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  • LEARN15 Event: LIKE Screening, May 6, 2026

    LIKE Screening Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 6:00-7:30 PM LIKE Screening: A Documentary About the Impact of Social Media on Our Lives How is social media truly impacting our lives and our children? District 15 invites parents, students, and staff to a special community event featuring "LIKE," a documentary that explores the impact of social media on our society [PDF in English, Spanish, Japanese, Ukrainian, and Russian]. While the documentary is in English, live translation will be provided for Spanish, Japanese, Ukrainian, and Russian speakers. How to attend on May 6: Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 Location: Walter R. Sundling (WRS) Middle School, 1100 N. Smith Street, Palatine Documentary Screening: 6:00-6:50 p.m. in the WRS Auditorium Panel Discussion: 7:00-7:30 p.m. in the WRS Library Childcare: On-site childcare will be available during the event RSVP: Please use the RSVP link at the top of this post to confirm your attendance. If you plan to attend, we ask that you indicate the number of adults attending, and if you will need on-site childcare, please let us know by also including the number of children. Language Translation Request: Please use the Event Language Support Form at the bottom of this post to request language translation or other language-related accommodations. We look forward to seeing you there for this important conversation! Can't attend in person? An at-home screening will be available after the event (Spanish only translation available). Keep an eye out for at-home viewing options following the in-person event. LEARN15 • District 15 Family Education Website: https://www.ccsd15.net/families/learn15 Community Consolidated School District 15 Address: 580 N 1st Bank Drive, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-3000 Facebook | Instagram | YouTube [Wednesday, Apr 29 at 4:10 PM] Don’t miss our next LEARN15 event! We’re hosting a screening of the documentary LIKE on Wednesday, May 6 (6:00 pm) to talk about the reality of social media. Perfect for our 5th–8th graders and their families. See you there? Don't forget to RSVP!

