials. Catch the P.A.S.S. on weeknights and Sunday afternoons! This May, we’ll be offering a Final Exam Review session with Math & Science Teachers for all interested students. Stay tuned. Check out our sign up link! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A48A5AA23A7F8C43-61483272-2026#/ For more information or questions, please contact Elise Fenton at efenton8357@stu.hinsdale86.org or Milan Bansal at mbansal8001@stu.hinsdale86.org Support Our Habitat for Humanity Trip to West Virginia This summer, Hinsdale Central students will travel to Lewisburg, West Virginia to partner with Habitat for Humanity and help build homes for families in need. Each evening, our students cook and share meals together, building not only houses, but teamwork, leadership, and empathy. We are asking community members to consider donating to help sponsor these nightly dinners. 100% of all donations go directly toward feeding our students while they serve others. By sponsoring a meal, you are sending a powerful message to our students that their commitment to giving back matters and that our community stands behind them. You can donate  HERE Any amount makes a difference. Thank you for supporting our students as they work hard, give back, and represent Hinsdale with pride.  Community Speaker Series, April 28 Please join us on Tuesday, April 28 at 7pm for a Community Speaker Series in-person event at the Hinsdale Central High School auditorium.  In his latest book, Dream School , New York Times bestselling author Jeffrey Selingo helps families reimagine the college search process. Drawing on extensive research and insights from thousands of parents, he encourages students and families to broaden their view of what makes a school truly great—emphasizing career readiness, hands-on learning, and a strong sense of community. Jeffrey Selingo is the author of three other books, including Who Gets In and Why and  There Is Life After College . He is a regular contributor to The Atlantic, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal, and co-hosts the popular higher education podcast, Future U.  Jeffrey Selingo Tuesday, April 28, 2026 7:00pm – 8:30pm In-person at Hinsdale Central Auditorium This program is for students and parents Register here: https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E127580&id=67 The Community Speaker Series is committed to fostering a sense of community through hosting in-person and virtual events that inform and inspire. CSS is funded jointly by District 86 and District 181 and is supported by the D181 Foundation. Our events are free and open to the public. We encourage everyone to join our events, connect and learn together.  Food Drive Hinsdale South's Community Action Team is hosting a food drive on April 11, 2026, with one simple goal: to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry. We invite you to join us in making a difference—every donation brings us one step closer to supporting families in need. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind. Upcoming Dates Prom April 17 Spring Musical,  Hadestown , April 24-26 Cultural Fair, April 29

Thursday, Mar 26 2026

Hinsdale South Weekly Newsletter - March 26, 2026

Weekly Newsletter March 26, 2026 Dear Hornet Families - As we approach Spring break, there is a vibrant energy in our hallways. Between the anticipation of warmer days, and the excitement surrounding our upcoming senior events, it is a season of both reflection and joy! While we may feel the weight of a busy year behind us, this break offers the perfect opportunity to pause and rest. Important Dates: No School: Monday, March 30 - Friday, April 3 Classes Resume: Monday, April 6 I hope everyone takes this time to truly refresh and recharge. We look forward to seeing everyone back at South, energized for a strong final quarter of the school year! With South Pride, Dr. Kari Peronto   Friday, March 27 - Early Dismissal 12:35 PM Monday, March 30 - Friday, April 3 - Spring Break Monday, April 6 - School Resumes Wednesdays, April 8, 22, and 29 - Early Release Wednesday, April 15 - Spring Testing Thursday, April 16 - Spring Testing Friday, April 17 - No School / Non-Attendance Day   Spring ACT Testing Spring testing will take place in April as part of our ongoing efforts to assess student progress and readiness in accordance with state requirements. All 11th-grade students will take the ACT, while 9th and 10th-grade students will take the PreACT Secure. Any student interested in taking the SAT exam will need to register on their own through the College Board website. Any student who is approved to take the DLM test in lieu of the ACT will receive additional information. Below is the schedule for testing. Students will receive more detailed instructions the week of April 6, 2026. For additional information on these exams, please see the links below: Information about the ACT  Information about the PreACT  Typically, ACT scores are available 3-5 weeks after testing. Score reports will be available on the ACT student portal. For students in Grades 9-10, Pre-ACT scores are not uploaded by ACT to the ACT portal. Therefore, District 86 will upload all scores to Infinite Campus approximately 4-6 weeks after testing. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Chris Cirrincione, Assistant Principal for Instruction at Hinsdale Central (ccirrincione@hinsdale86.org), or Kurt Vonnahme, Assistant Principal for Instruction at Hinsdale South (kvonnahm@hinsdale86.org).    