HC Weekly E-Blast November 13, 2025

Weekly E-Blast   |  November 13, 2025 Marching Band & Color Guard Our marching band and color guard students travelled to New York City this past weekend and week to celebrate Veteran's Day. The students performed at multiple venues. They packed a lot into 4 days: a clinic at Rutgers, a performance aboard USS Intrepid Aircraft Museum, seeing The Outsiders, a meet and greet with Broadway stars, and of course, the Veteran’s Day Parade right up 5th Avenue! The students did great and a special thank you to the amazing chaperones! Thanks for supporting our trip! Dear Red Devil Families: As we lead into Thanksgiving break and take a few days to be with family and friends, I hope you find time to treasure the opportunities, achievements and celebrations that were beholden to you throughout this school year. We have much to celebrate, to be thankful for, and recognize the service we can offer others. Also take a moment to look forward to the many things that will come across your studies as the school year unfolds. Enjoy your thanksgiving break, but remember an engaging classroom is a place where students are active thinkers and teachers are helping them learn how to think. To create and maintain an engaging classroom requires a partnership in learning.  As long as your child is healthy, please encourage school attendance. Every day of school is an important opportunity for students to learn as well as connect to peers and their teachers. While your child is in attendance, it is important that the center of their attention shall be on the curriculum that is in front of them. Mobile phones and other distractions should be out of sight and out of mind. Teachers, with your help, can create a classroom that is engaging and centered on a student's academic, social and emotional growth. It begins with your child attending school and setting aside personal property that is distracting to their learning. We thank: Our students who do their best to show up to class every day even when it isn’t easy. Our parents and guardians who encourage our students to bring their fire, lift their students when the struggle is real, and value our educators who provide high quality education Our teachers who go above and beyond to create an engaging classroom / learning environment where students can thrive. Our administrators who help us work together to ensure we are healthy and safe, feel a sense of community and experience the excitement of an engaging learning environment. Our many, many healers and helpers - the support staff and community volunteers who provide the extra hands and attention our children need. May these days off be restful and healing. If your family or your child needs support, please reach out to your school counselor for help. They can help gather resources and engulf you in support through the school. We look forward to observing engaged students after Thanksgiving break. Thank you for partnering with us! Sincerely, William C. Walsh, Principal Hinsdale Central High School #HCBringYourFire Upcoming Counselor Meetings Upcoming Junior Counselor Meetings College and Career meetings for the Juniors will be taking place during the  week of November 10th . Counselors will notify students of their assigned date/time. Junior meetings will focus on career search tools, conducting a college search and researching admission requirements, standardized testing, and planning for senior year course selection and junior planning conferences. Upcoming Sophomore Counselor Meetings College and Career meetings for the Sophomores will be taking place during the week of November 17th . Counselors will notify students of their assigned date/time.  Sophomores meetings will focus on exploring interests, careers and college, as well as preparing for junior year.  Hinsdale Central Grade 11 & 12 Students We have an opportunity for our juniors and seniors students this school year! Hinsdale Central partnered with the Community Memorial Foundation. This organization is offering Hinsdale Central juniors and seniors and students from our surrounding area the opportunity to learn about philanthropy work through their YOUNG COMMUNITY CHANGEMAKERS PROGRAM (YC2 program  http://www.cmfdn.org/yc2 ). Applications for the program are currently being accepted and can be downloaded from this website at cmfdn.org/yc2 ( http://www.cmfdn.org/yc2 ). Final applications should be submitted by November 25. Opportunities to Give with Varsity Club As we enter the season of giving, Varsity Club has TWO opportunities for giving! The first opportunity is to donate a bucket of basics to Sharing Connections . These basics include cleaning supplies and personal care items, which cannot be purchased with food stamps. Our goal is to collect items to fill 425 buckets and we need your help! Varsity Club will provide the bucket for you and you (or your club, department, family) will need to provide the items to go in the bucket. If you are interested in donating a bucket you can sign-up here . If you would prefer to just donate one major item you may  sign-up here .  All items can be dropped off in Mrs. Hoeksema’s Room 2205. Any questions, please email Janelle Hoeksema at jhoeksem@hinsdale86.org . Family Resource Spotlight: Food Assistance and Support We want to share some helpful resources that may support families in our school community. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) provides ongoing updates about changes to the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) through its SNAP Federal Impact Center website. You can also use the We Got You Illinois website to find grocery and meal programs available in your area. Both links are listed below for your convenience: IDHS:  SNAP Federal Impact Center Find Food | We Got You, Illinois These resources are designed to help ensure that families have access to the food and support they need. Mental Health Resources You can find these helpful mental health resources available on 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/ Final Exam Schedule First-semester final examinations will be held from Tuesday, December 16 to Thursday, December 18, 2025. Please take note that Friday, December 19 is an Emergency Day. Should circumstances arise that impact our ability to hold a final exam on one of the three previous days, Friday, December 19 will be an attendance day to host exams from that day. If you plan on traveling, please note attendance on Friday, December 19 is a potential student attendance day until 1:00 PM. The expectation is that students are in attendance each period (unless otherwise noted) and take their final exam during their designated time frame. The only exception to this is if a student has three final exams on a given day, they can reschedule an exam to a different day through the Dean's Office.   Please note, that students are NOT approved to reschedule exams to take them early for vacations or other personal reasons.   For more information regarding final exams and to find the exam reschedule form,  click here . AUDITIONS Can you Dance? Sing? Play? Perform?  Whether you juggle, joke, or jam,  We Want YOU on Stage!   ALL talents welcome - solo or groups! Take the stage and show HC what you’ve got! Scan the QR Code or use this  LINK for more information:    Let’s make this year’s show unforgettable! PTO Holiday Bash The 37th Annual Holiday Bash is Early Release Wednesday, December 3rd. This is the Staff Appreciation for the month of December. The PTO transforms The Commons Area and the Multipurpose Room into a Seasonal Wonderland for all the Teachers and Staff of Hinsdale Central. They all come dressed up with their best "ugly sweater" and celebrate with festive music, an array of catered hors d-oeuvres and a feast of holiday sweets-all provided by you and the PTO. It's a fun and festive celebration with a raffle of prizes and awards for best dressed. This much anticipated Holiday Bash cannot happen without the help of your kindness and generosity! Please consider donating a GIFT CARD, POINSETTIA, or FOOD ITEM. In Recognition, we will add your name to our Thank You Graphic displayed on the Tables and Big Screen during the event.  Gift Cards, Poinsettias, Water, and Soda, can be delivered immediately and Kramer Trays are available for immediate purchase. Non-perishables need to be dropped off on the day of the event. More information is provided in the Sign Up Genius below.  Thank you for showing your Holiday Appreciation. No donation is too small and very much appreciated! DECEMBER STAFF APPRECIATION: Holiday Bash 2025 Donations PTO Conversation Join the next PTO Conversation: Student Support & Test Preparation Strategies on Wednesday, 11/19 at 9:30am in the Community Room or on Zoom. Principal Walsh and Dr. Cirricione will touch on the resources outside of the classroom available to students. Guidance on how families can support their student for success will be covered by Ms. Perod. Mr. Meyer will provide a two-week prep strategy for final exams. Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Not a member yet? Join today https://hcpto.org/join-the-pto/ Join the Boosters Winter Sports are underway! It’s not too late to get your Booster membership and join the excitement. A Booster membership gives you access to all regular-season home games and helps fund the student grant program, supporting every team, club, and activity at Hinsdale Central. Be part of the energy, the pride, and the Red Devil spirit, join the Boosters today at theboosters.com/membership ! Devils' Advocate dropped its  October magazine recently that included stories about thrift shopping and how fashion allows students to express themselves, the transition for international students who attend Central, and how friendships within the science department foster creative ideas in the classroom. In addition to the magazine, our online reporters have published some interesting reads!  Seniors Eeshan Lal & Niko Miceli have been busy filming their take on Hot Ones, with their most recent being a  Halloween edition with various faculty and students.   Senior Emmett Marcet shares his  review of Paul Thomas Anderson's "One Battle After Another."    Senior Isabella Tornabene recently attended  Tame Impala's concert in Chicago and writes about her experience.   Want more news? Be sure to visit hcdevilsadvocate.com and subscribe to the student-run publication to support our student journalists. Want to join the team? Consider enrolling in Journalism: Newsmagazine or Journalism: Newswriting & Reporting, both now offering an earned honors credit opportunity!   Technology Center of DuPage Did you know Hinsdale Central partners with the  Technology Center of DuPage (TCD) to offer DuPage County area high school juniors and seniors 17 career and technical education programs (CTE) as part of their high school curriculum.  If you are interested in learning more, please see the flyer below on how to join one of their two webinars on November 19th and/or December 2, 2025. 📕 Order Your 2025–2026 Yearbook Yearbook orders are now open!     Order Here      Cost:  $50      Distribution: Early May      Important: We order very few extra copies—placing your order through Walsworth is the  only way to guarantee you’ll have a book this year. Senior Tribute order information is  here  for the Class of 2026 Walsworth is our official provider for yearbooks. To Order Graduation Cap and Gown Go to https://www.jostens.com/ SHOP YOUR SCHOOL Enter School Name/State Scroll down to Graduation/shop If you only want a cap, gown, tassel and stole scroll down to SHOP ALL GRADUATION PRODUCTS Scroll down to Cap, Gown, Tassel and Stole Unit $0.00 near the bottom of the page by the tassels Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to upgrade the tassel NEXT: ADD APPAREL Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to Add Apparel NEXT: ADD ANNOUNCEMENTS Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to Add Announcements NEXT: REVIEW ADD TO CART Fill in Student Name Order Subtotal should be $0.00 You do not have to pay for a cap and gown, that fee was covered in the school fees. Senior Portrait and Yearbook Photo Information Further information can be found here: https://central.hinsdale86.org/activities/senior-photos-yearbook-photos Upcoming Dates Nov. 13-15 - Snowball retreat Nov. 20 - 22 Fall Play  Dec 4-5 - Winter Art Sale December 5 - Madrigal Concert December 9 - 8th Grade Family Night December 10 - Holiday School Assembly December 11 - Holiday Concert