    Monday, Apr 20 2026

  • Board Brief - 4/8/2026

      April 8, 2026 The District 15 Regular Board of Education meeting was held on April 8 2026. The full meeting agenda as well as the minutes from the March 11, 2026 Regular Board of Education meeting can be found on the Diligent Community website. A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on our Youtube channel.   Celebrating 80 Years of Growth Pledge of Allegiance Pleasant Hill Elementary School - Helping Club Pleasant Hill Elementary School’s Helping Hands Club led the April Board of Education meeting in the Pledge of Allegiance, highlighting a year of meaningful service and community impact. Sponsored by third grade teacher Jamie Gasunas, the club focuses on helping students understand what it means to make a difference both within their school and beyond. Students shared several initiatives supporting local organizations and the Pleasant Hill community. In September, they organized the “Pasta With a Purpose” food drive, donating approximately 100 pasta and sauce items to the Palatine Food Pantry. In October, they collected and donated 70 Halloween costumes to the Palatine Opportunity Center. In November, students created a banner to welcome veterans for the school’s Veterans Day assembly, and in December, they produced a holiday video montage to celebrate the Pleasant Hill community. In February, the club led a “SOUP-er Bowl” drive, donating 116 cans and boxes of soup to the Palatine Food Pantry. Throughout the year, several members also volunteered their recess time as kindergarten buddies. Looking ahead, students will visit classrooms in April to read aloud and lead discussions in recognition of Autism Acceptance and Awareness Month. Students in attendance included: Penny F., Chloe G., Kaila K., Sarah O., Sadie S., Marysia S., and Gauri S. The Helping Hands Club reflects Pleasant Hill’s commitment to service, leadership, and supporting others.   Student Recognition: YEA! Students District 15 recognized middle school students who participated in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), a longstanding partnership with the Palatine and Rolling Meadows Chamber of Commerce. This innovative program provides students with the opportunity to develop business skills, build confidence, and turn their ideas into real ventures. Throughout the experience, students worked in teams to identify real-world problems and design products and services to address them. From developing practical innovations like backpack padding and cold-weather gear to preparing to market and sell their ideas within the community, students demonstrated creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial thinking. The program continues to open doors for leadership and real-world application, with students already exploring opportunities to showcase and sell their products at school events and in the community. Participating Students: Plum Grove: Riann K., Alexander O., Nishanth N., Illia H., Ishpreet S., Ayan R., Armaan S., Narain R., Adyan A., Hannah C., Sanika M., Rahda P., Veer P., Tarun N., Navteejj A., Zia K., Aleena K., Layla P., Varshini B. Thomas Jefferson: Parker R., Tristan T. Walter R. Sundling: Oleksandr L., Abigail M., Jenna M., Ava S., Jadon H. Winston Campus: Tiwa A. We congratulate all students who participated in this experience and thank our partners from the Palatine and Rolling Meadows Chamber of Commerce, along with educational support from Hillary Teague, for helping make this opportunity possible.   Student Recognition: ITBE Poetry & Writing Contests for Multilingual Learners The Board of Education recognized District 15 students who earned honors in the Illinois Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages – Bilingual Education (ITBE) statewide Poetry and Writing Contests for Multilingual Learners. Renee Urbanski, Assistant Superintendent for Multilingual Programs, shared that these contests provide students with an opportunity to express their voices, experiences, and identities through meaningful and authentic writing. Elementary students submitted a variety of poetry forms, including haiku, acrostic, diamante, and biopoems, while middle school students authored personal essays that reflected themes of resilience, identity, and connection across cultures. Students’ work highlighted lived experiences from around the world and demonstrated creativity, courage, and authenticity. Mrs. Urbanski noted that these pieces are more than poems and essays; they reflect the voices and stories of students navigating language, culture, and community with strength and pride. This year’s recognized students included: K–5 Poetry Contest: Alim T. (1st Place – Acrostic), Daryna V. (1st Place – Acrostic), Dev A. (1st Place – Biopoem), Ayomide A. (1st Place – Diamante), Maksym V. (1st Place – Diamante), Davyd K. (2nd Place – Haiku), Dennis K. (2nd Place – Diamante), Arlen C. (Newcomer Award of Merit), Tohru K. (Newcomer Award of Merit), Yukito S. (Newcomer Award of Merit), Diana S. (Newcomer Award of Merit) 6–8 Writing Contest: Olivia R. (2nd Place), Mariia D. (3rd Place), Bayastan M. (Honorable Mention) Mrs. Urbanski also recognized the educators who supported students throughout this process, including Claudine Amato (SRP), Nabila Jahangir (MJ), Froilan Bustos (WRS), Harkiran Kaur (WRS), and Ewa Pitcher (TJ), and thanked them for their continued dedication. Congratulations to all of our student writers for their creativity, voice, and outstanding achievements.   Above and Beyond Staff Recognition: Newly Certified and Re-certified National Board Staff The Board of Education recognized District 15 staff members who have recently earned or renewed their National Board Certification, a distinction widely regarded as the “gold standard” in the teaching profession. Dr. Claire Kowalczyk, Director of Personnel, shared that National Board Certification is the most respected professional certification in K–12 education, recognizing accomplished educators who meet rigorous national standards. Research consistently shows that students of National Board Certified teachers experience increased learning outcomes, with even greater impact for students from low-income backgrounds. This voluntary, performance-based certification process requires educators to demonstrate deep content knowledge, instructional expertise, and a strong commitment to student success. For those renewing their certification, the process reflects an ongoing dedication to professional growth and excellence in their field. Those recognized included: Newly Certified: Sydney Aikman – Gray M. Sanborn, Occupational Therapist Sally Cheeseman – Jane Addams, Social Worker Celine Cushman – Hunting Ridge, Psychologist Caitlin Dempsey – John G. Conyers Learning Academy, Occupational Therapist Briana Discipio – Jane Addams, Speech Language Pathologist Jessica Hurwith – Central Road, Social Worker Jeanmarie Jacobs-Maramba – Walter R. Sundling, Bilingual Resource Teacher Ryan Johnson – Jane Addams, Psychologist Lauren Kim – Kimball Hill, Speech Language Pathologist Samira Khan – Winston Campus Middle School, ESL Teacher Kelly Kolpack – Virginia Lake, Psychologist Joseph McTague – Plum Grove Middle School, Speech Language Pathologist Andrea Medina Diaz – Kimball Hill, Bilingual Speech Language Pathologist Emma Tecktiel – Lincoln School, Psychologist Renewed: Joanna Angelopoulos – Winston Campus Middle School, Art Jennifer Maldonado – Plum Grove Middle School, ELA Dr. Kowalczyk noted that maintaining National Board Certification is a personal and public commitment to continuous growth, reflection, and excellence in teaching. Please join us in congratulating these outstanding staff members for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to going Above and Beyond for their students and our District 15 community. $26M DSEB Parameters Bond Resolution Presented by: Mrs. Diana McCluskey, Chief School Business Official Mrs. Elizabeth Hennessy, Raymond James, Managing Director - Public Finance The Board of Education received a presentation on the proposed $26 million Debt Service Extension Base (DSEB) working cash bonds, representing the final issuance within the $40 million authorization approved in 2023 as part of the Moving 15 Forward plan. Diana McCluskey, Chief School Business Official, and Elizabeth Hennessy of Raymond James provided an overview of current market conditions, noting recent volatility in interest rates driven by global events. While rates have increased in recent months, demand for municipal bonds remains strong, allowing districts to continue accessing the market effectively. The proposed $26 million bond issuance is structured to be repaid over approximately 10 years, helping maintain a stable tax rate while preserving flexibility for future capital needs. The bonds will fund projects identified in the district’s updated capital plan, including scheduled investments in the summers of 2026 through 2028. The updated capital plan reflects both rising project costs and the reintroduction of previously deferred work, particularly in the area of health and life safety. This includes significant HVAC system upgrades and other infrastructure improvements across multiple schools. The plan also outlines a long-term approach to balancing funding sources, including future DSEB issuances and potential health life safety bonds, to address ongoing facility needs while maintaining financial flexibility. The presentation included a review of projected timelines, with the Board considering approval of the parameters bond resolution in April, a competitive bond sale anticipated in early May, and closing expected in June 2026. Board members discussed the importance of aligning capital investments with long-term planning, ensuring the district can address immediate facility needs while remaining responsive to future priorities. You can view the information in Diligent Community or watch the presentation on Youtube (skip to 1:12:47).   