Communicate 58: Oct. 7, 2026

Volume 19, Issue 5: Wednesday, October 7, 2026 Quick LInks DG58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool DG58 Facebook DG58 X (Twitter) DG58 YouTube Mark Your Calendar! View full 2026-27 Calendar Friday, Oct. 9 - 7-8 a.m. Board Financial Advisory Committee Meeting at Civic Center 11 a.m. Parent-Teacher Conference Sign-up Opens Monday, Oct. 12 NO SCHOOL - Columbus Day Tuesday, Oct. 13 - 7-9 p.m. Southside Fall DGS Orchestra Concert (Grades 7-12) at DGS Preschool Screenings at Henry Puffer Wednesday, Oct. 14 - 7 p.m. Board of Education Regular Meeting at Civic Center Thursday, Oct. 15 - 6 p.m. 6th Grade Fall Cross Town Concert at O’Neill Friday, Oct. 16 - 11 a.m. Parent-Teacher Conference Sign-up Closes Tuesday, Oct. 20 - 5-8 p.m. Parent-Teacher Conferences Thursday, Oct. 22 - 5-8 p.m. Parent-Teacher Conferences Superintendent's Message Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Dear District 58 Community, As we settle into the school year, it’s been great to see our students learning, growing in confidence, and making connections with their classmates and teachers. There is a real sense of momentum in our schools as students find their rhythm and become more comfortable in their classrooms and school communities. One of the things we know makes a real difference for students is a strong connection between home and school. When families and teachers communicate and work together, we have a better understanding of how we can support each student’s learning and growth. That’s why we are looking forward to our upcoming parent-teacher conferences. Conference sign-up begins this week, with conferences taking place on the evenings of Tuesday, October 20, and Thursday, October 22. I encourage families to take advantage of this opportunity to connect with your child’s teacher, ask questions, share what you’re seeing at home, and learn more about how your child is doing at school. Please see the information below on how to sign up for conferences. October is also National Principals’ Month, and while we appreciate our principals every day, it’s nice to have an entire month dedicated to recognizing them! Our principals do so much to support students and staff, build strong school communities, and make sure our schools are places where everyone feels welcome and supported. Join me in celebrating our school leaders: Brent Borchelt, Principal of Belle Aire Jason Lynde, Principal of El Sierra Dr. Lisa Niforatos, Principal of Fairmount Annette Hanson, Principal of Henry Puffer Dr. Steven Perkins, Principal of Herrick Dr. Zachary Craft, Principal of Highland Michelle Rzepka, Principal of Hillcrest Emily Stubbs, Principal of Indian Trail Charles Brewster, Principal of Kingsley Katie Novosel, Principal of Lester Lauryn Humphris, Principal of O’Neill Dr. Leland Wagner, Principal of Pierce Downer Bryan Bolton, Principal of Whittier This month, we are celebrating our principals with a fun “District 58 Principals: Then & Now” series on social media. We’re sharing throwback photos of our principals as students along with the advice they would give their younger selves. It’s been fun to see these photos and hear their words of wisdom. I hope you’ll follow along on Facebook and X (Twitter) and join us in celebrating our incredible principals. We are fortunate to have such caring and dedicated school leaders in District 58, and I am very grateful for all they do for our students, staff, and families each and every day. Thank you for continuing to be such an important part of our District 58 community. We are off to a great start, and I’m looking forward to all that the rest of the school year will bring. Sincerely, Dr. Kevin Russell Superintendent Reminders & Updates Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Middle School Athletics & Activities Fee Reminder As part of the transition to our new middle school model, the District sought to expand academic and extracurricular opportunities for all students in grades 6–8 and provide a well-rounded middle school experience. Athletics and activities are an important part of that experience, giving students opportunities to explore interests, build connections, and develop skills such as teamwork, leadership, and confidence. As we planned these expanded offerings, the District carefully considered both the opportunities we could provide and the costs associated with offering them. Participation fees help offset a portion of the costs of providing these expanded athletics, activities, and co-curricular music opportunities. The fees do not cover the full cost of these programs, but are one component of the District’s overall approach to supporting the expanded offerings while keeping participation accessible to students and families. As a reminder, student participation fees apply to students who participate in the athletic teams, activities, and co-curricular music offerings listed below. Families will receive an invoice from PushCoin after their student joins one of the fee-based activities. (The participation fee does not apply to other middle school clubs, activities, or opportunities that are not included in the list below.) $50 per student: Cut sports and activities — basketball, volleyball, soccer, and cheerleading $25 per student: Non-cut sports, activities, and co-curricular music — cross country, track and field, wrestling, chess, Scholastic Bowl, jazz band, chamber strings, and chamber choir/OMS Singers Families who may qualify for financial assistance are encouraged to submit a fee waiver form for the participation fee. Please visit our Student Fees webpage or contact your school office with any questions or for more information. The Reading Games 2027 - Registration Now Open! The Reading Games is a fun reading competition for District 58 and District 61 students in grades 3–8. Teams read books from their grade-level list, then compete by answering questions about what they’ve read. It’s a great way to discover new books and share a love of reading with friends! Date: Saturday, February 20, 2027 at O’Neill Middle School Registration: Open now through Nov. 14 Team Registration: Teams consist of 5–8 students. You do not need to have all team members identified when registering. Individual Registration: Students without a team can request to be matched with an existing team or help form a new team. Grades 3–4 Book List 1 Grades 5–8 Book List 2 Go to The Reading Games for full details. NOTE: 2026-27 Solo Fest for 7th and 8th graders will take place the same day as Reading Games, February 20. Students participating in both will be given an early Solo Fest time slot, giving them plenty of time to enjoy both events without feeling rushed. Reflections Art Program — Entries Due November 5 Students can showcase their creativity through dance, music, literature, visual arts, photography, and more. We can’t wait to see what they create! Go to PTA Reflections webpage for full details. Curriculum & Instruction Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Parent-Teacher Conference Signups Open 10/9 District 58 invites parents and guardians to sign up for Fall 2026 Parent-Teacher Conferences through PowerSchool. Sign-ups open Friday, October 9, at 11:00 a.m. and close Friday, October 16, at 11:00 a.m. For step-by-step instructions and helpful information, please review the Parent-Teacher Conference Sign-up Guide (para Español: Registro para las reuniones de padres y maestros). Conferences will be held in person by default. Families who need a remote option should first schedule their conference in PowerPTC, then change the meeting type from “In Person” to “Video Conference.” Conferences will take place on the evenings of Tuesday, October 20, and Thursday, October 22, 2026. Special Services Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Health Exam and Immunization Forms Due 10/15 Next Thursday, October 15, is the deadline for students in grades K, 2, and 6, as well as any new students, to submit the required health examination and immunization forms (Spanish). For more information, visit our Health Services page. Please go to the “Health Form Information” section of District 58’s Registration page for the required forms. School Safety & Emergency Preparedness Strategic Goal 2 Supporting Student and Staff Safety Over several issues of Communicate 58, we’ll take a closer look at different aspects of school safety and how District 58 works to keep our students and staff safe. You can also find information about these topics on our Emergency Preparedness webpage. In this issue, we’re sharing more about the steps we take to prepare for and respond to situations that may affect the safety and well-being of our school community. Crisis Resources In an immediate emergency: Dial 9-1-1 if a student is in danger of being harmed or harming themselves. When in doubt, make the call—your action could help save a life. District 58 partners with Safe2Help Illinois, a 24/7 monitored service that gives students a safe and confidential way to report a crisis, threat or bullying involving themselves or someone they know. Trained crisis professionals review reports, provide support, and notify appropriate District 58 staff when needed. Students can contact Safe2Help Illinois by: Website: app.safe2helpil.com Text: SAFE2 (72332) Phone: 844-4-SAFEIL (844-472-3345) App: “Safe2Help Illinois,” available through the Apple App Store and Google Play Email: HELP@Safe2HelpIL.com District 58 also has social workers, behavioral specialists, school psychologists, and counselors available to support students. Other crisis support: Call or text 988: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free, confidential, 24/7 support for people experiencing emotional distress or a mental health or substance use crisis, as well as resources for loved ones. Text ACT to 741741: Connect with a trained crisis counselor through the Crisis Text Line. Additional resources are available through: Grit2 mental health resources and support Sexual Abuse Response and Prevention Resource Guide from the Illinois State Board of Education BEACON for information about behavioral and mental health resources Safety Drills District 58 schools conduct a variety of drills throughout the school year to help students and staff feel prepared and confident about what to do if an emergency occurs. Drills include fire, tornado/severe weather, bus evacuation and active threat drills. Each drill is designed to be a learning opportunity, using age-appropriate approaches to help students and staff practice important response procedures in a calm, supportive environment. When a drill takes place, building principals will notify families by email or through their school newsletter, as appropriate. Visitor Safety We want our schools to be welcoming places while also maintaining a secure environment for students and staff. District 58 uses the Raptor visitor management system to screen visitors. All visitors are expected to check in at the main office upon arrival, present a valid photo ID, and wear a visitor badge while in the school. Staff and approved visitors wear District 58 identification on a lanyard when at our schools. These visitor procedures are complemented by secure entrances at all District 58 schools, made possible through facility improvements funded by the successful 2022 referendum. School Board News Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 The District 58 Board of Education will hold its next regular business meeting on Wednesday, October 14, at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center. This meeting does not take place on the usual second Monday of the month due to Columbus Day. The Board Preview and the agenda will be shared later this week. The Board will hold its fall Curriculum Workshop on Monday, October 26 at 7 p.m. at the Downers Grove Civic Center. Join the District 58 Team! Strategic Goals: 2, 5 District 58 is Hiring District 58 has a variety of exciting opportunities available, including registered nurse and secretary positions. If you are interested in joining our schools and becoming part of the District 58 community, we encourage you to explore our current openings and learn more at DG58 Open Jobs. Community Relations Strategic Goal: 2 Fire Prevention Week in District 58 This week is Fire Prevention Week (October 4-9), which is a great reminder to test your smoke detectors and review your family’s home fire escape plan. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers excellent safety tips and resources for families. District 58 has a strong community partnership with the Downers Grove Fire Department. Through this collaboration, firefighters teach important safety lessons to students across several grade levels, including: First grade: Adopt-a-Firefighter program – a five-lesson safety curriculum Third grade: Monthly Learn Not to Burn safety lessons Fourth grade: Fire safety review and preparedness activities Eighth grade: Basic Aid Training We are grateful to the Downers Grove Fire Department for their ongoing support, expertise, and commitment to keeping our students and community safe! Help Support DG58 Students & Families As colder weather approaches, our District 58 community is coming together to help keep students and families warm and supported. Through the Winter Clothing Drive, DG58 Helping Hands volunteers provide meaningful support to families in need. Sign up for DG58 Helping Hands and be part of a caring community that helps ensure every student feels warm, supported, and ready to learn! Join Us for the Grove Express 5K Start your Thanksgiving morning with a fun, family-friendly tradition! The Grove Express Foundation invites the District 58 community to join the 2026 Grove Express 5K Run/Walk on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, Nov. 26. Proceeds from this annual event support local education and youth programs, including District 58. Early registration is open now! Mark Your Calendar! Parent Education Opportunities Looking for helpful resources and fresh perspectives on topics that matter to families? The GPS Parent Series offers free, virtual presentations featuring incredible speakers and practical information for parents and caregivers. Take a look at the October presentations and upcoming sessions, and consider joining one that interests you! Upcoming Community Events & Programs DGN Marching Band Jr. High Night, Food Truck Event, Oct. 8 Downers Grove Public Library Highlighted Programs - Oct-Nov. 2026 Halloween Window Painting (K-6), Rotary Club of DG & Downtown Management Corp - Oct. 24 Spooktacular Fun - Downtown Downers Grove, Oct. 2026 School Days Out Program 2026-27 (K-5), Indian Boundary YMCA Night at the Firehouse, DG Fire Department - Oct. 7 DGN Color Guard: Flags & Friends Spin Clinic (Grades 5-8) - Oct. 6 & 8 Join Girl Scouts! 2026-27 Join Downers Grove Junior Woman's Club Downers Danes - Youth Lacrosse Skills Camp - Sept. 12 to Oct. 25 Healthy Kids Running Series (Ages 2-14) - Fall 2026 Makers & Merchants Market, Downers Grove Junior Woman's Club - Nov. 14 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe. Each article in this newsletter will highlight the District 58 Strategic Plan Goal it supports. To learn more about District 58’s Vision 58, visit https://dg58.us/strategic-plan. Goal 1: Focusing on Learning Goal 2: Connecting the Community Goal 3: Securing the Future Goal 4: Building for Success Goal 5: Cultivating Talent Subscribe to District 58 Publications All District 58 families and staff are automatically subscribed to District 58's ParentSquare communications. Non-District 58 community members can sign up for publications: https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58

