September 26th 2025

On Friday, September 19, Assistant Principal Ms. Buchman had the unique opportunity to step into the shoes of 7th grader Clara Dohleman at Middle School North. From the first bell to the final dismissal, she experienced the pace, routines, and learning that shape a middle schooler’s day. What became clear throughout the experience was how seamlessly the traits of our District 95 Portrait of a Graduate came to life in Clara’s classrooms and interactions.

Effective Communicator
Communication was woven into every class. In science, Clara and her peers explained their reasoning as they analyzed data from a simulation and discussed real-world factors that might influence results. In choir, students eagerly explained the “Forbidden Pattern” game so Ms. Buchman could join in without missing a beat. ELA turn-and-talks, sticky-note questions, and peer recommendations (including a popular book title, Prisoner B-3087) highlighted how students use their voices to clarify, connect, and collaborate.

Global Citizen
Clara’s day revealed many ways students engage with the wider world. Social studies research on African explorers gave students opportunities to learn about diverse histories and cultures. Science lessons emphasized ecosystems and survival factors. Even at lunch, students practiced responsibility by wiping down tables and caring for a shared space, reinforcing respect for their community.

Advocate for Self and Others
Advocacy appeared in both big and small ways. Students checked in with Ms. Buchman to explain routines and expectations, and in social studies a “quiet monitor” helped peers self-assess the noise level. In Spanish, the SEL lesson gave students language to advocate for themselves while also respecting others. Across the day, subtle acts of kindness and peer support made classrooms welcoming places to learn.

Future Ready
Clara’s day highlighted the many ways students are preparing for the future. In science, she and her peers used digital simulations and data analysis to problem-solve and connect learning to real-world scenarios. In choir, campaign speeches gave students authentic practice with leadership and presentation skills. Spanish activities required teamwork, creativity, and quick thinking, while transitions between classes and rearranging furniture to collaborate with a small group demonstrated Clara’s adaptability and time management.

Growth Oriented
Clara’s day highlighted how growth is embedded in the learning process. In ELA, students set personal reading goals during one-on-one MAP reflections. In math, the unit test required independence and accountability. In art, students combined techniques like drawing, painting, and quilling, while providing peer feedback and reflecting before the summative assessment. Each activity reinforced persistence, reflection, and continuous improvement.

Final Reflection
Shadowing Clara for a full day underscored the fast pace of middle school, from energetic passing periods to diverse learning experiences across eight classes. What stood out most was how seamlessly students like Clara live out our Portrait of a Graduate and the classroom conditions that create opportunities for students to practice these skills.

A special thank you to Clara Dohleman for allowing Ms. Buchman to shadow her. Ms. Buchman loved learning alongside you!

As students travel to and from school, we want to remind everyone about the importance of safety. Please take a moment to review these tips with your child:

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet when riding scooters or bicycles.
  
  

• Stop, look, and listen before crossing streets or train tracks.
  
  

• Use crosswalks and follow all traffic signals.
  
  

• Stay alert — avoid headphones and phone use while riding or walking.
  
  

• Be cautious around buses, cars, and busy intersections

We also previously shared resources from the Village of Lake Zurich on E-Scooters, E-Bikes, and E-Dirt Bikes, which can be found [here]. Additional safety resources may be found on the District 95 Safety & Security Website.

Thank you for reinforcing these important safety practices with your student.

Are you wondering how your child's test scores connect to their future? Join us for an essential session designed to help you navigate the ACT Suite of Assessments and understand how they shape your student's path through high school.

We'll cut through the jargon and get right to what matters:

• Decoding the Tests: What these exams actually measure.

• The Score Connection: How test scores directly influence placement into high school core classes (Math, Science, English, & Social Studies).

• Accelerated Learning: Everything you need to know about the Accelerated Placement Act (APA), including our district's specific guidelines and how your child can qualify for advanced courses.

This is your chance to get a clear roadmap for your student's academic journey. Don't miss this opportunity to get answers and learn how to best support them.

Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Lake Zurich High School PAC (or click here to join our livestream at the time of the event)

As part of our ongoing commitment to student health and wellness, District 95 is partnering with the Ela Coalition Against Youth Substance Use to celebrate Red Ribbon Week. This week focuses on a variety of age-appropriate messages and activities related to healthy decision-making for students. Families can learn more about Red Ribbon Week and district activities in the parent letter HERE.