Summer School Families can now register for Summer School course offerings on the Summer School webpage. District 86 offers several types of summer learning opportunities to meet the needs of students: "Get Ahead” Program: Courses designed for students who want to get ahead on graduation requirements or strengthen their academic preparation. Both in-person and online options are available. Credit Recovery Program: Courses for students who need to recover credit or repeat a course to improve understanding of the material. Intervention, Enrichment, & Workshops: Sessions focused on skill development, enrichment opportunities, and targeted academic support. Summer School will run in two sessions. Semester 1 will take place from June 1 to June 18, and Semester 2 will run from June 22 to July 9. Courses are available both in-person and online. In-person courses are held at Hinsdale South, where students must be in their assigned classroom between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Online courses are 100 percent asynchronous, allowing students to work at their own pace and complete coursework within the established deadlines. For any questions, please contact Jordan Stob at jstob@hinsdale86.org.   Chromebook Requirement We want to remind everyone that during class time, students are expected to use only their school-issued Chromebooks for all learning activities. Personal devices (including personal laptops, tablets, or phones) should not be used in the classroom. Using school Chromebooks helps ensure that all students have equal access to the same learning tools, resources, and online safety measures provided by our district. The District 86 handbook requires all students to use their district-issued Chromebook for all school-related activities. This ensures every student has the necessary technology and access to the same educational resources. Having each student on the same device also makes it possible for teachers to provide support and for our IT department (TSI) to manage and maintain the devices. We think of these 3 S's as the "why" behind our D86 Chromebooks: Support: If you have a technical issue, TSI can quickly fix or replace a district-issued device. They are not able to provide support for any personal devices. Security: District-issued devices have pre-installed security features and software to protect students' privacy and the D86 network(s). Standardization: Using the same device makes it easier for teachers to provide instruction and for everyone to use the same software and learning platforms.    Multi Tiered Systems of Support  Counseling Office   Support During the Break While a week off is often seen as a time for fun and relaxation, the truth is that transitions and "downtime" can sometimes feel overwhelming or lonely if you are already struggling. If you’ve been feeling burnt out, anxious, or just "off" lately, please know that you aren’t alone and you don’t have to carry that weight by yourself. If you find yourself struggling this time of the year, here are a few ways to access support: Crisis Text Line: If you need to talk to someone immediately but don't want to make a phone call, you can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor for free, 24/7 confidential crisis support in English and Spanish. The 988 Lifeline: You can call or text 988 anytime in the US and Canada for free, 24/7 confidential support. DuPage Crisis Recovery Center: 630-627-1700 for 24/7 support. School Counselors/Social Workers are also available to you during school days/hours. We want everyone to come back feeling refreshed, but more importantly, we want you to come back feeling supported.    College Representative Visits Students wishing to visit with a college representative should sign up on SchooLinks and then come to the Counseling Office to get a pass for the visit from Mrs. Alvarez. Passes need to be signed by the teacher whose class the student will be missing. Students must have this pass in order to attend the college visit. Without it, they will not be admitted to the meeting. The College Rep Visit will usually last about 30- 45 minutes. Tuesday, April 7 10:45 AM - Valparaiso University  11:40 AM - University of Nebraska- Lincoln   1:30 PM - University of Wisconsin- La Crosse   Thursday, April 9 1:30 PM - National Louis University   Friday, April 10 10:45 AM - McKendree University   Deans Office   Attendance Matters - Every Day Counts Click on any of the buttons below to learn more about important attendance topics. Attendance MattersStudent Attendance PolicyPre Arranged AbsencesBell to Bell, No Cell  Staff Highlights   Employee of the Quarter Winners We are thrilled to announce that Matt Goeke, our dedicated Band Director, and Barb Willson, our invaluable Paraprofessional, have been named the Employees of the 3rd Quarter! Matt’s leadership continues to strike a chord with our performing arts program, while Barb’s unwavering support provides the backbone our students need to succeed every day. Please join us in celebrating their hard work, passion, and the massive impact they make on our school community!   Kathy Dmochowski & Eliza Cattani - DHH Social Workers Kathy Dmochowski and Eliza Cattani, DHH Social Workers, were honored with the Illinois Service Resource Center’s "Behavior Team Silver Award" for completing a series of professional development sessions focused on supporting students with hearing loss. Additionally, they received a monetary prize to fund their new behavior intervention project, the "Unplugged" lunch group.   Adriana Pavone - Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher We are thrilled to announce that Adriana has been awarded the ITDHH Hazel Bothwell Grant. This generous funding will establish an Assistive Technology Lending Library, allowing our students to explore and identify the specific tools that best support their learning and independence. In addition to this achievement, Adriana recently presented at the ITDHH Conference on the innovative topic of "Using AI in the Classroom." We are incredibly proud to have our faculty leading the way and sharing their expertise with professionals across the state.   