Wednesday, Oct 07 2026

Supporting Our Community 9/28/26

Dear District 58 Community, Since the recent fire at Windsor Lakes Apartment Homes in Woodridge, we have heard from many members of the District 58 community who are looking for ways to support the families impacted by this tragedy. If you are interested in making a donation or offering other support, please see the Village of Woodridge's message outlining several ways you can help. One of the things that makes our community so special is the way we come together to support one another during difficult times. We are grateful to everyone who is reaching out, offering support, and helping our neighbors as they navigate this challenging time. Sincerely, Downers Grove Grade School District 58

Monday, Sep 28 2026

Communicate 58: Sept. 23, 2026

Volume 19, Issue 4: Wednesday, September 23, 2026 Quick LInks DG58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool DG58 Facebook DG58 X (Twitter) DG58 YouTube Mark Your Calendar! View full 2026-27 Calendar Wednesday, Sept. 30 - 3:45-5 p.m. Board Legislative Committee Meeting at Civic Center Friday, Oct. 2 National Custodial Workers Recognition Day Monday, Oct. 5 The Reading Games registration opens this week Friday, Oct. 9 - 7-8 a.m. Board Financial Advisory Committee Meeting at Civic Center 11 a.m. Parent-Teacher Conference Sign-up Opens Monday, Oct. 12 NO SCHOOL - Columbus Day Tuesday, Oct. 13 - 7-9 p.m. Southside Fall DGS Orchestra Concert (Grades 7-12) at DGS Preschool Screenings at Henry Puffer Wednesday, Oct. 14 - 7 p.m. Board of Education Regular Meeting at Civic Center Thursday, Oct. 15 - 6 p.m. 6th Grade Fall Cross Town Concert at O’Neill Friday, Oct. 16 - 11 a.m. Parent-Teacher Conference Sign-up Closes Tuesday, Oct. 20 - 5-8 p.m. Parent-Teacher Conferences Thursday, Oct. 22 - 5-8 p.m. Parent-Teacher Conferences Superintendent's Message Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Dear District 58 Community, It was wonderful to see so many families at Curriculum Nights earlier this month. These evenings are a great reminder of the strong partnership between our schools and families, and I’ve enjoyed seeing families connect with teachers and learn more about the year ahead. Fall parent-teacher conferences on October 20 and 22 will provide another opportunity to connect with your child’s teacher and continue those conversations. Please see below for information about signing up. I also want to invite our families and community members to get involved in District 58. I value the many perspectives our families, staff, and community members bring to our district, and I appreciate the important role our community plays in helping us move forward. Each year, we invite parents and guardians, staff members, and community members to serve on District 58 committees and councils. These groups provide an opportunity to learn more about the work happening across the District, share your perspective and ideas, and help shape our work moving forward. This year, we are looking for members for the following groups: Superintendent’s Community Advisory Council Connection and Communication Council Curriculum Council Board Financial Advisory Committee Board Legislative Committee Board Policy Committee Board District Leadership Team If you are interested in getting involved and would like to learn more about these groups, please review the Overview of DG58 Councils & Committees and Overview of DG58 Committee Recruitment Process. Please complete the Committee Interest Form by Friday, October 2, if you would like to be considered for a committee or council. Thank you for being such an important part of our District 58 community. Your partnership, perspective, and willingness to get involved make a meaningful difference, and I am grateful for the many ways our community comes together to support our students. Sincerely, Dr. Kevin B. Russell Superintendent School Safety & Emergency Preparedness Strategic Goal 2 National Preparedness Month September is National Preparedness Month, making it a good time for families to review the important information on our Emergency Preparedness webpage. The webpage outlines how District 58 prepares for, communicates during, and responds to emergencies. At District 58, the safety of our students, staff, and visitors is our top priority. Throughout the school year, we will continue to share information about key aspects of school safety, including: How District 58 proactively prepares for and addresses school safety How families can prepare for emergencies and help promote a safe school environment How the District communicates important emergency information How the District responds when an emergency occurs Taking a few minutes to review these resources can help ensure that our schools and families are prepared, informed, and ready to respond when needed. Please make sure your child’s school has your current contact information. District 58 and our schools use ParentSquare for safety messages and emergency alerts. Verify your email address and phone number in both PowerSchool and ParentSquare to help ensure you receive important information promptly. If your information has changed, please contact your child’s school office to update it. Today we are taking a closer look at how we proactively address school safety: Working with emergency responders: District 58 staff work closely with Downers Grove emergency responders, meeting annually and as needed to review and update our emergency management procedures. Recommendations are informed by national best practices and the unique safety needs of our schools and community. The District also has a Threat Assessment Team made up of administrators, social workers, other school staff, and members of the Downers Grove Police Department. The team regularly meets to assess and address potential concerns. Reviewing and updating procedures: When emergency procedures are updated, information is shared with administrators and principals, who review plans with teachers and staff at the beginning of the school year and throughout the year as needed. To help maintain the safety and security of our schools, detailed emergency plans are shared only with District employees and emergency responders. Providing emergency resources: Every classroom is equipped with an emergency action guide and an ALICE safety protocol reference card that teachers and students can reference quickly during an emergency. These resources are also provided to substitute teachers. Reinforcing safety expectations: Our schools regularly review safety and behavior expectations with students in an age-appropriate way. These conversations promote respectful, responsible, and safe behavior and address topics such as visitor protocols, technology safety, harassment and bullying, prohibited items, and school expectations and consequences. In our next newsletter, we will highlight how families prepare for emergencies and promote safe schools Celebrations Strategic Goals 2, 5 National Custodial Workers Day 10/2 We will celebrate National Custodial Workers Day on Friday, October 2 and recognize the incredible people who help keep our schools running smoothly every day! Our custodial and maintenance teams play an important role in creating clean, welcoming, and safe spaces for our students and staff. We especially appreciate the care, flexibility, and extra effort they continue to bring as we navigate the final phases of our referendum projects. Thank you for all you do behind the scenes and throughout our schools each day. Your work makes a difference, and we are so grateful for you! Communication Strategic Goal 2 💡 ParentSquare Tip: Secure Documents Families will receive a ParentSquare notification Friday, September 25, when their child’s secure assessment report is available. Before you can view your child’s report, you must first activate (register) your ParentSquare account if you have not already done so. Activate your account. If you have not yet registered, you will receive a ParentSquare invitation today with a direct link to “Activate Your Account.” You can also activate your account by visiting www.parentsquare.com/signin in your web browser or by downloading the free ParentSquare app. Sign in. Enter your email address or phone number and select Get Started. You can also sign in using your Google or Microsoft account. Once your account is activated, click the link in your ParentSquare email, text, or app notification to go directly to your child’s secure document. You may be asked to sign in again to verify your identity if you haven’t recently accessed ParentSquare. You can also find the report, along with other secure documents you have previously received, by selecting Documents under Explore in the left-side menu. Then, select the report you’d like to view. LEARN MORE ABOUT SECURE DOCUMENTS Curriculum & Instruction Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Student Assessment Reports 9/25 Students in grades K-8 recently took the NWEA Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment for reading and mathematics. Depending on your child’s age and educational experience, some students also completed the AIMSWebPlus assessment in reading and/or mathematics. Assessment reports will be available in ParentSquare on Friday, September 25. To access this secure document, you will need to register (activate) your ParentSquare account if you have not done so already (see instructions above). If you have any questions, please contact Liz Ehrhart, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, at 630-719-2768. Please view District 58's assessment calendar to learn more about which assessments students take and when. Save the Dates: Fall Parent-Teacher Conferences We are looking forward to connecting with families during Fall 2026 Parent-Teacher Conferences! Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more information: Friday, October 9 at 11:00 a.m.: Conference sign-ups open Friday, October 16 at 11:00 a.m.: Conference sign-ups close Tuesday, October 20 & Thursday, October 22, 5:00-8:00 p.m.: Parent-Teacher Conferences Special Services Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Parent Opportunity: Free Virtual Workshop on IEP & 504 Plans Families of District 58 students are invited to attend a free virtual workshop titled "Understanding Your Child's IEP & 504 Plan" on Thursday, November 5 at 7:00 PM. This informative session, sponsored by Building Bridges, is designed to offer clarity and answer questions about the special education process as we work together to support student success. The presentation will cover how students are evaluated for services, the distinct components of IEPs and 504 plans, and how related services such as speech, OT, PT, counseling, and hearing support operate within a child's plan. Participants will also review parent and student rights under IDEA and Section 504 to help foster strong, collaborative communication between families and school teams. The session will be led by Veronica Andersen, M.Ed., an Itinerant Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Special Education, who shares both professional experience and her perspective as a fellow district parent. To reserve your spot, please scan the QR code on the flyer or email ms.a.advocacy@gmail.com. Mark Your Calendars! Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Two exciting PTA programs are coming up for District 58 students! Encourage your student to participate and watch for more details. The Reading Games — Saturday, February 20, 2027 Registration opens the week of October 5, so mark your calendar and watch for registration details. Get ready for a fun celebration of reading and teamwork! Book List 1 (Grades 3-4) / Book List 2 (Grades 5-8) See full details - PTA Reading Games Reflections Art Program — Entries Due November 5 Students can showcase their creativity through dance, music, literature, visual arts, photography, and more. We can’t wait to see what they create! See full details - PTA Reflections School Board News Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 The District 58 Board of Education held a regular meeting on Monday, September 14, at the Civic Center. View Board Briefs for an overview of the meeting and links to the agenda and meeting recording. The Board's next business meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 14, at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center. Community Relations Strategic Goal: 2 School Supplies for Students in Need A big thank you to the community groups who generously donated school supplies to District 58 students this fall, including Community Christian Church, Rotary Club of Downers Grove, Keller Williams - Kim Moustis Group, Pastoral Leadership Institute (PLI), and other community partners. We are distributing these supplies to families and classrooms to help ensure every student has the tools they need to learn, grow, and succeed. We are grateful for the generosity and partnership of these organizations and for the many ways our community comes together to support District 58 students and families! DG Oktoberfest Supports District 58 The 13th Downers Grove Oktoberfest was another great success! Despite some less-than-ideal weather at times, our community came together to enjoy the festivities and support a great cause. Thank you to the attendees, volunteers, organizers, sponsors, and community partners who helped make this year’s event possible. All proceeds from the annual festival benefit the Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58, providing direct support for programs that benefit District 58 students and staff. We are grateful for the continued support of our community and the Foundation’s commitment to enriching the educational experience for District 58 students. Learn more about the Education Foundation at www.58foundation.org. Upcoming Community Events & Programs Downtown DG Ladies Day & Night Out - Sept. 24 Family Night 2026, Indian Boundary YMCA - Sept. 25 School Days Out Program 2026-27 (K-5), Indian Boundary YMCA Night at the Firehouse, DG Fire Department - Oct. 7 Halloween Boo-tique for All - Costume Shop, DG Area PTA - Oct. 3 DGN Color Guard: Flags & Friends Spin Clinic (Grades 5-8) - Oct. 6 & 8 Join Girl Scouts! 2026-27 Join Downers Grove Junior Woman's Club Downers Danes - Youth Lacrosse Skills Camp - Sept. 12 to Oct. 25 Healthy Kids Running Series (Ages 2-14) - Fall 2026 Downers Grove Public Library Highlighted Programs - Sept.-Oct. 2026 Makers & Merchants Market, Downers Grove Junior Woman's Club - Nov. 14 DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 Each article in this newsletter will highlight the District 58 Strategic Plan Goal it supports. To learn more about District 58’s Vision 58, visit https://dg58.us/strategic-plan. Goal 1: Focusing on Learning Goal 2: Connecting the Community Goal 3: Securing the Future Goal 4: Building for Success Goal 5: Cultivating Talent Subscribe to District 58 Publications All District 58 families and staff are automatically subscribed to District 58's ParentSquare communications. Non-District 58 community members can sign up for publications: https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. We Envision. We Seek. We Believe.

