10/3/25 newsletter

Grooving in the Grove   Hello Families! Hello all, This weather has been a gift to preschool. We get to spend lots of time outdoors without having to dress everyone up in warm layers! On October 9th sign up will open for parent-teacher conferences. This is a very important step in creating a strong connection between home and school. Please read the article below on how to sign up for a conference. Let your child's teacher know if you have any questions. Have a great weekend! Thank you! Susan Dillon Preschool Coordinator Artwork by Izzy Parent-Teacher Conferences District 58 invites parents and guardians to sign up for fall 2025 parent-teacher conferences using the online PowerPTC conference signup system starting Thursday, October 9 at 11 a.m. via www.PowerPTC.net. The sign-up window will close Friday, October 17 at 11 a.m.  Please view the parent-teacher conference signup guide (para Español: Registro para las reuniones de padres y maestros) to learn how to sign up for a conference using the system, along with other helpful information. Parent-teacher conferences will be held in person. However, families who require a remote option should schedule their conference in PowerPTC and then change the meeting type from “in person” to “video conference.”  Conferences will take place on the evenings of Tuesday, October 21, and Thursday, October 23. Dogs on school property In order to ensure student safety, the district does not allow dogs on school property between the hours of 7:30 and 4:30. The preschool staff appreciates your cooperation with this rule!   Link to coloring page   Toddler Toys Wanted! The preschool is in need of some toddler age toys for our youngest learners, preferably ones that light up or "do something" in order to engage and hold the attention of students. If you have any of this kind of toy that you are willing to donate please send them in with your child. Thank you!   Join a District Committee! Want to make a difference in our schools? District 58 invites parents/guardians, staff, and community members to join a council or Board committee for the 2025-26 school year. Share your ideas, connect with others, and help shape the future of our students!  View Letter from Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell on committee recruitment Learn more about each council/committee Complete the Committee Interest Form by Friday, October 3, to apply to join a District 58 committee/council   Physical Exam/Immunization Record due Oct. 15th 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 and submit completed health forms by October 15. To learn more, please visit the Health Services page on the District 58 website.  Due to our later start this year, after Labor Day, the October 15 deadline will arrive quickly. Please plan ahead to ensure your child’s required forms are completed and submitted on time. Failure to comply with these requirements by October 15 or within 30 days of enrollment for first-time registrants will result in your child’s exclusion from school until the required documentation is received. Please note that all sections of the child examination form must be completed, including the health history, which must be filled out by a parent or guardian. These forms can be turned in at Indian Trail or Henry Puffer, or emailed to Peggy Delaney (pdelaney@dg58.org)   School Visitor Policy District 58 will use the Raptor Visitor Management System in all of our schools to strengthen our program of campus safety for students and faculty. The Raptor system will better allow us to screen visitors, contractors, and volunteers in our schools and know who is in our building at all times. Upon entering a school, visitors will be asked to present photo identification, such as a Driver’s License, which can either be scanned or manually entered into the system. If a parent or guardian for any reason does not have a US government-issued ID, the school staff member can use any form of identification and manually enter the person’s name into the Raptor system. The Raptor system checks the visitor's name and date of birth for comparison with a national database of registered sex offenders. The registered sex offender database is the only official database checked by the Raptor system. No other data from the ID is gathered or recorded and the information is not shared with any outside agency. Once entry is approved, Raptor will issue a badge that identifies the visitor, the date, and the purpose of his/her visit. A visitor’s badge will not be necessary for those who drop off an item in the office or pick up paperwork.   25-26 Preschool Calendar Preschool Handbook Snack Policy Drop off/Pick up Procedures Supply List Preschool Pics!   Upcoming events in preschool October 13th - NO PRESCHOOL - Columbus Day October 14th - NO PRESCHOOL - Professional Development Day October 21st and 23rd - Parent-Teacher Conferences October 31st - VIP Day - more information to follow! November 3rd - NO PRESCHOOL - Screening Day   Events and Activities for Families Downers Grove Farmers Market Scarecrow Story Walk in Westmont Lombard Fall Fest Downers Grove Library Story Time Resources for families Here is a great article shared with me by our social worker: How to Handle After School Melt Downs with your Child   Questions or concerns? If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me. (630)968-4579 sdillon@dg58.org

Friday, Oct 03 2025

Communicate 58: September 24, 2025

Volume 18, Issue 5: Wednesday, September 24, 2025 QUICK LINKS D58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool D58 Calendar 2025-26 D58 Facebook D58 X (Twitter) D58 YouTube   Mark Your Calendar! View the full 2025-26 calendar Wednesday, Oct. 1 3:45-5 pm - Board of Education: Legislative Committee Meeting, the Civic Center Thursday, Oct. 2 National Custodial Workers Recognition Day Thursday, Oct. 9 11:00 am - Parent-Teacher Conference Sign-Up Opens Friday, Oct. 10 7-8 am - Board of Education: Financial Advisory Committee Meeting, the Civic Center Monday, Oct. 13 No School - Columbus Day Thursday, Oct. 16 7:00 pm - Regular Board of Education Meeting, the Civic Center Friday, Oct. 17 11:00 am - Parent-Teacher Conference Sign-Up Closes Tuesday, Oct. 21 5-8 pm - Parent-Teacher Conferences Thursday, Oct. 23 5-8 pm - Parent-Teacher Conferences Wednesday, Oct. 29 6:30 pm - BPAC Meeting at El Sierra GREETINGS FROM SUPERINTENDENT DR. RUSSELL Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Dear District 58 Community, We loved seeing so many parents and guardians at our recent Curriculum Nights! It is always wonderful to connect with families and share more about the experiences students will have this year. We look forward to continuing these conversations during the upcoming fall parent-teacher conferences on October 21 and 23. (Please see below for details on how to sign up for conferences.) District 58 is fortunate to have such engaged families, staff and community members who care deeply about the quality of education their children receive and are eager to contribute to the district’s decision-making process. We value the diverse perspectives our community provides and, each year, invite members to join a District committee or council to share their ideas and feedback. This year, we are recruiting parents/guardians, staff and community members for the following committees and councils: 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 To learn more: Click here to learn about each group, including goals, available spots and meeting dates.  Click here to learn about the recruitment process Please complete the Committee Interest Form by Friday, October 3, to apply. Thank you for your interest and for helping shape the future of District 58! Sincerely, Dr. Kevin B. Russell Superintendent of Schools BUILDINGS & GROUNDS Celebrating National Custodial Workers Day Next Wednesday, October 2, is National Custodial Workers Day, and we want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to our custodial and maintenance staff for keeping our schools clean, safe and functional each day! We are especially grateful for their flexibility and dedication as they work around the added challenges of referendum construction. Your hard work and commitment do not go unnoticed—thank you! CURRICULUM Strategic Goals 1, 2 Fall assessment results coming home Oct. 3 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 plans to send paper reports home on Friday, October 3. Additionally, we will be adding assessment reports in ParentSquare for your convenience. To access this secure document, you will need to register (activate) your ParentSquare account.  How to register your ParentSquare account: If you have not registered (activated) your account, today you will receive an invitation email and/or text with a direct link to “Activate Your Account.” Or on your browser, go to https://www.parentsquare.com/sign or download the free ParentSquare app (see step-by-step instructions). Enter your email or phone number, then click “Get Started.” You can also use your credentials and password with Google or Microsoft to sign in. 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.   Strategic Goals 1, 2 Parent-teacher conference signups open on Oct. 9 District 58 invites parents and guardians to sign up for fall 2025 parent-teacher conferences using the online PowerPTC conference signup system starting Thursday, October 9 at 11 a.m. via www.PowerPTC.net. The sign-up window will close Friday, October 17 at 11 a.m.  Please view the parent-teacher conference signup guide (para Español: Registro para las reuniones de padres y maestros) to learn how to sign up for a conference using the system, along with other helpful information. Parent-teacher conferences will be held in person. However, families who require a remote option should schedule their conference in PowerPTC and then change the meeting type from “in person” to “video conference.”  Conferences will take place on the evenings of Tuesday, October 21, and Thursday, October 23. SPECIAL SERVICES Strategic Goals 1, 2. Health exam and immunization forms due Oct. 15 A friendly reminder: Tuesday, October 15, is the deadline for students in grades K, 2, and 6, as well as any new students, to submit 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.   Strategic Goals 1, 2, 5 Free developmental screenings Do you have little ones at home—or know someone who does? District 58 offers free preschool and developmental screenings for children from birth through age 5. These screenings help identify young children who may have developmental delays and could benefit from early support or special education before starting kindergarten. All children must live within District 58 boundaries. Help us spread the word and give every child a strong start! Learn more here. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Strategic Goals 1, 2 District 58 School Safety In the last issue of Communicate 58, we shared a link to our Emergency Preparedness webpage, which covers several key school safety topics. Throughout the year, we will continue to highlight parts of this series in our newsletter. Today, we’re taking a closer look at how District 58 proactively addresses school safety: 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 based on national best practices and the unique safety needs of our district and schools. The District also has a Threat Assessment Team comprised of administrators, social workers, other school staff and Downers Grove police that regularly meets to assess and address potential concerns. Any updates to emergency procedures are shared with administrators and principals, who review the plans with teachers and staff at the start of the school year and throughout the year as needed. To maintain safety, detailed plan information is only shared with employees and emergency responders. Each classroom is equipped with an emergency action guide and an ALICE safety protocol reference card, which teachers and students can quickly use during emergencies. These guides are also provided to substitute teachers. District 58 schools regularly review safety and behavior expectations with students in an age-appropriate way. Presentations focus on promoting respectful, responsible, and safe behavior, covering topics such as school visitor protocols, technology safety, harassment and bullying, prohibited items, and expectations and consequences. SCHOOL BOARD NEWS Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 The District 58 Board of Education held a regular meeting on Monday, September 8, at the Civic Center. View the Agenda and Board Briefs for more information. The Board's next business meeting is Thursday, October 16, at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center. COMMUNITY Strategic Goal 2 In case you missed it Annual Report 2025 District 58’s 2025 Annual Report is here, highlighting district news, Strategic Plan progress, and more; view it online or in the mailed copy delivered to your home. Helping Hands Network Helping Hands connects caring community members with families in need, providing essentials like winter clothing, food and gift cards. Last year alone, over 100 donations made a big difference for students. Join the network today at https://dg58.us/D58HelpingHands. Thank you for school supply donations! A big thank you to the community groups who generously donated school supplies to our students this fall, including Community Christian Church, Catholic Charities (Diocese of Joliet), DURAVANT, The Kim Moustis Group - Keller Williams Experience and Next Phase Advisory Group! Your support helps ensure every child has the tools they need to learn, grow and succeed. We are grateful for your partnership in supporting District 58 students and families! Thank you for attending Oktoberfest! The 12th Downers Grove Oktoberfest was a huge success! Thanks to the incredible support of attendees, volunteers, coordinators, sponsors, and community partners, all proceeds from this annual festival will benefit the Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58. These funds directly support programs for District 58 students and staff. Learn more about the Foundation at www.58foundation.org. Upcoming Community Events and Programs Ladies Day & Night Out School Fundraiser - 9/25/25 4-Wall Handball at Westmont Park District Fitness Center - Fall and Winter 2025 Sessions Downers Grove South Dance Halftime Experience - October 2025  DG Fire Department - Night at the Firehouse 10/8/2025 2025-26 GPS Parent Series: Navigating Healthy Families E-Flyers are also posted online at https://www.dg58.org/community-engagement/e-flyers.   This publication and other messages from District 58 and our school offices will be sent via our new communication platform, ParentSquare. Please contact your school office or the Community Relations Office at jrelihan@dg58.org with any questions or for more information. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST If you are not a District 58 parent/guardian or staff member and you would like to subscribe to receive our community publications, please sign up at https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe.