Student Highlights   Science Olympiad is Going to State The Hinsdale South Science Olympiad team earned a bid to the state competition by finishing 3rd at the College of Lake County Regional Competition on March 14. The team will travel down to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign on April 18 to compete against the top 50 teams in the state. The team brought home 72 medals across the varsity and junior varsity teams, with all 15 varsity members earning at least one medal.    Drama Qualifies for State Hinsdale South Drama celebrated a historic weekend at Sectionals, qualifying for the State competition in every category. The Hornets took home the Sectional Championship in Group Interpretation, earned 2nd place in Contest Play, and secured a top 12 finish in the Musical Theatre Review. We are incredibly proud of these students and Mr. Yuska for their hard work and dedication to the arts!   Breakfast Club Awards The following students received the Breakfast Club Award on March 26, 2026.  Every quarter, each department selects a student to be recognized for their outstanding academic or extracurricular accomplishments, contribution to the community, or just their outstanding #SouthPride.   Stinger - Student News Site  Athletics   Kennedy Ruff - Girls Track Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week, Kennedy Ruff. Kennedy placed first in all her events, helping our Varsity team finish 3rd overall in Conference. Kennedy started the night with a win in the 300m Dash, 41.14 - New school record, breaking her own record from last year. Next up was the 55mH - 1st in 8.50. Her third race was the 400m Dash, winning that with a time of 1:00.4. Then, in Kennedy's final race of the night, she anchored the 4x400m relay team with a split of 58.75, bringing our team from a distant 3rd into 1st to win the heat and take first place overall. Kennedy had a commanding day! Way to go, Kennedy. Congratulations on a great meet!!   Colton Campbell - Boys Track Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week, Colton Campbell. Colton placed 2nd Friday night at the Indoor Conference Meet in the high jump, with a personal best jump of 6 feet 2 inches! Colton has had a breakthrough and remarkably consistent season, clearing 6 feet and scoring points at every meet so far. Colton hopes to continue his season Saturday at the Illinois Indoor Championships. Great job, Colton! Congratulations on a great meet!    Olympic Skater Sarah Warren Visits South We were honored to welcome back Olympic skater and Hinsdale South alumna Sarah Warren this week. Sarah took a trip down memory lane, meeting with students and athletes, and with our principals, reflecting on the teachers and coaches who supported her journey from our hallways to the world stage. Sarah is a true testament to what hard work and South Pride can accomplish. Welcome home, Sarah!   IHSA Updates: New "No Contact Week" and Earlier Football Start We want to keep our Hinsdale South families informed about important updates from the Illinois High School Association (IHSA): Mandatory "No Contact Week": From June 29 to July 5, 2026, there will be a statewide "No Contact Week." During this time, no practices, open gyms, or weight training sessions will be allowed for any sport. This update replaces the previous "dead week" that traditionally took place in August. Football Season Kicks Off Early: The 2026 football season will start one week earlier than usual. Football practices are now scheduled to begin on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Please mark your calendars and plan your summer accordingly. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our athletic department for more information.    Athletic Results  Senior News   Graduation Yard Sign Show your Hornet pride and make your graduate feel extra special with a personalized graduation yard sign, a Graduation Scoreboard Shoutout, or take advantage of our special bundle discount and order both! A custom yard sign is the perfect way to celebrate your senior all season long—let your neighbors, friends, and the entire community know how proud you are. Then make graduation day even more memorable with a Scoreboard Shoutout displayed during the ceremony, recognizing your graduate in front of family, friends, and the entire stadium. These keepsakes are a fun and meaningful way to honor your student’s hard work while supporting Hinsdale South students, activities, and programs.  Order now and save when you bundle both items! Don’t wait—secure your yard sign and scoreboard message today and make sure your senior gets the recognition they deserve. Visit HERE       Booster Clubs   HSPAC Casino Night The Hinsdale South Parent Athletic Club is thrilled to host Casino Night 2026 on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the beautiful Carriage Greens Country Club in Darien. We’ll also be running an online auction beginning one month prior and wrapping up at the end of Casino Night, offering a full evening of winning opportunities. Auction items will include event tickets, sports memorabilia, and more, offering something for everyone. You do not need to be present to receive your auction items. Parents, Hinsdale South Faculty, Alumni, Friends, and Community Supporters are invited to come out, have a great time, and support all Hinsdale South athletic programs. Casino Night is one of our premier fundraising events of the year, raising critical funds for every Hinsdale South sport. Proceeds help provide equipment, program resources, and enhanced opportunities for our student-athletes. Whether you’re a current Hornet family, a proud alum, or a longtime supporter, your participation makes a real impact across all programs. Purchase your tickets HERE.   3rd Annual Rock Your Tees Bowling Night Tickets are now available for our biggest fundraiser of the year! Grab a friend and join us for a laid-back night of bowling, food, and tons of fun on Saturday, April 25, at 7 PM! Click here to get your tickets today! Watch for the online auction link coming out in April. Auction and raffle prizes include: Cubs and other sports tickets Broadway in Chicago Chicago Symphony Orchestra Joffrey Ballet Navy Pier Shakespeare Theater Field Museum and more! Check out the invitation for more information.   