Wednesday, Sep 23 2026

Board Briefs: September 14, 2026 Regular Meeting

September 14, 2026 Regular Meeting The District 58 Board of Education held a Public Hearing on the FY27 Budget and a Regular Meeting on Monday, September 14, 2026, at the Downers Grove Civic Center. District 58 Board of Education members are: Darren Hughes, president; Kirat Doshi, vice president; Nicole Bernard, Melissa Ellis, Emily Hanus, Steven Olczyk and Katie Thomas, with Dr. Kevin Russell, superintendent; and Melissa Jerves, board secretary. VIEW MEETING AGENDA VIEW RECORDED MEETING The recording will be published on District 58's YouTube page once available, typically within one week of the meeting. Public Hearing District 58 Budget FY27 VIEW PRESENTATION Assistant Superintendent for Business/CSBO Dr. Gregory Harris gave a presentation to the Board during the FY27 Budget Hearing: Key points included: The proposed FY27 Budget is operationally balanced with a small surplus and includes a $750,000 transfer to the Capital fund for planned summer projects, in line with Board policy. The District’s fund balance is projected at 32% of operating expenditures, with estimates that include approximately $5 million in arbitrage profit. The District also plans to transfer unrestricted excess interest from the referendum fund to operations. Looking ahead, the District will need to grow its operating fund balance by approximately $800,000 between FY27 and FY28 to remain aligned with policy requirements. Next steps include continued review of expenditures, identifying additional revenue to support any new spending, and working with the Board and Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) to consider options for managing surpluses and fund balances. The District will also continue advocating for additional support related to unique District 58 expenditures and increased funding for mandated categoricals. There were no public comments on the proposed budget. Spotlight on Our Schools Indian Trail Elementary School PRESENTATION Indian Trail Elementary School Principal Mrs. Emily Stubbs, joined by representatives from the Student Council and PTA, presented the school’s report to the Board of Education. Key points included: Student Council members shared how they are making a difference at school and in the community through fundraising, service projects and community partnerships. The PTA highlighted the many ways families support the school, from organizing programs and events to providing assistance for teachers and helping fund facility upgrades. Mrs. Stubbs shared schoolwide achievement data in English language arts and mathematics and discussed several areas of focus for continued improvement this year. These include strengthening MTSS to ensure students receive targeted, data-driven support; implementing PLC+ practices to support staff to collaborate and reflect on student learning; and using student writing data and IAR rubrics to identify opportunities for growth and guide instruction. Spotlight on Our Schools 2026-27 Fall Enrollment PRESENTATION Assistant Superintendent for Personnel/Staff Development Mr. Justin Sisul gave a presentation to the Board with an update on student enrollment for fall 2026-27. Key points included: The District continues to prioritize the 2018-19 class size targets, working to balance class sizes across schools while keeping students at their home schools whenever possible. Staffing targets call for 80% of classrooms to have 24 or fewer students in K-2 and 26 or fewer students in grades 3-8. As of September, 78% of classrooms districtwide and 86% of K-5 classrooms are below those targets. Communication has occurred or is currently planned with staff and families in classes above the target, and the District will continue to monitor class sizes and make adjustments, as needed. The Board also discussed the importance of proactive planning for future enrollment, particularly as larger elementary Dual Language cohorts move into the middle schools. The District will review staffing targets and priorities for 2027-28 as part of the budget process. Spotlight on Our Schools Construction Update Jordan Schulz of Huffman Keel presented an update on the District’s Referendum Construction projects. Key points included: The District’s summer construction work included servery improvements, warranty items and punch list work at Phase I and II elementary schools and the middle schools. Phase III elementary construction progressed smoothly over the summer, building on lessons learned from earlier phases, and furniture and classroom contents were moved in on schedule to support a timely return to school. Following the start of the school year, HVAC issues were identified at Pierce Downer, including manufacturing issues with four units and installation issues related to incorrect pipe sizing throughout areas of the building. Temporary measures, including window A/C units, were put in place right away to maintain comfortable classroom conditions. Repairs will be completed as soon as possible, including during winter break when needed to minimize disruption to learning. The project team has acknowledged responsibility for not identifying the issues earlier, and there will be no cost to the District. Remaining punch list, commissioning, and warranty work will continue throughout the school year. With more than 900 days of construction across 700,000+ square feet at all 13 schools, the $209.5 million referendum project is now substantially complete. Overall, the work was completed substantially on time and on budget, with approximately $3 million in project savings. Superintendent's Report Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell shared the following updates: District 58 Recognition District 58 will receive the Cornerstone Award from the Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation (DGEDC) at its Annual Luncheon on October 14. The award recognizes exceptional investments and expansion projects that have made a significant positive impact on Downers Grove. The District is honored to be recognized for the referendum-funded facility improvements and investments that are helping strengthen our schools and community. The Board will also receive School Board Governance Recognition from the Illinois Association of School Boards, recognizing the Board’s commitment to effective governance and ongoing professional development. Transportation The District continues to address ongoing transportation challenges, particularly at the middle schools, and recognizes that service has fallen short of expectations. The District has formally notified both First Student and Sunrise of concerns and is exercising liquidated damages provisions when applicable. Following meetings with First Student leadership, route adjustments have been made to support on-time arrivals and departures. The next step is a comprehensive review of route efficiency, including head counts at stops and driver feedback. Any needed route changes are anticipated for the week of September 28 and will be communicated to families in advance. The District is also strengthening its own transportation processes, including improving response times to family questions, expecting that inquiries will receive a response within 24 hours on working days. The District is committed to ensuring bus information is consistent across all platforms and communications. Looking ahead, the District will work with partner districts and transportation providers to develop a more proactive planning process, including required monthly meetings with First Student. Food Service The new districtwide lunch program has successfully launched. Since the beginning of the month, elementary schools have served approximately 4,500 meals, while the middle schools have served 4,800 meals, which is about a 150% increase from this time last year. We are excited to see our students benefit from this new opportunity in our schools. Personnel The District also shared an update on two annual financial postings. The 2026-27 IMRF Compensation Report is attached to the Board agenda and will be posted to the District website this week, within the required six-day timeframe following budget approval. The 2025-26 Teacher and Administrator Salary and Benefits Report is also attached to the agenda and will be posted this week, ahead of the October 1 deadline. This report is posted each year using the prior fiscal year’s salary and benefits information. Both reports will be available on the District website under About → Finance & Transparency. Curriculum & Instruction District Curriculum Nights were very well attended, and we thank families and staff for their partnership in supporting student learning. The District will share NWEA MAP, IAR, and ISA assessment reports with families in the coming weeks to provide insight into the data that informs instructional decisions. Technology The Technology Department continues to address start-of-year technology needs, complete remaining Phase III construction-related technology work, and strengthen network reliability, security, and student internet filtering. Special Services Free preschool and developmental screenings are offered throughout the school year for children who may benefit from early intervention or special education services. Preschool screenings are available for children ages 3–5, and developmental screenings are available for children from birth to age 3. Families can call the Preschool Office to schedule an appointment. Public Relations The District is preparing for its annual recruitment for District 58 councils and Board committees, which provide meaningful opportunities for families, staff, and community members to share their perspectives and help guide the District’s work. More information will be shared in the next issue of Communicate 58, with interest forms accepted through October 10. The Education Foundation of District 58 will host its annual Oktoberfest this Friday and Saturday, bringing the community together in support of District 58 students and staff. Business Report Assistant Superintendent for Business/CSBO Dr. Gregory Harris presented the Board with the monthly business and treasurer’s report. Key points included: The September Monthly Business Report provided a year-to-date look through August 31. August is typically a slower month for revenue, with property tax revenue beginning to come in during September. Expenditures also increase as the school year gets underway. Committee Updates During the meeting, the Board also heard the following updates: Policy Committee: Board President Mr. Darren Hughes shared an update from the September 1 Policy Committee meeting, including a review of PRESS Policy Issue 122, which includes many updates to citations, language and legal references. The Committee also discussed public hearing time limits, intradistrict transfer language, family opt-out provisions, the new Illinois bell-to-bell cellphone law, and the mental health screening opt-out process. District 58’s current cellphone policy already aligns with the new state requirements, and the District will review the expected upcoming PRESS sample policy for any needed updates. Financial Advisory Committee (FAC): Board President Hughes shared an update from the September 11 FAC meeting, including a budget review and discussion of ways to strengthen financial safeguards and identify potential issues earlier. The Committee discussed ongoing fund balance challenges, uncertainty around state revenue, and the District’s upcoming arbitrage payment in February 2028. The District will continue exploring proactive steps to strengthen fund balance and maintain financial stability while minimizing potential impacts on staffing. The Committee also discussed the possibility of a bond issuance to address a projected low cash point, rather than to fund additional spending. If this option moves forward, more detailed discussions would need to take place by the end of November. Legislative Committee: Has not met since the last Board Meeting. District Leadership Team: Has not met since the last Board Meeting. Health & Wellness Committee: Has not met since the last Board Meeting. SASED Update: Has not met since the last Board Meeting. Recommendations for Action VIEW AGENDA AND RELATED DOCUMENTS The Board of Education approved the following recommendations for action: Approved the first reading of Board Policy PRESS Issue 122 Approved meeting minutes for the 8/10/26 Regular Meeting Approved the FY2027 Budget Approved the designation of Surplus Equipment Approved the Community Solar Contract Amendment Upcoming Meetings & Events September 30, 2026, 3:45 p.m. ~ Legislative Committee ~ Civic Center October 9, 2026, 7 a.m. ~ Financial Advisory Committee ~ Civic Center October 14, 2026, 7 p.m. ~ Regular Board Meeting ~ Civic Center Stay Connected with Us! All District 58 families and staff automatically receive District publications through ParentSquare. Not a District 58 family or staff member? Community members can sign up for District updates at: https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 850 Curtiss St., Ste. 200, Downers Grove, IL 60515 / (630) 719-5800