Thursday, Nov 13 2025

Hinsdale South Weekly Newsletter - November 13, 2025

Weekly Newsletter November 13, 2025 Mean Girls - Opening Night Tonight! Get ready for a fabulous night of drama and fun! Join us for the hilarious Mean Girls musical at Hinsdale South High School! Show Dates: Thursday, November 13 at 7:00 PM Friday, November 14 at 7:00 PM Saturday, November 15 at 7:00 PM Sunday, November 16 at 2:00 PM Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. Tickets will be available at the door one hour before showtime! Don't miss out on this amazing performance! Who will you bring to join in on the laughter?   Final Exam Schedule First-semester final examinations will be held from Tuesday, December 16 to Thursday, December 18, 2025. Please note that Friday, December 19 is an Emergency Day. Should circumstances arise that impact our ability to hold a final exam on one of the three previous days, Friday, December 19 will be an attendance day. If you plan on traveling, please note that Friday, December 19 is a potential student attendance day until 1:00 PM. The expectation is that students are in attendance each period (unless otherwise noted) and take their final exam during their designated time frame. Please note that students are NOT approved to reschedule exams to take them early for vacations or other personal reasons.   For more information regarding final exams, click here.   Annual Career Day On November 7, Hinsdale South High School proudly hosted our annual Career Day, welcoming over 50 professionals from across a wide range of industries to share their expertise and experiences with students. Speakers partnered with our teachers and visited classrooms throughout the day. Students had the opportunity to engage with professionals representing diverse fields, including engineering, communications, fitness, law, public services, art, and many more! Through these conversations, students learned about the skills, education, and pathways that lead to success in each profession, while also reflecting on their own interests and goals for the future. Career Day continues to be a powerful reminder of the many possibilities that await our Hornets beyond high school—and we extend our deepest thanks to all the professionals who made this inspiring day possible.   Food Drive Hinsdale South is helping address food insecurity in our community through an upcoming food drive. If you’d like to contribute, please consider donating items through our Amazon Wishlist. Families are welcome to receive food during the Food Drive from 12-2 PM on Saturday, November 15, at The Mecca Center Gym, 16W560 91st St, Willowbrook. All are welcome to receive food — no registration required.   Deans Office   Student Attendance Policies District 86 is committed to student success. One of the best indicators of student success is consistent school attendance as it leads to improved academic achievement. While some work can be completed at home, there is no replication for the classroom experience, which is essential to adolescent learning. Therefore, Hinsdale District 86 has established attendance protocols, which are designed to support students and keep students accountable. Students are required by state law to attend school every day. The D86 Board of Education's attendance policy states that students will attend and be on time for class. Student attendance is not optional; it is a requirement of every class. Additionally, the following is a guide to the intervention/supportive measures that may be implemented with each student. Please note that interventions will be individualized for each student to find the most appropriate solution(s) to support the student, including interventions for students with individualized education programs (IEP) and Section 504 plans; thus, not every intervention will be automatically applied to each student. Hinsdale South does not assign detention for absences that are reported by a parent or guardian, whether excused or unexcused. These policies have remained unchanged and are consistent with those of previous school years. If your student will be absent from school for any reason, please contact the attendance office within 24 hours of the notice to notify them. Without a valid reason, absences are considered “unexcused”, which could result in academic or behavioral consequences. Click here to view the Attendance Handbook for Parents and Students   Pre Arranged Absences The Pre-Arranged Absence Form must be completed by the parent/guardian at least two (2) days before the absence begins in order for it to be excused. This form is required in the following instances: The student will be absent for three (3) or more school days. The student will be absent during final exams. The student will be absent due to a non-school-related activity. The student will be absent due to a civic event. Parents/guardians must contact the Attendance Office to verify the absence. Parent/Guardian Responsibilities Complete the Pre-Arranged Absence Form electronically. Include the reason for the absence and the relevant dates. For non-school-related competitive activities or sports, please provide a letter from the coach with dates, schedule, or registration documents. For college visits, please submit documentation of the scheduled appointment or tour. Student Responsibilities Discuss all assignments and classwork with teachers prior to the absence. Be prepared to meet all deadlines and complete required coursework on time. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us maintain accurate attendance records.   Bell to Bell, No Cell This year, students and staff will be expected to keep cell phones and other personal electronic devices out of sight, thereby out of mind, during instructional periods. It is critical that our instructional environment be a place for students to learn, collaborate with peers, and think critically. For that to happen, we as educational leaders want to create a learning environment that avoids distractions, in particular, digital distractions.   Counseling Department   PreACT Test Scores On October 9, Grades 9-11 students took the PreACT. We are pleased to share that the results from that test have arrived. Our technology team has added the student scores to the Infinite Campus “Assessment” section, which is visible to parents and students on the Campus Portal. Viewing PreACT Scores on the Campus Portal To view the scores, click on “More” on the left side of the screen. Then click the “Assessment” section to view the scores. This section will list the composite score and subscores for the four sub-sections of the test: English, Math, Reading, and Science.   College 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, November 18 10:45 AM - Missouri University of Science and Technology 11:40 AM - Belmont University   12:35 PM - University of Illinois at Chicago  2:25 PM - College of DuPage  Thursday, November 20 10:45 AM - University of Kansas  11:40 AM - The University of Alabama  Friday, November 21 11:40 - Northern Illinois University    College of DuPage - College Jumpstart An opportunity for rising senior high school students in College of DuPage’s region for up to four Gen Ed courses that are easily transferable to most institutions. The idea is to target courses that are challenging to find a qualified dual credit instructor, as well as courses that are highly transferable. Since students in District 502 receive a 50% discount on tuition while in high school, this is an opportunity for students to complete Gen Eds in a cohort-style environment, explore COD's campus, and build their transcript. Students will be able to enroll in a learning community that includes two courses. Students can enroll in both learning communities if they wish to take all 12 credit hours. Courses begin June 15 and end August 8. Registration begins March 11. Sign up for an information session on Zoom at cod.edu/college-jumpstart or by clicking the following link: ● November 18 at 6 PM ● December 8 at 7 PM ● January 13 at 6 PM ● February 12 at 7 PM ● March 10 at 6 PM   Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) Attention Juniors and Seniors: Are you ready for your next step? Making decisions about your future can be tough. That's why we're offering a valuable tool to help guide you: the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). What is the ASVAB? It's a free test that can help you discover your strengths, interests, and potential career paths. Whether you're considering the military or exploring civilian career options, the ASVAB can provide valuable insights. When and Where? The ASVAB will be administered right here at Hinsdale South on Tuesday, November 25, during morning classes. How to Sign Up: If you're interested in learning more or signing up, please visit the counseling office and speak with Mrs. Alvarez or Mr. Morgan. Sign-up ends on Friday, November 21. Don't miss this opportunity to take control of your future!     