December's Newsletter

Happy Holidays, Lincoln Family!

As we close out December—the final month of 2025—I want to take a moment to celebrate what we have accomplished together this year. I am incredibly proud of our staff and scholars for their strong performance on the IAR assessment. Earning our designation from Targeted to Commendable reflects the hard work, commitment, and collaboration of every stakeholder in our school community.

Remember, when we set our mindset on academic achievement and keep moving in a positive direction, we should celebrate the progress along the way. And when strong leadership is in place, the sky is truly the limit for what we can accomplish collectively.

Thank you for your dedication, perseverance, and belief in our scholars. I truly appreciate all that you have done to make this year a success, and I am grateful for the progress we continue to make as a school.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, safe, and restful holiday season. I look forward to continuing our journey toward excellence together, with your ongoing help and support.

Please enjoy your break, and we look forward to welcoming our scholars back on January 5, 2026.

12/1 Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week

12/1 Rosa Parks’ Day and World Aids Day

12/2 National Day of Giving

12/2 Schrum @ Lincoln BBB

12//3 Lincoln @ Wentworth BBB

12/5 Blessing in a Backpack

12/5 International Volunteer Day

12/7 National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

12/9 Burnham @ Lincoln BBB

12/10 International Human Rights Day

12/10 NABSE Visit

12/11 ECE PAC

12/11 Winter Concert 6:00 pm - 8:00pm

12/11 Newberry Bowl Competition

12/15 Bill of Rights Day

12/14 Hanukkah

12/16 Lincoln @ McKinley BBB

12/16 ISC4 Building Inspection

12/17 Early Dismissal Day

12/17 PBIS: Tea with Me

12/18 National Twin Day and International Migrant Day

12/18 Pre-K Screening

12/18 Patton @ Lincoln BBB

12/21 National Marine Day

12/24 Christmas Eve

12/25 Christmas Day

12/26-1/1 Kwanzaa

I want to extend my most profound appreciation and heartfelt kudos to the members of the HUB Team — Dr. Watson, Nurse Anyai, and Mrs. April McMurray-White — in conjunction with our support staff and teachers, Ms. Spencer, Ms. Wilson, Mrs. Smith-Ross, Mrs. Brown-Stewart, Mrs. Griffin, and Mrs. Dulaney-Morrison, for the extraordinary care and commitment you demonstrated during a harrowing time for our school community.

Following the tragic loss of Joseph Chacon, a sixth-grade Lincoln Elementary student who was taken from us far too soon in an automobile accident, they immediately stepped into action with compassion, professionalism, and steady hearts. Over five consecutive days, our crisis team provided immediate grief counseling and emotional support to more than 300 students and staff members. Their presence helped bring calm, safety, and comfort when our community needed it most.

This work was not easy. It required emotional strength, patience, and deep love for our students and families. They held space for tears, questions, and shock — and they did so with care that reflects the very best of who we are at Lincoln.

Thank you for leading with empathy. Thank you for supporting our children and staff with dignity and kindness. Thank you for reminding our community that even in sorrow, we are not alone.

We will continue to surround Joseph’s family with support, and the school will plan a memorial when they are ready. Until then, please know that your work has made a lasting difference in the healing of our school family.

During the week of December 8th, students in grades K–8 will take the i-Ready Middle of Year (MOY) assessments in reading and math. This is more than just a test—it’s an important checkpoint that helps students see how far they’ve come, celebrate their growth, and set goals for what’s next. It’s also an excellent chance for them to practice the testing process, use the strategies they’ve learned in class, and build confidence for future success.

Every student can shine, and with your support, they will walk into testing week feeling prepared and encouraged. Here are a few simple but powerful ways you can help make this a positive, productive experience:

• Be On Time, Ready to Learn: Please ensure your child arrives at school on time each day. A calm, smooth start makes a big difference.
  
  

• Start with a Healthy Breakfast: A nutritious breakfast at home or school helps students stay energized, focused, and ready to do their best.
  
  

• Encourage Their Best Effort: Remind your child to take their time, use the strategies they’ve practiced, and approach the test with a positive mindset. Effort matters, and growth is the goal!
  