Districtwide Partnerships and Community Engagement Presented by: Mrs. Renee Urbanski, Assistant Superintendent for Multilingual Programs The Board of Education received a presentation highlighting District 15’s strong network of community partnerships and family engagement efforts, aligned to Strategic Priority 3: Community Engagement and Family Involvement. Mrs. Renee Urbanski, Assistant Superintendent for Multilingual Programs, shared that District 15 serves more than 11,500 students, including over 3,500 students participating in multilingual programs, with more than 80 languages represented across the district. These partnerships are essential in ensuring families feel connected, supported, and engaged as active partners in their child’s education. The presentation emphasized that meaningful family engagement is linked to improved student outcomes, including reduced absenteeism, increased confidence, stronger social-emotional development, and higher academic achievement. Several partnerships and programs were highlighted, including Multilingual and Bilingual Parent Advisory Committees (BPAC/MPAC), the Dual Language Parent Advisory Committee, the Parent Mentor Program, Edgebrook Community Center, Partners for Our Community, the Rolling Meadows Neighborhood Resource Center, Family Liaisons, and the Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization. These groups provide resources, workshops, and opportunities for families to engage in their child’s learning while also building community connections. Presenters and parent representatives shared firsthand experiences, illustrating how these partnerships create welcoming spaces for families, strengthen communication between home and school, and provide critical support such as tutoring, language development resources, and access to community services. Programs like the Parent Mentor initiative also foster leadership development, with participants gaining skills, certifications, and pathways to employment within schools. The Board expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of staff, families, and community partners, recognizing their collective role in supporting students and strengthening the District 15 community. You can view the information in Diligent Community or watch the presentation on Youtube (skip to 0:32:15).   Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance Renewal for 2026-27 Presented by: Mr. Anthony Fashoda, Director of Fiscal Services Dr. Shari Lazor, Associate Superintendent The Board of Education received an overview of the proposed 2026–27 medical, dental, and vision insurance renewal rates. District 15’s Insurance Committee, composed of union leadership and administrators, works in partnership with Alera Group to review claims data, market trends, and cost containment strategies to maintain high-quality coverage while minimizing cost increases. District 15 remains self-insured, meaning premiums are deposited into a district-managed fund and used to pay employee claims directly. As presented, rising healthcare costs continue to impact the district, including medical inflation (8–10%), pharmacy inflation (12–15%), increased utilization of specialty medications, and a rise in high-cost claims. Additional cost pressures include increased use of GLP-1 medications and new state-mandated coverage requirements. To help mitigate these increases, the district implemented several cost-saving strategies, including securing a new stop-loss insurance provider through a competitive bid process and continuing to promote the use of virtual health programs such as Galileo. These efforts helped reduce the initially projected 6.8% increase in medical premiums to a recommended 4.2% increase for FY27, with no changes to plan design. For dental coverage, increased utilization and inflation have resulted in a recommended 9.5% premium increase, also with no plan changes. The vision plan will remain unchanged, with no increase in premiums for the upcoming fiscal year. The administration emphasized its continued focus on balancing rising healthcare costs with maintaining strong benefits for staff, while leveraging available strategies to manage long-term financial sustainability. You can view the information in Diligent Community or watch the presentation on Youtube (skip to 1:41:50). Board Committee Updates Education Research Development (Ed-RED) Committee Board Vice President Annerino reported that the Illinois General Assembly is in one of its busiest periods as it approaches the April 17 crossover deadline, when bills must pass out of their chamber of origin to be considered by the opposite chamber. The committee is monitoring several pieces of legislation that may impact school districts. One bill Board Member Annerino highlighted was Senate Bill 3776, which would allow Illinois to opt into a federal scholarship tax credit program. The program would incentivize private donations through federal tax credits, which could then be used to support a range of educational expenses for K–8 students, including tutoring, instructional materials, and test preparation. The committee also continues to follow House Bill 4416, which would allow educational support personnel (ESPs) to receive unemployment benefits during school breaks longer than one week, including summer. If enacted, the proposal could result in significant increased costs for school districts and may impact both district budgets and local property taxes. Additionally, House Bill 2789, the Illinois Mega Projects bill, remains under consideration and has been sent back to the Rules Committee for further review and negotiation. The bill is intended to support large-scale development projects across the state. The committee is also tracking House Bill 4535, which would allow school districts that serve as polling locations to utilize e-learning days on election days without those days counting toward the state’s allotted emergency days. The bill has advanced out of committee and is pending further consideration.  For more information on Education Research Development (Ed-RED), visit Ed-RED website. one-five Foundation Board Member Bachmann reported that the One-Five Foundation recently concluded its annual 50/50 raffle fundraiser, which generated approximately $32,000, with the winner receiving half of the total prize pool. The Foundation is also preparing for Staff Appreciation Week, taking place May 4–8. As part of this initiative, families and community members can participate in a $10 staff tribute, which includes a personalized card and sweet treat for a selected staff member. The Foundation will hold its next meeting in the coming week as planning continues for upcoming initiatives. For more one-five updates, please visit the Foundation’s website at www.ccsd15.net/one-five-foundation, which is also linked on the District 15 website under the "Our Community" tab for added accessibility. Finance Committee Board Members Hunt reported that the Finance Committee met on April 1 to review the district’s capital plan, funding options, and the proposed bond resolution presented at the Board meeting. The committee engaged in a thorough discussion and addressed key questions related to these topics, with no additional updates t Equity Committee Board Members Khan and Taylor reported that the Equity Committee does not have new updates to share this month. The committee has scheduled its next meeting for April 15, with plans to reconvene and continue its work moving forward.   8.1 Approval of Personnel Report: Administrative, Certified, and Non-Certified Staff - APPROVED 8.2 Approval of the 2026-2027 Board of Education Meeting Schedule - APPROVED 8.3 Resolution providing for the issue of not to exceed $26,700,000 General Obligation Limited Tax School Bonds, Series 2026, for the purpose of increasing the Working Cash Fund, providing for the levy of a direct annual tax to pay the principal and interest on said bonds, and authorizing the proposed sale of said bonds to the purchaser thereof - APPROVED   8.4 Health Care Renewal: Approval of 2026-27 Medical/Dental/Vision Rates - APPROVED 8.5 Approval of Bid Award #26-016 - Pest Management Service - APPROVED 8.6 Approval of final 2025-2026 School Calendar - APPROVED   Next meeting of the Board of Education The next Regular meeting of the Board of Education will be held at Walter R. Sundling Middle School, 1100 N. Smith Street, Palatine, on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 7:00 PM. https://www.ccsd15.net/