Faculty/Staff Highlights   James VanDenburgh - Spanish Teacher The Hinsdale South World Language Department warmly welcomes back Sr. James VanDenburgh, who has been a D86 teacher for 21 years: his first 10 years were at Hinsdale South, then he taught for 10 years at Hinsdale Central, and this year he travels between the two! He is an avid cyclist, even riding his bike from campus to campus each day. In college, he studied in Sevilla, Spain, and he has been back several times. Outside of school, Sr. VanDenburgh is a true family man whose wife and two young daughters are his world. Together they love to travel to the mountains, especially to Colorado, where he likes to snowboard. Sr. VanDenburgh is a bit of a Renaissance man with many varied interests - from sports like soccer and outdoor activities to quieter indoor activities like art and reading.   Richard Sasso - Multilingual English Richard Sasso teaches Multilingual Resource, Multilingual English III, and co-teaches Physics, Geometry, and Health. His work reflects a deep commitment to helping multilingual learners grow academically and personally while ensuring they feel valued and supported in every classroom setting. Richard’s inspiration for becoming an educator stems from his family’s example. Growing up, he watched his parents dedicate their careers to improving the well-being and growth of others, instilling in him a sense of purpose and service. Having taught immigrants since 1995, Richard found a lasting passion for multilingual education early in his career. He believes that every student carries a meaningful story and that these stories hold tremendous value in the classroom. Richard is bilingual in Spanish and English and also has some knowledge of Koine Greek. His interest in languages and cultures extends beyond the classroom; if given the opportunity to immerse himself elsewhere, he would choose to explore South Korea for its rich culture and history. Outside of school, Richard enjoys writing as a freelance author and spending time exploring new experiences. Richard Sasso is recognized for his thoughtful teaching, his dedication to multilingual learners, and his belief in the power of language and storytelling to build bridges across cultures.   Carrie Day - Administrative Assistant Carrie Day is the Administrative Assistant for the Art, Math, Science, Multilingual, and World Language Departments. She truly embodies South Pride, helping out not just in her assigned departments but in various efforts and activities across the building. This makes sense, as she was herself a Hornet and graduated from HSHS in the Class of 1996! Additionally, Carrie’s entire family, including her parents, siblings, uncles, and children have all attended South. As a student, Carrie was involved in our school’s volleyball, basketball, gymnastics, and softball programs; in her time as a staff member, she has helped coach girls’ softball and basketball. Regardless of the role and title, Carrie is an important and integral part of our school, and the World Language Department is happy to have her with us!      Student Highlights   Robotics Team Congrats to our robotics teams for competing at the Cornfield Clash at U of I this past weekend. Hivemind made it to the semi-finals and won the Innovate Award!   Enviromental Concerns Organization (ECO) The Hinsdale South Environmental Concerns Organization (ECO) ran its 10th annual Pumpkin Smash event this Saturday, and over 400 pumpkins were smashed and loaded for composting thanks to donations from community members and staff. ECO members unloaded cars and helped families smash their pumpkins, creating a fun, family-friendly event for everyone! The event could not run without the coordination and planning of the School & Community Assistance for Recycling and Composting (SCARCE) organization and the donation of the roll-off container by Republic Services.   West Suburban Conference - Leadership Training Thirty student leaders joined students from around the West Suburban Conference for a day of leadership training and school improvement. Thanks to sponsors Ms. Yurchak, Ms. Carpenter, and Activities Director, Mr. Chavarria, for joining them. Special thanks to Downers Grove North High School for hosting and Scott Backovich for a great day!   Stinger - Student News Site   Athletics   John Charters - Assistant Athletic Director Hinsdale South High School is proud to announce that Mr. John Charters was awarded State Division Assistant Athletic Director of the Year for District 7, Division 3. Each honoree has demonstrated outstanding leadership, professionalism, and dedication to student-athletes, coaches, and school communities across Illinois. Their efforts exemplify the IADA's mission and the positive impact of strong athletic administration. All Division Award winners will be recognized and presented with a plaque at the IADA State Conference Awards Dinner on Sunday, March 15, 2026, in Peoria. Division winners are also eligible for selection as an Overall IADA Athletic Director of the Year (1A/2A or 3A/4A), Assistant Athletic Director of the Year, or New Athletic Director of the Year.   Anna Wilcox - Cross Country Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week, Anna Wilcox. Anna finished in the top half of all athletes competing in the IHSA state cross country meet this weekend with a time of 19:18. This time puts her in 16th place on Hinsdale South's All-Time Leaderboard of fastest times for 3-mile races in our high school's history. This is a feat in and of itself. Couple that with the knowledge that she came back from tearing her ACL and was unable to do a full off-season training makes this accomplishment even more astonishing. We are so incredibly proud of this Senior and her running career here at South! Great job, Anna. Congratulations on a great race! Mesfin Diedrich - Cross Country Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week, Mesfin Diedrich. Mesfin ended his season by running a 30-second best at the IHSA State Cross Country Meet, finishing the 3-mile race in 15 minutes and 51 seconds. According to athletic.net, that makes him the 2nd-fastest freshman in Hornet history, behind Division 1 All-American Eddie Slowikowski. Beside State, Mesfin ended his season with victories at the Hinsdale Central Triangular and the Plainfield North Freshman Invitational, a 3rd place finish at the IHSA Regional, and 14th place finish at IHSA Sectionals. Great job, Mesfin! Congratulations on a great season!   Athletic Results   Seniors       60th Anniversary   Alumni Spotlight Series: Celebrating 60 Years! As part of our 60th anniversary celebration, we're kicking off a special Alumni Spotlight Series! Each week, we'll feature inspiring alumni who have returned to work at Hinsdale South. They'll share their unique perspective as both a graduate and a staff member, offering valuable advice to current students.   Get Your 60th Anniversary Gear! To commemorate our 60th Anniversary, we've got something special for you: exclusive 60th anniversary apparel and merchandise featuring a brand-new logo! We're talking nearly 40 different items, including shirts, hoodies, pants, vests, ornaments, blankets, and so much more. You can order your gear now, and it'll ship directly to you. Our store will be open for most of the school year, but we wanted to give you an early heads-up so you can snag your favorite items and be ready to rock your South spirit for the 2025-2026 school year! A huge shout-out to Ms. Jen Belmonte, our Art Teacher, for designing our fantastic 60th anniversary logo! It truly captures what South Pride is all about. Visit our store here to check out all the awesome items!   60th Anniversary Tours In honor of our 60th Anniversary, Hinsdale South will be opening its doors on selected dates to give tours of the building. Join us on Thursday, December 18, at 5:00 PM for the next tour! The tour begins at the main entrance, Door #1 off of Clarendon Hills Road.   Booster Club     Hornet Harvest Join the Hinsdale South Community Action Team (CAT) and the Hinsdale South Booster Club to help South students and families access meals at school and on the go. Use the QR Code or URL linked here to donate. Our Hive is strong at Hinsdale South!   Community Events   Food Pantry Resources Local Food Pantries are available to help with the potential interruption in SNAP benefits. If you are able, please consider donating or volunteering during these difficult times. Our Lady of Peace Food Pantry 701 Plainfield Rd, Darien, IL 60561 Sun 8:30 am, per website calendar (630) 323-4333 Serves Burr Ridge, Darien, Willowbrook, Clarendon Hills, Hinsdale. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Food Pantry 8404 S Cass Ave, Darien, IL 60561 Tue & Fri 1–3 PM, per website calendar (630) 852-3303 Open to anyone in need; perishable donations only during pantry hours. More resources   Upcoming Events November 13 - 16 - Mean Girls - High School Version Wednesday, November 19 - Early Release Wednesday, November 26 - 28 - Thanksgiving Break Wednesday, December 3 & 10 - Early Release *Final Exams Tuesday, December 16 - Periods 4, 3, 5 Wednesday, December 17 - Periods 7, 8 & 6 Thursday, December 18 - Periods 1, 2 & makeup testing Friday, December 19 - *No School (If emergency days are not needed) *The first semester final exam schedule assumes no emergency days. If needed, an amended exam schedule will be published. 