Community News   60th Anniversary 60 years of SouthPride! Just a few weeks remain to purchase your South swag! From shirts and hoodies to Crocs and ornaments, our online store will close soon. Be sure to pick up your merch featuring the limited-edition 60th anniversary logo!  Check out the merch HERE!   Community Speaker Series Please join us on Tuesday, April 28, at 7 PM for a Community Speaker Series in-person event at the Hinsdale Central High School auditorium.  In his latest book, Dream School, New York Times bestselling author Jeffrey Selingo helps families reimagine the college search process. Drawing on extensive research and insights from thousands of parents, he encourages students and families to broaden their view of what makes a school truly great—emphasizing career readiness, hands-on learning, and a strong sense of community. Jeffrey Selingo is the author of three other books, including Who Gets In and Why and There Is Life After College. He is a regular contributor to The Atlantic, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal, and co-hosts the popular higher education podcast, Future U.  Jeffrey Selingo Tuesday, April 28, 2026 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM In-person at Hinsdale Central Auditorium This program is for students and parents Register HERE The Community Speaker Series is committed to fostering a sense of community through hosting in-person and virtual events that inform and inspire. CSS is funded jointly by District 86 and District 181 and is supported by the D181 Foundation. Our events are free and open to the public. We encourage everyone to join our events, connect, and learn together. This is an example of a sentence to begin a paragraph.       2026 - 2027 District 86 School Calendar The 2026 - 2027 District 86 School Calendar has been approved by the Board of Education. See the links for both the color-coded and text-only calendars.  

Thursday, Mar 26 2026

HC Weekly E-Blast March 19, 2026

Weekly E-Blast   |  March 19, 2026 Boy's Gymnastics The Men's Gymnastics program is excited to welcome our new coaching staff and continue building on a tradition of excellence. With fresh alumni leadership and strong dedication, the team has already made incredible strides this season. Athletes have been working hard to develop new skills, improve routines, and push themselves to new levels of performance. That hard work is paying off. The team recently delivered an outstanding performance at the Paul Omi Invitational at Lyons Township, earning an impressive 3rd place finish with a team score of 126.2. This achievement reflects not only the talent of our gymnasts, but also their commitment, discipline, and team spirit. The team is still welcoming new members, and no prior experience is required! Just a willingness to learn and work hard. Any students interested in joining Men's Gymnastics are encouraged to come out, meet the team, and give it a try. It’s a great opportunity to build strength, learn new skills, and be part of a supportive and successful program. Spring Pre-ACT & ACT Testing Information On Wednesday, April 15, 2025 - Thursday, April 16, 2025, students in grades 9-11 will take the state-mandated Pre-ACT & ACT assessment.  Students in Grade 12 will not be in attendance.  Please see the schedule below as to when students are testing.    Spring ACT Testing Schedule Grade Level Wednesday, April 15 Thursday, April 16 9 Non-Attendance Day PreACT 9 10 Non-Attendance Day PreACT 11 ACT Non-Attendance Day 12 Non-Attendance Day Non-Attendance Day Dismissal  Information 12:30 PM - All routes Departure 2:15 PM - North / South routes Departure  11:30 AM - All routes Departure 12:45 PM - North / South routes Departure 2:30 PM - Mini-Bus for any Triple Time Testers Buses depart 15 minutes after exams *Students who have ACT-approved extended time per their IEP/504/ML status may be dismissed later than the times listed above or may test over two days. Later bus runs accommodate these students.   Here is important information regarding the testing: Dismissal & Transportation: Busses depart 15 minutes after the end of standardized time testing.  There will be a late bus for students with approved extended time. Student parking is open.  Any student with a license can park in the student parking lot. Cafe & Meal Information: Breakfast:  Will be available from 7:00-7:50.  Cafeteria will close at 7:50 to move students to their testing location. Snacks:  Cafe & Devil’s Roast is CLOSED during testing.   Students should not be in the cafe/commons. Lunch : Quest will have “grab & go” options for students as they finish between 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Supports on Non-Testing Days:  On the days that students are NOT testing, we will have the following supports open for students to use; Testing Center, Excel, and the SSC.  Students should come in Door 5 to use these supports.  This is a great time for students to catch up on missing work. Tips for Success Testing:  We need your help to make sure our testing days are successful. Students should bring their charged school-issued Chromebooks and charger Students should be in their testing location by 7:50 so we can begin promptly at 8:00 and ensure an on-time dismissal  Students should get a good night's sleep and eat a protein-rich breakfast before testing Students should bring a water bottle and a snack Students are not allowed to have their cell phones, headphones, and/or smartwatches.  