    Tuesday, Apr 14 2026

  • D15 eNews: April 7, 2026

    April 7, 2026 Dear District 15 Families, I hope you and your family had a relaxing Spring Break. Our facility team was busy with a number of projects that included: New paint in CLA and CR gyms New “cloud” ceiling in the WC art room LVT flooring in the cafeteria, stage, and main corridor at GMS GMS sidewalk enlarged for bus drop off  Sound panels installed in WRS cafeteria LVT flooring on 1st and 2nd floor corridors in FCW In our classrooms, while April showers should bring May flowers – April is also bringing forth a whole lot of learning. Please enjoy a few pictures from my recent Hang with Heinz visits at GMS and WB.  There is still a lot of teaching and learning ahead before our last day on Wednesday, June 3, and I know this special group of students and staff is ready to make the most of it.   District 15 Turns 80! As I look toward my own retirement this June, I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting. April is a big month for District 15 as we mark 80 years since our district was formed in 1946. That’s eight decades of this community showing up for its kids through growth, change, and everything in between. When you really stop and think about it, that’s a lot of students, families, and stories of teaching and learning to be proud of.  While our schools may look different today, the reason we exist remains the same. We are here for our students and will continue to be. It has been an incredible honor to serve as Superintendent of this tremendous district, and I am so proud of our partnership and what our communities continue to build together.   We Are Days Away From Our 80th Anniversary Gala! That spirit of community is exactly what we will be celebrating this Friday, April 10, at our 80th Anniversary Gala benefitting Feed15. Eight decades is a historic milestone and it is certainly worth celebrating, but the true significance of this evening lies in our commitment to the students who need us most today. Through Feed15, we are working to ensure that every student has the nutrition they need to thrive. Currently, one in three of our children faces food insecurity, and we know that for a child to achieve great things in the classroom, their basic needs must be met first. If you are able to join us this Friday, you can look forward to a beautiful evening featuring student artwork, a community dinner, and the chance to come together around a shared mission. It is a night to celebrate how far we’ve come and to ensure that every one of our students has a strong foundation for the future. Every Little Bit Helps……… Here’s How You Can  Whether you are joining us in person or supporting us from home, your involvement makes a huge difference. Join us at the Cotillion: This is my last nudge for tickets! Support the Cause: Even a small gesture can change a student's week. A donation of $15 to Feed15 helps ensure a child is ready to learn and grow. Participate in the Silent Auction: The silent auction is now LIVE and will close on Friday at 9:30 PM. You can still join the fun even if you're not attending the gala! If we are going to talk about 80 years of growth, how we take care of our own is the most important part of that story. Thank you for being the reason our students can succeed both in and out of the classroom. Tickets | Supporting Feed15   Board of Education Meeting Our next Board meeting is Wednesday, April 8, at 7:00 p.m. You are welcome to join us at Walter R. Sundling or you can tune in via our livestream to Youtube. As always, I very much appreciate your continued support of all things D15. Your partner in education,  Dr. Laurie Heinz Superintendent of Schools Technology is Moving Forward– How Can We Keep Up? With AI being ever present in the world around us, new websites can spin up in seconds. One conversation we’re having as a staff is about changing our mindset from blocking students from certain sites, but rather curating and creating a list of websites we want to allow them to access. How can you be part of this important conversation? Talk to your students– technology expectations with school devices. Please have a conversation with your students, and review materials provided from their teacher(s). What type of work might they be completing on their D15 Chromebook? How much time should it take? What’s a charging plan, so that the student brings a charged device to school every day? Talk to your students– technology expectations with home/family devices What are your expectations around personal technology use? Check out the Common Sense Media Family Tech Planners for conversation starters, resources, and at home technology contracts. Monitor your home network: Securly Home Did you know: 34% of D15 parents are registered and engaged with SecurlyHome. Over 50% of our parents are using the SecurlyHome app! Read more about this valuable service and learn how it can help you manage your home network for children’s use. Keeping up with technology is a big job, and we’re all partners in keeping our students safe and engaged.    Celebrating Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship: 4/8 CCSD15 is proud to invite you to an evening celebrating our next generation of leaders. In partnership with the Palatine Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurship Academy, our students have been hard at work bringing original business ideas to life, and now they are ready to share them with you! When: Wednesday, April 8th | 6:15-7:00 PM Where: Walter R. Sundling Middle School Atrium This special showcase takes place just before the Board of Education meeting, offering a unique opportunity to explore the creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial spirit of our students. Come walk the gallery, ask questions, and see firsthand how these young innovators are shaping the future of our community. We hope to see you there!   End of Year Reminder from Nutrition Services As we approach the end of the school year, please monitor your student’s lunch account. All meal balances will be carried over to returning students' accounts. All unpaid meal balances for graduating eighth graders should be taken care of before graduation.  Summer Meal Program Information We want to make sure your student continues to have access to nutritious meals, even after the school year ends. Information regarding the Summer Meal Program will be sent out in May. Please look for details on locations, dates, and times for free summer meals available to all children 18 and under in our community. Thank you for supporting Nutrition Services. We wish you and your family a healthy and happy spring!   MPAC April Math Nights The Multilingual Parent Advisory Committee (MPAC) is hosting Math Nights this April for families in District 15. Parents and students are invited to learn about math instruction, explore home support strategies, and play math games. Ukrainian: April 15 at Gray M. Sanborn Spanish: April 16 at Lincoln Russian: April 20 at Willow Bend Telugu & Tamil: April 22 at Central Road Japanese: April 29 at Pleasant Hill To register, click the image below and select the link for your preferred session. View Flyer and Register Here   Stay in the Know with Community e-Flyers Looking for local events, programs, and activities for your family? Be sure to check the Community e-Flyers page on the district website! We regularly share updates about happenings in the area that you won’t want to miss. Check it out to see what’s new! Community e-Flyers Page   Student Fees Reminder As a reminder, 2025-2026 Student Fees were due on July 15, 2025. Log in to Powerschool to review your balance and make payments in e~Funds. Questions regarding student fees can be directed to Kameswari Pullela, Business Department, 847-963-3065. Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive in Their Digital World Save the date for our April LEARN15 event! Dr. Devorah Heitner will present “Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive in Their Digital World,” an engaging session for families navigating technology with their children. Date: April 23, 2026, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Location: Winston Campus Middle School (in the Cafeteria) Translation: This event will be translated into Spanish. You will learn: Why mentorship is better than just monitoring How to model healthy tech boundaries for kids Which social skills we should be nurturing in our children This event is open to all District 15 Families!   Spotlight 2026: A Celebration of Student Art Join the Northwest Suburban Council (NWSC) PTA for Spotlight 2026, a celebration of K–12 artists and their interpretations of the theme "I Belong." When: Saturday, April 18, 2026 | 11:30 am to 4 pm Where: Thomas Jefferson Middle School Event Highlights: Art Gallery: View works from students who advanced to the State and National PTA levels. Hands-on Workshops: Interactive sessions across multiple artistic mediums. Awards Ceremony: Honoring State, National, and Honorable Mention recipients. Reception: Light refreshments provided for the whole family. Space is limited for workshops—click here to register!   Join United Palatine Coalition for their Wellness Resource Fair! Looking for a fun way to invest in your family’s health? Mark your calendars for the United Palatine Coalition’s 4th Annual Wellness Resource Fair. In partnership with Buehler YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, this free community event is designed to connect you with local organizations and vital wellness resources. Event Details: When: Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Where: Buehler YMCA, 1400 W. Northwest Hwy, Palatine FREE admission For more information, please visit upcoalition.org. We hope to see you there!   "LIKE" Screening: 5/6 How is social media truly impacting our lives and our children? District 15 invites you to a special community event featuring "LIKE," a documentary that explores the impact of social media on our society. While the documentary is in English, live translation will be provided for Spanish, Japanese, Ukrainian, and Russian speakers. Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 Location: Walter R. Sundling Middle School Documentary Screening: 6:00-6:50 PM in the WRS Auditorium. Panel Discussion: 7:00-7:30 PM in the WRS Library. Childcare: On-site childcare will be available during the event. If you can’t make it in person, an at-home screening option will be available. Please keep an eye out for information in the coming weeks. We look forward to seeing you there for this important conversation! View Flyer in More Languages   Mark Your Calendar For Key Dates Important Dates for the Remainder of the School Year:  May 21: Half Day Student Attendance May 22: No School | Teacher Plan Day May 25: No School | Holiday - Memorial Day June 1: 8th Grade Graduations June 3: Last Day of School, Grades K-7 Board of Education Meetings and Dates All meetings of the Board of Education are held at Walter R. Sundling Middle School, located at 1100 N. Smith Street, Palatine, unless otherwise posted. Regular meetings of the Board of Education begin at 7:00 pm.  Meeting dates for the 2025-26 school year are as follows: Wednesday, April 8, 2026 Wednesday, May 13, 2026 (and Retirement Reception) Wednesday, June 10, 2026 2025-26 School Calendar To view the full 2025-26 School Calendar, please visit the calendar on the D15 website.   Laurie Heinz, Ed.D., Superintendent Email: heinzl@ccsd15.net Website: https://www.ccsd15.net Address: 580 N 1st Bank Drive, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-3000 Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

    Wednesday, Apr 08 2026

  • Support Feed15 at the District 15 80th Anniversary G...

      HONOR OUR PAST · FEED OUR FUTURE In District 15, nearly 4,000 students suffer from food insecurity, meaning one in every three children we serve may not know where their next meal will come from after the school day ends. Through our Feed15 initiative in collaboration with the Northwest Suburban Council PTA/PTSA, we are working to ensure students have access to nutritious food beyond the school day, on weekends, and when families need additional support. We would like to personally invite you to support Feed15 to help us address student food insecurity and to attend District 15’s 80th Anniversary Gala next Friday, April 10th. Support from this event will help strengthen programs such as: Food pantries in our schools Weekend meal support through programs like Blessings in a Backpack Emergency food assistance for families facing unexpected challenges Click Here to Support Feed15! $175 feeds 1 kid for a year $350 feeds 2 kids for a year $525 feeds 3 kids for a year Celebrating 80 Years of Growth In collaboration with the NWSC PTA/PTSA, this special evening will bring our community together to honor our shared history and invest directly in the students who remain at the heart of everything we do. Friday, April 10 Doors open at 6:00 PM Cotillion Banquets  360 S. Creekside Dr., Palatine, IL 60074 Tickets: $80 per person (Deadline to purchase tickets: Tuesday, April 7th) Attire: Semi-formal (optional) Enjoy an evening of dinner with an open bar, student artwork, and exciting fundraising opportunities including a silent auction, raffle, paddle raise, and more! To purchase tickets and learn more about how you can support Feed15, please visit the event website.  