Thursday, Nov 13 2025

Hinsdale South Weekly Newsletter - November 6, 2025

Weekly Newsletter November 6, 2025 Hinsdale South Musical   Get ready for a fabulous night of drama and fun! Join us for the hilarious Mean Girls musical at Hinsdale South High School! Show Dates: Thursday, November 13 at 7:00 PM Friday, November 14 at 7:00 PM Saturday, November 15 at 7:00 PM Sunday, November 16 at 2:00 PM Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. They will also be available at the door one hour before showtime! Don't miss out on this amazing performance! Who will you bring to join in on the laughter?   PreACT Test Scores On October 9, Grades 9-11 students took the PreACT. We are pleased to share that the results from that test have arrived. Our technology team has added the student scores to the Infinite Campus “Assessment” section, which is visible to parents and students on the Campus Portal. Viewing PreACT Scores on the Campus Portal To view the scores, click on “More” on the left side of the screen. Then click the “Assessment” section to view the scores. This section will list the composite score and subscores for the four sub-sections of the test: English, Math, Reading, and Science.   Deans Office   Student Attendance Policies District 86 is committed to student success. One of the best indicators of student success is consistent school attendance as it leads to improved academic achievement. While some work can be completed at home, there is no replication for the classroom experience, which is essential to adolescent learning. Therefore, Hinsdale District 86 has established attendance protocols, which are designed to support students and keep students accountable. Students are required by state law to attend school every day. The D86 Board of Education's attendance policy states that students will attend and be on time for class. Student attendance is not optional; it is a requirement of every class. Click here to view the Attendance Handbook for Parents and Students Additionally, the following is a guide to the intervention/supportive measures that may be implemented with each student. Please note that interventions will be individualized for each student to find the most appropriate solution(s) to support the student, including interventions for students with individualized education programs (IEP) and Section 504 plans; thus not every intervention will be automatically applied to each student. Hinsdale South does not assign detention for absences that are reported by a parent or guardian, whether excused or unexcused. These policies have remained unchanged and are consistent with those of previous school years.   Pre Arranged Absences The Pre-Arranged Absence Form must be completed by the parent/guardian at least two (2) days before the absence begins in order for it to be excused. This form is required in the following instances: The student will be absent for three (3) or more school days. The student will be absent during final exams. The student will be absent due to a non-school-related activity. The student will be absent due to a civic event. Parents/guardians must contact the Attendance Office to verify the absence. Parent/Guardian Responsibilities Complete the Pre-Arranged Absence Form electronically. Include the reason for the absence and the relevant dates. For non-school-related competitive activities or sports, please provide a letter from the coach with dates, schedule, or registration documents. For college visits, please submit documentation of the scheduled appointment or tour. Student Responsibilities Discuss all assignments and classwork with teachers prior to the absence. Be prepared to meet all deadlines and complete required coursework on time. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us maintain accurate attendance records.   Bell to Bell, No Cell This year, students and staff will be expected to keep cell phones and other personal electronic devices out of sight, thereby out of mind, during instructional periods. It is critical that our instructional environment be a place for students to learn, collaborate with peers, and think critically. For that to happen, we as educational leaders want to create a learning environment that avoids distractions, in particular, digital distractions.   Faculty/Staff Highlights   Shannon Voytsekhovskyy - Spanish Teacher Senora Voytsekhovskyy currently teaches Spanish 4 as a traveling teacher, both here at South and at Central, and has been a Spanish teacher in the district for two decades. Senora Voytsekhovskyy is also multilingual; before becoming a teacher, Senora Voytsekhovskyy was a Peace Corps volunteer in Ukraine and learned to speak Ukrainian as well as Spanish and English. Outside of school, Senora Voytsekhovskyy was very involved with choir and theater, both as a teen and as an adult. She even went to college on a vocal music scholarship and used to sing for weddings back in her 20s! More recently, she has been singing for her church. She has two children (one in middle school and one in elementary school) at home and a new puppy as of this summer, Cotton, who is the addition her family did not know they needed.   Aimee Lafontaine - Multilingual English Aimee Lafontaine teaches Multilingual English 1, Multilingual Resource, and Academic Reading, where she fosters a classroom environment that celebrates the individuality, culture, and experiences of her multilingual learners. She is known for creating a welcoming and joyful atmosphere that highlights the resilience, curiosity, and strong work ethic of her students. Aimee was inspired to pursue education by her parents, whose careers focused on helping others and contributing to the greater good. Growing up in a family that valued storytelling for reflection and growth, she developed a deep appreciation for the power of personal narratives—a belief that continues to guide her teaching today. Her journey into multilingual education began when she recognized a need to better support the multilingual learners in her classroom. She views her students’ backgrounds and experiences as assets that enrich the learning community and enhance her own professional growth. Aimee’s heritage language is Mvskoke, and she continues to take classes to strengthen her skills. This experience gives her a personal understanding of the mental and emotional effort involved in learning a new language. If given the opportunity to immerse herself in another culture, she would choose either Mexico or her Mvskoke reservation in Oklahoma to live and work with fluent speakers and relatives. Outside of school, Aimee enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the outdoors. A former OPRF Huskie and field hockey player, she finds peace in hiking and spending time in the mountains and desert. Her calm, reflective nature and deep respect for her students’ stories make her a valued and inspiring member of the multilingual learning community.     Student Highlights     Autumn Lambke - Spirit of America Cheerleader A HUGE Congratulations to Autumn Lambke, Hinsdale South's Cheer Captain, on her selection as a Spirit of America Cheerleader. Autumn will be performing with the national cheer team at the 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and will also appear on NBC's preview show.   Stinger - Student News Site   Athletics   Kotryna Melstrad - Volleyball Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week, Kotryna Melstrad. Kotryna helped the volleyball team earn its first regional championship in 13 years through her dominant play. She had 15 kills on 24 swings for a .454 hitting percentage and chipped in 13 crucial digs and a service ace. She could not be stopped as the Hornets won 25-22, 25-15 over Glenbard South, propelling the Hornets to the sectional semifinals. Great job, Kotryna. Congratulations on a great game! Sava Nikolic - Soccer Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week, Sava Nikolic. Sava played a huge role in helping the Hornets continue their incredible playoff run! Sava scored two goals to lead South to a 4–1 victory over Bremen, capturing the Sectional Championship (the program’s first since 1998!). His skill, leadership, and relentless effort on the field were key to ending a 27-year drought and to continuing to bring energy to the Hornets. Congratulations, Sava, on an incredible performance! Boys Soccer Congrats to the Boys Soccer team, IHSA Sectional Champs! Girls Volleyball Congrats to the Girls Volleyball team, IHSA Regional Champs! Boys Cross Country - State Qualifier Congrats to the Boys Cross Country team for placing 3rd at the IHSA Sectional and advancing to the State meet! Girls Cross Country - State Qualifer Congratulations to Girls Cross Country runners Anna Wilcox &  Audrey Koepfle for qualifying for the IHSA State Meet!   Athletic Results   Seniors       60th Anniversary   Alumni Spotlight Series: Celebrating 60 Years! As part of our 60th anniversary celebration, we're kicking off a special Alumni Spotlight Series! Each week, we'll feature inspiring alumni who have returned to work at Hinsdale South. They'll share their unique perspective as both a graduate and a staff member, offering valuable advice to current students.   Get Your 60th Anniversary Gear! To commemorate our 60th Anniversary, we've got something special for you: exclusive 60th anniversary apparel and merchandise featuring a brand-new logo! We're talking nearly 40 different items, including shirts, hoodies, pants, vests, ornaments, blankets, and so much more. You can order your gear now, and it'll ship directly to you. Our store will be open for most of the school year, but we wanted to give you an early heads-up so you can snag your favorite items and be ready to rock your South spirit for the 2025-2026 school year! A huge shout-out to Ms. Jen Belmonte, our Art Teacher, for designing our fantastic 60th anniversary logo! It truly captures what South Pride is all about. Visit our store here to check out all the awesome items!   60th Anniversary Tours In honor of our 60th Anniversary, Hinsdale South will be opening its doors on selected dates to give tours of the building. Join us on Thursday, December 18, at 5:00 PM for the next tour! The tour begins at the main entrance, Door #1 off of Clarendon Hills Road.   Booster Club     Community Events   Pumpkin Smash Hinsdale South’s Environmental Concerns Organization (ECO) invites you to take part in our annual Pumpkin Smash event this Saturday, November 8, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the stadium parking lot. This event provides an opportunity for community members to compost their Halloween pumpkins, reducing landfill waste.   Food Pantry Resources Local Food Pantries are available to help with the potential interruption in SNAP benefits. If you are able, please consider donating or volunteering during these difficult times. Our Lady of Peace Food Pantry 701 Plainfield Rd, Darien, IL 60561 Sun 8:30 am, per website calendar (630) 323-4333 Serves Burr Ridge, Darien, Willowbrook, Clarendon Hills, Hinsdale. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Food Pantry 8404 S Cass Ave, Darien, IL 60561 Tue & Fri 1–3 PM, per website calendar (630) 852-3303 Open to anyone in need; perishable donations only during pantry hours. More resources   Upcoming Events Friday, November 7 - Early Dismissal (students only) Wednesday, November 12 & 19 - Early Release November 13 - 16 - Mean Girls The Musical Wednesday, November 26 - 28 - Thanksgiving Break Wednesday, December 3 & 10 - Early Release *Final Exams Tuesday, December 16 - Periods 4, 3, 5 Wednesday, December 17 - Periods 7, 8 & 6 Thursday, December 18 - Periods 1, 2 & makeup testing Friday, December 19 - *No School (If emergency days are not needed) *The first semester final exam schedule assumes no emergency days. If needed, an amended exam schedule will be published.  District Calendar  