Friday, Sep 18 2026

58 Connects: Staff Newsletter 9/16/26

Volume 8, Issue 3: Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026 Quick Links Staff.Links & Resources Staff Quick Guide: Links/Payroll/Personnel DG58 Website 58 Connects Archive (Staff e-news) Communicate 58 Archive (Community e-news) Social Media DG58 Facebook DG58 X (Twitter) DG58 YouTube DR. RUSSELL'S CORNER Dear District 58 Family, The school year is off to a wonderful start! I hope you are settling in well and feeling the positive momentum as we embark on this new chapter together. It is deeply fulfilling to see years of hard work come to life through our new initiatives—including the 6–8 middle school model, the Pre-K–5 model, bringing preschool under one roof at Henry Puffer, finalizing construction, and launching the elementary hot lunch program. Having visited all schools several times since the start of the school year, I am inspired by the bright, welcoming classrooms. Thank you to our teachers and support staff for creating welcoming spaces for our students so they can continue to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. I am also immensely grateful to our outstanding custodians and maintenance team. Their tireless work keeps our learning spaces clean, vibrant, and safe every single day. Last but certainly not least, thank you to our office staff members. The beginning of the school year is very challenging and fast-paced. I am grateful for their positivity and dedication. Curriculum Nights I would like to thank everyone for their hard work and preparation for curriculum nights. These events were very well attended, and I received a great deal of positive feedback. Thank you for welcoming our families into the schools. These nights are a wonderful opportunity to showcase the great things taking place in the schools and to build relationships with our families. Board Meeting Update On Monday evening, the Board of Education met for its September meeting. Indian Trail students, the PTA, and Principal Stubbs updated the Board on many of the wonderful things happening at the school. We enjoyed the presentation, and it is always nice to have students, families, and staff at the Board meeting. The September Board meeting included the following major topics: Budget Hearing (the District’s budget must be approved before 9/30) Enrollment Update Construction Update Click here for the full agenda and presentations Budget Update On Monday evening, Dr. Harris presented the budget for Fiscal Year 2027 (SY 26-27). The budget is balanced with a modest surplus for contingencies. While the budget is balanced, the overall financial picture for the District is very tight in terms of revenues and expenditures. The District’s Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) continues to work toward a fund balance stabilization plan that will be finalized by the January Board of Education Financial Workshop. Given the constraints of the budget, the FAC will continue to meet frequently throughout the year. FAC meetings are always publicly posted and agendas can be found in BoardBook. We will continue to update staff throughout the year on the FAC’s work. I hope everyone has a wonderful week. As always, please reach out if you have any questions or need anything. Best Wishes, Kevin Communication 💡 ParentSquare Quick Tip: Calendars Keep up with school activities by adding your ParentSquare calendar to your personal calendar. Your subscription will include current and future school, class, and group events. Past events will not be added To subscribe: From Home, select Explore > Calendar in the left-side menu Click Subscribe in the top right of the calendar. Follow the prompts to add the calendar to your personal calendar. If the Subscribe option doesn't work, you can add the calendar URL manually: In ParentSquare, select Calendar and click Subscribe. Right-click Yes, I'm Positive and select Copy link address. In your personal calendar, select + or Add calendar > From URL. Paste the ParentSquare calendar URL and click Add calendar. Personnel DGEEA Contract Stipend Information Have you signed up for or are you considering signing up for Stipend activities this year? This document may help with information on the different stipends available, rates for 2026-27, as well as how payment works and expectations around stipend activities. Please reach out to your building administrator, Pat Houlihan or Justin Sisul, with any questions regarding stipends. Frontline Login District 58 uses a Single Sign-On (SSO) for all Frontline applications, including Recruiting & Hiring, Central, and Absence Management. This change improves security and makes access easier—you no longer need to remember or enter a separate username and password. Login Instructions: Click this updated link: Frontline SSO (or use the updated link on the Staff Links page: www.dg58.org/staff-links) Enter your dg58 email address and follow the prompts Reminders: If the Username and Password login appears, make sure to choose the SSO option on the login screen The most common login issue is confusion between multiple Google accounts. Be sure you are signed into your browser with your District 58 Google account before logging in. Staff are not required to use personal devices for Frontline, but to sign into the mobile app on a mobile device, you will need to sign into your work Google account. Business Wellness Program 2026-27 Because the wellness of our staff remains a top priority, the District is once again offering the upcoming health screenings. Based on feedback from staff, below are two items to clarify regarding this year's program: Incentive program: The District made an annual investment to encourage staff to participate (>$100,000 per year) and never got enough people to sign up to meet the participation goals. With current budget constraints, the decision was made to end the gift cards. Staff are still highly encouraged to participate in the wellness program to support their own health, well-being, and long-term quality of life, even though the gift cards are no longer offered. Insurance Premiums: Rumors that non-participants will face higher insurance premiums are completely false. Your choice to participate has zero impact on your insurance rates. See the information below for details and sign-up information for the Wellness Event: Go to app.chcw.com. If you’re a returning user, log in and select “Join the Wellness Program” under “Today’s Activities” then enter “7308Dow144.” for the program code. If you’re new, enter “7308Dow144.” under the “New Participants” tab and select “Register.” Follow the prompts to schedule your wellness screening and flu shot (optional), Attend your scheduled wellness screening. Wellness screenings will take place on Sept. 21st and 23rd at four District 58 schools. 2026 Wellness and Flu Poster 2026 Screening Guide Curriculum & Instruction Professional Day Application Form for 2026-2027 If you are requesting to use a Professional Day, please use the Professional Day Application Form linked here. If you have any questions, please contact Liz Ehrhart, eehrhart@dg58.org. 2026-2027 Institute Day - Calling all Presenters and Nominations This year, we will hold a mid-year Institute Day on January 4, 2027. We are excited to offer the opportunity to our staff to present or nominate a colleague to present at the Institute Day. Thank you to all the staff members who have already signed up to present. We will be connecting with everyone soon to plan for the day! Institute Day sessions can be a presentation on a current trend you are seeing in education, a facilitated discussion opportunity on a specific topic, District resource-specific sessions, or new learning that you want to share from a course you took. These are just a few ideas of sessions you can facilitate. Sessions can be a group effort as well. See the presenter and nomination form linked here. Please reach out to Liz Ehrhart with any questions. Thank you for your consideration in sharing your knowledge and expertise with your colleagues and encouraging them to do so as well. Weekly Program Minutes Log ACTION: Each year, we request that teachers complete a log of their weekly minutes. Information for 2026-2027 is linked below. Please submit your log following the directions listed. Submissions are due on Friday, September 25, 2026. If you have any questions or need support, please reach out to Liz Ehrhart, eehrhart@dg58.org. Weekly Minute Log - Directions Weekly Program Minutes 2026-2027 Submission Form Special Services DCFS Update: What School Personnel Need to Know Illinois DCFS and the ISBE have launched the Forward Together initiative to shift toward a more family-centered, holistic safety assessment model (the SAFE Model). What's Changing & Why: DCFS is moving away from checklist-based tools to better understand family circumstances, reduce trauma, and offer early prevention resources (such as housing or childcare aid) when families face hardship rather than abuse. You may notice hotline staff asking more detailed questions about child/adult functioning and parenting practices. Mandated Reporter Requirements: Nothing changes. You are still legally obligated to report suspected child abuse or neglect immediately via the DCFS Hotline (1-800-25-ABUSE) or childabuse.illinois.gov. Updated Training: DCFS has launched a fully redesigned Mandated Reporter Training that covers implicit bias, trauma-informed approaches, and distinguishing poverty from neglect. All staff are invited to complete the new training to learn how these updates help keep students safe and families supported. While this does not replace our standard Infinitec training, the newly updated DCFS course is highly interactive, well done, and a valuable improvement! All staff are invited to complete the new DCFS training to gain insights into supporting our students and families. For quick guidance on when and how to report, as well as a helpful flowchart, be sure to check out the updated reporting decision tree as a handy reference tool! Reporting Decision Tree Buildings & Grounds Acceptable Temperature Ranges It was only a brief time ago that air conditioning was uncommon in our school district. Thanks to funding from the community referendum, we were able to target a great need for everyone. As part of these improvements, we did not pick the lowest cost HVAC solution. With the selected HVAC system design and construction budget allocation, our district is very fortunate to have a more advanced solution than many other districts. Nonetheless, room temperatures will vary to some degree with outdoor weather changes, especially quick changes, and system transitions. If your classroom temperature is falling within a normal indoor conditioned space range of 68 to 76 degrees, there is most likely not an issue with the equipment and it is representative of fluctuations within the room setpoint. Thus, there is no room for concern or a need to contact anyone. Again, minor fluctuations from the setpoint do not necessarily mean the system is broken or needs adjustment. If you do find your room outside the normal range, there may be a potential equipment issue. In that case, please notify your head custodian for investigation and assistance and copy a building administrator for additional awareness. The custodian will contact a B&G administrator to help investigate the issue. We are aware that several buildings have recently had equipment malfunctions, causing issues. These issues are a small percentage of the overall district equipment and we appreciate your patience as “the kinks are worked out.” We are extremely blessed to have all this new equipment; however, it doesn’t mean it will never have an issue that we need to work through. We appreciate your patience and understanding in these situations as all parties work to rectify the matter as soon as possible. Community Relations Extra Classroom Supplies! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we have extra school supplies available to support students and classrooms across District 58! We have a variety of items, including backpacks, paper, pens, crayons, dry-erase markers, and more. Check the Inventory tab to see what is currently available, then complete the School Supply Staff Request Form to request supplies. Items will be distributed first-come, first-served while they last. Thank you for helping us make the most of our community’s generosity and ensuring these supplies get into the hands of students and teachers who can use them! Oktoberfest Is This Weekend! Bring your friends and family for a fun time in Downtown Downers Grove at Oktoberfest, Friday, September 18–Saturday, September 19! Enjoy live music, food, and fun while supporting our schools. All proceeds go directly back to District 58 to support our students and staff. We still need volunteers to help make the event a success! Whether you can lend a hand for a shift or simply stop by to enjoy the festivities, we’d love to see you there. Thank you for supporting the Education Foundation and District 58! Volunteer and View Event Schedule DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe.