Wednesday, Sep 24 2025

Communicate 58: September 10, 2025

Volume 18, Issue 4: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 QUICK LINKS D58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool D58 Calendar 2025-26 D58 Facebook D58 X (Twitter) D58 YouTube   Mark Your Calendar! View the full 2025-26 calendar Wednesday, Sept. 10 6-7:30 pm - Curriculum Night at El Sierra, Fairmount, Indian Trail, Hillcrest and Kingsley Friday, Sept. 12 4:30-11 pm - Downers Grove Oktoberfest Saturday, Sept. 13 11 am-11 pm - Downers Grove Oktoberfest Wednesday, Sept. 17 5:15-5:45 pm - 6th Grade Gifted Curriculum Night at Henry Puffer 6-7:30 pm - Curriculum Nights for Herrick (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Indian Trail 6:30-7:30 pm - BPAC Meeting at El Sierra Thursday, Sept. 18 6-7:30 pm - Curriculum Nights for O’Neill (7th + 8th Grades) Preschool at Henry Puffer Monday, Sept. 22 8-11:30 am - Preschool Screening at Henry Puffer Monday, Oct. 13 No School - Columbus Day Thursday, Oct. 16 7:00 pm - Regular Board of Education Meeting, the Civic Center GREETINGS FROM SUPERINTENDENT DR. RUSSELL Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Dear District 58 Community, Tomorrow, 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 time to discuss this important day with children in a way that is appropriate for their age and understanding. District 58 honors the many lives lost on September 11th and recognizes the courage of first responders and others who selflessly helped that day. As part of our school messages, students will be encouraged to find ways to show courage, kindness and selflessness in their own lives. We also remind students to say “thank you” to first responders who work tirelessly to keep our community safe. As we reflect on Patriot Day and honor the courage and selflessness of first responders, September also marks National Emergency Preparedness Month. At District 58, the safety of our students, staff and visitors is our top priority. We encourage families to review the important information on our website about how the District prepares for, communicates, and responds to emergencies.  Guidance is available on our Emergency Preparedness webpage, which includes information on several key topics: How District 58 proactively addresses school safety How families can prepare for school emergencies and promote a safe environment How the District communicates emergency information How the District responds in the event of an emergency Taking time to review these resources helps ensure that our schools and families are prepared and informed. Additionally, please ensure your child’s school has your current contact information. District 58 and our schools use ParentSquare to send all safety messages and emergency alerts. Verifying your email addresses and phone numbers in both PowerSchool and ParentSquare helps ensure that you receive critical information promptly. Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we can ensure a safe, engaging, and successful school year for every student. Sincerely, Dr. Kevin B. Russell Superintendent of Schools CURRICULUM Strategic Goals 1, 2, 4, 5 Curriculum Nights We hope you had the chance to attend your child’s Curriculum Night, and if not, we look forward to welcoming you soon! These events offer you the chance to meet teachers, learn about classroom expectations, and gain a deeper understanding of the learning experiences available to your student this school year. It is a meaningful way to strengthen the home-and-school partnership essential to supporting your child's growth and learning. 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 Tuesday, Sept. 9 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) (LAST NIGHT) Curriculum Night at Belle Aire, Henry Puffer, Highland, Lester, Pierce Downer and Whittier Wednesday, Sept. 10 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at El Sierra, Fairmount, Indian Trail, Hillcrest and Kingsley Wednesday, Sept. 17 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at Herrick (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Indian Trail Thursday, Sept. 18 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at O’Neill (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Henry Puffer   Professional Learning Mondays - what are they? Every Monday, students in grades K-6 are dismissed at 2 p.m., and students in grades 7-8 are dismissed at 2:10 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. Special Services Preschool and Developmental Screenings The District 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. We offer 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. SCHOOL BOARD NEWS Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Board Briefs - New Location To help streamline communications, District 58 will begin sharing monthly Board Briefs with key updates from Board of Education meetings as part of the Communicate 58 e-newsletter. Board Briefs will also be posted in your ParentSquare feed, on the District website under the School Board tab, and on District 58’s social media channels. The District 58 Board of Education held a regular meeting on Monday, September 8, at the Civic Center. The Board's next business meeting is Thursday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center. View Board Briefs 9/8/2025 AROUND THE DISTRICT Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 DIstrict 58’s Annual Report 2025 - view This year’s Annual Report highlights exciting District news, updates, and progress on our Strategic Plan. Copies were recently mailed to every household in District 58, and the full report is also available on our website. We encourage families to take a moment to explore the accomplishments and initiatives that make our schools strong and vibrant. Back to School 2025-26 - view photos Smiles, backpacks, and back-to-school excitement—our favorite sights of the year! Welcome back, District 58 students and families! Here’s to new adventures, big growth and lasting memories. Enjoy these snapshots from across the District! Surprise Shopping Spree - view photos / watch news story Staff at Herrick and O'Neill middle schools had an unforgettable start to the 2025-26 school year thanks to a generous surprise from community partners Office Depot and Boise Paper, who donated a shopping spree to help staff gather the necessary supplies for a successful year. The event was made possible by the Education Foundation, which coordinated the donation and ensured staff could enjoy the experience. Local media, including @NBCChicago, helped share the story, highlighting the incredible support from the community. District 58 is grateful for these partnerships that empower staff and enrich the learning experience for students. COMMUNICATIONS Strategic Goal 2 D58’s ParentSquare Spotlights Simple tips and updates to keep you connected all year! Learn more at https://www.dg58.org/community-engagement/parentsquare. Subscribe to ParentSquare Calendar English / Spanish You can subscribe to the ParentSquare calendar for District 58 and/or your child’s school to stay up to date on upcoming activities and events. RSVP to an Event English / Spanish If an event is included in a post, you can easily RSVP directly within the post, letting us know if you can attend, how many adults and children will be joining, and adding any questions you may have. Download School Events to Personal Calendar You can save a ParentSquare calendar entry or RSVP directly to your personal calendar. Simply open the post, click the drop-down next to the date and time, and select your preferred calendar (Google, Outlook, iCal, or another option). COMMUNITY RELATIONS Strategic Goal 2 Helping Hands The Helping Hands program connects generous community members with students and families experiencing hardship. Volunteers sign up to be contacted on a no-obligation basis when a specific need arises. We value our volunteers’ time and typically reach out to members only a handful of times each year. Last year, Helping Hands coordinated over 100 donations, including winter coats, boots, snow pants, children’s clothing, food items and gift cards. These contributions made a meaningful impact, ensuring students stayed warm, attended essential medical appointments and felt supported by their school community. All donations are tracked internally to ensure transparency and accountability.  Join the Helping Hands network at https://dg58.us/D58HelpingHands.   Join Us at Oktoberfest! The Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58 will host their 12th Annual Oktoberfest on Friday, Sept. 12 (4:30-11 p.m.) and Saturday, Sept. 13 (11 a.m.-11 p.m.) in the parking lot on Burlington Avenue between Main Street and Forest Avenue. Visit www.dgoktoberfest.org to learn more. The Foundation relies on support from volunteers to make its annual Oktoberfest fundraiser a success! Sign up to volunteer  Purchase Tickets   Attending a District 99 football game? District 99 invites District 58 students, families and staff to attend football games at Downers Grove North and Downers Grove South this fall. To promote a safe environment for all spectators, they have established the following guidelines. Thank you in advance for following these expectations. Children younger than high school age must have a responsible parent or guardian present in the stadium at all times. Re-entry will not be allowed.   Outside beverages cannot be brought into the stadium. Balls, frisbees or other like items shall not be permitted. Skateboards, hoverboards, bicycles or other like items shall not be permitted. Student backpacks cannot be brought into the stadium. Small bags and personal items may be subject to inspection. No entry after half-time.   This publication and other messages from District 58 and our school offices will be sent via our new communication platform, ParentSquare. Please contact your school office or the Community Relations Office at jrelihan@dg58.org with any questions or for more information. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST If you are not a District 58 parent/guardian or staff member and you would like to subscribe to receive our community publications, please sign up at https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe.