Thursday, Nov 06 2025

HC Weekly E-Blast November 6, 2025

Weekly E-Blast   |  November 6, 2025 Model UN On Saturday, the Hinsdale Central Model UN team competed in their second conference of the season, hosted by St. Ignatius. The team delivered an outstanding performance, showcasing their diplomacy, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. Congratulations to the following students for earning awards: Honorable Mention:  Gaurav Ahuja, Will Geiersbach, Izzy Giovingo, and Jaylen Doshi Outstanding:  Saira Joshi Best:  Anthony Barakat and Ronin Joshi We’re proud of their hard work and continued success! ACT Score Reports On October 9, 2025, Freshmen - Juniors took the Pre-ACT assessment.  Student scores from the Pre-ACT will be available as of November 6 in Infinite Campus. To see the score, in Infinite Campus, click on "more" in the black tab on the left-hand side and click on "assessment." The full Pre-ACT score will be sent home via ParentSquare in the coming week. Recognize a Veteran The Hinsdale Central First Responders Club, and Political and Cultural Science Club (Citizen Club) would like to honor our Veterans this year. If there is a Veteran or someone serving on active duty in the Military that you would like to recognize, we ask that you complete this form. Members of both clubs will place a flag in the front of the school in honor of each person.   Recognize a Veteran Please complete this form by Friday, November 7th so that we have enough time to prepare and ensure we are able to honor our Veterans. Spirit Wear Volunteers Needed this Saturday Football Playoffs = Hinsdale Central pride! The Boosters have volunteer opportunities available to sell spirit wear this Saturday afternoon as The Red Devils host the Hawks from Maine South at 1:00 pm. Use  this link to sign up and come join us at the Football Hut! Upcoming Counselor Meetings Upcoming Junior Counselor Meetings College and Career meetings for the Juniors will be taking place during the  week of November 10th . Counselors will notify students of their assigned date/time. Junior meetings will focus on career search tools, conducting a college search and researching admission requirements, standardized testing, and planning for senior year course selection and junior planning conferences. Upcoming Sophomore Counselor Meetings College and Career meetings for the Sophomores will be taking place during the  week of November 17th . Counselors will notify students of their assigned date/time.  Sophomores meetings will focus on exploring interests, careers and college, as well as preparing for junior year.  Hinsdale Central Grade 11 & 12 Students We have an opportunity for our juniors and seniors students this school year! Hinsdale Central partnered with the Community Memorial Foundation. This organization is offering Hinsdale Central juniors and seniors and students from our surrounding area the opportunity to learn about philanthropy work through their YOUNG COMMUNITY CHANGEMAKERS PROGRAM (YC2 program  http://www.cmfdn.org/yc2 ). Applications for the program are currently being accepted and can be downloaded from this website at cmfdn.org/yc2 ( http://www.cmfdn.org/yc2 ). Final applications should be submitted by November 25. Opportunities to Give with Varsity Club As we enter the season of giving, Varsity Club has TWO opportunities for giving! The first opportunity is to donate a bucket of basics to Sharing Connections . These basics include cleaning supplies and personal care items, which cannot be purchased with food stamps. Our goal is to collect items to fill 425 buckets and we need your help! Varsity Club will provide the bucket for you and you (or your club, department, family) will need to provide the items to go in the bucket. If you are interested in donating a bucket you can sign-up here . If you would prefer to just donate one major item you may  sign-up here .  All items can be dropped off in Mrs. Hoeksema’s Room 2205. Any questions, please email Janelle Hoeksema at  jhoeksem@hinsdale86.org . Technology Center of Dupage Field Trip Sophomores and Juniors interested in exploring Career and Technical Trades at Technology Center of DuPage should sign up for the half day  field trip to TCD by Nov. 7. The field trip is in the morning on Dec. 4. To learn more about TCD programs check out their website:  https://www.tcdupage.org . Contact Ms. Wheeler or your own counselor for more information.   Mental Health Resources You can find these helpful mental health resources available on 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/ Final Exam Schedule First-semester final examinations will be held from Tuesday, December 16 to Thursday, December 18, 2025. Please take note that Friday, December 19 is an Emergency Day. Should circumstances arise that impact our ability to hold a final exam on one of the three previous days, Friday, December 19 will be an attendance day to host exams from that day. If you plan on traveling, please note attendance on Friday, December 19 is a potential student attendance day until 1:00 PM. The expectation is that students are in attendance each period (unless otherwise noted) and take their final exam during their designated time frame. The only exception to this is if a student has three final exams on a given day, they can reschedule an exam to a different day through the Dean's Office.   Please note, that students are NOT approved to reschedule exams to take them early for vacations or other personal reasons.   For more information regarding final exams and to find the exam reschedule form,  click here . PTO Conversation Join the next PTO Conversation: Student Support & Test Preparation Strategies on Wednesday, 11/19 at 9:30am in the Community Room or on Zoom. Principal Walsh and Dr. Cirricione will touch on the resources outside of the classroom available to students. Guidance on how families can support their student for success will be covered by Ms. Perod. Mr. Meyer will provide a two-week prep strategy for final exams. Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Not a member yet? Join today https://hcpto.org/join-the-pto/ 📕 Order Your 2025–2026 Yearbook Yearbook orders are now open!     Order Here      Cost:  $50      Distribution: Early May      Important: We order very few extra copies—placing your order through Walsworth is the  only way to guarantee you’ll have a book this year. Senior Tribute order information is  here  for the Class of 2026 Walsworth is our official provider for yearbooks. To Order Graduation Cap and Gown Go to https://www.jostens.com/ SHOP YOUR SCHOOL Enter School Name/State Scroll down to Graduation/shop If you only want a cap, gown, tassel and stole scroll down to SHOP ALL GRADUATION PRODUCTS Scroll down to Cap, Gown, Tassel and Stole Unit $0.00 near the bottom of the page by the tassels Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to upgrade the tassel NEXT: ADD APPAREL Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to Add Apparel NEXT: ADD ANNOUNCEMENTS Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to Add Announcements NEXT: REVIEW ADD TO CART Fill in Student Name Order Subtotal should be $0.00 You do not have to pay for a cap and gown, that fee was covered in the school fees. Explore Post-High-School Supports at the Transition Center Caregivers of District 86 students with IEPs are invited to a presentation and guided tour of the Hinsdale Transition Center. Learn how the Center supports students ages 18–22 through vocational training, supported living skills, and career exploration. Discover resources that help build confidence, independence, and connection as students transition beyond high school. 📅 Tuesday, November 11 | 5:30 PM 📍 Transition Center, 7302 Clarendon Hills Rd, Darien Hosted in collaboration with the D86 Access Network. D86 Access Network Connecting D86 caregivers of students with IEPs & 504s to resources, support, and community. Follow us:  Facebook: D86 Accessibility & Accommodations Family Network  Instagram: @d86accessnetwork Senior Portrait and Yearbook Photo Information Further information can be found here: https://central.hinsdale86.org/activities/senior-photos-yearbook-photos Upcoming Dates SASU Garba: Nov. 7, 6-8 PM

Thursday, Nov 06 2025

TODAY @ Noon and 6 p.m.: Superintendent Search Feedb...

Dear District 86 Community, As part of our  search for the next Superintendent  of Hinsdale Township High School District 86, we invite you to participate in our three Community Feedback Sessions TODAY , Monday, Nov. 3. We are offering both  in-person and virtual sessions  to ensure everyone has an opportunity to take part. Please note that all community members are welcome to attend the in-person session, you do not have to live within the Hinsdale South attendance area. In-Person Event 📍 Monday, November 3 | 6:00–7:00 p.m. | Hinsdale South High School Auditorium Virtual Events 💻 Monday, November 3 | 12–12:45 p.m. | Online 💻 Monday, November 3 | 6:00–7:00 p.m. | Online (concurrent with the in-person event) To participate in the virtual meetings, please use the following link to  join the Zoom sessions   during the timeframe that the meeting is taking place. Whether or not you attend one of the sessions today, we also invite you to provide input through an anonymous survey. Your feedback will help in the development of a Leadership Profile that outlines the professional and personal characteristics needed to be successful in this role. Click Here To Take The Survey In Spanish Thank you for helping us shape the future of District 86. Your voice matters, and we encourage everyone to participate in this important process. 