Wednesday, Sep 16 2026

Board Preview: Sept. 14 Regular Board Meeting

BOARD PREVIEW 9/14/2026 Board of Education Regular Meeting The District 58 Board of Education will hold a Public Hearing on the District 58 FY27 Budget followed by a Regular Meeting, beginning at 7 p.m on Monday, September 14, 2026, at the Downers Grove Civic Center, 850 Curtiss St., Downers Grove, IL 60515. The public may also view the meeting via livestream at Village of Downers Grove’s YouTube account. Board Meeting Agenda The agenda includes: Spotlight on our Schools: Indian Trail School Presentation and Public Hearing on the FY27 Budget Spotlight on our Schools: Enrollment Update Spotlight on our Schools: Construction Update Superintendent and Monthly Business Reports Board Committee reports, including from the Policy Committee and Financial Advisory Committee SASED update A recommendation for the first reading of Board Policy PRESS Issue 122 A recommendation to approve meeting minutes for the 8/10/26 Regular Meeting A recommendation to approve the FY2027 Budget A recommendation to approve the designation of Surplus Equipment A recommendation to approve the Community Solar Contract Amendment View more information about these topics and all Board meeting topics in the Board agenda at https://dg58.us/BOE_Agendas. Public Participation How to make a public comment during the meeting: The Board encourages public comment from the community. There will be an opportunity for in-person visitors to make a public comment. Members of the public may communicate with the Board at any time by emailing boe@dg58.org. DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 850 Curtiss St., Ste. 200, Downers Grove, IL 60515 / (630) 719-5800 Stay Connected with Us Subscribe to District 58 Publications: https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. All District 58 families and staff will automatically receive all District communications via ParentSquare and do not need to subscribe.