They should be left in their locker, car, or backpack. For additional information, students should review their testing location email from Jennifer Regnier Mental Health Resources You can find these helpful mental health resources available on both the school and PTO website. Social Work Department website (everything from community mental health organizations to helpful articles and resources including a fun virtual office that offers links to coping strategies, self-care tools, etc.) https://central.hinsdale86.org/student-support-resources/social-work Hinsdale Central PTO Parent List (Angie's List style resource where parents may read and anonymously write positive reviews regarding local support services that have been successful in handling childhood developmental, emotional, learning and health issues) https://hcpto.org/parent-list/ LEAP Into Africa Flower Sale Looking to plan for your spring gardens? Hinsdale Central’s LEAP into Africa Club has you covered! We’re selling beautiful plants, planters, potted plants and more! It's the perfect way to prep your spring gardens that also makes an impact.Every purchase supports students at the LEAP Maths and Science Schools in South Africa, giving them access to life-changing educational opportunities.  Order here by April 2nd:  https://bit.ly/LeapSpringFlowers2026       Pick-up the first week of May at Hinsdale Central. Plant with purpose! Support global education! Read more about our efforts + mission at  https://bit.ly/LeapIntoAfricaHC   Thank you, Red Devils!  Q3 ~ Make A Difference Award Recipients Thank you to all who submitted nominations for the Q3 Make A Difference Awards. The committee reviewed all the nominations received and is pleased to congratulate the following six Make A Difference Award recipients for the Third Quarter of 2025-26.  A big thank you to these teachers and staff for their commitment and kindness to our Red Devil community. They are going above and beyond in making a true difference at Hinsdale Central.   James Conyers-Athletic Coach Noah Lawrence-Social Studies Sam Norris-Technology Services Sarah Porod- Math Department Chair Janeen Tomas-Math Julie Van Ness-Administrative Assistant Senior Banners Celebrate your grad in style! Our double-sided, full-color 24"x30" banners will be proudly displayed at the Hinsdale Central Graduation Ceremony! On sale now for $75 — all proceeds support student activities! Deadline to order: May 8, 2026 (Payment must be received by this date to guarantee your order.) Orders placed after May 8 may not be fulfilled and will increase to $100. Don't wait — honor your graduate and support HCHS programming! Order: https://omella.com/rzvsc Be a permanent part of the history of Hinsdale Central High School with an engraved 4"x 8" brick!  Order: https://bit.ly/4l2iAFN Graduation Flowers Celebrate your graduate with beautiful flowers! Order online today and pick up on-site the day of graduation! Simply stop by our booth at the entrance before the ceremony to grab your order. Order: https://www.thecommencementgroup.com/HInsdale/ Senior Yard Signs  Celebrate your senior and the Hinsdale Central Class of 2026 with an official Red Devils senior yard sign! Show your school spirit, honor your graduate, and cheer on our seniors as they finish their final year at Central. Last day to order your sign is April 6 th . Cost:  $25 per sign Pickup: After school on April 21 st Time: 3:00-5:00 pm https://www.theboosters.com/fundraising/ Graduation Raffle Four lucky winners will each receive a package that includes one reserved parking space and reserved seating for five guests at Hinsdale Central High School’s Graduation on May 21, 2026. Raffle Ticket Details: Tickets on sale now through April 6, 2026 Cost : $25 per ticket For every $100 spent , you’ll receive  one extra ticket Participants must be 18 years or older . The raffle drawing will take place on A pril 8, 2026 at 7:00  PM during the Boosters’ monthly meeting. Winners will be notified by email on  April 9, 2026 . The graduation raffle package of reserved parking and seating may only be used for the May 2026 HCHS Graduation ceremony . https://www.theboosters.com/fundraising/ Summer School Information Registration for 2026 Summer School opened on Monday, March 16. Families can review course offerings now by visiting the Summer School webpage . District 86 offers several types of summer learning opportunities to meet the needs of students: “Get Ahead” Program:  Courses designed for students who want to get ahead on graduation requirements or strengthen their academic preparation. Both in-person and online options are available. Credit Recovery Program:  Courses for students who need to recover credit or repeat a course to improve understanding of the material. Intervention, Enrichment, & Workshops: Sessions focused on skill development, enrichment opportunities, and targeted academic support. Summer School will run in two sessions. Semester 1 will take place from June 1-June 18 , and Semester 2 will run from June 22-July 9 . Courses are available both in-person and online . In-person courses are held at Hinsdale South , where students must be in their assigned classroom between 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Online courses are 100 percent asynchronous, allowing students to work at their own pace and complete coursework within the established deadlines. Tuition for a one-semester course is $300, while a two-semester course costs $600. Driver Education is $350, and enrichment or intervention sessions range from $75 to $300 depending on the course. Tuition fees must be paid at the time of registration.  