Monday, Nov 03 2025

Board Briefs: October 30, 2025

D86 Board Briefs Highlights From Meeting On October 30, 2025 Board Recognition The Board recognized Hinsdale South’s National Merit Semi-Finalists: Anita Joseph, Rishikeshi Joshi, Arianna Lam and Asmitha Pallath. In honor of Principal Appreciation Month, the Board also recognized Hinsdale Central Principal Bill Walsh and Hinsdale South Principal Dr. Kari Peronto for their dedication, compassion, and leadership.   Student Liaison Reports Hinsdale South Student Board Liaison Asmitha Pallath delivered South’s Student Liaison Report, with a Student Voice section that focuses on the student Panorama Survey. Hinsdale Central Student Board Liaison Kiran Singla delivered Central’s Student Liaison Report, with a Student Voice section that focuses on air conditioning in the Hinsdale Central gym.   Discussion Items Building Plan Updates Hinsdale South focused on improving attendance, strengthening student belonging, and enhancing instructional practices through classroom observations and family partnerships. Hinsdale Central emphasized student well-being through SEL lessons and relationship mapping surveys, while advancing assessment literacy to support student growth and engagement. The Transition Center worked to increase student connectedness through accessible surveys and ongoing outreach to reduce absenteeism and strengthen support for all students. 2026 Superintendent Search Update Board President Catherine Greenspon and Board Secretary Liz Mitha shared updates on the hiring timeline for the district’s next superintendent, and provided details on upcoming Community Feedback Sessions, as well as the opportunity to complete a stakeholder survey. 2026-2027 Program of Studies - First Read The Draft Program of Studies was presented to the Board of Education. Assistant Principals for Instruction Chris Cirrincione and Kurt Vonnahme explained important changes and updates to the document. From Data to Decisions: Advancing Academic Opportunities Chief Information Officer Keith Bockwoldt, along with Assistant Principals for Instruction Cirrincione and Vonnahme, presented data and information on honors options, the earned honors credit pilot, course offering differences, and potential hybrid and travel options.   Action Items APPROVED: Assistant Girls Wrestling Coach at Both Campuses The Board approved assistant girls wrestling coaches at Hinsdale South and Hinsdale Central. APPROVED: Employee Benefit Plan Changes The Board approved rate increases, effective January 1, 2026.   Policies, Exhibits, and Administrative Procedures The Board reviewed policies, exhibits, and administrative procedures advanced by the Policy Committee, and provided direction to bring policies and exhibits for approval on second read. The Board also expressed interest in an audit of all administrative procedures.   Board Committee Reports A&O Committee - October Report Policy Committee - October Report Policy 760 AP - Conditional Enrollment HR Committee - October Report Academic Committee - October Report Finance & Facilities Committee - October Report IASB 2025 Resolutions Committee Report The Board discussed the IASB 2025 Resolutions Committee Report to guide District 86 IASB Governing Board Representative Mary Satchwell in casting the district's vote.   President's Report Board President Catherine Greenspon wished everyone a happy ending to the month of October, as well as a safe and happy Halloween to those who celebrate. She also wished the Hinsdale Central football team well in their playoff game tonight! Board Comments Board Vice President Bobby Fischer shared that he took Board Secretary Liz Mitha up on a challenge to always learn and grow as a board member by enrolling in the University of Michigan's Board Director Program. D86 is not funding this imitative.   Superintendent's Report Superintendent Dr. Michal Lach also recognized Principals Walsh and Dr. Peronto for their support of our schools and district. He spoke to the importance of the district’s recent Volley for the Cure volleyball match between Hinsdale South and Central, which raised around $1,500 for the Wellness House in Hinsdale. He also raised awareness for the upcoming Community Speaker Series session on Wednesday, Nov. 5, and alluded to an upcoming presentation on the D86 Illinois Report Card.   Audience Comments An audience member requested that the district review its English curriculum to reduce exposure to dark themes, strengthen social-emotional learning (SEL) lessons, make mental health resources more visible, and ensure teachers have time to read and understand student 504/IEP plans. An audience member urged the district to allow Hinsdale South orchestra students to enroll full-time at Hinsdale Central to access orchestra courses, proposing a shuttle bus system similar to New Trier’s to ensure equal course access. An audience member questioned the district’s academic alignment and grading policies, citing a lack of clear honors criteria and inequities caused by the earned honors system. An audience member voiced frustration over the district’s grading system, claiming it is unpopular among parents, students, and teachers; and argued that policies are inconsistent, and transparency is lacking. An audience member commended the board, teachers, and students for their engagement and dedication, highlighting positive experiences in the community. The audience member also urged the board to pay an outstanding legal bill. An audience member expressed support for updates to the program of studies and expressed a desire to expand honors to all electives that go beyond the introductory level.   Future Board Meetings Thursday, November 20, 2025 (Special Meeting) Thursday, November 25, 2025 Thursday, December 8, 2025 (Special Meeting) Friday-Saturday, December 12-13, 2025 (Special Meetings) Thursday, December 18, 2025   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. REMINDER: Please SUBSCRIBE to receive alerts when Board of Education and Committee meeting agendas are posted.

Friday, Oct 31 2025

D86 Committed To Ensuring Students Have Access To Meals

Dear District 86 Community, District 86 is committed to ensuring our students have access to the healthy meals needed to learn and thrive in school. Families can be assured that all students will continue to have access to school meals without interruption. Students who qualify for the free/reduced-price meal programs will continue to receive those breakfasts and lunches for the entire 2025–26 school year, regardless of any changes to federal funding. All community members can utilize the local food support organizations within our local community. Families may also want to review DuPage’s County’s response and list of resources . We remain committed to caring for every student so they can focus on learning and growing each day. We all are fortunate to live and work in a place that routinely expresses care and grace to our entire community. Sincerely, Dr. Michael Lach Superintendent

Friday, Oct 31 2025

HC Weekly E-Blast October 30, 2025

Weekly E-Blast   |  October 30, 2025 Navy All American Bowl Congrats to Micah Drescher, Red Devil student-athlete, who has been named a Navy All-American Bowl as a kicker! Micah is one of the best student-athletes from across the country. As part of the honor, each player selected a teacher who has made a lasting impact. Micah chose Mr. John Schlamann, recognizing his guidance and support! Drescher will play in the annual East vs. West matchup inside the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas at 1 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 10, 2026, live on NBC and Peacock, which marks the twenty-sixth anniversary of the event. Halloween Dress Up Guidelines With Halloween just around the corner, we are sending out a few reminders regarding costumes at school.  If you are dressing up on Halloween, please review the following expectations: No fake, real, or look-a-like weapons or props No full-face masks or full-face paint that conceals a student's identity Costumes should not disrupt the classroom environment; i.e. offensive, overly violent, or discriminatory Students who fail to adhere to the expectations above may be sent to the Dean’s Office and asked to change.   Have fun, be safe, & Happy Halloween! LEAP Wreaths Looking to brighten your home with holiday cheer this winter? Hinsdale Central’s LEAP into Africa Club has you covered! We’re selling beautiful wreaths, fresh garland, and more! It's the perfect holiday décor 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 by November 6th at https://bit.ly/LeapWreaths2025 Pick-up on December 2nd at Hinsdale Central Decorate with purpose. Support global education. Make this holiday season shine! Read more about our efforts + mission at https://bit.ly/LeapIntoAfricaHC Recognize a Veteran The Hinsdale Central First Responders Club, and Political and Cultural Science Club (Citizen Club) would like to honor our Veterans this year. If there is a Veteran or someone serving on active duty in the Military that you would like to recognize, we ask that you complete this form. Members of both clubs will place a flag in the front of the school in honor of each person.   Recognize a Veteran Please complete this form by Friday, November 7th so that we have enough time to prepare and ensure we are able to honor our Veterans. Hinsdale Central Grade 11 & 12 Students We have an opportunity for our juniors and seniors students this school year! Hinsdale Central partnered with the Community Memorial Foundation. This organization is offering Hinsdale Central juniors and seniors and students from our surrounding area the opportunity to learn about philanthropy work through their YOUNG COMMUNITY CHANGEMAKERS PROGRAM (YC2 program  http://www.cmfdn.org/yc2 ). Applications for the program are currently being accepted and can be downloaded from this website at cmfdn.org/yc2 ( http://www.cmfdn.org/yc2 ). Final applications should be submitted by November 25. Opportunities to Give with Varsity Club As we enter the season of giving, Varsity Club has TWO opportunities for giving! The first opportunity is to donate a bucket of basics to Sharing Connections . These basics include cleaning supplies and personal care items, which cannot be purchased with food stamps. Our goal is to collect items to fill 425 buckets and we need your help! Varsity Club will provide the bucket for you and you (or your club, department, family) will need to provide the items to go in the bucket. If you are interested in donating a bucket you can sign-up here . If you would prefer to just donate one major item you may  sign-up here .  All items can be dropped off in Mrs. Hoeksema’s Room 2205. Any questions, please email Janelle Hoeksema at  jhoeksem@hinsdale86.org . Technology Center of Dupage Field Trip Sophomores and Juniors interested in exploring Career and Technical Trades at Technology Center of DuPage should sign up for the half day  field trip to TCD by Nov. 7. The field trip is in the morning on Dec. 4. To learn more about TCD programs check out their website:  https://www.tcdupage.org . Contact Ms. Wheeler or your own counselor for more information.   📕 Order Your 2025–2026 Yearbook Yearbook orders are now open!     Order Here      Cost:  $50      Distribution: Early May      Important: We order very few extra copies—placing your order through Walsworth is the  only way to guarantee you’ll have a book this year. Senior Tribute order information is  here  for the Class of 2026 Walsworth is our official provider for yearbooks. To Order Graduation Cap and Gown Go to https://www.jostens.com/ SHOP YOUR SCHOOL Enter School Name/State Scroll down to Graduation/shop If you only want a cap, gown, tassel and stole scroll down to SHOP ALL GRADUATION PRODUCTS Scroll down to Cap, Gown, Tassel and Stole Unit $0.00 near the bottom of the page by the tassels Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to upgrade the tassel NEXT: ADD APPAREL Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to Add Apparel NEXT: ADD ANNOUNCEMENTS Choose NO THANKS if you do not want to Add Announcements NEXT: REVIEW ADD TO CART Fill in Student Name Order Subtotal should be $0.00 You do not have to pay for a cap and gown, that fee was covered in the school fees. Explore Post-High-School Supports at the Transition Center Caregivers of District 86 students with IEPs are invited to a presentation and guided tour of the Hinsdale Transition Center. Learn how the Center supports students ages 18–22 through vocational training, supported living skills, and career exploration. Discover resources that help build confidence, independence, and connection as students transition beyond high school. 📅 Tuesday, November 11 | 5:30 PM 📍 Transition Center, 7302 Clarendon Hills Rd, Darien Hosted in collaboration with the D86 Access Network. There is still time to register for the Community Speaker Series webinar on November 5 at 7pm - Dr. Jonathan Singer, Youth Mental Health: Signs, Safety, and Success.  Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights from an expert in youth mental health on the challenges teens face today and how parents can best support them. All registrants will receive a link to the webinar recording. Register here:  http://weblink.donorperfect.com/CSS-Singer Senior Portrait and Yearbook Photo Information Further information can be found here: https://central.hinsdale86.org/activities/senior-photos-yearbook-photos Upcoming Dates Club Photos:  Nov. 5 NHS Blood Drive: Oct. 30 SASU Garba: Nov. 7, 6-8 PM