Wednesday, Sep 10 2025

Board Briefs: Sept. 8, 2025 Regular Meeting

September 8, 2025 Regular Meeting The District 58 Board of Education held a Regular Meeting on Monday, September 8, 2025, 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. Budget Hearing & Business Department Updates A public hearing was held on District 58's Budget for FY26. Assistant Superintendent for Business/CSBO Dr. Gregory Harris gave a presentation to the Board on the District's Budget for FY26 and other business department updates: Key points included: The Tentative Budget was shared with the public for 30 days on the website and in the District Office. Board members reviewed and discussed the Tentative Budget at the August 11 meeting and at the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) meeting.  The District has conducted a careful review of spending, revenues, and fund balances to ensure responsible financial management. Recent key adjustments include increased costs for teacher lane changes, departmental budget reductions, greater-than-expected savings in SASED tuition, and the reduction of vacant Instructional Assistant positions. Together, these changes resulted in an increased tentative surplus, supporting both financial stability and student services. Although the District’s budget is balanced and last year ended with a surplus, revenues are not keeping pace with rising expenditures. Financial pressures include: (1) Increased student support services post-pandemic, despite the end of federal COVID-19 funding. (2) Transportation costs nearly doubling due to higher labor, fuel, and state and federal mandated expenses; (3) Significant decreases in state reimbursements for mandated categorical reimbursements (transportation and special education); and (4) Broader challenges such as inflation, tax caps, low property tax growth, and imprecise forecasting models. These significant economic factors impact the District’s ability to meet its 35% fund balance policy and to complete the required $750,000 annual capital transfer. Like many other school districts, District 58 must carefully manage cash flow (fund balances) to meet our needs during our low cash point in May each year due to the timing of property tax receipts.  The Board had in-depth discussions regarding the importance of actively addressing these budget challenges while continuing to provide high-quality programs and support for all students. Moving forward, the District will: (1) Continue to plan proactively to maintain fiscal stability and maintain transparency; (2) Update financial assumptions, projections, and reporting models to improve accuracy, reliability and transparency; (3) Refine the fund balance policy to ensure clarity and understanding; (4) Continue to look for opportunities to advocate for reimbursement of dramatically increased state-mandated transportation costs related to the Interim Housing Center (IHC) within District 58 boundaries; and (5) Manage May cash flow prior to receiving the June property tax receipts The Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) will meet more frequently to review these strategies to support the District’s long-term financial health. There was no public comment at the Budget Hearing. VIEW PRESENTATION Spotlight on our Schools: Staffing Update Assistant Superintendent for Personnel & Staff Development Mr. Justin Sisul gave a presentation to the Board on School Staffing for 2025-26. Key points included: District 58 welcomes 4,858 students this school year, including 157 preschoolers, 3,599 elementary students, and 1,049 middle school students. 53 students enrolled in the District do not currently attend one of our programs or schools. District 58 continues to prioritize class size targets as established in the 2018-19 school year as much as reasonably possible, with an emphasis on balancing class sizes across the District’s neighborhood model schools and keeping students in their home schools. This helps ensure that every child receives the attention and support they need to thrive. Eighty-seven percent of the current District K-6 classrooms are at or below the targets established in 2019 (80% of classrooms with 24 or fewer students in grades K-2, and 80% of classrooms with 26 or fewer students in grades 3-6). Sixty-seven percent of our 7-8 grade classrooms are at or below the class size target (80% of classrooms with 26 students or fewer). The District also prioritizes providing quality supports and services across all 13 schools in all instructional environments and hiring highly qualified, child-centered educators for all positions. The majority of classrooms are below class size targets (74% districtwide) and all certified teaching positions and Instructional Assistant positions are fully staffed. Communication has occurred or is scheduled to occur with families and staff, where classes are over the target numbers. The District will continue to closely monitor enrollment, class sizes, and student needs throughout the year, making adjustments if necessary to provide the best possible learning environment for all children. VIEW PRESENTATION Spotlight on our Schools: Phase II Construction Update Jordan Schulz, Huffman Keel/Forge, gave a presentation to the Board on Phase II Construction. Key points included: With a big final push of summer construction through August, all buildings were ready for the September 2nd school start, despite some weather-related and other minor delays. Landscaping and punch list work continue at O’Neill and Herrick. Phase I schools (Highland, Hillcrest, Puffer, Whittier) are complete, including final items such as new windows at Henry Puffer and Highland. Phase II schools (Fairmount, Indian Trail, Kingsley, Lester) were completed and turned over smoothly; punch lists and system checks continue. Phase III schools (Belle Aire, El Sierra, Pierce Downer) are in final design, with bids planned this fall. Overall: 80% of referendum construction complete, 94% of costs committed, 78% of contingency allocated. VIEW PRESENTATION Superintendent's Report Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell provided several departmental updates to the Board, including: Personnel: In addition to the staffing spotlight presentation (see above), the Board received information on two annual reports. The 2025–26 IMRF compensation report and the 2024–25 teacher and administrator salary and benefits report will be posted on the District website under About → Finance and Transparency. Curriculum and Instruction: All District 58 families are invited to attend their school’s upcoming Curriculum Night over the next two weeks. These evenings allow parents and guardians to meet staff, learn about class and course structures, and learn about District and school initiatives. Finance: A finance update was provided to the Board (see above).  Technology:  Staff have been working in school buildings to ensure all systems are fully operational, with extra attention being given to areas impacted by construction. Special Services: District 58 offers preschool screenings for children ages 3–5 and developmental screenings for children from birth to age 3 throughout the school year. These screenings help identify children who may benefit from special education services before kindergarten, as well as those who may be at risk for future academic challenges due to environmental, cultural, or socio-economic factors. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please contact the Preschool Office at 630-968-0454. Facilities: An update on Phase II Construction was provided to the Board (see above). Public Relations: Herrick and O’Neill staff received a generous surprise when Office Depot and Boise Paper donated $10,000 to each school for a school supply shopping spree. The gift, coordinated by the Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58, was split evenly among staff, giving teachers the opportunity to stock up on much-needed classroom supplies. Local media, including NBC Chicago, helped share this uplifting story of community support. The Education Foundation will host its largest annual fundraiser, Oktoberfest, this weekend in downtown Downers Grove. The event features live music, authentic German food, a Kids Zone and more. All proceeds will benefit programs supporting District 58 students and staff. Business Report Assistant Superintendent for Business/CSBO Dr. Gregory Harris presented a monthly business and treasurer’s report to the Board. Key points included: A comprehensive business update and discussion occurred earlier in the meeting (see above). Year-to-date reports were provided to the Board. Information was shared relating to recommended rental rates and tiers for community use of District 58’s updated facilities. It was recommended that the Board authorize a transfer of funds from the Working Cash Fund to the Transportation Fund for FY25. Committee Updates Board members shared the following committee updates: Key points included: The Policy Committee has not met since the last Board Meeting. Board President Mr. Darren Hughes provided an update on the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) meeting, including reference to earlier discussions during the Budget and Business Update presentation (see above). The FAC will meet more frequently this year to continue exploring strategies to promote financial stability, sustainability, and cash flow. The committee will also focus on refining the Board’s fund balance policy and advocating for reimbursement of state-mandated categorical expenses. Board Member Nicole Bernard reported that the Health & Wellness Committee received a financial analysis from Gallagher on 2025–26 projected costs versus spending across the District’s four health plans. While health care costs are expected to rise, the estimates shared are about half of what other self-insured cohorts are experiencing. The Legislative Committee has not met since the last Board meeting. The District Leadership Team has not met since the last Board meeting. Board Recommendations for Action The Board of Education approved the following recommendations for action: Approved minutes of the August 11 Regular Meeting. Consent Agenda items approved as presented, including routine business and personnel reports. Approved the District's FY26 Budget. Approved the Memorandum of Understanding: Additional Work Hours for Registered Nurses at Preschool Buildings. Approved PRESS Issue 119 Board Policy Updates. Approved the Resolution Authoring Transfer (Loan) of Moneys from the Working Cash Fund for FY25. Approved Building Rental Rates and Tiers for community use of District 58 facilities. VIEW AGENDA & RELATED DOCUMENTS Other During the meeting, the Board also:  Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell reported that SASED is entering budget season and continues to work toward more transparent billing statements. District 58 has built contingencies into its budget and is seeing lower-than-anticipated tuition expenses. Discussions also continue regarding available SASED building space, with encouragement to explore community facility options before considering large-scale construction projects. Eleven parents/guardians of Kingsley Kindergarten students shared concerns during Public Comment about current class sizes and requested additional support, either through an added instructional assistant or a new classroom teacher. Upcoming Events October 1, 2025, 3:45 p.m. ~ Legislative Committee ~ Downers Grove Civic Center October 10, 2025, 7 a.m. ~ Financial Advisory Committee ~ Downers Grove Civic Center October 16, 2025, 7 p.m. (Thursday) ~ Regular Board Meeting ~ Downers Grove Civic Center   This publication and other messages from District 58 and our school offices will be sent via our new communication platform, ParentSquare. Please contact your school office or the Community Relations Office at jrelihan@dg58.org with any questions or for more information. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST If you are not a District 58 parent/guardian or staff member and you would like to subscribe to receive our community publications, please sign up at https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 850 Curtiss St., Ste. 200, Downers Grove, IL 60515 / (630) 719-5800

