Proviso West Newsletter
December 16, 2024
* Haga clic en translate para leerlo en Español.
Finishing Strong: Finals and Holiday Break
As we approach the final stretch before winter break, Proviso West is filled with energy and determination as students prepare for semester finals. These important exams begin on Wednesday, December 18, and run through Friday, December 20, marking the culmination of months of hard work. While the holidays are just around the corner, this week is a critical time for students to focus and finish the semester strong. To support your child during finals, parents can encourage healthy habits such as getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and setting aside quiet time for studying. Remind your student to arrive on time for their exams, as punctuality ensures they start each test calmly and confidently. The schedule times for finals are listed below.
Please note that on Wednesday, December 18th, bus transportation routes will follow a regular start day schedule and NOT a late start.
Winter break officially begins on Monday, December 23, and lasts for two weeks, with students returning to school on Monday, January 6, 2025. We want to wish everyone a happy, healthy, and safe holiday season. Enjoy the well-deserved break, Panthers, and we look forward to seeing you recharged and ready for the new year on January 6!
Welcoming Superintendent Krish Mohip to District 209
On November 4, District 209 welcomed its new superintendent, Krish Mohip. With extensive experience as an educator, administrator, and contributor to education initiatives at the state level, Superintendent Mohip brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the district. Proviso West had the pleasure of hosting him during his recent visits, where he engaged with staff, students, parents, and community members.
During a weekly PLC meeting, Superintendent Mohip addressed the staff, sharing his vision and later hosted a listening session where teachers had the opportunity to voice their concerns and share ideas. Additionally, he led a community event at Proviso West, welcoming parents, local leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss the district’s future. Superintendent Mohip emphasized his commitment to listening and observing before implementing changes and fostering collaboration at every level.
Superintendent Mohip also visited classrooms, interacting with students in a genuine and engaging manner, showing a clear interest in their experiences. As he begins this new chapter, we look forward to learning more about his plans and working together to shape the future of Proviso West and District 209. Welcome, Superintendent Mohip.
See Link Below for Information on Superintendent Mohip's Plan for District 209.
Proviso West Excellence!
Proviso West Chemistry Scholars Explore Dominican University
A select group of Proviso West chemistry scholars led by Ms. Lucas-Duckins had the exciting opportunity to visit Dominican University for an immersive academic experience. During their visit, students participated in hands-on experiments in the chemistry and organic chemistry labs, led by Dr. Brent Frieson and his team. They conducted flame tests and emission spectra experiments, learning how to calculate frequency and energy from observed wavelengths.
Proviso West Biology Students Explore the Wonders of the Shedd Aquarium
Proviso West biology students recently took a field trip to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, where they had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of aquatic ecosystems and marine life. During their visit, students explored a variety of exhibits showcasing diverse species and habitats, providing real-world connections to concepts they study in class, such as biodiversity, adaptation, and environmental conservation.
Torch Club
The Torch Club at Proviso West provides valuable mentoring opportunities for students, offering guidance and support as they navigate challenges both in and out of school. Through discussions and guest speakers, the club addresses real-life situations students may encounter, teaching them how to handle these experiences thoughtfully and confidently. Staff and community members often participate, sharing personal stories and life lessons that resonate with the students’ own experiences. By fostering open dialogue and providing diverse perspectives, the Torch Club aims to help students develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Proviso West Athletics
Fall Athletic Banquet
The Proviso West Athletic Banquet was a celebration of the dedication and hard work of our student-athletes across all sports. These young men and women represent the best of Panther Pride, balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth. Their efforts on the field, court, and track not only bring recognition to our school but also build character and foster teamwork. This evening also acknowledged the coaches and sponsors who help guide and support our athletes, teaching them lessons that extend far beyond the game. Their leadership help shape these students into confident and disciplined individuals. Together, our athletes and the coaching staff represent the school while uplifting the Proviso West community.
For more information on sports, please visit https://il.8to18.com/provisowest/home.
You may also contact Proviso West Athletic Director, Mr. Lamont Bryant at: lbryant@pths209.org
Students who need a sports physical or school physical can be seen at the Loyola Health Center located at Proviso East H.S. An appointment must be set and the link to set up an appointment can be found below.