Friday, Sep 11 2026

Communicate 58: Sept. 9, 2026

Volume 19, Issue 3: Wednesday, September 9, 2026 Quick LInks DG58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool DG58 Facebook DG58 X (Twitter) DG58 YouTube Mark Your Calendar! View full 2026-27 Calendar Wednesday, Sept. 9 - 6-7:30 p.m. Herrick Curriculum Night Thursday, Sept. 10 - 6-7:30 p.m. O’Neill Curriculum Night Grove Preschool Curriculum Night Friday, Sept. 11 - 7-8 a.m. Board Financial Advisory Committee meeting at Civic Center Monday, Sept. 14 - 7:00 p.m. Board of Education Regular Meeting at Civic Center Friday, Sept. 18 - Sat., Sept. 19 2026 Downers Grove Oktoberfest Celebrating Our Board of Education! We are proud to share that District 58’s Board of Education has been recognized by the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) for its exceptional governance practices! District 58 was one of just 53 Illinois school districts to earn the School Board Governance Recognition honor, which recognizes boards for effective governance and their commitment to developing the knowledge and skills needed to lead their districts effectively. IASB’s School Board Governance Recognition program highlights local boards that demonstrate the good governance practices outlined in IASB’s Foundational Principles of Effective Governance. The program emphasizes the importance of ongoing board development, learning, and full board participation. This recognition relfects our Board’s commitment to working together, continuing to learn, and keeping the best interests of District 58 students, staff, and families at the center of their work. The honorary recognition is awarded for a two-year period. Congratulations to our Board of Education on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for your continued service and leadership to our District 58 community! Superintendent's Message Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Dear District 58 Community, On Friday, we observe Patriot Day, a meaningful day in our nation’s history when we remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001. All District 58 schools will share an age-appropriate Patriot Day message with students, observe a moment of silence, and fly flags at half-staff. We encourage families to take some time to talk with their children about this important day in a way that is appropriate for their age and understanding. As we remember the many lives lost on September 11, we also honor the courage and selflessness of the first responders and countless others who stepped forward to help that day. In our school messages, we will encourage students to think about how they can demonstrate those same qualities—courage, kindness, and selflessness—in their own lives. We will also remind students of the simple but meaningful opportunity to say “thank you” to the first responders who work every day to keep our communities safe. These are important lessons at any time of year, but especially as we begin a new school year. At District 58, we want our students to understand that being part of a school community means looking out for one another, treating others with respect, and making choices that contribute to a positive learning environment. Throughout the school year, our building principals will meet with students to review safety and behavior expectations. The theme of these conversations is simple: be safe, be responsible, and be respectful. Each principal will share the presentation with families through the school’s newsletter and at an upcoming PTA meeting. I believe these conversations are most effective when we have a strong partnership between school and home. Thank you for reinforcing these expectations with your children and helping us create classrooms where all students feel welcomed, supported, and ready to learn. In addition to our principals meeting with students, I also make a point of meeting with all of our middle school students each fall. It is important that students hear these messages not only from their teachers and principal, but from their superintendent as well. These visits are also one of my favorite opportunities to connect with students, hear what they are thinking, and start the school year on a positive note. Earlier today, I had the opportunity to visit with all of the students at Herrick Middle School, and tomorrow, Thursday, September 10, I will visit with all of the students at O’Neill Middle School. I use these sessions to build relationships with our students, listen to their feedback, and reinforce the expectations we share as a school community. During these presentations, we talk about the Golden Rule and the importance of kindness, and we explore what it means to have great character. We also discuss bullying, appropriate language, respecting every person, and prohibited items at school, including weapons, drugs, and alcohol. We review general school rules, including the cell phone policy, damage to property, and the seriousness of making threatening statements—even when someone believes they are joking. I encourage families to continue these conversations at home. Please take some time to talk with your child(ren) about: Following the Golden Rule and treating others with kindness and respect Never engaging in bullying or harassment Never making a threatening statement, even as a joke Never bringing a prohibited item to school Talking to a trusted adult when help or support is needed Looking out for one another and being a good friend I also encourage families to review Board Policy 7:190: Student Behavior. Our goal is to be proactive and make sure students understand expectations from the very beginning of the school year. When we have these conversations early and reinforce them consistently, we can help prevent behaviors that interfere with learning and create a positive environment for everyone. Thank you for partnering with us and for the many ways you support your children, our schools, and one another. When school and home work together, we can create the kind of schools where every student feels safe, welcomed, respected, and ready to learn. I am looking forward to a wonderful school year together! Dr. Kevin B. Russell Superintendent Communication Strategic Goal 2 🔔 Take Control of Your ParentSquare Notifications Did you know you can customize your ParentSquare notification preferences? Choose the notification methods that work best for you—including email, text and app notifications—and select instant delivery or a once-a-day digest. VIEW INSTRUCTIONS FOR SETTING NOTIFICATIONS Around the District Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Take a Look at our 2026 Annual Report This year’s report celebrates the exciting news, accomplishments and progress happening across District 58, including our continued work toward the goals of our Strategic Plan. Copies were recently mailed to every District 58 household, and the complete 2026 Annual Report is also available online. We invite families to take a moment to explore the many accomplishments and initiatives that make our schools such wonderful places to learn, grow and thrive. There is so much to celebrate in District 58, and we’re proud of what our students, staff and community have accomplished together! Back to School Highlights The 2026–27 school year is off to a great start! We have loved seeing our schools come to life with smiling faces, new friendships, classroom connections, and plenty of back-to-school excitement. Want to see what’s happening across District 58? Check out these recent highlights: What’s New in District 58 - 8/24/26 Suburban Life (Shaw Local) News Article Welcome Back to School 2026-27 - District 58 Photo Gallery A New Chapter for Grove Preschool: One Community, One Location - Highlights from the first day of school Curriculum & Instruction Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Professional Learning Mondays What are they? Every Monday, students in grades K-5 are dismissed at 2 p.m., and students in grades 6-8 are dismissed at 2:15 p.m. to allow teachers dedicated time for collaboration and professional learning. During this time, teachers participate in structured learning experiences that may be: Teacher-led: Teachers collaborate with colleagues on strategies connected to instructional needs, professional growth goals, or school improvement plans. Building-led: School teams review assessment data, celebrate strengths, identify areas for growth, and set improvement strategies. District-led: Teachers engage in professional learning on curriculum implementation or receive specialized subject-area training. After each session, teachers complete a survey about their experience. School and District leaders use this feedback to continually improve the professional learning opportunities provided. Fall Assessment Reports - Posted on ParentSquare Sept. 25 Students in grades K-8 recently took the NWEA Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment for reading and mathematics. Depending on your child’s age and educational experience, some students also completed the AIMSWebPlus assessment in reading and/or mathematics. District 58 will be post those assessment reports in ParentSquare on Friday, September 25. To access this secure document, you will need to activate your ParentSquare account. Special Services Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Preschool and Developmental Screenings Downers Grove Grade School District 58 offers free preschool and developmental screenings throughout the school year to help identify young children who may benefit from special education services before kindergarten. Screenings can also highlight children who may be at risk for future academic challenges due to environmental, cultural, or socio-economic factors. The District provides both Preschool screenings for children ages 3–5 and Developmental screenings for children from birth to 3. All children must reside within District 58 boundaries to participate in or attend a preschool within the district boundaries. To make an appointment, please call the Preschool Office at 630-968-0454. Required Health Forms Thank you to the many families who have already submitted their child’s health forms. As required by Illinois law, all new students, as well as those entering kindergarten, second grade, and sixth grade, must receive health examinations and immunizations. Completed health forms must be submitted to the school by October 15 (or within 30 days of enrollment for first-time registrants). To ensure your child’s school year is not interrupted, please plan to meet these guidelines. State law mandates that students who do not comply by October 15 must be excluded from school until the required documentation is received. Please make sure all sections of the child examination form are completed, including the health history section on the back, which must be filled out and signed by a parent or guardian. You can find more information and download the necessary forms on our Health Services. If you need help completing these forms or accessing healthcare resources, please contact your school nurse. Community Relations Strategic Goal: 2 Oktoberfest - Sept. 18 & 19 Get ready for a fun-filled weekend in Downtown Downers Grove! The Education Foundation of District 58 is excited to bring Oktoberfest back on Friday, September 18, and Saturday, September 19. Come enjoy live music, great food, and plenty of community spirit while celebrating one of Downers Grove’s favorite fall traditions! Gather your family and friends, head downtown, and enjoy the festivities—all while supporting District 58 schools. Proceeds from Oktoberfest go directly back to our schools to support students and staff. We hope to see you there! Come for the fun, stay for the community, and support our schools along the way! LEARN MORE ABOUT OKTOBERFEST Parent Education Opportunities District 58 is proud to partner with the GPS Parent Series to offer free parent education opportunities throughout the year. Families can attend engaging in-person and virtual presentations led by nationally recognized experts, covering a variety of topics with practical, research-based strategies to support children’s learning, well-being, and development. No registration is required, and presentations are available in multiple languages. VIEW PARENT EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES Upcoming Community Events & Programs Join Downers Grove Junior Woman's Club Downers Danes - Youth Lacrosse Skills Camp - Sept. 12 to Oct. 25 Healthy Kids Running Series (Ages 2-14) - Fall 2026 Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival - Sept. 12 & 13 Downers Grove North HS Fall Cheerleading Camp (K-6) Sept. 9-11 Downers Grove Public Library Highlighted Programs - September 2026 Join Girl Scouts! Downers Grove Recycling Extravaganza, September 19 Makers & Merchants Market, Downers Grove Junior Woman's Club - Nov. 14 Stay Connected with Us! Each article in this newsletter will highlight the District 58 Strategic Plan Goal it supports. To learn more about District 58’s Vision 58, visit https://dg58.us/strategic-plan. Goal 1: Focusing on Learning Goal 2: Connecting the Community Goal 3: Securing the Future Goal 4: Building for Success Goal 5: Cultivating Talent Subscribe to District 58 Publications All District 58 families and staff are automatically subscribed to District 58's ParentSquare communications. Non-District 58 community members can sign up for publications: https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe.