Wednesday, Sep 10 2025

Board Preview: Sept. 8 Regular Board Meeting

BOARD PREVIEW 9/8/2025 Board of Education Regular Meeting The District 58 Board of Education will hold a Regular Business Meeting on Monday, September 8, 2025 at 7 p.m. at the Downers Grove Civic Center, 850 Curtiss St., Downers Grove, IL 60515.  The public may also view the meeting remotely, via the Village of Downers Grove’s YouTube account.  Board Meeting Agenda The agenda covers many topics, including: A presentation and public hearing on District 58's Budget for FY26. A spotlight on District 58’s schools with updates on staffing and Phase II construction. Reports on recent committee meetings, including the Financial Advisory Committee and the Health & Wellness Committee.  A recommendation to approve the FY26 Budget as presented. A recommendation to approve a Memorandum of Understanding: Additional Work Hours for Registered Nurses at Preschool Buildings. A recommendation to approve Board policy updates from PRESS Issue 119. A recommendation to adopt a resolution authorizing a transfer (loan) of moneys from the Working Cash Fund to the Transportation Fund. A recommendation to approve new rates for building rentals. View more information about these topics and all Board meeting topics in the Board agenda at https://dg58.us/boe_agenda. Public Participation How to make a public comment during the meeting: The Board encourages pubic 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.   JOIN OUR MAILING LIST If you are not a District 58 parent/guardian or staff member and you would like to subscribe to receive our community publications, please sign up at https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList. PARENTSQUARE This publication and other messages from District 58 and our school offices will be sent through our new communication platform, ParentSquare. Please contact your school office or the Community Relations Office at jrelihan@dg58.org with any questions or for more information. DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 850 Curtiss St., Ste. 200, Downers Grove, IL 60515 / (630) 719-5800