  

Our focus is to reduce test anxiety, highlight progress, and help every student recognize their ability to succeed. This assessment is one step on their learning journey—and every step forward counts. With your encouragement and dedication, we know our students will rise to the occasion and show what they are capable of.

Thank you for being such an essential partner in uplifting our students. Together, we will make testing week meaningful, supportive, and successful for all.

Illinois law requires students entering kindergarten, second, sixth, and ninth grade to submit proof of a completed dental examination. The examination must be conducted within the 18-month window before May 15 of the current school year and documented on an official form signed by a licensed dentist.

To support families and ensure student compliance with state requirements, Smile of Illinois will be on campus December 16–19 to provide dental services for our students. This on-site opportunity is designed to remove barriers to care and help every eligible student meet the Illinois dental exam mandate on time.

We are pleased to announce that School Spirit Week will be held December 16–20!
We are so excited that the Student Council selected this year’s themes:

• Monday (Dec. 15): Holiday Head Gear Day Wear your favorite holiday headgear (Santa hats, antlers, bows, festive headbands, etc.)!

• Tuesday (Dec. 16): Class Colors Day
  Show your class pride by wearing your assigned class color.
  
  

• Wednesday (Dec. 17): Holiday Favorite Book Character Day
  Dress up as your favorite character from a holiday book!
  
  

• Thursday (Dec. 18): Holiday Character Day
  Administration will dress as Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.
  Teachers: dress as Grinches
  Students: dress as Elves
  
  

• Friday (Dec. 20): Festive Tops / Ugly Sweater Day
  Wear a holiday festive top or your funniest ugly sweater!
  
  

We can’t wait to see everyone participating and showing their school spirit all week long!

Please join me in extending a warm welcome to several new members of our Lincoln family:

Ms. Lisa Wilson, Social Worker – Ms. Wilson joined our team on Monday, November 3rd, stepping in on an especially challenging day for our Lincoln community. She brings valuable experience and compassion to her role.

Ms. Marquetta Terry, Speech Pathologist – Ms. Terry brings a strong background in supporting students' communication needs.

Ms. Acrysta Lewis, 5th Grade Paraprofessional – Ms. Lewis has joined our dedicated 5th-grade team, where she will provide instructional and behavioral support to our scholars.

Mrs. Demetrus Griffin, Math Coach – Mrs. Griffin will be instrumental in strengthening our math performance and providing targeted instructional support to teachers.

Mr. Michael Williams, Assistant Principal/Dean – Mr. Williams returns to Lincoln with a continued commitment to fostering a positive culture and climate.

We are excited to welcome these talented professionals to our team and look forward to the positive impact they will have on our school community. Please extend a warm greeting when you see them!

The Newbery Bowl, scheduled for December 11, 2025, is a huge accomplishment. You’ve read, analyzed, discussed, and pushed yourselves as scholars — and now it’s your time to shine.

You’ve got the knowledge.

You’ve got the teamwork.
You’ve got the heart.

Show them what Lincoln Tigers can do! We’re all cheering for you — read strong, think critically, and bring that championship home!

Aniyah Denise Minkens

Jada Miller

Kamari Davion Oharrow

Avianna M. Oliva

Isabella Josephine Rivera

Armani Ke’Shay Robertson

Lincoln Elementary is proud to announce that we have reestablished our Student Council for the 2024–2025 school year! Elections were held before the student break, and we are pleased to introduce the following representatives:

6th Grade Student Council

• President: Anthony Herrera

  
  

  
  

• Vice President: Ashley Cruz

  
  

  
  

• Secretary: Evelyn Ramirez

  
  

  
  

• Treasurer: Jaie Cook

  
  

  
  

7th Grade Student Council

• President: Alana Battee

  
  

  
  

• Vice President: Warren Jones

  
  

  
  

• Secretary: Kenneth Wesley

  
  

  
  

• Treasurer: Fatima Fonseca

  
  

  
  

• Event Photographer: Ailyn Hernandez

  
  

  
  

• Class Representative: Janae King

  
  

  
  

Congratulations to all of our new Student Council members! We look forward to your leadership, ideas, and service to the Lincoln Elementary community this year. I’m excited to work alongside our student leaders as we strengthen our school through their voices, lessons, and leadership. Congratulations again to all of our newly elected representatives! Thank you to the sponsors, Ms. Davis and Mr. Anderson.