Thursday, Oct 30 2025

Hinsdale South Weekly Newsletter - October 30, 2025

Weekly Newsletter October 30, 2025 Dear District 86 Community Stakeholder input is an important part of the process of identifying our next superintendent. To gather that feedback, District 86 invites parents/guardians, staff members, students, and community members to share their perspectives by completing an anonymous survey. Your feedback will help in the development of a Leadership Profile that outlines the professional and personal characteristics needed to be successful in this role. This Leadership Profile will serve as a critical component of the superintendent search, helping ensure we find a leader who reflects the values and priorities of our community. As a reminder, we will also be hosting Community Feedback Sessions to provide another opportunity for stakeholders to provide input. These sessions are open to all community members. In addition, students and staff members have separate opportunities to participate, which have already been communicated directly. Click Here to Take the Survey in English Click Here To Take The Survey In Spanish In-Person Events Monday, November 3 | 6:00–7:00 p.m. | Hinsdale South High School Auditorium Virtual Events Monday, November 3 | 12–12:45 p.m. | Online Monday, November 3 | 6:00–7:00 p.m. | Online (concurrent with the in-person event) To participate in the virtual meetings, please use the following link to join the Zoom sessions during the timeframe that the meeting is taking place. Thank you for taking the time to contribute to this important process and help us select the next leader of District 86.   Grade 9 Depression Awareness & Suicide Prevention Program Hinsdale South will implement the Signs of Suicide (SOS) prevention program in partnership with Elyssa’s Mission during Freshman PE classes on November 11 & 13. This nationally recognized, evidence-based program teaches students that depression is treatable, suicide is preventable, and help is available. Students will learn to recognize warning signs, practice how to reach out for support, and connect with trusted adults and school-based resources. Parents can learn more at elyssasmission.org/for-parents or submit an opt-out form here by November 4.    Deans Office   Student Attendance Policies District 86 is committed to student success. One of the best indicators of student success is consistent school attendance as it leads to improved academic achievement. While some work can be completed at home, there is no replication for the classroom experience, which is essential to adolescent learning. Therefore, Hinsdale District 86 has established attendance protocols, which are designed to support students and keep students accountable. Students are required by state law to attend school every day. The D86 Board of Education's attendance policy states that students will attend and be on time for class. Student attendance is not optional; it is a requirement of every class. Click here to view the Attendance Handbook for Parents and Students Additionally, the following is a guide to the intervention/supportive measures that may be implemented with each student. Please note that interventions will be individualized for each student to find the most appropriate solution(s) to support the student, including interventions for students with individualized education programs (IEP) and Section 504 plans; thus not every intervention will be automatically applied to each student. Hinsdale South does not assign detention for absences that are reported by a parent or guardian, whether excused or unexcused. These policies have remained unchanged and are consistent with those of previous school years.   Pre Arranged Absences The Pre-Arranged Absence Form must be completed by the parent/guardian at least two (2) days before the absence begins in order for it to be excused. This form is required in the following instances: The student will be absent for three (3) or more school days. The student will be absent during final exams. The student will be absent due to a non-school-related activity. The student will be absent due to a civic event. Parents/guardians must contact the Attendance Office to verify the absence. Parent/Guardian Responsibilities Complete the Pre-Arranged Absence Form electronically. Include the reason for the absence and the relevant dates. For non-school-related competitive activities or sports, please provide a letter from the coach with dates, schedule, or registration documents. For college visits, please submit documentation of the scheduled appointment or tour. Student Responsibilities Discuss all assignments and classwork with teachers prior to the absence. Be prepared to meet all deadlines and complete required coursework on time. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us maintain accurate attendance records.   Bell to Bell, No Cell This year, students and staff will be expected to keep cell phones and other personal electronic devices out of sight, thereby out of mind, during instructional periods. It is critical that our instructional environment be a place for students to learn, collaborate with peers, and think critically. For that to happen, we as educational leaders want to create a learning environment that avoids distractions, in particular, digital distractions.   Counseling Department   College Visits Students wishing to visit with a college representative should sign up in 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 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. Monday, November 3 9:50 AM - University of Utah 10:45 AM - University of Memphis  11:40 AM - Blackburn College  12:35 PM - Western Illinois University   Tuesday, November 4 8:55 AM - University of Colorado Boulder  9:50 AM - Grand Valley State University  10:40 AM - University of Chicago  11:40 PM - Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Thursday, November 6 11:40 AM - Arizona State University-Tempe 12:35 PM - Northern Michigan University    Technology Center of Dupage (TCD) Attention Sophomores and Juniors! Join us for Explore Day at the Technology Center of DuPage on Thursday, December 4. See your Hinsdale South Counselor and register by November 7. For more details, scan the QR code provided or click on the following video.   Interested in Taking an AP Exam through Self-Study? Students who wish to take an AP Exam without enrolling in the corresponding AP course, commonly referred to as "AP self-study," must register through the College Board and pay via Total Registration. Self-study is a great option for motivated students who want to demonstrate mastery in a subject. Students will be enrolled in an "Exam Only" section on the College Board’s My AP platform to ensure proper registration. To register for an AP Exam as a self-study student, please visit the Counseling Office as early as possible. The final deadline to order AP Exams is November 5.  If you have questions, please come to the Counseling Office for assistance.   Faculty/Staff Highlights   Katie Notter - Foundation Teacher This month, we’re excited to celebrate Katie Notter for an incredible 21 years of service as a Special Education Teacher! Throughout her career, Katie has worked with high school students with significant disabilities, providing support that goes far beyond the classroom. Whether she’s leading community-based instruction, coordinating vocational experiences, or jumping in to help students and colleagues across departments, Katie brings heart, expertise, and positivity to everything she does. Her commitment to helping students gain independence and confidence has left a lasting mark on our entire school community. Thank you, Katie, for 21 years of care, creativity, and dedication. Your work continues to inspire us all!   Michelle Vucko - Foundation Teacher We’re proud to celebrate Michelle Vucko for 11 years of making a difference as a Special Education Teacher! Over the past decade, Michelle has dedicated her career to supporting high school students with significant disabilities, helping them build skills, confidence, and independence through hands-on learning and meaningful connections. Through community-based instruction, Michelle helps students engage with the world beyond the classroom, preparing them for life after high school. She’s also known for her constant support throughout the building—always ready to lend a hand to students, staff, and departments alike. Beyond her classroom, Michelle leads with heart by organizing Best Buddies activities and the annual Prom Dress Drive, creating opportunities for inclusion, friendship, and joy across our school community. Thank you, Michelle, for 11 years of compassion, commitment, and creativity. Your positive energy and dedication have made a lasting impact on students and staff alike!     Student Highlights   Youth Advisory Progam We are proud to have had Davy O'Connor, Lazar Martic, Elias Varesis, Gerald Bauer, Jack Bauer, Raveen Patel, Ryland Hames, Filip Angelovski, and Taylor Mazur represent Hinsdale South in Illinois Senator John Curran's Youth Advisory Program. This non-partisan program provided students with a unique, hands-on opportunity to learn how government works by engaging directly with leaders at the state and local levels. Students heard firsthand why these individuals chose careers in public service, and more importantly, how young people can become actively involved in shaping the issues that matter most to them.    Ndiana Obot - Coca-Cola Scholar Semifinalist Congratulations to Ndiana Obot for being chosen as a semi-finalist in the Coca-Cola Scholars Program, which is the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship program in the United States. Good luck with making it to Regionals!   Live Day of Art Our AP Studio Art classes and Art Honor Society collaborated on the annual Live Day of Art! We had a blast!   Stinger - Student News Site   Athletics   Addy Filipiak - Athlete of the Week Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week, Addy Filipiak. Addy crushed this 2025 Fall Tennis Season! She went 30-5 overall, finished 2nd at Conference, 1st at Sectionals, and 1st at State! The hard work and dedication to her game have proven themselves this season. She dominates on the court, and the growth has been tremendous. She is a fierce competitor, and we cannot wait to see what comes next! Great job, Addy! Congratulations on a great year! Jake Lu - Athlete of the Week Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week, Jake Lu. Captain Jake Lu helped lead Hinsdale South Soccer to its first Regional Championship since 1995! Jake had 2 goals and 2 assists vs. Richards in the semifinal and 2 goals vs. Providence in the Regional Final. He’s totaled 28 goals and 8 assists this season, and 61 goals and 49 assists in his career. The Hornets move on to face Kennedy in the Sectional Semifinal. Great job, Jake! Congratulations on a great week!   Girls Tennis Team Congratulations to the Girls Tennis Team! The Team finishes 4th in the state!! Addy Filipiak is an Individual State Champion in singles! The doubles team of Hailey Goins & Teodora Savic got four big wins!   Girls Cross Country Congrats to the Girls Cross Country team for qualifying as a team for the IHSA Sectional.  Boys Soccer Meet your regional champions in Boys Soccer. This is the boys' soccer team's first regional championship in 30 years! Hornets play in the sectional semifinal on Saturday at 11:00 AM, hosted here at South! Please show your support! Boys Cross Country Congratulations to the Boys Cross Country team, IHSA Regional Champs! Girls Swimming and Dive Team Congrats to the Girls Swimming & Dive team, WSC Gold Conference Champs! This is their first time in 11 years!   Athletic Results   Yearbooks   Deadline to Select Yearbook Photos - November 9 View your school portraits and select your yearbook/class picture! To view your school portraits, look for an email sent to you by “Visual Image Photography”, or go to vipis.com (student ID number may be required). The final deadline to select a yearbook picture is November 9 for underclass students and seniors who only have photos that were taken at school on fall school picture day. The selection deadline for Seniors who had a VIP Premier Session is also November 9.   After these dates, VIP will choose a yearbook image for you.     Hinsdale South Musical     60th Anniversary   Alumni Spotlight Series: Celebrating 60 Years! As part of our 60th anniversary celebration, we're kicking off a special Alumni Spotlight Series! Each week, we'll feature inspiring alumni who have returned to work at Hinsdale South. They'll share their unique perspective as both a graduate and a staff member, offering valuable advice to current students. We're thrilled to begin the series with Mr. Beesley!   Get Your 60th Anniversary Gear! To commemorate our 60th Anniversary, we've got something special for you: exclusive 60th anniversary apparel and merchandise featuring a brand-new logo! We're talking nearly 40 different items, including shirts, hoodies, pants, vests, ornaments, blankets, and so much more. You can order your gear now, and it'll ship directly to you. Our store will be open for most of the school year, but we wanted to give you an early heads-up so you can snag your favorite items and be ready to rock your South spirit for the 2025-2026 school year! A huge shout-out to Ms. Jen Belmonte, our Art Teacher, for designing our fantastic 60th anniversary logo! It truly captures what South Pride is all about. Visit our store here to check out all the awesome items!   60th Anniversary Tours In honor of our 60th Anniversary, Hinsdale South will be opening its doors on selected dates to give tours of the building. Join us on Thursday, December 18, at 5:00 PM for the next tour! The tour begins at the main entrance, Door #1 off of Clarendon Hills Road.   Booster Clubs   Holiday Artisan Fair The Hinsdale South Booster Club Holiday Artisan Fair is back, and you won’t want to miss it! Join us for a festive day of holiday shopping, unique gifts, and handcrafted treasures from local makers. Date: Saturday, November 1 Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Location: Hinsdale South High School, Door 9 We’re seeking talented artisans and small businesses to be part of this exciting event. If you create handmade goods, artwork, jewelry, home décor, seasonal items, or other unique products, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase your work to our community. Vendor registration is now open! Sign up today Come shop, sell, and get into the holiday spirit with us!      Community Events               Upcoming Events Saturday, November 1 - Holiday Artisan Fair Friday, November 7 - Early Dismissal (students only) Wednesday, November 12 & 19 - Early Release November 13 - 16 - Mean Girls The Musical Wednesday, November 26 - 28 - Thanksgiving Break  