Friday, Sep 05 2025

Communicate 58: August 27, 2025

Volume 18, Issue 3: Wednesday, August 27, 2025 District 58's Strategic Plan: Vision 58 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 Quick LInks D58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool D58 Calendar 2025-26 D58 Facebook D58 X (Twitter) D58 YouTube   Mark Your Calendar! Thursday, Aug. 28 2:45-3:30 p.m. - Teacher Meet & Greet at all elementary schools 5:00-7:00 p.m. - Locker Setup Night at the middle schools Tuesday, Sept. 2 First Day of School for Grades K-8 (Full Day) Preschool Meet the Teacher (Session times emailed to families) Wednesday, Sept. 3 First Day of School for Preschool Monday, Sept. 8 7 p.m. - Regular Board of Education Meeting, The Civic Center Tuesday, Sept. 9 6-7:30 p.m. - Curriculum Night at Belle Aire, Henry Puffer, Highland, Lester, Pierce Downer and Whittier Wednesday, Sept. 10 6-7:30 p.m. - Curriculum Night at El Sierra, Fairmount, Indian Trail, Hillcrest and Kingsley Wednesday, Sept. 17 6-7:30 p.m. - Curriculum Night for Herrick (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Indian Trail Thursday, Sept. 18 6-7:30 p.m. - Curriculum Night for O’Neill (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Henry Puffer School Hours Preschool: 8:50-11:30 a.m. (morning session); 12:30-3:10 p.m. (afternoon session), Monday-Friday * Kindergarten and Grades 1-6: 8:15 a.m.-2 p.m. on Monday and 8:15 a.m.-3 p.m. on Tuesday-Friday Grades 7-8: 8:30 a.m.- 2:10 p.m. on Monday and 8:30 a.m.-3:17 p.m. on Tuesday-Friday. Early Bird classes (band, choir and orchestra) will take place from 7:45-8:25 a.m. Monday-Friday NOTE: District 58 has a Professional Learning Mondays (PLM) program. Every Monday, students in grades K-6 will be dismissed at 2 p.m. and students in grades 7-8 at 2:10 p.m. to allow teachers time for professional learning. This dedicated time helps teachers implement new curriculum resources, improve their instructional practice, and better provide students with high-quality learning experiences. GREETINGS FROM SUPERINTENDENT DR. RUSSELL Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Dear District 58 Community, We are excited to kick off the 2025–26 school year, with students returning to classrooms on Tuesday, September 2. Over the summer, District 58 welcomed four new administrators, 14 teachers, and 18 support staff. Staff gathered this morning for our Opening Day event, and we are eager to see students back in our hallways next week! Construction Update Our four Phase II elementary schools and two middle schools have undergone significant improvements during summer construction, and we are excited about the many benefits these updates will bring to our students and staff. Construction crews are working diligently to ensure the buildings are ready to welcome students next week. While some finishing touches and small items may remain, this work will take place after school hours and on weekends to avoid disrupting learning. Safety Reminders As the year begins, I want to highlight school safety as an important priority. District 58 partners with students, staff, families, and the community to provide safe and supportive learning environments. During the first weeks of school, staff will review age-appropriate safety information with students, and we ask parents and guardians to reinforce these reminders at home. District 58’s safety measures include: Safe2Help Illinois, a monitored system where students can confidentially report a crisis, threat, or bullying. Screening all school visitors through the Raptor System. A lanyard and identification system for all staff and visitors. The ALICE Model, a comprehensive framework for emergency preparedness and response. More secure entrances at all schools. Ongoing age-appropriate safety conversations with students. Another key component of safety starts at home. Please discuss responsible social media use with your child(ren) and explain why threatening statements (even as jokes) are never acceptable, either online or in person. Students must also understand that weapons or lookalike weapons, including toys, are strictly prohibited at school, on buses, and at school activities. Finally, please remind your child(ren): If you see something, say something. Promptly sharing concerns with school staff allows us to investigate quickly and work with law enforcement when needed. We know these conversations can feel difficult, but by proactively reviewing our safety measures and expectations, we can work together to keep District 58 schools safe. Curriculum Nights Our schools look forward to welcoming families to Curriculum Nights in September. These events give parents the opportunity to meet teachers, learn about classroom expectations, and gain a deeper understanding of the learning experiences their children will have throughout the year. I encourage you to attend your school’s Curriculum Night, as it is a valuable way to strengthen the home-school partnership and support student success. Thank you for your partnership and support. We look forward to a positive and successful school year! Sincerely, Dr. Kevin B. Russell Superintendent of Schools Tuesday, Sept. 9 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at Belle Aire, Henry Puffer, Highland, Lester, Pierce Downer and Whittier Wednesday, Sept. 10 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at El Sierra, Fairmount, Indian Trail, Hillcrest and Kingsley Wednesday, Sept. 17 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at Herrick (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Indian Trail Thursday, Sept. 18 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at O’Neill (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Henry Puffer CURRICULUM Strategic Goals 1, 2, 4, 5 Helpful Curriculum Resources District 58 will host Curriculum Nights for parents and guardians at all schools in the coming weeks. 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 2025-26 Assessments Parents and guardians may access the District's assessment calendar, which outlines each assessment, its purpose, testing dates, target audience, and estimated length. View the Assessment Calendar. Please note: Our fall testing period begins September 3rd! Schools will email families their specific testing days. High Expectations of All Students As part of Goal 1 in our Strategic Plan, District 58 is committed to ensuring that every student is supported and challenged to reach their full potential. The District Curriculum Council collaborated to create 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 consistency across all schools. You can read the full District 58 definition of High Expectations for All Learners linked here. STUDENT TECHNOLOGY Strategic Goals 1, 5 Elementary iPad Chargers As a reminder, we did not collect iPad chargers for most returning students. Kindergarten iPads will be provided with chargers, and 2nd grade iPads will be provided with chargers (they have new chargers). Returning students in grades 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 will not be supplied with chargers. Should a student require a new charger, a $25 fee will be assessed. Student iPads use an Apple Lightning charger in all grades, except 2nd grade. FOOD SERVICES Strategic Goal 1 District 58 offers meal options for elementary and middle school students. Middle School Food Service The middle schools provide several lunch options daily for students. Lunches cost $5.50. Additional snacks can be purchased a la carte. Monthly menus for Herrick and O'Neill are posted in advance. District 58 operates a cashless system for school lunches called PushCoin. Parents can fund student lunch accounts online at any time using an electronic check or credit/debit card. Students pay by scanning their school ID. The payment system will automatically deduct the lunch from the student’s lunch account and record what was purchased. Elementary School Food Service Elementary schools provide pre-ordered boxed lunches for students through www.MyMealOrder.com. Lunches cost $5.00. Click here to learn more. Orders are due in MyMealOrder on Mondays at 11:59pm for delivery starting the following week. Please reach out to your elementary school office with any questions. The meal orders for the week of September 8th are due September 1st at 11:59pm. The September Menu can be found here.  In addition, elementary students may sign up to receive daily milk for $88 (which is $0.50 cents per day). Families should complete this Elementary Milk Order Form to sign their child up for milk. This is separate from the boxed lunch option. The $88 milk fee will be posted to the student's PushCoin account next month by Oct 1, 2025. Free and Reduced Meals and Milk District 58 provides free and reduced-cost meals to students who qualify based on the USDA Income Eligibility guidelines. Household Eligibility Applications for meal benefits can be found on the District 58’s Food Services webpage. AROUND THE DISTRICT Strategic Goals 1, 2, 5 New Teacher Week 2025 - view photos Last week, District 58 welcomed our new teachers with a week of planned activities and professional development. Orange Frog Training 2025 - view photos Orange Happiness continues to spread across District 58! Our amazing Instructional Coaches guided first and second year staff through the Orange Frog Workshop, based on positive psychology research by Shawn Achor. The session focused on practical strategies to boost well-being, resilience, and team culture. What an uplifting way to kick off the school year, with positivity that ripples outwards! Sneak Preview at Herrick and O’Neill - view photos Sneak Preview is the Education Foundation's middle school transition event for 7th grade students, giving them an opportunity to meet teachers and peers, tour their schools, practice opening a locker and learn about school expectations. SCHOOL BOARD NEWS Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 The District 58 Board of Education held a regular meeting on Monday, August 11, at the Civic Center. View the agenda and Board Briefs. The Board's next business meeting is Monday, Sept. 8, at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT Strategic Goals 1, 2 Family Handbook As a new school year begins, we encourage families to carefully review the Family Handbook (Manual Familias del Distrito 58) with their child(ren), as it offers an overview of the District’s policies, procedures, resources and student expectations.  Back to School Resources  Back-to-School Toolkit Family Resources Kindergarten Resources 2025-26 School Supply Lists 2025-26 Calendar Food Services Transportation Immunization/Health Exam Requirements COMMUNICATIONS & COMMUNITY RELATIONS Strategic Goal 2 Keep Up to Date with District 58! View District 58's Communication Guide to learn about the District's communication tools, their frequency and their purpose. For news at-a-glance, be sure to read this biweekly Communicate 58 newsletter, as well as your school's weekly newsletter. Both publications will be shared with families and staff via ParentSquare. For photos and stories, visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/district58 and X (Twitter) at www.x.com/DGDistrict58.   D58’s ParentSquare Spotlights Simple tips and updates to keep you connected all year! Learn more at https://www.dg58.org/community-engagement/parentsquare. View Posts From Your Child's School English / Spanish In the platform’s center “feed,” parents can see posts connected to their children. Check the linked instructions to learn how to switch schools, choose a child, and filter posts. Appreciate a Post English / Spanish You can show your appreciation for a post—we value your feedback! Please note that while the staff member who authored the post will see your name, other users will not. Comment on a Post English / Spanish ParentSquare is a two-way communication platform. When a message is posted, users may ask follow-up questions or leave a comment. Please note that only the staff member who authored the post will be able to see your comment.   Join Us at Oktoberfest! The Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58 will host its 12th Annual Oktoberfest on Friday, Sept. 12 (4:30-11 p.m.) and Saturday, Sept. 13 (11 a.m.-11 p.m.) in the parking lot on Burlington Avenue between Main Street and Forest Avenue. Live music, Kids Zone, Authentic Oktoberfest Fare in a Traditional German atmosphere! Friday Night featuring the Gypsy Kings with "Nicolas Reyes." Visit www.dgoktoberfest.org to learn more. Volunteers Needed! The Foundation relies on support from volunteers to make its annual Oktoberfest fundraiser a success! Sign up to volunteer  Purchase Tickets DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe.