    Thursday, Apr 02 2026

  • D15 eNews: March 9, 2026

    March 9, 2026 Dear District 15 Families, If your household is anything like many across District 15 right now, there is likely some excitement building around our upcoming spring break. It is a well-earned pause in what has been an incredibly active stretch in our schools! Over the past several weeks, our students have been putting what they’ve learned into action through state assessments, athletic competitions, and performances. The energy in our schools has been remarkable, and it is a great reminder of how much our students grow from the fall to the spring. It is a rewarding and busy time to be in District 15! We often talk about "continuous improvement" in our schools, but that work cannot happen in a vacuum. It requires a steady partnership between our schools and our families. Right now, we are asking for your voice through the 5Essentials Survey. Your feedback directly shapes our priorities for the coming year. We want to ensure our goals match the needs of our students, and your perspective is one of the most valuable tools we have as we plan for the future. If you have not already done so, please take a few moments to share your thoughts. If you have already completed the survey, I thank you for taking the time and care to do so. Thank you for your ongoing support of our schools. With all the productivity we’ve seen throughout our buildings this month, I hope your family is able to enjoy some well-deserved time together during the break.   You’re Invited: District 15's 80th Anniversary Celebration As we look ahead to the spring, I want to highlight an important upcoming community effort. On Friday, April 10, we will host our 80th Anniversary Gala at Cotillion Banquets. While this is a milestone year for District 15, the true purpose of the evening is to raise funds to support Feed15, our initiative to ensure that every student in our district has the nutrition they need to thrive. In last month’s letter, I spoke about the "heartbeat" of our district and the steady work that moves us forward. Part of that work is recognizing the very real challenges some of our families face. Currently, about 4,000 of our students face food insecurity. We know that for a child to achieve great things in the classroom, their basic needs must be met first. While we would love for you to spend your evening with us on April 10, you do not need to attend the gala to be a part of this mission. Our shared goals for our children are realized when we work together, and even a small gesture makes a difference. A donation of just $15 to Feed15 can help provide food for a student who needs it.  This is the collective spirit that makes District 15 such a special place to serve, and I thank you for helping us take care of our own. Click to Learn More   Board of Education Meeting Our next Board meeting is Wednesday, March 11, at 7:00 p.m. You are welcome to join us at Walter R. Sundling or you can tune in via our livestream to Youtube. As always, I very much appreciate your continued support of all things D15. Your partner in education,  Dr. Laurie Heinz Superintendent of Schools Student Badge Program Pilot We are excited to share that immediately after Spring Break, District 15 will begin piloting a new Student Badge Program. This pilot will take place at Stuart R. Paddock (SRP), Carl Sandburg Middle School (CSMS), Walter R. Sundling Middle School (WRS), Jane Addams (JA), and Kimball Hill (KH). The goal is to refine the system before a full district-wide rollout this fall. These badges are designed to streamline the school day and enhance safety. Students at the five pilot schools will be expected to wear their badges on a lanyard throughout the day. The badge will serve as an all-in-one tool for boarding and exiting the bus, accessing the lunch program, and checking out materials in the library. More detailed information about distribution and daily use will be shared directly by the five participating schools. To stay fully connected, we also encourage families whose students receive district transportation to download the MyRide K12 app, if you have not already. This app uses GPS technology to track buses and allows families to see when their student scans onto the bus. We look forward to using this technology to enhance both safety and convenience for our students and families.   Complete the 5Essentials Survey! Each year, students in grades 4-8, teachers, and families across Illinois participate in the 5Essentials Survey, which provides valuable insights into our schools’ strengths and opportunities for growth. The survey focuses on key components for school success: Effective Leaders, Collaborative Teachers, Involved Families, Supportive Environment, and Ambitious Instruction. All individual survey data is confidential. The survey will take about 20 minutes or less to complete. FOR PARENTS The Illinois 5Essentials school climate survey for parents is open! Three helpful tips before you enter the survey: Please focus on your experiences during the current school year.   Take care to select the correct school and community (you’d be surprised how many schools in Illinois have the same name)! If you have a student at more than one school, we invite you to complete a survey for each location. Please visit this link to begin: https://survey.5-essentials.org/illinois/. The survey will close on March 13, 2026.  If you have any questions, please contact your child’s school. Thank you for your time and partnership in supporting our students and schools. Click Here to Complete Survey   You’re Invited! Join us on April 10th! We invite you to join us as we celebrate 80 years of District 15 while raising critical funds for Feed15, our initiative supporting students experiencing food insecurity. In collaboration with the Northwest Suburban Council PTA/PTSA, this special evening will bring our community together to honor our shared history and invest directly in the students who remain at the heart of everything we do. There are 4,000 students facing food insecurity within our district. Feed15 ensures students have access to nutritious meals beyond the school day, including evenings and weekends and when families need additional support. Together, with your help, we can help ensure that no child in our community goes hungry. Feed a child. Fuel their learning. Change their future. Friday, April 10 Doors open at 6:00 PM Cotillion Banquets  360 S. Creekside Dr., Palatine, IL 60074 Enjoy an evening of dinner with an open bar, entertainment, and exciting fundraising opportunities including a silent auction, raffle, paddle raise, and more! We hope to see you there! Tickets | Supporting Feed15   Reminder: Dual Language Kindergarten Applications Close 3/14! The deadline to apply for the Dual Language program is March 14th, 2026. Please note that this is the only entry point for the program. Students must enroll as incoming kindergarteners to participate! Be sure to submit your application by March 14th and spread the word to interested families! Learn More About Dual Language   Get Your one-five 50/50 Raffle Ticket! Don’t miss your chance to purchase a ticket for the one-five Foundation’s 50/50 Raffle for your chance to win up to $30,000!  Each $100 ticket provides one entry into the 50/50 raffle. Only 600 tickets will be sold. Half of the funds raised (up to $30,000) will be donated to the one-five Foundation, and the other half (up to $30,000) will be awarded to the raffle winner. The final prize amount will depend on the number of tickets sold. Last year’s winner received more than $13,000! The live drawing will take place on March 17, 2026, at 12 pm on the one-five Foundation’s Facebook page. The winner will also be notified by phone and email. Don’t miss your chance to purchase a 50/50 raffle ticket - buy your ticket today!  Good luck! Get Your Ticket Here!   Stay Informed and Engaged with the ParentSquare Mobile App Downloading the ParentSquare app provides parents with a centralized, "all-in-one" platform to manage school communications, which is often more convenient than juggling individual emails and text messages.  Key benefits of using the mobile app include: Centralized Hub: View all posts, alerts, and messages from multiple children, classrooms, and schools in one single, organized feed. Two-Way Communication: Engage in direct, private messaging with teachers and staff, featuring automatic two-way translation in over 190 languages. Customizable Notifications: Choose how to receive updates, such as "Instant" for real-time alerts or a "Daily Digest" for a single evening summary. Actionable Tools: Complete everyday school tasks directly within the app, including signing digital permission slips and forms, scheduling parent-teacher conferences, and RSVPing for school events or signing up for volunteer slots. Real-Time Alerts: Receive push notifications for urgent district-wide announcements, emergency alerts, and student attendance notifications. Media Sharing: Access school-shared photo libraries, digital flyers, and classroom files. While parents will still receive basic email and text notifications without the app, downloading it is recommended to access these interactive features and fully manage communication preferences. Click Here to Download   Stay in the Know with Community e-Flyers Looking for local events, programs, and activities for your family? Be sure to check the Community e-Flyers page on the district website! We regularly share updates about happenings in the area that you won’t want to miss. Check it out to see what’s new!   Are You Following Us On Social Media? 📱 Want to see more of the amazing things happening in our classrooms and stay up-to-date with the latest news? Follow us on social media! It’s a great way to catch highlights of student achievements, important event reminders, and see student learning in action across District 15. Follow Us on Facebook! Follow Us On Instagram!   Student Fees Reminder As a reminder, 2025-2026 Student Fees were due on July 15, 2025. Log in to Powerschool to review your balance and make payments in e~Funds. Questions regarding student fees can be directed to Kameswari Pullela, Business Department, 847-963-3065.   MPAC April Math Nights The Multilingual Parent Advisory Committee (MPAC) is hosting Math Nights this April for families in District 15. Parents and students are invited to learn about math instruction, explore home support strategies, and play math games. Ukrainian: April 15th at Gray M. Sanborn Spanish: April 16th at Lincoln Russian: April 20th at Willow Bend Telugu & Tamil: April 22nd at Central Road Japanese: April 29th at Pleasant Hill To register, click the image below and select the link for your preferred session. View Flyer in More Languages   Spotlight 2026: A Celebration of Student Art Join the Northwest Suburban Council (NWSC) PTA for Spotlight 2026, a celebration of K–12 artists and their interpretations of the theme "I Belong." When: Saturday, April 18, 2026 Where: Thomas Jefferson Middle School Event Highlights: Art Gallery: View works from students who advanced to the State and National PTA levels. Hands-on Workshops: Interactive sessions across multiple artistic mediums. Awards Ceremony: Honoring State, National, and Honorable Mention recipients. Reception: Light refreshments provided for the whole family. Space is limited for workshops—click here to register! We look forward to celebrating our students' creativity with you! Event Details | Workshop Info   Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive in Their Digital World Save the date for our April LEARN15 event! Dr. Devorah Heitner will present “Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive in Their Digital World,” an engaging session for families navigating technology with their children. Date: April 23, 2026, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Location: Winston Campus Middle School (in the Cafeteria) You will learn: Why mentorship is better than just monitoring How to model healthy tech boundaries for kids Which social skills we should be nurturing in our children This event is open to all District 15 Families!   Find District 15 at the North Cook PK-8 Educator Job Fair! District 15 is participating in a region-wide educator recruitment fair: North Cook PK-8 Better Together Job Fair  Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 8-11am District 214 Forest View Educational Center 2121 South Goebbert Road in Arlington Heights If you or someone you know is looking for meaningful work, please visit the job fair website to register for the event. You’ll also find the list of all the districts recruiting, and the teacher and support staff positions that are available.  Interested in becoming a paraprofessional or a substitute teacher? Licensure specialists from North Cook Intermediate Service Center will be available to help you.   Mark Your Calendar for Key Dates March Calendar March 23-27: No School | Spring Break  Board of Education Meetings and Dates All meetings of the Board of Education are held at Walter R. Sundling Middle School, located at 1100 N. Smith Street, Palatine, unless otherwise posted. Regular meetings of the Board of Education begin at 7:00 pm.  Meeting dates for the 2025-26 school year are as follows: Wednesday, March 11, 2026 Wednesday, April 8, 2026 Wednesday, May 13, 2026 (and Retirement Reception) Wednesday, June 10, 2026 2015-26 School Calendar To view the full 2025-26 School Calendar, please visit the calendar on the D15 website.   Laurie Heinz, Ed.D., Superintendent Email: heinzl@ccsd15.net Website: https://www.ccsd15.net Address: 580 N 1st Bank Drive, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-3000 Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