Thursday, Oct 30 2025

Illinois Report Card Highlights Continued Growth in ...

D86 E-Newsletter October 30, 2025 Message From the Superintendent: Illinois Report Card Highlights Continued Growth and Progress in District 86 This year’s Illinois Report Card reflects the growth, resilience, and progress of our students and staff. The results from the 2024-25 school year show that the hard work happening every day in our classrooms is making a positive impact–with stronger student outcomes and continued momentum toward our shared goals, including District 86’s defined Metrics That Matter Most. Annually, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) compiles information from every school and district, and uses this information to report on how schools are performing across the state. Our schools continue to grow stronger because of the commitment of our students, educators and families. Together, we are building learning environments where every child is known, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. D86 has seen meaningful progress, including improved graduation rates, a reduction in chronic absenteeism, and an increase in the percentage of 9th grade students who are considered "on track." We also made gains along our Equity Journey Continuum, moving from “moderate” to “small” gaps in learning conditions. While our work is far from finished, these improvements show that our schools are moving forward with focus, momentum, and measurable success. In addition to the ACT becoming Illinois’ new high school assessment, ISBE also recalibrated its benchmarks for proficiency and established new unified performance levels for all state assessments. As a result, our 2025 proficiency rates establish a new baseline for student performance and cannot be compared to prior years. Although the recalibration creates a new starting point, our results demonstrate that we are building on a strong foundation and continuing to move forward with purpose. Each year, both of our high schools also receive a summative designation that describes how well a school is meeting the needs of all its students based on indicators of student success defined by ISBE. Hinsdale Central once again received the designation of Exemplary, while Hinsdale South received the Commendable designation–reflecting graduation rates above 67 percent, the success of all student groups, and Central’s standing among the top 10 percent of schools statewide. It’s important to note that the information shared here represents only a snapshot of our district’s results. We encourage families to explore the full Illinois Report Card for a deeper look–at either the District Level, or by school (Hinsdale Central | Hinsdale South). ISBE does not produce a report card for the Transition Center. While the Illinois Report Card highlights key academic indicators, we also know that our schools are far more than numbers. They are vibrant communities where students are supported, challenged, and inspired to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. We remain deeply committed to continuous improvement in every area of student success As we look ahead, we will continue working together to strengthen learning, engagement, and belonging for all students. Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support of our mission to help every learner in District 86 reach their fullest potential. Sincerely, Dr. Michael Lach Superintendent   Here's What Is Happening In District 86 Superintendent Search: Provide Input Through Feedback Sessions & Survey Stakeholder input is an important part of the process of identifying our next superintendent. To gather that feedback, District 86 invites parents/guardians, staff members, students, and community members to share their perspectives by attending feedback sessions and completing an anonymous survey. We are offering both in-person and virtual sessions to ensure everyone has an opportunity to take part. Please note that all community members are welcome to attend in-person sessions at either location, you do not have to attend the session at the school located in your attendance area. There are three remaining feedback sessions, all on Monday, Nov. 3. There is an in-person session at 6 p.m. at Hinsdale South, and virtual sessions at noon and 6 p.m. To participate in the virtual meetings, please use the following link to join the Zoom sessions during the timeframe that the meeting is taking place. Survey responses will help in the development of a Leadership Profile that outlines the professional and personal characteristics needed to be successful in this role. Please use the following links to complete the survey in English or to complete the survey in Spanish.   Principal Apprecaition Month: Thank You To Principals Walsh & Peronto! October is Principal Appreciation Month, and we’re so lucky to have two of the best leading the way here in District 86! The dedication, compassion, and leadership of Principals William Walsh and Dr. Kari Peronto make our schools an incredible place to learn and grow. Please join us in thanking them for all they do for our students, staff, and community!   D86 Celebrates 15 Years Of Student Discovery Through Science Inquiry and Research (SIR) Course For the past 15 summers, hundreds of students from Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South have dedicated their summers to Science Inquiry and Research (SIR), one of District 86’s most innovative and challenging academic programs. This year, 89 students took part in projects ranging from studying microplastic contamination in local water sources to testing the effectiveness of natural remedies compared with synthetic antibiotics. Others engineered low-cost prosthetic devices or analyzed how climate change affects pollinator populations, showcasing the creativity and curiosity that drive the program’s success. READ MORE   Hinsdale South, Central Tennis Teams Excel At State Tournament Congratulations to sophomore Addy Filipiak on winning an individual state championship and helping the Hornets to a fourth-place finish in Class 1A. We also would like to congratulate the doubles team of Lauren Panveno & Sophia Virmani for finishing 2nd at state and helping the Red Devils to a second-place team finish in Class 2A.   November 5 Community Speaker Series - Youth Mental Health: Signs, Safety, and Success Dr. Jonathan Singer will discuss how to tell the difference between everyday stress and more serious conditions like anxiety or depression, how to recognize warning signs of crisis, and how to talk with kids about these sensitive topics. He will also share resources and strategies for finding the right professional help when needed. REGISTER NOW   Have News To Share? Let Us Know

Thursday, Oct 30 2025