Friday, Aug 29 2025

Communicate 58: August 27, 2025

Volume 18, Issue 3: Wednesday, August 27, 2025 District 58's Strategic Plan: Vision 58 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 Quick LInks D58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool D58 Calendar 2025-26 D58 Facebook D58 X (Twitter) D58 YouTube   Mark Your Calendar! Thursday, Aug. 28 2:45-3:30 p.m. - Teacher Meet & Greet at all elementary schools 5:00-7:00 p.m. - Locker Setup Night at the middle schools Tuesday, Sept. 2 First Day of School for Grades K-8 (Full Day) Preschool Meet the Teacher (Session times emailed to families) Wednesday, Sept. 3 First Day of School for Preschool Monday, Sept. 8 7 p.m. - Regular Board of Education Meeting, The Civic Center Tuesday, Sept. 9 6-7:30 p.m. - Curriculum Night at Belle Aire, Henry Puffer, Highland, Lester, Pierce Downer and Whittier Wednesday, Sept. 10 6-7:30 p.m. - Curriculum Night at El Sierra, Fairmount, Indian Trail, Hillcrest and Kingsley Wednesday, Sept. 17 6-7:30 p.m. - Curriculum Night for Herrick (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Indian Trail Thursday, Sept. 18 6-7:30 p.m. - Curriculum Night for O’Neill (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Henry Puffer School Hours Preschool: 8:50-11:30 a.m. (morning session); 12:30-3:10 p.m. (afternoon session), Monday-Friday * Kindergarten and Grades 1-6: 8:15 a.m.-2 p.m. on Monday and 8:15 a.m.-3 p.m. on Tuesday-Friday Grades 7-8: 8:30 a.m.- 2:10 p.m. on Monday and 8:30 a.m.-3:17 p.m. on Tuesday-Friday. Early Bird classes (band, choir and orchestra) will take place from 7:45-8:25 a.m. Monday-Friday NOTE: District 58 has a Professional Learning Mondays (PLM) program. Every Monday, students in grades K-6 will be dismissed at 2 p.m. and students in grades 7-8 at 2:10 p.m. to allow teachers time for professional learning. This dedicated time helps teachers implement new curriculum resources, improve their instructional practice, and better provide students with high-quality learning experiences. GREETINGS FROM SUPERINTENDENT DR. RUSSELL Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Dear District 58 Community, We are excited to kick off the 2025–26 school year, with students returning to classrooms on Tuesday, September 2. Over the summer, District 58 welcomed four new administrators, 14 teachers, and 18 support staff. Staff gathered this morning for our Opening Day event, and we are eager to see students back in our hallways next week! Construction Update Our four Phase II elementary schools and two middle schools have undergone significant improvements during summer construction, and we are excited about the many benefits these updates will bring to our students and staff. Construction crews are working diligently to ensure the buildings are ready to welcome students next week. While some finishing touches and small items may remain, this work will take place after school hours and on weekends to avoid disrupting learning. Safety Reminders As the year begins, I want to highlight school safety as an important priority. District 58 partners with students, staff, families, and the community to provide safe and supportive learning environments. During the first weeks of school, staff will review age-appropriate safety information with students, and we ask parents and guardians to reinforce these reminders at home. District 58’s safety measures include: Safe2Help Illinois, a monitored system where students can confidentially report a crisis, threat, or bullying. Screening all school visitors through the Raptor System. A lanyard and identification system for all staff and visitors. The ALICE Model, a comprehensive framework for emergency preparedness and response. More secure entrances at all schools. Ongoing age-appropriate safety conversations with students. Another key component of safety starts at home. Please discuss responsible social media use with your child(ren) and explain why threatening statements (even as jokes) are never acceptable, either online or in person. Students must also understand that weapons or lookalike weapons, including toys, are strictly prohibited at school, on buses, and at school activities. Finally, please remind your child(ren): If you see something, say something. Promptly sharing concerns with school staff allows us to investigate quickly and work with law enforcement when needed. We know these conversations can feel difficult, but by proactively reviewing our safety measures and expectations, we can work together to keep District 58 schools safe. Curriculum Nights Our schools look forward to welcoming families to Curriculum Nights in September. These events give parents the opportunity to meet teachers, learn about classroom expectations, and gain a deeper understanding of the learning experiences their children will have throughout the year. I encourage you to attend your school’s Curriculum Night, as it is a valuable way to strengthen the home-school partnership and support student success. Thank you for your partnership and support. We look forward to a positive and successful school year! Sincerely, Dr. Kevin B. Russell Superintendent of Schools Tuesday, Sept. 9 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at Belle Aire, Henry Puffer, Highland, Lester, Pierce Downer and Whittier Wednesday, Sept. 10 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at El Sierra, Fairmount, Indian Trail, Hillcrest and Kingsley Wednesday, Sept. 17 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at Herrick (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Indian Trail Thursday, Sept. 18 (6:00 - 7:30 pm) Curriculum Night at O’Neill (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Henry Puffer CURRICULUM Strategic Goals 1, 2, 4, 5 Helpful Curriculum Resources District 58 will host Curriculum Nights for parents and guardians at all schools in the coming weeks. 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 2025-26 Assessments Parents and guardians may access the District's assessment calendar, which outlines each assessment, its purpose, testing dates, target audience, and estimated length. View the Assessment Calendar. Please note: Our fall testing period begins September 3rd! Schools will email families their specific testing days. High Expectations of All Students As part of Goal 1 in our Strategic Plan, District 58 is committed to ensuring that every student is supported and challenged to reach their full potential. The District Curriculum Council collaborated to create 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 consistency across all schools. You can read the full District 58 definition of High Expectations for All Learners linked here. STUDENT TECHNOLOGY Strategic Goals 1, 5 Elementary iPad Chargers As a reminder, we did not collect iPad chargers for most returning students. Kindergarten iPads will be provided with chargers, and 2nd grade iPads will be provided with chargers (they have new chargers). Returning students in grades 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 will not be supplied with chargers. Should a student require a new charger, a $25 fee will be assessed. Student iPads use an Apple Lightning charger in all grades, except 2nd grade. FOOD SERVICES Strategic Goal 1 District 58 offers meal options for elementary and middle school students. Middle School Food Service The middle schools provide several lunch options daily for students. Lunches cost $5.50. Additional snacks can be purchased a la carte. Monthly menus for Herrick and O'Neill are posted in advance. District 58 operates a cashless system for school lunches called PushCoin. Parents can fund student lunch accounts online at any time using an electronic check or credit/debit card. Students pay by scanning their school ID. The payment system will automatically deduct the lunch from the student’s lunch account and record what was purchased. Elementary School Food Service Elementary schools provide pre-ordered boxed lunches for students through www.MyMealOrder.com. Lunches cost $5.00. Click here to learn more. Orders are due in MyMealOrder on Mondays at 11:59pm for delivery starting the following week. Please reach out to your elementary school office with any questions. The meal orders for the week of September 8th are due September 1st at 11:59pm. The September Menu can be found here.  In addition, elementary students may sign up to receive daily milk for $88 (which is $0.50 cents per day). Families should complete this Elementary Milk Order Form to sign their child up for milk. This is separate from the boxed lunch option. The $88 milk fee will be posted to the student's PushCoin account next month by Oct 1, 2025. Free and Reduced Meals and Milk District 58 provides free and reduced-cost meals to students who qualify based on the USDA Income Eligibility guidelines. Household Eligibility Applications for meal benefits can be found on the District 58’s Food Services webpage. AROUND THE DISTRICT Strategic Goals 1, 2, 5 New Teacher Week 2025 - view photos Last week, District 58 welcomed our new teachers with a week of planned activities and professional development. Orange Frog Training 2025 - view photos Orange Happiness continues to spread across District 58! Our amazing Instructional Coaches guided first and second year staff through the Orange Frog Workshop, based on positive psychology research by Shawn Achor. The session focused on practical strategies to boost well-being, resilience, and team culture. What an uplifting way to kick off the school year, with positivity that ripples outwards! Sneak Preview at Herrick and O’Neill - view photos Sneak Preview is the Education Foundation's middle school transition event for 7th grade students, giving them an opportunity to meet teachers and peers, tour their schools, practice opening a locker and learn about school expectations. SCHOOL BOARD NEWS Strategic Goals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 The District 58 Board of Education held a regular meeting on Monday, August 11, at the Civic Center. View the agenda and Board Briefs. The Board's next business meeting is Monday, Sept. 8, at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT Strategic Goals 1, 2 Family Handbook As a new school year begins, we encourage families to carefully review the Family Handbook (Manual Familias del Distrito 58) with their child(ren), as it offers an overview of the District’s policies, procedures, resources and student expectations.  Back to School Resources  Back-to-School Toolkit Family Resources Kindergarten Resources 2025-26 School Supply Lists 2025-26 Calendar Food Services Transportation Immunization/Health Exam Requirements COMMUNICATIONS & COMMUNITY RELATIONS Strategic Goal 2 Keep Up to Date with District 58! View District 58's Communication Guide to learn about the District's communication tools, their frequency and their purpose. For news at-a-glance, be sure to read this biweekly Communicate 58 newsletter, as well as your school's weekly newsletter. Both publications will be shared with families and staff via ParentSquare. For photos and stories, visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/district58 and X (Twitter) at www.x.com/DGDistrict58.   D58’s ParentSquare Spotlights - Simple tips and updates to keep you connected all year! Learn more at https://www.dg58.org/family-resources/parentsquare. View Posts From Your Child's School English / Spanish In the platform’s center “feed,” parents can see posts connected to their children. Check the linked instructions to learn how to switch schools, choose a child, and filter posts. Appreciate a Post English / Spanish You can show your appreciation for a post—we value your feedback! Please note that while the staff member who authored the post will see your name, other users will not. Comment on a Post English / Spanish ParentSquare is a two-way communication platform. When a message is posted, users may ask follow-up questions or leave a comment. Please note that only the staff member who authored the post will be able to see your comment.   Join Us at Oktoberfest! The Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58 will host its 12th Annual Oktoberfest on Friday, Sept. 12 (4:30-11 p.m.) and Saturday, Sept. 13 (11 a.m.-11 p.m.) in the parking lot on Burlington Avenue between Main Street and Forest Avenue. Live music, Kids Zone, Authentic Oktoberfest Fare in a Traditional German atmosphere! Friday Night featuring the Gypsy Kings with "Nicolas Reyes." Visit www.dgoktoberfest.org to learn more. Volunteers Needed! The Foundation relies on support from volunteers to make its annual Oktoberfest fundraiser a success! Sign up to volunteer  Purchase Tickets DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 We Envision. We Seek. We Believe. [Friday, Aug 29 at 11:33 AM] Thank you for previously subscribing to the District 58 Mailing List. We are refreshing our subscriber lists as we are using a new communication platform. Please complete our online form to continue receiving community publications: https://dg58.us/JoinDG58MailingList NOTE: District 58 parents/guardians and staff are already on our list and DO NOT need to sign up.