We encourage families to review the Summer School Program of Studies on the Summer School webpage before registration opens on Monday, March 16. Catch the P.A.S.S.! Spring sports and activities are in full swing! Come out and get some free extra studying and test prep with P.A.S.S. this spring and Hinsdale Public Library. We have students available to study through peer to peer support in all levels of Math, Science, Spanish, English, and Social Studies. P.A.S.S. tutors have proven track record of success, provide free mentorship and peer tutoring and study groups and are available evenings and weekends. All student tutors have been through the class and can share testing tips, study skills, and review study guides and all materials. Catch the P.A.S.S. on weeknights and Sunday afternoons! This May, we’ll be offering a Final Exam Review session with Math & Science Teachers for all interested students. Stay tuned. Check out our sign up link! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A48A5AA23A7F8C43-61483272-2026#/ For more information or questions, please contact Elise Fenton at efenton8357@stu.hinsdale86.org or Milan Bansal at mbansal8001@stu.hinsdale86.org Boys Gymnastics Fundraiser Boys Gymnastics is grateful to the Hinsdale Central community and the D86 Board the continuation and growth of the program!  Show your support by stopping by or picking up Portillo's on Wednesday, 8/24 before 5-8pm. Show the flyer, mention Central Gymnastics, or include the code PORTILLOS31 in the promo code box if ordering online for pick-up. #BringYourFire Support Our Habitat for Humanity Trip to West Virginia This summer, Hinsdale Central students will travel to Lewisburg, West Virginia to partner with Habitat for Humanity and help build homes for families in need. Each evening, our students cook and share meals together, building not only houses, but teamwork, leadership, and empathy. We are asking community members to consider donating to help sponsor these nightly dinners. 100% of all donations go directly toward feeding our students while they serve others. By sponsoring a meal, you are sending a powerful message to our students that their commitment to giving back matters and that our community stands behind them. You can donate  HERE Any amount makes a difference. Thank you for supporting our students as they work hard, give back, and represent Hinsdale with pride.  Food Drive Hinsdale South's Community Action Team is hosting a food drive on April 11, 2026, with one simple goal: to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry. We invite you to join us in making a difference—every donation brings us one step closer to supporting families in need. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind. Upcoming Dates Prom April 17 Spring Musical,  Hadestown , April 24-26 Cultural Fair, April 29

Thursday, Mar 19 2026

Hinsdale South Weekly Newsletter - March 19, 2026

Weekly Newsletter March 19, 2026 Wednesday, March 25 - Early Release Friday, March 27 - Early Dismissal 12:35 PM Monday, March 30 - Friday, April 3 - Spring Break Monday, April 6 - School Resumes Wednesdays, April 8, 22, and 29 - Early Release Wednesday, April 15 - Spring Testing Thursday, April 16 - Spring Testing Friday, April 17 - No School / Non-Attendance Day   Spring ACT Testing Spring testing will take place in April as part of our ongoing efforts to assess student progress and readiness in accordance with state requirements. All 11th-grade students will take the ACT, while 9th and 10th-grade students will take the PreACT Secure. Any student interested in taking the SAT exam will need to register on their own through the College Board website. Any student who is approved to take the DLM test in lieu of the ACT will receive additional information. Below is the schedule for testing. Students will receive more detailed instructions the week of April 6, 2026. For additional information on these exams, please see the links below: Information about the ACT  Information about the PreACT  Typically, ACT scores are available 3-5 weeks after testing. Score reports will be available on the ACT student portal. For students in Grades 9-10, Pre-ACT scores are not uploaded by ACT to the ACT portal. Therefore, District 86 will upload all scores to Infinite Campus approximately 4-6 weeks after testing. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Chris Cirrincione, Assistant Principal for Instruction at Hinsdale Central (ccirrincione@hinsdale86.org), or Kurt Vonnahme, Assistant Principal for Instruction at Hinsdale South (kvonnahm@hinsdale86.org).    Summer School Families can now register for Summer School course offerings on the Summer School webpage. District 86 offers several types of summer learning opportunities to meet the needs of students: "Get Ahead” Program: Courses designed for students who want to get ahead on graduation requirements or strengthen their academic preparation. Both in-person and online options are available. Credit Recovery Program: Courses for students who need to recover credit or repeat a course to improve understanding of the material. Intervention, Enrichment, & Workshops: Sessions focused on skill development, enrichment opportunities, and targeted academic support. Summer School will run in two sessions. Semester 1 will take place from June 1 to June 18, and Semester 2 will run from June 22 to July 9. Courses are available both in-person and online. In-person courses are held at Hinsdale South, where students must be in their assigned classroom between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Online courses are 100 percent asynchronous, allowing students to work at their own pace and complete coursework within the established deadlines. For any questions, please contact Jordan Stob at jstob@hinsdale86.org.   