What a lovely and joy-filled gesture our Multicultural Team created to honor our Literacy teachers. The atmosphere was nothing short of exceptional—delicious food, thoughtful and vibrant decorations, uplifting music, and the always-impressive dance team performance made the celebration truly unforgettable.

My heartfelt appreciation goes to Mrs. Wilson, Ms. Palmer, Mr. Myers, Mrs. Walker, Ms. Stranton, Ms. Carter, Ms. Bannach, and Mrs. Parrish for serving our staff with genuine kindness and enthusiasm. A special acknowledgment is extended to Mrs. Wilson’s mother, whose gracious support added an extra touch of warmth to the event. Thank you as well to Mrs. Parrish for ensuring the décor was beautifully executed.

A joyful shout-out to Ms. Spencer and Mrs. Pimentel, who made sure our students delivered a creative and energetic dance routine, and to the choir for singing so beautifully and brightening the day.

The gallery walk was a stunning highlight, showcasing our students’ heartfelt messages, while the video presentations displayed remarkable creativity and purpose. Thank you to Ms. Ally, Ms. Apedo, Ms. Boateng, Mr. Donkor, Mr. Duah, Mrs. Gittens, Mr. Korang, Mr. Koussantie, Mr. Sawyerr, and Mr. Seneres for your ongoing commitment to educating and uplifting our scholars each day at Lincoln.

We sincerely appreciate your dedication, passion, and unwavering service to our students and our school community.

On November 6th, the TF North Marching Band, under the direction of Ms. Stephanie Cheers, visited Lincoln Elementary Junior High as part of their end-of-season tour. As a conclusion to their marching band season, the ensemble traveled to several local middle schools to share a brief performance and host a Q&A session with students. Their goal was to spark excitement for music, inspire young musicians, and highlight the opportunities available within the TF North Music Department.

Their performance for our students was outstanding—full of energy, talent, and school spirit. It was significant to see former Lincoln students performing in the ensemble, as well as our very own 7th-grade student, Bentley Carney-Wilson, who joined the TF North Drumline. It was a wonderful experience for our students and a powerful reminder of the musical possibilities that await them in high school.

Lincoln ESD 156 currently has available spots for 4-year-old students in our preschool program.

Please note that all prospective preschool students must complete a screening process.
Screening does not guarantee enrollment.

Children will be screened in several areas to assess their overall development and readiness for preschool.

If you would like to have your child screened, please call the main office at (708) 862-6620 to schedule an appointment.

We look forward to welcoming our newest Lincoln learners.

The theme for December is kindness, and part of being safe and kind is showing up every day—on time and ready to learn. We are so proud to recognize the students who attended school daily with no tardies this month!

These outstanding students have demonstrated real responsibility and dedication. By arriving on time each day, they are setting themselves up for success and helping to create a positive, safe, and respectful learning environment for everyone. Their commitment truly shines, and we celebrate them with the highest regard.

A heartfelt thank-you to all of our families who support consistent attendance and punctuality. Your encouragement and partnership mean so much, and the impact is felt throughout our entire school community. We honestly couldn’t do it without you!

The November overall rate is 90%

In November, 293 students earned Perfect Attendance, an increase of 17 students.

We are absolutely thrilled to shine a spotlight on an outstanding achievement for November! A remarkable group of devoted teachers and staff members earned perfect attendance, and we couldn’t be prouder. Their consistent presence reflects a deep commitment to showing up for our students every day.

Because of their dedication, our students benefit from a steady, supportive learning environment—and they get to see firsthand what responsibility, perseverance, and a strong work ethic look like in action. These educators truly embody what it means to be engaged, dependable, and fully present, making a powerful difference in our students' lives and setting an outstanding example for our entire school community.

Please join us in celebrating and honoring their incredible commitment! Thank you for being such an essential part of our school’s success and for inspiring students and colleagues alike!

The attendance policy for Lincoln Elementary School is outlined in the school’s official handbooks and recent communications, and it is fully aligned with the requirements of the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).