Wednesday, Aug 27 2025

2025-26 Bus Route Information

2025-2026 Bus Route Information Transportation information for the 2025-2026 school year is now available in PowerSchool and on our website at dg58.org/family-resources/bus-routes . Please note, this information is for students who ride a general education First Student bus. Families who participate in specialized transportation will receive communications directly from the company, or can confirm the route with their school office. To view your child’s route, log into your secure  PowerSchool Parent Portal  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 (see image below). Be sure to check for the  2025-2026 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. For help creating or accessing your PowerSchool account, or if you have questions regarding your student’s route information, please contact your school office.

Tuesday, Aug 19 2025

Board Briefs: August 11, 2025 Regular Meeting

BOARD BRIEFS     DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 Board of Education Regular Meeting:  August 11, 2025 The District 58 Board of Education held a Regular Meeting on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Downers Grove Civic Center. VIEW MEETING AGENDA VIEW RECORDED MEETING The recording will be posted on District 58’s YouTube page as soon as it is available to us (typically within one week). SPOTLIGHT ON OUR SCHOOLS Mrs. Jessica Stewart, Assistant Superintendent for Special Services  and Dr. James Eichmiller, Assistant Superintendent for Technology and Learning gave a presentation to the Board on Addressing Student Attendance Key points included: Chronic absenteeism (missing 10% or more days of school for any reason) can harm academic performance, lower test scores, and widen equity gaps. District 58 focuses on early prevention, using data to problem-solve and guide evidence-based interventions. The MTSS framework supports staff collaboration to identify effective strategies for each student. Family partnerships help remove barriers to regular attendance. Regular communication keeps parents/guardians informed of their child's attendance rates. The District remains committed to supporting the schools and engaging the community in promoting consistent attendance. VIEW ATTENDANCE PRESENTATION SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell  provided several departmental updates, including: Personnel: We are finalizing hires for both certified and non-certified roles for the upcoming school year. For harder-to-fill positions, we may make slight adjustments in specialized areas to retain full-time staff and meet student needs. Curriculum and Instruction: Next week, the District will host New Teacher Week, welcoming new staff with learning sessions and meet-and-greet opportunities. Year 2 teachers will also engage in learning opportunities. Both groups will take part in Orange Frog training, the District’s ongoing positive culture initiative. Finance: A finance update was provided to the Board (see section below). Technology:  Final preparations for the new year are nearly complete, with student devices ready to go. We are working with schools to finalize schedules for family viewing and ensure roster data is set for all learning applications. Special Services:  Illinois law requires new students and those entering K and 6 grades to have a current health exam and immunizations on file by Oct. 15, or they will be excluded from school. The District provides frequent reminders and offers support through school nurses and the district office to help families meet this requirement. Students in K, 2 and 6 grades must show proof of having a dental exam between November 15, 2024-May 15, 2026. Facilities: Phase II construction at elementary and middle schools is nearly complete, with staff expected to return Aug. 25 and no delays anticipated for school openings. Over 70% of the referendum work is done, reaching 80% by September. The main remaining issue is a utility pole blocking the new Herrick bus lot entrance due to delays from ComEd and other utilities. We may require contingency bus-routing plans. Public Relations: The District launched ParentSquare this week as our new communication platform for sending all District and school messages. Families and staff received invitations to activate accounts and customize notifications. Training resources and tips will be shared in future communications. BUSINESS REPORT Assistant Superintendent for Business   Dr. Gregory Harris  gave a business report to the Board. Key points included: Dr. Harris presented the Tentative FY 2026 Budget, outlining projected revenues, expenditures, and beginning/ending fund balances. The budget will be on public display at the District Office for at least 30 days, with a public hearing scheduled for September 8 before Board consideration for approval. Revenues are projected from local (88.7%), state (8.5%), and federal (2.8%) sources. Expenditures were reviewed by object for operating funds and across all funds. The District faces ongoing fiscal challenges, including: State funding through the Evidence-Based Funding Model yields little new revenue for District 58, while limited funding increases for transportation and special education will result in smaller reimbursements for those expenses. The District’s transportation costs have surged from $4.4M in FY 2019 to a projected $7.7M in FY 2026, but the state reimbursement is expected to be less than $3M due to proration.   In addition, there are no remaining federal COVID-19 relief (ESSER) funds; FY 2026 and future federal grant levels for Title II, III, and IV are uncertain. Rising expenditures include inflation, medical insurance and prescription costs, negotiated salaries, transportation, and increased electricity use from new air conditioning systems. Referendum funds are restricted to construction projects. Additional fiscal challenges include maintaining the fund balance policy, meeting mandatory transfers to capital projects, and ensuring adequate cash flow. VIEW BUSINESS PRESENTATION COMMITTEE UPDATES Board members shared the following committee updates: Key points included: Board President Mr. Darren Hughes  provided an update for the Policy Committee, sharing a recommendation to the Board to approve an update to Board Policy 7:190 Student Behavior. Starting in 2025-26, students may not carry cell phones during the school day. Phones must be silenced and stored in lockers or designated storage areas. Other devices, like smart watches, may also be restricted if disruptive. Devices will only be allowed before/after school, with teacher permission, or under formal support plans (IEP, 504, MTSS). Classroom and office phones are available with staff approval. Parents should contact the school office to reach students during the day. This new policy supports student focus and engagement, and aligns with District 99's updated cell phone policy. Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell  shared a SASED update, reporting that they successfully completed their summer ESY program and are advancing their Master Facilities Plan, evaluating options to renovate or relocate their facility. The Legislative Committee has not met since the last Board meeting The Financial Advisory Committee has not met since the last Board meeting The District Leadership Team has not met since the last Board meeting The Health & Wellness Committee has not met since the last Board meeting BOARD RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ACTION The Board of Education approved the following recommendations for action: Approved for first reading the policy updates from PRESS Issue 119. Approved Board policy 7:250, Student Support Services, which further implements new legislation regarding students who are parents, expectant parents, or victims of domestic or sexual violence. Approved Board policy 7:190, Student Behavior, which implements an updated cellular phone policy for students. Approved designation of Serious Safety Hazard Designations 2025-2026 per the Illinois Department of Transportation Guidelines. Approved execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement to Share Data Between District 99 and District 58. Approved the Reimbursable Paid Lunch Cost for 2025-2026. Approved the bid for the annual purchase of paper for 2025-2026. VIEW AGENDA FOR DOCUMENTS RELATED TO THE ABOVE ACTIONS OTHER During the meeting, the Board also:  Approved minutes of the July 14 Regular Meeting. There were no public comments. UPCOMING EVENTS August 25, 2025, 3:45 p.m. ~ Health & Wellness Committee ~ Downers Grove Civic Center September 8, 2025, 7 p.m. ~ Regular Board Meeting ~ 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. Downers Grove Grade School District 58 850 Curtiss Street, Suite 200, Downers Grove, IL 60515 Community Relations Office: jrelihan@dg58.org  (630) 719-5805