    Monday, Mar 09 2026

  • Get Your Tickets for District 15's 80th Birthday Party!

      80 YEARS · 1 NIGHT · 0 STUDENTS HUNGRY $175 feeds 1 kid for a year $525 feeds 1 kid for 3 years $350 feeds 2 kids for a year Click Here to Get Your Tickets! Honoring Our Past. Feeding Our Future. In collaboration with the Northwest Suburban Council PTA/PTSA, this special evening will bring our community together to honor our shared history and invest directly in the students who remain at the heart of everything we do. Friday, April 10 Doors open at 6:00 PM Cotillion Banquets  360 S. Creekside Dr., Palatine, IL 60074 Tickets: $80 per person Attire: Semi-formal (optional) Enjoy an evening of dinner with an open bar, student artwork, and exciting fundraising opportunities including a silent auction, raffle, paddle raise, and more! To purchase tickets and learn more about how you can support Feed15, please visit the event website.  

    Wednesday, Mar 04 2026

  • one-five Foundation 50/50 Raffle

      one-five Foundation 50/50 Raffle The 50/50 raffle pot is growing! It's currently at $25,700!* ONLY 24 HOURS REMAIN to get in on the action! Secure your tickets before 8 am tomorrow for your shot at winning! Each year, the one-five Foundation hosts a 50/50 Raffle—the biggest fund-raising event for the one-five Foundation! Proceeds from the sale of the raffle support our Teacher Mini-Grants and other initiatives which support the entire School District 15 community. Your support of School District 15 students is greatly appreciated!  PURCHASE 50/50 RAFFLE TICKETS You could win up to $30,000!* This year, one winner could take home up to $30,000 *if all tickets are sold!* (Winners take home one half of the pot. As of 3/16/2026 at 8 a.m., the pot totals $25,700!) $100 per ticket. Ticket sale end at 8 am, March 17, 2026. The live drawing will take place on March 17, 2026, at 12 PM on the one-five Foundation's Facebook page. Each $100 ticket purchased earns one entry into the raffle • *Up to 600 tickets available for purchase (Last year, one winner took home $13,350! 50% of the ticket sales) Visit accelevents.com for official rules and disclaimers   one-five Foundation Website: https://www.ccsd15.net/one-five-foundation Email: coordinator@one-five.org Address: 580 N 1st Bank Drive, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-3208 Follow us on Facebook [Monday, Mar 16 at 8:17 AM] ONLY 24 HOURS REMAIN to get in on the action! Secure your one-five Foundation 50/50 raffle ticket before 8 am tomorrow for your shot at winning half of the pot!