According to the FY 2025 and FY 2026 Student Handbooks, Lincoln Elementary enforces the Illinois Compulsory Attendance Law, which requires all children aged five or older (by September 1) to attend school. Valid causes for absence—such as illness or family emergencies—are governed by Illinois law (105 ILCS 5/26-1 and 105 ILCS 5/26-2a), ensuring that absences are documented and excused appropriately. The policy emphasizes:

Daily attendance is a critical factor in academic success.

Parents' responsibility is to contact the school if a child is absent.

Doctor’s notes for absences exceeding three consecutive days.

Alignment with ISBE and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) health and exclusion regulations.

FY 25 Student Handbook 7-20-202…

Please ensure you are connected to your student's homeroom teacher via School Status Connect (formerly known as Classtag). Teachers share essential information about units of study, class activities, and ways families can support learning at home.

For December, our theme is “Be Kind.” We are so proud of the students who consistently show kindness in their words and actions and were nominated for this recognition. These students go out of their way to help others, including their classmates, use respectful language, and make choices that build up our school community. Their hearts, attitudes, and everyday actions remind us that kindness is mighty—and it can change someone’s whole day.

Kindness isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we live out in the hallway, the classroom, the cafeteria, and on the playground. Every smile, encouraging word, helping hand, or moment of patience makes our school a safer, happier place for everyone.

To our nominated students: thank you for leading by example. You are showing what it means to be a caring friend, a respectful classmate, and a positive leader. Keep shining your light!

And to all of our students and families—let’s keep this spirit going all month long and beyond. Let’s share kindness every day!

At Lincoln Elementary School, we are committed to helping every child build a strong foundation for learning, and we know this begins with consistent attendance, especially in the primary grades. When children come to school every day, they build essential routines, develop social skills, and are exposed to rich language experiences that support early learning.

We also encourage families to engage in daily conversations with their young learners. Talking with your child about their day, naming objects around the house and in the community, and describing what you see together all help expand vocabulary and strengthen early communication skills.

For families of first and second graders, this is a critical time in your child’s reading development. Students should be working to know all their letter names, letter sounds, and grade-level sight words, as these skills are the foundation for fluent and confident reading. Reviewing these skills at home, even for a few minutes each day, makes a powerful difference in your child’s progress.

We also encourage parents to model fluent reading by reading to and with their child every day. Choose books they love, take turns reading, and pause to talk about the characters, problems, and key events. These conversations help students build comprehension skills and deepen their understanding of what they read. Every moment spent reading together supports your child’s growth and creates a positive connection around learning.

Thank you for partnering with us to support strong attendance, early literacy skills, and a love of reading. Together, we can help every student grow, thrive, and reach their fullest potential.

Thank you for your partnership.

Mrs. M. Reynolds

We are now in our fifth month of school and beginning to inch closer to our 8th-grade activities! Be on the lookout for letters regarding activity eligibility — these will be sent home during the last week before winter break.

Please remember that the 8th-grade activities fee is $200 and is due on February 13, 2026. Payments can be made in the main office.

Important Dates

• February 27, 2025: 8th Grade Pictures

• May 15, 2025: 8th Grade Dance
  

• May 21, 2025: 8th Grade Trip — Scene 75
  

• May 26, 2025: Graduation at TF North

We’re thrilled to celebrate an incredible Accelerated Reader milestone! Abideen Olanrewaju is the first student to reach the One Million Point (Millionaire) Club—a remarkable achievement that shows dedication, perseverance, and a true love of reading. Even more impressive, Abideen has already reached the highest level of the Point Club!

Please join us in congratulating Abideen for this outstanding accomplishment and for inspiring all of our students to keep reading, growing, and aiming high.

Our fabulous Lincoln Leos are gearing up for their third annual Winter Drive — a project launched by our very first Leo members back in 2023. This year, the students are leveling up and adding toiletries to the collection to support both Lincoln School and Brooks Middle School in Harvey. They’ve been planning, sorting, and getting everything ready with tons of heart!

We’re inviting our entire school community to join the fun and donate gently used clothing, coats, hats, gloves, and winter gear, along with basic toiletries like soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant. Every little bit helps keep our kids warm and supported this season.

Our first giveaway will take place on January 30th during Parent-Teacher Conferences, and donation boxes will be placed at the main entrance at Lincoln School. Thank you for helping our Leos spread kindness all winter long!