Proviso West Celebrating & Giving Back to the Community
Proviso West Theatre
Proviso West Theatre students are dedicated to celebrating and showcasing their talents throughout the building and community.
PWHS presented a special presentation of their fall play, "When Bad Things Happen to Good Actors" to the theatre class from Irving Elementary School (District 89).
Irving students not only got to see West students in action on stage but also received advice about theatre, high school, and not being afraid to own the stage in school and life.
Come out and Support the PWHS Theatre students
Pantherettes Dance Team Gives Back to the Community
On November 25, 2024, the Proviso West Pantherettes Dance Team demonstrated their commitment to community service by volunteering at Soule Chicago Restaurant, owned by Bridgette Flagg. The team assisted with welcoming guests, preparing and serving meals, stocking supplies and helping provide warm, home-cooked meals to those in need during the holidays. This experience not only supported the community but also strengthened teamwork and connections within the group, showcasing the Pantherettes’ dedication to giving back and promoting school spirit both on and off the dance floor.
The Grace Club
The Grace Club at Proviso West provides students with valuable opportunities to develop life skills that will benefit them both personally and professionally now and beyond high school. Recently, the club hosted a heartwarming Friendsgiving event, where members and friends came together to enjoy a feast and reflect on the many things they are thankful for. Events like these foster a sense of community, gratitude, and personal growth among students.
High School Heroes Teaching Field Trip
Members of Proviso West National Honor Society teach for a day!
After several training sessions to prepare, NHS members spent the morning teaching grades 3, 4 & 5 at Hillside Elementary on December 6, where they delivered lessons on finance, business, and community. While the elementary kids learned a lot (and got to fawn over former Hillside Blue Jay, Jayla Giles!), it was our own West students who really learned a lot. NHS members honed their presentation and other soft skills while also juggling classes full of rambunctious and chatty elementary students. Senior Daniel Moraga, who has participated in this project annually for three years in a row, said he would absolutely do it a fourth time if he could.
Members who participated:
Brooklynn Aragon, Marelin Arteaga, Sophia Chtioui, Gabriela Diaz-Ogaz, Jayla Gines, Latrice Hayes, Sebastian Hernandez, Taylor Hogsett, R'Reyhana Jefferson, Matthew Manangan , Elizabeth Medina, Daniel Moraga, Austin Morris, Jaden Rodriguez, Madison Smith, Tamia Thompson, Jaydan Ware, Mariah Wilson
Technology
Proviso's Technology Department has been hard at work all year, ensuring that all technology resources and support are ready and available throughout the school year. Below is a list of common links, building IT staff, and application-specific contacts.
District 209 has made tutoring accessible to all students through PAPER! This tutoring resource provides FREE Academic Support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Common Links
PowerSchool Teachers: https://pschool.pths209.org/teachers
PowerSchool Substitutes: https://pschool.pths209.org/subs/
PowerSchool Students: https://pschool.pths209.org/
Schoology: https://pths209.schoology.com/
Clever: https://clever.com/in/pths209
Support Contacts
PowerSchool & Clever: Mr. DeJuan Moon dmoon@pths209.org
Schoology & Other Instructional Applications: Ms. Felicia Lee felee@pths209.org
Proviso West IT Support: Mr. Victor Chielo vchielo@pths209.org (Room D202)
Parent Coordinator: Gail Hibbler ghibbler@pths209.org (Room E134) (708-427-8247)
Upcoming Events & Resources
Proviso West Contact Information 2024 -2025
Upcoming Dates and Events
December
18-20 Final Exams
20- End of Semester
23-31 Winter Break (Non-Attendance Days)
23 - Proviso West Holiday Basketball Tournament (Proviso West Gym)
26-28- Proviso West Holiday Basketball Tournament (Proviso West Gym)
January
1-3 Winter Break
6- School Resumes
14- Board of Education Meeting (7:30PM)
16 - Parent Advisory Council (PAC) 6 -7:30PM
16 - Bilingual Parent Advisory Council (BPAC) 6-7:30PM
20- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (No School)
30- Institute Day (No Student Attendance)