Wednesday, Sep 09 2026

Communicate 58: August 26, 2026

Volume 19, Issue 2: Wednesday, August 26, 2026 DG58 Strategic Plan Each article in this newsletter will highlight the strategic goal it supports. To learn more about District 58’s Vision 58, visit https://dg58.us/strategic-plan. Goal 1: Focusing on Learning Goal 2: Connecting the Community Goal 3: Securing the Future Goal 4: Building for Success Goal 5: Cultivating Talent Quicklinks DG58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool DG58 Facebook DG58 X (Twitter) DG58 YouTube Mark Your Calendar! VIEW FULL 2026-27 CALENDAR Thursday, August 27 - full day First Day of School for Grades K-8 Preschool Meet the Teacher (Session times emailed to families) Friday, August 28 First Day of School for Preschool Tuesday, Sept. 1 - 7-8 a.m. Board Policy Committee Meeting at Civic Center Wednesday, Sept. 2 - 6-7:30 p.m. Southside Elementary Curriculum Night (El Sierra, Fairmount, Hillcrest, Indian Trail, Kingsley) Thursday, Sept. 3 - 6-7:30 p.m. Northside Elementary Curriculum Night (Belle Aire, Highland, Henry Puffer, Lester, Pierce Downer, Whittier) Monday, Sept. 7 NO SCHOOL (Labor Day) Tuesday, Sept. 8 Fall MAP Testing Window begins Wednesday, Sept. 9 - 6-7:30 p.m. Herrick Curriculum Night Thursday, Sept. 10 - 6-7:30 p.m. O’Neill Curriculum Night Grove Preschool Curriculum Night Monday, Sept. 14 - 7:00 p.m. Board of Education Regular Meeting at Civic Center Friday, Sept. 18 - Sat., Sept. 19 2026 Downers Grove Oktoberfest Superintendent's Message Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Dear District 58 Community, As we prepare to welcome students back tomorrow, Thursday, August 27, I am filled with excitement for the start of a new school year. A full day of school tomorrow marks the beginning of an especially meaningful year in District 58, with many new opportunities, spaces and experiences for our students, staff and families. This year brings several significant changes for our community. Sixth graders are joining their peers at Herrick and O’Neill Middle Schools, creating new opportunities for students while allowing our elementary schools to make better use of learning and support spaces for grades K-5. Our preschool program is now together under one roof at Henry Puffer School, providing a centralized home for Grove Preschool. Students will also benefit from expanded extracurricular opportunities at the middle schools, including additional sports and activities. And, for the first time in District 58 history, we are offering a hot lunch program for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Our newly renovated middle school kitchens will prepare meals that are also delivered to our elementary schools. These changes are part of the exciting transformation taking place across our district. Following three phases of construction over the past three summers, all 13 schools have benefited from significant improvements, including secure entrances and HVAC systems, updated classrooms and learning spaces, kitchen serveries, and more building enhancements. Tomorrow, however, is about much more than new buildings and programs. It is about the energy that comes with seeing students back in our schools, reconnecting with friends and teachers, and beginning another year of learning and growth. I am grateful to our dedicated staff for all they have done to prepare for this moment, and I appreciate our families and community for their continued partnership and support. Most of all, I am excited to see our students return and to begin this new school year together. Welcome back, District 58! I look forward to a wonderful 2026–27 school year. Sincerely, Dr. Kevin B. Russell Superintendent School Safety Spotlight Keeping Our Schools Safe & Supportive Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 As we begin a new school year, I want to remind families that student and staff safety remains a shared priority across District 58. Creating safe, welcoming schools requires all of us—students, staff, families, and community members—to work together. An important part of school safety is ensuring that every student feels respected and supported. During the opening weeks of school, staff will review expectations for treating others with respect, responding to concerns, and seeking help when something doesn’t feel right. I encourage families to continue these conversations at home. District 58 provides students with resources to report concerns, including Safe2Help Illinois, a monitored system that allows students to confidentially report concerns such as bullying, threats, crises, or other safety issues. Please remind your child(ren) that speaking up is not “tattling”—it is an important way to help keep themselves and others safe. Families can also help by talking with their child(ren) about kindness and respect, reporting bullying or concerning behavior, and using social media responsibly. Remind them that threatening statements (even as a joke) are never appropriate, online or in person. Weapons and lookalike weapons, including toys, are strictly prohibited at school, on school buses, and at school-sponsored activities. Most importantly, please remind your child(ren): If you see something, say something. Reporting a concern gives school staff the opportunity to respond, investigate, and provide support. For more information about District 58’s school safety efforts and resources, please visit www.dg58.org/school-safety. Back-to-School Reminders Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 First Day of School Thursday, August 27 - Grades K-8 Friday, August 28 - Preschool School Hours AM Preschool: 8:50 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Mon.-Fri. PM Preschool: 12:30 p.m.-3:10 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Grades K-5: 8:15 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.* & 8:15 a.m.-3 p.m. Tues-Fri. Grades 6-8: 8:20 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Mon.* & 8:20 a.m.-3:27 p.m. Tues-Fri. Back-to-School Resources Back to School Tool Kit Kindergarten Guide School Supply Lists Bus Route Information Food Services Health Exam & Immunization Requirements Family Resources Hot Lunch Reminders (Grades K-8) Families are encouraged to take advantage of District 58’s hot lunch program, which provides K–8 students with fresh, nourishing meals through our partnership with Whitsons Culinary Group. Visit the Food Services webpage for menus, ordering and payment information, and details about free and reduced-price meals. Elementary families must pre-order and pre-pay hot lunch entrees by Monday at 11:59 p.m. for the following week. Orders for the week of September 7 are due by Monday, August 31. Middle school students do not need to pre-order. 2026-27 Family Handbook As we begin a new school year, we encourage families to take a few minutes to review the District 58 Family Handbook with their student. The Handbook provides important information about District policies, procedures, expectations, and resources to help families and students have a successful school year. It is available in English and Spanish on the District website and in your school office. 2026-27 District 58 Family Handbook (English) 2026-27 Manual Familias del Distrito 58 (Spanish) Communication Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Expanding Our Use of ParentSquare We are excited to expand our use of ParentSquare this school year to strengthen communication and connections between our schools and families. ParentSquare will be used at both of our middle schools this year, where teachers and staff will regularly share important information, updates and reminders on the platform. Elementary teachers will begin using ParentSquare for school-home communications in the 2027–28 school year. We look forward to building on this tool to make it easier for families to stay informed and connected throughout the school year. We encourage families to explore ParentSquare 101 for helpful tips and resources, as well as the ParentSquare Help Articles, to learn more about the platform and make the most of its features. Recommended: Activate your ParentSquare account: Make sure you have activated your account so you can access all of ParentSquare’s features. Set your notification preferences: Customize both where (email, text and/or app) and when (instant notifications or once-daily digest) you receive ParentSquare notifications: Curriculum & Instruction Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 Curriculum Nights We look forward to welcoming our families to Curriculum Nights in September. These evenings provide an opportunity to connect with teachers, learn more about classroom routines and expectations and get a glimpse into the learning and experiences planned for the school year. We encourage families to attend and take advantage of this valuable opportunity to build connections with teachers and strengthen the partnership between home and school. Wednesday, Sept. 2 (6:00-7:30 p.m.) Curriculum Night at El Sierra, Fairmount, Hillcrest, Indian Trail and Kingsley Thursday, Sept. 3 (6:00-7:30 p.m.) Curriculum Night at Belle Aire, Highland, Henry Puffer, Lester, Pierce Downer and Whittier Wednesday, Sept. 9 (6:00-7:30 p.m.) Curriculum Night at Herrick Thursday, Sept. 10 (6:00-7:30 p.m.) Curriculum Night at O’Neill and Grove Preschool Here are some helpful curriculum resources to reference as a companion to Curriculum Night. District 58 Curriculum Homepage Curriculum Night Overview Presentation Curriculum Grade Level Overviews 2026-27 Assessment Calendar Parents and guardians can access the District’s Assessment Calendar, which provides an overview of each assessment, including its purpose, testing dates, intended audience, and estimated testing time. Please note: Our fall testing period begins August 31. Schools will email families their specific testing days. When our District testing window closes, score reports will be sent to families via ParentSquare. VIEW 2026-27 ASSESSMENT CALENDAR High Expectations for All Learners As part of Goal 1 of our Strategic Plan, District 58 is committed to ensuring that every student is supported and challenged to reach their full potential. To support this commitment, the District Curriculum Council collaborated to develop a shared definition of what “high expectations for all learners” means in District 58. The definition was also reviewed with our District Leadership Team to promote a consistent understanding and approach across all of our schools. Families are invited to learn more by reading the full definition: High Expectations for All Learners. Technology Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 5 District-issued devices are important learning tools, and we appreciate families partnering with us to help keep them safe, functional, and ready for learning. Devices of students in Grades K-3 will be charged at school overnight. Students in Grades 4–8 should bring their district-issued device to school fully charged each day. Students are also responsible for taking appropriate care of their device and any District-provided charger, cable, case, or other accessories. Families can help by reminding students to: Charge their device each evening. Carry and store devices carefully. Keep food, drinks, and moisture away from devices. Keep track of chargers, cables, cases, and other accessories. Leave District labels and tags in place. Use District technology appropriately and for learning. Damage, Loss & Replacement Families may be responsible for fees when District technology or accessories are lost, damaged, or require replacement due to misuse or neglect. The District Technology Department will assess damaged devices and coordinate repairs or replacements as needed. Need Technology Help? If your child's District-issued device is damaged, lost, or not working properly, or if your child needs a replacement charger or cable, please submit a request through the District Technology Help Desk. Please include as much information as possible and do not attempt to repair a District-owned device independently. Thank you for helping our students keep their technology ready for learning! Board Updates Strategic Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 The District 58 Board of Education held a regular meeting on Monday, August 10, at the Civic Center. For an overview of the meeting, please see the Board Briefs. The Board's next regular meeting will be on Monday, September 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the Civic Center. Community Relations Strategic Goal: 2 Middle School Library Public Forum Middle School Library Public Forum District 58 recently held a public forum to share information with the community about the 6–8 middle school instructional model and the role of teacher librarians. The presentation outlined districtwide changes and priorities as we implement the new model, including the development of expanded opportunities for students, such as exploratory courses like Technology & Learning. We are excited about the new learning opportunities this model will provide our students and look forward to seeing these opportunities continue to grow. For more information, please review the forum summary and presentation. Parent Learning Opportunities District 58 is proud to partner with the GPS Parent Series to provide free parent education opportunities that help families navigate the joys and challenges of raising children. Throughout the year, families can attend engaging in-person and virtual presentations on a wide variety of topics, led by nationally recognized experts who share practical, research-based strategies to support children's learning, well-being, and development. No registration is required, and presentations are available in multiple languages, making it easy for all families to participate. VIEW PARENT EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES District 99 Football Game Reminders Downers Grove North and Downers Grove South high schools are excited to welcome community members to attend school and athletic events. Please review these football game reminders to help ensure a safe, positive experience for all students, families, and spectators. Help Make Oktoberfest a Success! Join us for the 13th Annual Downers Grove Oktoberfest on Sept. 18–19 in downtown Downers Grove! This popular community tradition features live music from Candlebox, Local H, Ralph’s World and Liquid Soul, along with a Kids Zone and authentic Oktoberfest food and drink. Volunteers are needed to help make this exciting event and fundraiser a success! The Education Foundation of District 58 invites families to join District 58 staff and community members in volunteering at Oktoberfest. Your time and support directly benefit our students and schools! LEARN MORE ABOUT OKTOBERFEST VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP Upcoming Events & Programs Healthy Kids Running Program (ages 2-14) Downers Grove Express Tryouts - 5 Grade Aug. 23 + 30 Downers Grove Public Library Highlighted Programs - August/September 2026 Downers Grove North HS Fall Cheerleading Camp (K-6) Sept. 9-11 Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival - Sept. 12 & 13 Downers Grove Recycling Extravaganza, September 19 Join Girl Scouts! Stay Connected District 58 communications are sent via ParentSquare. Questions? Contact your school office or the Community Relations Office at jrelihan@dg58.org. Subscribe to District 58 Publications Non-District 58 families and community members can sign up for publications at https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe.

Wednesday, Aug 26 2026

District 58 Bus Routes 2026-27

Dear District 58 Families, Bus route information is now available for the 2026–27 school year. Families whose children ride a First Student general education bus can view their child’s route in the PowerSchool Parent Portal. Bus route information is also available on our website for reference at www.dg58.org/bus-routes. Families using specialized transportation will receive route information directly from the transportation company. 2026-27 Bus Route Information Bus route information for your student is posted in your secure PowerSchool Parent Portal account at dg58.powerschool.com. Please note that transportation information is only available through the web portal, not the mobile app. In PowerSchool, select “Transportation Info” from the left-side menu Be sure to check for the 2026-2027 school year route, as prior years may also appear. If you have multiple children, use the navigation bar at the top of the page to toggle between them. Please note: Recent or new transportation requests are still being processed, so route information may not yet be available for all students. Bus route information is also available on the District website at www.dg58.org/bus-routes. For assistance accessing PowerSchool or questions about your student’s bus route, please contact your school office. Travel Math Bus Routes For the first two days of school, Thursday, August 27 and Friday, August 28, all elementary students participating in Travel Math should go directly to their elementary school. Students who are eligible for transportation to their elementary school should take their regular elementary bus route (which is the same bus number as their afternoon bus). Travel Math begins Monday, August 31. Beginning that day, elementary students who are eligible for transportation to their middle school for first-period math will have two assigned bus routes listed in PowerSchool: Morning route: Home to the middle school for math. This route will be identified by the middle school initials (HMS or OMS). Afternoon route: Elementary school to home. This route will be identified by the elementary school initials (for example, FES for Fairmount Elementary School). Please note: The shuttle that transports students from the middle school back to their elementary school after first-period math will not appear in your child’s listed bus routes. Specialized Bus Transportation Families who participate in specialized transportation will receive transportation information directly from the bus company. If you have questions about specialized transportation, please contact your District 58 program coordinator. Transportation Questions? Please view our Bus FAQs webpage and contact your school office if you still need assistance.

