New School Year Welcome | 25-26
August 11, 2025
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Monday, August 11, 2025
Dear District 25 Community,
Arlington Heights truly is the best village to serve in, and I feel grateful for that every single day.
Today we welcomed our new staff to Dunton for the start of New Faculty Orientation Week, a tradition that never fails to bring a renewed sense of joy. It is a powerful reminder of the kindness and warmth that define District 25. From staff to families to students, this is a community that lifts one another up.
To our newest staff members, students, and families: I know that starting something new can feel daunting, but please know that there is no better place to begin. District 25 is a place where care, connection, and support run deep.
The start of the school year is one of my favorite times. Our hallways will come alive once again when students arrive on Thursday, August 21, filling our schools with the sound of laughter, the buzz of curiosity, and the joy of learning. There is nothing quite like seeing our buildings filled with smiles, purpose, and the promise of another great year ahead.
With that energy in mind, I would like to share a few important updates and reminders for the start of the 2025–2026 school year:
🛴 Community Safety Night | Save the Date!
We’re excited to host a Community Safety Night at Thomas Middle School on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 6:00–7:00 p.m..
This event will focus on electronic bike and scooter safety, including local ordinances and expectations on school property. We’ll also highlight drop-off/pick-up routines and before- and after-school expectations. It’s a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and connect. More details coming soon!
🛡️ New Safety Protocol: SRP Launch
This year, we’re officially transitioning to the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) for a clear, consistent approach to emergency situations. This change, made in collaboration with the Arlington Heights Police Department, will help us keep everyone safe and aligned across all of our schools.
To learn more, please visit any of the following links:
📘 Strategic Plan Refresh | Community-Driven and In Progress
At the February 2025 Board of Education meeting we launched the District’s next Strategic Planning Process, led by Perry D. Soldwedel, who also facilitated our current plan that was adopted in 2021.
We’ve already gathered insights through a community-wide survey and our Strategic Plan Committee, a group that includes staff, families, students, board members, and community representatives. This work will continue throughout the school year as we define priorities, celebrate progress, and design a forward-looking roadmap for District 25.
The final plan is expected to go to the Board for review and potential adoption in February 2026.
Thank you staff, parents, and students, for your continued time, trust, and partnership. It’s all of us, together, who make this district what it is.
Here’s to a joyful, safe, and successful start to the year. I can’t wait to see all that we accomplish, together. I’ll see everyone in 10 days!
Together today 2 transform tomorrow,
Dr. Brian A. Kaye
Superintendent, Arlington Heights School District 25