Chromebook Requirement We want to remind everyone that during class time, students are expected to use only their school-issued Chromebooks for all learning activities. Personal devices (including personal laptops, tablets, or phones) should not be used in the classroom. Using school Chromebooks helps ensure that all students have equal access to the same learning tools, resources, and online safety measures provided by our district. The District 86 handbook requires all students to use their district-issued Chromebook for all school-related activities. This ensures every student has the necessary technology and access to the same educational resources. Having each student on the same device also makes it possible for teachers to provide support and for our IT department (TSI) to manage and maintain the devices. We think of these 3 S's as the "why" behind our D86 Chromebooks: Support: If you have a technical issue, TSI can quickly fix or replace a district-issued device. They are not able to provide support for any personal devices. Security: District-issued devices have pre-installed security features and software to protect students' privacy and the D86 network(s). Standardization: Using the same device makes it easier for teachers to provide instruction and for everyone to use the same software and learning platforms.     Multi Tiered Systems of Support   Counseling Office   College Representative Visit Students wishing to visit with a college representative should sign up on SchooLinks and then come to the Counseling Office to get a pass for the visit from Mrs. Alvarez. Passes need to be signed by the teacher whose class the student will be missing. Students must have this pass in order to attend the college visit. Without it, they will not be admitted to the meeting. The College Rep Visit will usually last about 30- 45 minutes. Wednesday, March 25 9:30 AM - United States Military Academy, West Point     Deans Office   Attendance Matters - Every Day Counts Click on any of the buttons below to learn more about important attendance topics. Attendance Matters Student Attendance Policy Pre Arranged Absences Bell to Bell, No Cell   Staff Highlights   DHH - Paraprofessionals Thank you to all the paraprofessionals and support staff in the DHH department. Your commitment to our students and the support you provide throughout the day help keep everything running smoothly!     Student Highlights   Special Olympics Basketball Team Takes 3rd Place Let’s hear it for our Special Olympics Basketball team! They took home 3rd place at the state tournament this weekend, and we couldn't be prouder of their hard work and sportsmanship. Way to go, Hornets!   Robotics Team Goes To State Huge congratulations to HiveMind, our Hinsdale South Robotics team, on an incredible performance at the state competition! After a grueling series of qualifying rounds, they finished 11th overall. Your innovation, teamwork, and late nights in the lab made South proud. On to even bigger things next year!    Stinger - Student News Site   Athletics     Athletic Results   Senior News   Graduation Yard Sign Show your Hornet pride and make your graduate feel extra special with a personalized graduation yard sign, a Graduation Scoreboard Shoutout, or take advantage of our special bundle discount and order both! A custom yard sign is the perfect way to celebrate your senior all season long—let your neighbors, friends, and the entire community know how proud you are. Then make graduation day even more memorable with a Scoreboard Shoutout displayed during the ceremony, recognizing your graduate in front of family, friends, and the entire stadium. These keepsakes are a fun and meaningful way to honor your student’s hard work while supporting Hinsdale South students, activities, and programs.  Order now and save when you bundle both items! Don’t wait—secure your yard sign and scoreboard message today and make sure your senior gets the recognition they deserve. Visit: https://www.hinsdalesouthboosters.org/class-of-2026-senior-celebration     Booster Clubs     HSPAC Casino Night The Hinsdale South Parent Athletic Club is thrilled to host Casino Night 2026 on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the beautiful Carriage Greens Country Club in Darien. We’ll also be running an online auction beginning one month prior and wrapping up at the end of Casino Night, offering a full evening of winning opportunities. Auction items will include event tickets, sports memorabilia, and more, offering something for everyone. You do not need to be present to receive your auction items. Parents, Hinsdale South Faculty, Alumni, Friends, and Community Supporters are invited to come out, have a great time, and support all Hinsdale South athletic programs. Casino Night is one of our premier fundraising events of the year, raising critical funds for every Hinsdale South sport. Proceeds help provide equipment, program resources, and enhanced opportunities for our student-athletes. Whether you’re a current Hornet family, a proud alum, or a longtime supporter, your participation makes a real impact across all programs. Purchase your tickets HERE.   3rd Annual Rock Your Tees Bowling Night Tickets are now available for our biggest fundraiser of the year! Grab a friend and join us for a laid-back night of bowling, food, and tons of fun on Saturday, April 26 at 7 PM! Click here to get your tickets today! Watch for the online auction link coming out in April. Auction and raffle prizes include: Cubs and other sports tickets Broadway in Chicago Chicago Symphony Orchestra Joffrey Ballet Navy Pier Shakespeare Theater Field Museum and more! Check out the invitation for more information.   Community News   60th Anniversary 60 years of SouthPride! Just a few weeks remain to purchase your South swag! From shirts and hoodies to Crocs and ornaments, our online store will close soon. Be sure to pick up your merch featuring the limited-edition 60th anniversary logo!  Check out the merch HERE!         2026 - 2027 District 86 School Calendar The 2026 - 2027 District 86 School Calendar has been approved by the Board of Education. See the links for both the color-coded and text-only calendars.  