Monday, Aug 24 2026

58 Connects: Staff Newsletter 8/19/26

Volume 8, Issue 1: Wednesday, August 19, 2026 WELCOME BACK! Quick Links Staff.Links & Resources Staff Quick Guide: Links/Payroll/Personnel DG58 Website 58 Connects Archive (Staff) Communicate 58 Archive (Community) Social Media DG58 Facebook DG58 X (Twitter) DG58 YouTube DR. RUSSELL'S CORNER Dear District 58 Family, I hope everyone is enjoying the final week of summer! We are thrilled to welcome all staff members back next week at the Tivoli (Monday, 8/24 at 8:00 a.m.). As always, we encourage staff to carpool to the Tivoli, as parking is limited. We have also reached out to the Village of Downers Grove to let them know that we are hosting our back-to-school kick-off, helping to ensure no one receives a ticket for parking. This school year promises to be a time of significant and positive change for our District as we implement our new models (Pre-K–5 and 6–8). Construction is substantially complete, and it is finally time to execute the plans we have all worked so hard on over the last several years! While I recognize that change can be difficult, it is also incredibly exciting to see our hard work come to fruition. It is more important than ever that we support one another so our new models can be successfully implemented. The administration is here to support you through these changes, and we look forward to a year of strong collaboration and shared success. Below, you will find many important updates from the assistant superintendents and other administrators. Please take the time to review this information carefully. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns. I am truly looking forward to seeing everyone on Monday to reconnect, celebrate, and plan for the school year ahead! Best wishes, Kevin Welcome New DG58 Staff! Communication Expanding Our Use of ParentSquare We are looking forward to expanding the District’s use of ParentSquare to continue improving communication and connections with our families. This year, we will implement ParentSquare across both of our middle schools, with teachers and other staff using the platform to regularly share information with parents and guardians. Training will be incorporated into our opening institute day sessions next week. Elementary schools will begin using ParentSquare for school-home communications in 2027-28. ParentSquare Reminders Activate your ParentSquare account: Make sure you have activated your account so you can access all of ParentSquare’s features. Set your notification preferences: Customize both where and when you receive ParentSquare notifications: Where: Email, text, and/or the ParentSquare app When: Instant notifications or a once-daily digest Contact Julie Relihan at jrelihan@dg58.org if you have any questions. ParentSquare 101: Tips & Resources We have added ParentSquare 101 to the District website with helpful tips and resources for using our communication platform. Visit www.dg58.org/parentsquare-101 to learn more and make the most of ParentSquare. Staff Links & Resources We have added Quick Links and Resources to the District website for staff to easily access frequently used information and resources. Visit www.dg58.org and click the Staff icon in the top-right corner of the homepage to explore the available resources. Personnel District “Quick Guide” The DG58 Quick Guide for Payroll and Personnel is a great link to bookmark for all things related to those two departments. It provides information on pay periods, how to request changes, how to request personal days on contractually restricted days, which is a new process this year, and much more. Importantly, it is a living document, so as links change, they will be updated. We encourage staff to bookmark that link! District Office Staff List As many of our staff are about to return to their regular roles, we wanted to provide the updated District Office Staff Directory, which is a great reference that helps you know who to call with which questions (though anyone is always happy to help you and route you to the correct person! Open Coaching Position There is an opportunity to be a girls’ basketball coach at Herrick - this is open to all staff members. Please reach out to Steve Perkins (sperkins@dg58.org) if you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, which comes with a stipend of $3893. Curriculum & Instruction Material Requests/Returns The Curriculum Office had a very busy summer ordering, preparing and delivering materials to all the buildings. Thank you to the curriculum secretaries, building custodians, summer support and curriculum coordinators for their tremendous efforts! We welcomed Doris Chlapecka to our department on July 1. She will be the bookstore secretary moving forward. To access the material order and return forms, please see Material Order Forms under staff links on the website at https://www.dg58.org/staff-links. We ask that everyone use these links when requesting materials. It is the best way for our department to keep track of requests. If questions arise about a request, the department will reach out to you directly. The Core Curriculum Materials link will open on August 31. We are still delivering materials and want to get everyone into their classrooms to see what was delivered before you request additional materials. Please check with your teaching partners, custodians and principal before filling out the form when it opens. Thank you for your cooperation. If you have questions, please contact the Curriculum Office at 630-719-5869. 2026-2027 Curriculum Update Document The curriculum update doc is linked here. The first page has designated grade-level content links and another link with information for all grade levels. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Curriculum Department. 2026-2027 District 58 Professional Learning Calendar - SNEAK PEEK This year’s PLM calendar is linked here. Please note that some weeks may require adjustments. We will try to make those changes as early as possible. An email with all the PLM forms will be sent to staff each Monday. 2026-2027 Assessment Calendar and AIMS Web+ Updates Our District 58 2026-2027 assessment calendar is linked here for your review. Our assessment calendar for the 2026-2027 school year is reflective of the District and State-level assessments that we will administer to students this school year. Special Services ESY Program The District’s Extended School Year (ESY) program for eligible students with special needs has officially wrapped up for the summer. We are pleased to share that over 95 students received targeted special education support throughout the session. This participation level represents a stable enrollment trend for our district, maintaining the strong growth established during last summer’s program when we reached a district high of 100 students. The primary goal of ESY is to help students retain critical skills identified in their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). This summer, our initial exit data show that students maintained or grew in their skills 87% of the time. Remarkably, when factoring out data for students who attended less than 55% of the time, our success rate rises to 92%. This number is commensurate with last year’s strong results, underscoring the vital importance of regular attendance on student outcomes. Furthermore, we want to celebrate the dedication of our families and students, including 23 students who achieved perfect attendance this summer. While the standard mandate of ESY is to prevent regression, our students routinely exceeded expectations. We are thrilled to report that 40% of all identified goal areas showed that students actually gained new skills during their time within our program. This goes above and beyond the expectations of an ESY session and speaks directly to the quality of instruction provided. This success reflects the strength of our ESY programming and the dedication of the educators who brought it to life. Our sincere thanks go to our ESY teachers, related service providers, and support staff, as well as our outstanding ESY co-principals, Lauren Hartelius and Tiffany Williams, for their tireless commitment to our students and their continued growth Technology A Quick Hello from Your New Director of Technology I’m Callie Salaymeh, your new Director of Technology, and I’m excited to officially start the school year with you. I know the beginning of the year brings plenty of technology questions, so my goal is to make it as easy as possible to know where to go, what to do, and how our Technology Team can help. I look forward to working with you this year! New Card Fobs: PaperCut Setup Required for Printing and Copies Staff who are transitioning to a new District card fob will need to link the new fob to their existing PaperCut account before using it at a copier. This is a one-time setup and does not require you to create a new PaperCut account. Please review the PaperCut Hive directions for instructions on linking your new card fob, as well as additional guidance for printing, copying, and scanning. New staff should also use this guide to complete their initial PaperCut setup. Technology Help Desk As you return for the school year, please use the District 58 Technology Help Desk for technology support, including device issues, missing equipment, or problems accessing District resources. Submitting a Help Desk ticket allows the Technology Team to document the issue, route it to the appropriate team member, and track it through resolution. Providing as much detail as possible in your request will help us assist you more efficiently. Access the Help Desk at dg58.incidentiq.com. Student Technology Use: Expectations and Reminders As we begin the school year, we have put together a Student Technology Use: Expectations & Reminders for 2026–27 document for staff. This resource brings together our expectations and best practices for purposeful student technology use, new device policies, charging bundles, classroom device routines, monitoring, responsible use, and device care. Please take some time to thoroughly review the document as you establish technology routines with your students. To help introduce these expectations to students and reinforce proper care for their devices, we have also created Google Slides presentations that you can use and customize with your K–5 students or Grades 6–8 students during the first few weeks of school. Getting Started with Your District iPad - PowerSchool Report Teachers can generate a “Getting Started with Your District iPad” report for individual students or an entire class directly from PowerSchool. The report provides students with their District 58 username and password and can be printed and provided to students as they get started with their device. This report can also be generated throughout the year, making it a helpful resource when welcoming new students or when a student needs another copy of their login information. View directions for running the report in PowerSchool. Google Classroom Refresh Google Classroom has received a major refresh! If you like learning from videos, check out this 60-minute webinar to explore the new layout and features and see how you can use them in your classroom this year. Digital Resource Access We have updated our Digital Resource Access Document for the 2026–27 school year. This guide is intended to be a one-stop resource for staff, students, and families with information about accessing District digital tools, curricular resources, and technology support. Please bookmark it and refer back to it throughout the school year. Community Relations Oktoberfest Needs Volunteers Come celebrate with us at the 13th Annual Downers Grove Oktoberfest on Sept. 18-19 in downtown Downers Grove! This popular community tradition will feature live music from Candlebox, Local H, Ralph’s World and Liquid Soul, along with a Kids Zone and authentic Oktoberfest food and drink. Visit www.dgoktoberfest.org to learn more. The Education Foundation of District 58 relies on the support of volunteers and sponsors to make this exciting event and fundraiser a success. We invite staff to join fellow District 58 colleagues by signing up for a volunteer shift. Thank you for helping support our students and schools! Volunteer sign-up DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe.

Wednesday, Aug 19 2026