Thursday, Aug 14 2025

Communicate 58: August 13, 2025

Volume 18, Issue 2: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 QUICK LINKS D58 Website ParentSquare PowerSchool D58 Calendar 2025-26 D58 Facebook D58 X (Twitter) Dr. Russell X (Twitter) D58 YouTube   STRATEGIC PLAN As you read this publication, watch for the color-coded dots next to each article -- they will tell you which strategic goal the content connects to.   •  Focusing on Learning • Connecting the Community • Securing the Future • Building for Success • Cultivating Talent F or more information on the District's Vision 58, visit  https://www.dg58.org/about/strategic-plan/index . UPCOMING DATES Friday, Aug. 15 -  Student schedules and classroom assignments posted in PowerSchool Tuesday, Aug. 19 -  Bus Routes posted in PowerSchool and the District website   Monday, Aug. 25 and Tuesday, Aug. 26 Sneak  Preview at Herrick and O'Neill for 7th Grade   Thursday, Aug. 28 2:45-3:30 p.m.: Teacher Meet & Greet - all elementary schools 5-7 p.m.: Locker Setup Night - middle schools   Tuesday, Sept. 2 First Day of School for Grades K-8 (Full Day) Preschool Meet the Teacher (Session times emailed to families)   Wednesday, Sept. 3 First Day of School for Preschool   Monday, Sept. 8 7 p.m.: Regular Board of Education Meeting, Downers Grove Civic Center   Tuesday, Sept. 9 6-7:30 pm. Curriculum Night at Belle Aire, Henry Puffer, Highland, Lester, Pierce Downer and Whittier   Wednesday,  Sept. 10 6-7:30 p.m.: Curriculum Night at El Sierra, Fairmount, Indian Trail, Hillcrest and Kingsley   Wednesday, Sept. 17 6-7:30 p.m.: Curriculum Night for Herrick (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Indian Trail   Thursday, Sept. 18 6-7:30 p.m.: Curriculum Night for O’Neill (7th + 8th Grades) and Preschool at Henry Puffer   GREETINGS FROM SUPERINTENDENT DR. RUSSELL  • • • • • Dear District 58 Community,   The District 58 team has been hard at work this summer, accomplishing a great deal to prepare for the upcoming school year.  We hope our students, staff, and families step into the 2025–26 school year with us feeling refreshed, energized and ready to make it another great year of learning! Summer Construction Update Phase II construction at Fairmount, Kingsley, Indian Trail, Lester, and both middle schools is on schedule. A few final projects may be finished during evenings or weekends after school starts to avoid disruptions. We’re excited for students and staff to enjoy these updated learning spaces! To keep everyone comfortable, Pierce Downer classrooms have window air conditioners, while other schools will use new or existing HVAC systems. Pierce Downer’s full HVAC upgrade will happen next summer during Phase III, ensuring comfortable environments even if the weather stays warm. Announcing New Middle School Logos To add to the excitement of opening our improved spaces, our middle schools are unveiling brand-new, refreshed logos! These bold, modern designs celebrate the spirit of our school communities and perfectly complement our updated learning environments. Watch for the new logos to appear in communications, building décor, and school spirit wear, showing off our pride in style all year long. Family Handbook 2025-26 The start of a new school year is the perfect time to review the Schools of 58 Handbook for Families for 2025-26 with your student, ensuring everyone is familiar with our expectations and the resources available for a successful year. In the coming weeks, you will receive the 2025–26 handbook and addendum, which highlights updates made since families reviewed and signed the previous version during registration. The Spanish version of the Handbook will be published next week. Important Update: New Cell Phone Policy for 2025–26 Starting in 2025-26, students will no longer be allowed to carry cell phones during the school day. Phones must be turned off or silenced and stored in backpacks inside assigned lockers (middle school) or designated storage areas (elementary). This may also apply to other personal devices like smart watches if they become a distraction. Research shows that phone use during school can interrupt focus, distract from learning, limit peer interaction, and increase stress. By keeping their phones put away, students can stay more engaged and make the most of their day. Students may use personal devices before and after school, during emergencies, with teacher permission, or if they have a documented need through a medical plan, 504 plan, MTSS plan, or IEP. Each classroom and office has a phone available for student use with staff permission. Parents needing to contact their child during the school day should call the school office. Quick Facts: Phones must be stored and silenced in lockers or designated storage areas during school hours (including during lunch and passing periods). Students are not permitted to carry a cell phone during school hours. Other devices, like smart watches, may also be restricted if disruptive. Devices are allowed only before/after school, with teacher permission, or formal support plans. Students can use the classroom or office phones with staff approval. Parents should contact the school office to reach students during the day. Aligns with District 99’s updated cell phone policy. Administrators will continue discussing this policy and behavior expectations with students throughout the year. Thank you for supporting a focused, positive learning environment! SIncerely, Dr. Kevin B. Russell Superintendent of Schoo ls   BACK TO SCHOOL REMINDERS • • Please visit these webpages with important information as you prepare for the new school year! Back-to-School Toolkit Family Resources Kindergarten Resources 2025-26 School Supply Lists 2025-26 Calendar Food Services Transportation Immunization/Health Exam Requirements :  Due to the 2025-26 late start this year, families have only 6 weeks to complete required physicals and immunizations, deadline 10/15.   Students must be fully registered to receive teacher assignments (grades PreK-6), access student schedules (grades 7-8) and to start school. If you have not yet fully registered your child, please visit www.dg58.org/registration to complete this process.  If you have any questions, please contact  your child's school   or the District Office at 630-719-5800.   Student schedules and teacher assignments  will be available in the   PowerSchool Parent Portal   on Friday, August 15 . You will receive a notice from your school with the exact time that the information will be live in the system. We are staggering the times this information is available to ensure the PowerSchool system has the bandwidth to handle visitor traffic. Please note that class information viewed before 8/15 on other third-party software is not final and may be subject to change.   2025-26 bus routes  will be posted at  www.dg58.org/family-resources/bus-routes ,  as well as on the  PowerSchool Parent Portal ,  on Tuesday, August 19.  Students receiving specialized transportation will receive information directly from our transportation provider a week before the start of schoo l.   SCHOOL BOARD NEWS • • • • • The District 58 Board of Education held a regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 11 , at the Civic Center.    View the agenda .  The Board Briefs will be published tomorrow and shared with families and staff via ParentSquare, as well as posted on the District's website and social media.    The Board's next business meeting is Monday, Sept. 8, at 7 p.m. at the Civic Center.   COMMUNICATION • D 58's ParentSquare Spotlights As we transition to ParentSquare as our new communication platform, we are here to make the process easy for you. Going forward, all district and school office messages will be sent through ParentSquare, which offers many helpful features to keep you connected and maximize your experience.   Welcome to  "ParentSquare Spotlights"  your go-to source for tips, tricks, and updates to help you navigate our new platform.   Stay tuned for simple guides and useful features designed to keep you informed throughout the school year! Additional information can be found at   https://www.dg58.org/community-engagement/parentsquare . ParentSquare Overview Video  English  /  Spanish Learn More About Your ParentSquare Account  English / Spanish ParentSquare Mobile App   English  / Spanish Overview of Parent Dashboard  English  /  Spanish How to Translate Help Articles  English  /  Spanish Most of the help articles are available in English and Spanish. To translate into other languages using your web browser, we recommend following these instructions. How to Activate Your Account  English / Spanish You will receive an invitation email from your school using your email and/or phone number in our PowerSchool records.  If you do not receive an invitation email, it is likely that you have another ParentSquare account already activated (e.g., in another district with a different child or your work), or your school does not have the correct contact information for you. If you have another account, see below for instructions on how to merge or add a new account. Contact your school office with any questions How to Confirm or Update Your Account Information  English  /  Spanish ParentSquare works with your school to keep your contact information accurate. It is important for us to have your current contact details so that we can reach you in the case of an emergency, as well as share important updates and information. Please take the time in ParentSquare (either in your browser or on the mobile app) to verify your contact information and confirm that we have the correct student and school linked to your account. We will be notified of any updates and will use this information to make changes in PowerSchool as well, so that our data is accurate in both locations. How to Switch Between Multiple Accounts English  /  Spanish -  If a parent/guardian or staff person has another ParentSquare account with the same email or phone number (e.g., in another district with a different child or your work), you will also be asked to confirm this information upon signing in. Select "combine account" to merge the account into your existing one -- you will be able to keep one login and easily toggle back and forth between the two districts/students.  If can also keep the two accounts separate if you prefer.  NOTE: District 58 staff must use their work email for their work ParentSquare account. Please activate your work account, then use " Add Account " to easily switch between your work and parent accounts. How to Customize Your Account Settings  English  /  Spanish After you activate your ParentSquare account, you will be able to manage your account settings, including customizing your notification preferences so that you receive messages instantly or in a once-a-day digest format delivered at approximately 6:00 pm.  Time-sensitive alerts will override your settings to ensure that you receive urgent messages in a timely manner. You can also select the language setting to receive posts, messages and alerts in your preferred language.     IN THE COMMUNITY • The   Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58   will host their 12th Annual Oktoberfest on Friday, Sept. 12 (4:30-11 p.m.) and Saturday, Sept. 13 (11 a.m.-11 p.m.) in the parking lot on Burlington Avenue between Main Street and Forest Avenue .    Live music, Kids Zone, Authentic Oktoberfest Fare in a Traditional German atmosphere! Friday Night featuring the Gypsy Kings with "Nicolas Reyes"   Volunteers and sponsors needed!  The Foundation relies on support from volunteers and sponsors to make its annual Oktoberfest fundraiser a success! Sign up to volunteer   Learn more about sponsorship opportunities Purchase Tickets Visit   www.dgoktoberfest.org  to learn more. District 58 partners with the Glenbard Parent Series (GPS) to offer our families access to nationally recognized speakers and experts in parenting and education. Through this partnership, we aim to support parents and caregivers with timely, relevant guidance for navigating the challenges of raising and educating children today. GPS events feature engaging presentations by leading voices in the field, offered at no cost to families and available virtually or at nearby locations. To explore upcoming presentations, visit   gpsparentseries.org .   DOWNERS GROVE GRADE SCHOOL DISTRICT 58 850 Curtiss St. Suite 200, Downers Grove, IL 60515 Community Relations Office: 630-719-5805 / jrelihan@dg58.org www.dg58.org STAY CONNECTED      

Wednesday, Aug 13 2025