    Sunday, Mar 01 2026

  • Board Brief - 2/9/2026

      February 9, 2026 The District 15 Regular Board of Education meeting was held on February 9, 2026. The full meeting agenda as well as the minutes from its January 14, 2026 Regular Board of Education meeting can be found on the Diligent Community website. A livestream of the meeting can be viewed on our Youtube channel.   Announcement of District 15's Next Superintendent of Schools Presented by: The Community Consolidated School District 15 Board of Education The Board of Education announced the selection of Dr. Dana Smith as the next Superintendent of Community Consolidated School District 15. Board members shared that selecting the Superintendent is one of their most important responsibilities and that the search process over the past several months included community and staff surveys, focus groups, and extensive Board discussion following Dr. Heinz’s retirement announcement. Board leadership noted that the community was clear about the qualities it wanted in the next superintendent: a visionary, equity-driven leader with experience in diverse districts; a background spanning classroom, school, and district leadership; strong communication and collaboration skills; and sound fiscal oversight. Dr. Smith was selected following a comprehensive search process and will officially assume the role on July 1, 2026. Dr. Smith currently serves as Superintendent of Flossmoor School District 161, where he has led consistent gains in student growth and achievement and strengthened transparency and family engagement. He previously served as Assistant Superintendent for Early Childhood and Elementary Education in Woodstock Community Unit School District 200, and has experience as both an elementary teacher and principal. In his remarks, Dr. Smith expressed gratitude to the Board for its confidence and shared his excitement about joining a student-centered and engaged community. He stated that he looks forward to beginning the transition process, meeting staff and families, and building on the strong foundation already in place across District 15. You can watch Dr. Smith's first words to District 15 here on Youtube (skip to 01:22:55).   Pledge of Allegiance Winston Campus Elementary School – Dual Language Program The February Board of Education meeting opened with a special moment of pride as students from Winston Campus Elementary School’s Dual Language Program led the Pledge of Allegiance in both English and Spanish. Winston Campus Elementary Principal Cristin DiRienzo shared how participation in the Dual Language Program requires sustained effort, academic commitment, and a willingness to embrace rigorous learning in two languages. She expressed how proud she is of the students who exemplify the perseverance and dedication it takes to develop biliteracy. Mrs. DiRienzo noted that the students represented not only the Dual Language Program, but the entire Winston Campus community. Their leadership reflects the values embedded across all grade levels at Winston Campus: academic excellence, bilingualism, and cultural pride. The students confidently delivered the Pledge in English and Spanish, receiving warm applause from the Board and audience. It was a meaningful reminder of District 15’s commitment to multilingual learning and the strength of our students.   Student Recognition - 2026 District 15 Spelling Bee Winners The Board of Education proudly recognized the 2026 District 15 Spelling Bee winners, celebrating both their achievement and the 100th anniversary of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The recognition began with a lighthearted moment as Board Member Eric Bachmann was invited to attempt spelling a few of the challenging words students encountered during the competition, including “abdicate.” The exchange drew laughter from the audience and served as a reminder of just how impressive our student spellers truly are. To advance to the District Bee, students first had to win at the classroom, grade, and school levels. This year, 19 students earned the opportunity to compete at the district level, demonstrating tremendous dedication and preparation. The top three winners were recognized: 3rd Place: Bella C., 5th grade, Lake Louise School 2nd Place: Norah K., 7th grade, Walter R. Sundling 1st Place: Aadhav V., 7th grade, Plum Grove Middle School Aadhav, who has now competed in the District Bee for three consecutive years, will represent District 15 at the North Cook ISC Scripps Spelling Bee later this month. During the recognition, appreciation was extended to the spelling bee coordinators at each school, district coordinator Julie Crawford, announcer Beth Rihtar, timekeeper Kate Arenberg, judges Roxanne Raffaelli and Kaylee Gerhardt, the Technology Department for live streaming support, and the custodial and administrative staff at Walter R. Sundling. Families were also acknowledged for their continued encouragement and practice support at home. Congratulations to all 19 District 15 contestants for their hard work, perseverance, and academic excellence and best of luck to Aadav!   5-Year Financial Forecast Plan Presented by: Mrs. Diana McCluskey, Chief School Business Official Mr. Anthony Fashoda, Director of Fiscal Services District 15’s Finance team presented an updated 5-year financial forecast, developed in collaboration with the Board Finance Committee, Forecast5, and Raymond James. The forecast includes a mid-year adjustment to FY26 budget, with projected deficit increasing from $6.4M to approximately $10M. This increase reflects two major factors: higher-than-budgeted health insurance costs based on current claims, and roughly $2M in financial impact tied to delayed Cook County property tax distributions, including reduced interest earnings, tax anticipation warrant issuance costs, and lost investment income. Looking ahead, revenue projections assume CPI growth of 2.7% (December 2025) and 2.5% in subsequent years, with Evidence-Based Funding expected to increase by $250,000 annually and other revenues largely flat. On the expenditure side, FY27 projections include a staffing reduction of roughly 40 FTE identified through program analysis. To the extent the team was able, retirements and attrition reductions were capitalized on versus a reduction in force. A conservative 6% annual health insurance increase, and planned reductions to building and department budgets were also included in the forecast. Additionally, the bus replacement schedule was a factor with an estimated $800K to $1M per year. The team shared that, even with planned adjustments, the district’s operating fund balance is projected to remain around 20% to 23% of expenditures in the near term. District leadership emphasized continued monitoring, disciplined spending, and a continued focus on protecting classroom impacts whenever possible as long-term budget decisions become more complex in the years ahead. You can view the information in Diligent Community or watch the presentation on Youtube (skip to 23:38).   Communications Department Update – Strategic Priority 3: Community Engagement & Family Involvement Presented by: Mr. Ahmad Gibson, Chief Communications Officer Ms. Emily Anderson, Assistant Director of Communications and Digital Media The Board received a Communications Department update from Chief Communications Officer Ahmad Gibson and Assistant Director of Communications and Digital Media Emily Anderson aligned to Strategic Plan Priority 3: Community Engagement and Family Involvement. Mr. Gibson shared that while last year focused on building systems and strengthening internal foundations, this year has centered on listening more closely, analyzing engagement data, and refining communication strategies to better understand who the district is reaching and where gaps remain. With the full transition to ParentSquare, District 15 is now connecting with more families than ever before, resulting in stronger survey participation and more representative feedback to guide future decisions. Ms. Anderson highlighted key data points from the annual communications survey, including strong family ratings on feeling informed and high levels of satisfaction with communication volume. She noted significant growth in survey response rates and social media engagement, as well as the positive impact of ParentSquare’s text and translation features in improving accessibility. Website analytics and the launch of District 15 News were also shared as examples of how the department is strengthening transparency and cross-district storytelling. The presentation also emphasized a shift from one-way messaging to more meaningful two-way engagement through initiatives such as Parents as Partners, Catch Up with Heinz, DACEE and community partnership meetings. The Annual Report Calendar was described as a purposeful communication tool during the district’s 80th anniversary year, designed to clearly connect community investments to student success. The update concluded by highlighting the upcoming 80th Anniversary Gala and Feed15 as a collective engagement effort bringing together students, staff, families, PTAs, the one-five Foundation, and community partners in support of District 15 learners. You can view the information in Diligent Community or watch the presentation on Youtube (skip to 52:20).   Board Committee Updates Education Research Development (Ed-RED) Committee Board Vice President Annerino reported that the Illinois General Assembly will reconvene on February 17, with the Governor scheduled to deliver the State of the State and budget address on February 18. He shared that February 6 marked the deadline for legislators to introduce bills for consideration this session. Those bills will now move into the committee review process, where they will be formally assigned and begin advancing through the legislative process. While some proposals have already begun circulating publicly, a full picture of this session’s legislative priorities will become clearer once all bills are assigned to committees. The Board will continue to monitor developments as the session progresses and evaluate any potential impact on District 15 and public education more broadly. For more information on Education Research Development (Ed-RED), visit Ed-RED website. one-five Foundation Board Member Bachmann shared that the one-five Foundation’s annual 50/50 Raffle will officially launch this Saturday. This event serves as the Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year and directly supports teacher mini-grants across the district. Earlier this winter, the Foundation awarded nearly $40,000 in mini-grants to staff throughout District 15, funding innovative projects and classroom enhancements that are already beginning to take shape in schools. Raffle tickets will be sold online, with links shared through the district newsletter, principal newsletters, the one-five Foundation website, and social media channels. The raffle will run from Valentine’s Day, February 14 through St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, when the winning ticket will be drawn. For more one-five updates, please visit the Foundation’s website at www.ccsd15.net/one-five-foundation, which is also linked on the District 15 website under the "Our Community" tab for added accessibility. Finance Committee Board Member Szczupaj shared appreciation for the Business Department’s presentation of the district’s five-year financial forecast. She specifically recognized Chief School Business Official Diana McCluskey and Director of Fiscal Services Anthony Fashoda for their thorough and thoughtful work in outlining the district’s financial outlook and planning considerations. The Board expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts to provide clear, transparent financial projections that support long-term stability and informed decision-making. Equity Committee Board Members Khan and Taylor shared that the Equity Committee recently met with Superintendent Heinz to review priorities and outline goals for the upcoming year. The committee discussed continuing its proactive review of district equity efforts ahead of the annual equity presentation to ensure members have deeper context and background in advance. In addition, the committee plans to review operations within special education programs, including on-site visits when possible, to better understand implementation and student experiences. Board Members also noted an upcoming review of the social studies curriculum to ensure alignment with required statutes and to examine how equity is reflected in instructional materials and practices across the district. The committee expressed confidence that equity will remain a core priority during the upcoming leadership transition, sharing optimism that this focus will continue under the district’s next superintendent.   8.1 Approval of Resolution of Dismissal of Probationary Teacher for Reasons Other Than Reductions-In-Force - APPROVED 8.2 Approval of Personnel Report: Administrative, Certified, and Non-Certified Staff - APPROVED 8.3 Approval of Second Reading of PRESS 120 - APPROVED 8.4 Approval of Bid Award #26-014 - Emergency Transportation Services for Unassigned Bus Routes - APPROVED 8.5 Approval of 2026 - 2029 Employment Contract for Superintendent - APPROVED 8.6 Approval of Service Employee International Union (SEIU) Contract 2025 - 2029 - APPROVED   Next meeting of the Board of Education The next Regular meeting of the Board of Education will be held at Walter R. Sundling Middle School, 1100 N. Smith Street, Palatine, on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 7:00 PM. https://www.ccsd15.net/