The Wolf Lake Initiative invited students from elementary through middle school to submit original, handmade posters inspired by the nature and beauty of the Wolf Lake watershed. We are proud to share that all 13 Lincoln Elementary students who entered the Greening of the Arts contest had their artwork on display!

When it comes to empowering teachers and supporting student success, Mrs. Dulaney-Morrison, Ms. Simpson, and Mrs. Griffin honestly answer the call—every single day! These dedicated Instructional Coaches work side by side with our teachers to strengthen instruction across our building. They share best practices, guide curriculum implementation, analyze student data, and help ensure our students are fully prepared for state assessments.

Over the past few years, they have also rolled up their sleeves and stepped up in a big way—leading dynamic Writing Professional Development sessions in response to teachers’ requests for additional support. Their willingness to listen, collaborate, and deliver meaningful training has had a powerful impact in classrooms throughout our school.

Their teamwork, expertise, and positive spirit continue to strengthen instruction and directly support one of our key School Improvement Goals: improving student writing.

Through their passion, partnership, and purpose, Mrs. Dulaney-Morrison, Ms. Simpson, and Mrs. Griffin are helping our entire school community grow—one classroom, one lesson, and one success story at a time.

The Joliet Area/South Suburban Alumnae Chapter (JASSAC) was chartered on January 12, 1974, by seventeen trailblazing Delta women. Many of these founding members served in south suburban school districts across Cook and Will Counties in Illinois, leaving a legacy of service, leadership, and educational advocacy.

Blessings in a Backpack is one of JASSAC’s signature initiatives focused on addressing food insecurity—one of the most significant barriers to student learning and well-being. In partnership with the nonprofit organization Blessings in a Backpack, chapter members purchase, pack, and distribute food-filled backpacks each month to ensure students have access to nutritious meals over the weekend.

We are proud to announce that JASSAC has provided over 1,000 Blessings in a Backpack to students and families in our community.

American Education Week was November 17–21, and we were honored to receive support from lota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. This community organization is dedicated to uplifting our youth, primarily through its program, Future Leaders in Training (FLT). During the week, they generously provided donuts for Lincoln’s entire staff and took time to recognize three outstanding team members for their hard work and dedication to education.

These staff members consistently go above and beyond in their roles, making a positive impact on students’ lives and inspiring them to reach their full potential. We are proud to celebrate: Ms. Few, 4th-grade teacher; Mrs. Mendez, 6th-grade ELA teacher; and Mrs. Rosales, our attendance clerk.

Thank you, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc., for your kindness, encouragement, and continued partnership in supporting our school community!

The Calumet City–Lansing (IL) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., chartered on December 7, 2018, has shown incredible generosity and care for our Lincoln community. Their thoughtful donation of warm coats for our students, along with the distribution of Thanksgiving packages to Lincoln families, has made a meaningful impact during this season of giving.

We are deeply grateful for their kindness, service, and continued commitment to uplifting our school. Thank you for supporting our families and reminding us what true community partnership looks like!

We are thrilled to share that Pastor Joyce Smith, founder of the Better Days Community Outreach Services, generously reached out to support our preschool students this season. Working with Principal Mrs. Donald and Superintendent Dr. Rice, Pastor Joyce provided winter coats for every preschooler at Lincoln School.

Preschool parents were sent information about the coat giveaway and asked to share their child’s coat size. Thanks to this thoughtful effort, all coats were sorted and delivered to teachers who ensured each student received their new winter coats.

The children were excited to receive their coats. Many shared that they loved the colors and how warm they are. Parents also expressed their appreciation for this generous donation, grateful for the support and care shown to their children.

A big thank you to Pastor Joyce and the Better Days Foundation for helping our little Tigers stay warm this winter.

MED-ADVO-C members of the HUB showed up for our Lincoln Tigers in the sweetest way—by providing cozy gloves, hats, and scarves to keep our students warm and ready to shine!

We truly appreciate you for thinking of us and pouring love into our school community. Your kindness makes a real difference, and our Tigers feel it! Thank you, Mrs. April McMurray-White, CEO of MED-ADVO-C, for being part of our village!