Thursday, Mar 19 2026

Board Briefs: March 12, 2026

D86 Board Briefs Highlights From Meeting On March 12, 2026 REMINDER: Please SUBSCRIBE to receive alerts when Board of Education and Committee meeting agendas are posted. Discussion Items Transition Programming Review Dr. Daniel Cates, the consultant engaged by the Board to conduct a comprehensive review of the District’s post-secondary transition programming, presented a summary of his findings and recommendations. Board members reiterated that the purpose of the review was to build a deeper understanding of the program, rather than to significantly overhaul it. The Board expressed interest in identifying potential efficiencies and opportunities for cost savings and directed the administrative team to review Dr. Cates’ recommendations and return with possible next steps. The Executive Summary included in the agenda materials highlights the key findings and major recommendations from the review. The full report provides the detailed analysis supporting those findings, including the methodology used, stakeholder feedback, enrollment trends, staffing and cost analysis, legal considerations, and implementation considerations for the District. SY2027 Preliminary Certified Staffing Recommendation The District 86 administrative team provided a presentation outlining the staffing recommendation for the 2026–27 school year. The recommendation includes an overall reduction of 7.3 FTE across the District, 3.7 of which is classroom teaching FTE. The recommended reduction is based on projected student enrollment and course requests. Following the presentation, the Board provided the following direction to administration: Work with incoming Superintendent Dr. Chip Pettit to temporarily pause hiring and filling vacancies, review proposed reductions and their potential impact on students, and return with a plan at the Thursday, March 26 meeting. Review the A&O Observations for Staffing memo for opportunities to make adjustments to the staffing recommendation. Create a plan for the use of a shuttle system that would allow students to travel between Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South to access courses offered at the other campus.   Action Items APPROVED: Data Sharing Agreement with Partner Districts The Board approved agreements for data sharing between District 86 and its seven sender districts: Butler SD53, Maercker SD60, Darien SD61, Gower SD62, Cass SD63, CCSD180 and CCSD181. The agreements allow the district to share and receive student progress results in a manner that is aligned with Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Sharing of this data between districts supports a shared mission to continue articulating students' educational interests as they move between our districts. The sender district superintendents will now present the agreements for consideration in their districts. APPROVED: Summer School Program of Studies The Board approved the Program of Studies for 2026 Summer School. Registration for Summer School opens on Monday, March 16. Families can review course offerings now by visiting the Summer School webpage. Summer School will run in two sessions. Semester 1 will take place from June 1-June 18, and Semester 2 will run from June 22-July 9. Courses are available both in-person and online. In-person courses are held at Hinsdale South, where students must be in their assigned classroom between 8 a.m.-1 p.m.   President's Report Board President Catherine Greenspon expressed appreciation for the discussion regarding staffing and the Transition Center program review, thanked the Board and administration for their collaborative approach, and concluded the meeting by wishing everyone a good evening and noting the Board would reconvene in two weeks.   Audience Comments An audience member stated that the District should staff based on the actual number of students enrolled rather than projected numbers, and suggested targeting course fill rates of roughly 85–100 percent, while offering appropriate course tiers between regular and honors. An audience member expressed concern about proposed changes to the Transition Center, noting that there had not been clear demand for those changes and emphasizing that the program is a “jewel in the crown” of District 86 and any reductions should be minimal. An audience member asked the Board and incoming superintendent to work collaboratively before making staffing cuts, provide opportunities for the community to meet the new superintendent, and preserve the Transition Center. An audience member emphasized that Board decisions have meaningful community impact and shared a website that can be used as a tool for comparing communities and population data. An audience member shared a success story about a Transition Center student and urged the Board to look beyond financial considerations when making decisions. An audience member expressed appreciation for the District’s recent progress in collecting and sharing data, particularly with sender districts, and encouraged the Board to continue addressing low-enrollment classes and refining FTE allocations. An audience member commended the Board for the meeting discussion and urged caution when considering program reductions, emphasizing that any changes to the Transition Center should be made very carefully.   Future Board Meetings Thursday, March 26 Thursday, April 30 Thursday, May 28   Board Briefs are meant to provide highlights of each Board of Education meeting, and are not intended to be an all-inclusive recap. Please use the following link to View a Complete Recording of the Meeting.

Friday, Mar 13 2026