    Thursday, Feb 12 2026

  • Registration for the 2026-2027 School Year is NOW OPEN!

    February 10, 2026 Dear D15 Families,  Online student registration for the 2026-2027 school year is now open. All families of returning students can register using their PowerSchool Parent Portal accounts. PowerSchool Parent Portal - https://ccsd15.powerschool.com/public If you need to add a new student, visit our website's Registration page to begin the registration process. Families registering a PreK student are encouraged to visit the Early Childhood page on our district website for additional information and next steps. We encourage families to complete registration as early as possible. Early registration helps us plan effectively for the upcoming school year by solidifying staffing at our schools, ensuring your child(ren) can be placed on a class list, and allowing eligible students to ride the bus to and from school. Registration must be completed and student fees paid by July 15, 2025. With close to 12,000 students to place in classrooms and on bus routes, timely registration makes a meaningful difference. We appreciate your partnership in helping us prepare for a strong and successful school year by registering on or before July 15. Thank you for your continued support of District 15. MORE ABOUT REGISTRATION  

    Tuesday, Feb 10 2026

  • District 15 Welcomes Dr. Dana Smith as Our Next Supe...

    February 10, 2026 Dear District 15 Families, Staff and Community Members, We are pleased to share that the Community Consolidated School District 15 Board of Education has appointed Dr. Dana Smith as the district’s next Superintendent of Schools, following a comprehensive search process. Dr. Smith will assume the role on July 1, 2026, succeeding Dr. Laurie Heinz, and will become the first African American leader to serve as Superintendent in District 15. “Our community helped define a clear leadership profile for our next superintendent, someone with experience across the classroom, school, and district levels, who leads with vision, collaboration, transparency, and a deep commitment to all students,” said Board President Samantha Ader. “Dr. Smith’s experience and leadership approach reflect that vision. The Board is confident he’s the right next leader for our district, and we are thrilled to welcome him to District 15.” Dr. Smith has served as Superintendent of Schools in Flossmoor School District 161 since 2017. During his tenure, the district has demonstrated consistent increases in student growth and achievement, including the recognition of multiple Exemplary schools. His leadership also strengthened transparency and communication, resulting in increased family engagement and deeper community involvement in district initiatives. Before his work in Flossmoor, Dr. Smith served as Assistant Superintendent for Early Childhood and Elementary Education in Woodstock Unit School District 200, where he led curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development work and supported dual language programming. He also previously worked in Mundelein School District 75 as a principal and Director of Educational Services, and began his administrative career in Valley View School District 365U as both an assistant principal and building principal. Dr. Smith earned his Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from DePaul University, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from North Central University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Studies from Illinois Wesleyan University. “Earning the opportunity to lead the talented students, engaged families, and high quality staff members in Community Consolidated School District 15 is a dream come true,” said Dr. Smith. “I am grateful to the Board of Education for their support, and I am looking forward to partnering with the school community to deliver incredible outcomes for our children.” This leadership transition follows the retirement of Dr. Laurie Heinz, who served as District 15’s Superintendent for seven years and as the district’s first female superintendent. During her tenure, the district advanced a community-driven strategic plan, strengthened instructional systems, expanded student supports, modernized district communication, and secured voter approval of the Moving 15 Forward referendum. “District 15 is stronger today because of the leadership, care, and vision Dr. Heinz brought to this role,” said Ader. “We are deeply grateful for her service and the foundation she built, which positions Dr. Smith to continue the district’s forward momentum for our students and families.” Additional information regarding leadership transition plans and opportunities for the community to welcome Dr. Smith will be shared in the coming days. Together, the Board, staff, families, and community remain committed to ensuring District 15 continues to be a place where every student is supported, engaged, and empowered to learn. Welcome to District 15, Dr. Smith!  

    Tuesday, Feb 10 2026