New Student & Family Newsletter

Hello Haven Families!

We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Welcome to Haven event, designed especially for our rising 6th grade students and their families. We invite you and your 5th grader to join us on May 19 at 5:30 PM for an engaging and informative evening. This event is slightly different from our State of Haven Showcase & Orientation events held in January and February, as our time together will focus specifically on the 6th grade experience.

In the coming week, our current 5th graders from our feeder schools will take a field-trip visit to Haven for a tour and presentation led by our student ambassadors and staff. This same experience will be shared with families during the evening event, offering a meaningful preview of life at Haven.

If you’re unable to attend, there’s no need to worry. Our Back-to-School Bash in late August will provide another opportunity for students and families to connect, explore, and get acquainted with Haven before the first day of classes. Be on the lookout for specific details from our admin team later this summer.

We look forward to partnering with you and officially welcoming your family to the Haven Northstars community!

If you have not yet completed registration for next school year, please do so as soon as possible. Completing registration ensures that your child will have a schedule ready and helps us avoid any delays or challenges on the first day of school.

In the past, some families have not completed this process in advance, which can create unnecessary stress on the first day. Since we know that starting middle school can already come with some first-day jitters, we appreciate your help in making the transition as smooth as possible for your rising 6th grader by completing registration promptly.

If you have any questions or need support, please contact D65 Registration Team at (847) 859-8065 or email registrationinfo@district65.net.

Thank you for your partnership!

Thank you to all who were able to attend at least one of our State of Haven Showcase & Orientation events this semester! It was a pleasure connecting with our future Haven students and their families.

Later this spring, we look forward to welcoming students from our feeder elementary schools for a field trip to Haven. During their visit, students will have an opportunity to learn more about our school and participate in a guided tour of the building.

We are excited to host this year’s incoming 5th graders and begin building those important connections early!

Hello, future Haven families!

It feels like the spring semester is moving at light speed! Since our last newsletter update, we’ve celebrated so many wonderful moments here at Haven. From our Black History Month door decorating contest, to our Haven Girls Varsity Volleyball Team earning the D65 Conference Championship, to staff members showcasing their baking talents in our Pi Day Baking Contest—it’s been an exciting and joy-filled few weeks!

As we look ahead, we’re all eagerly anticipating next week’s Spring Break. Before we head out, we still have a few important events to close out this week.

Don’t forget—our second State of Haven Showcase & Orientation is scheduled for this Wednesday, March 25 at 6:30 PM. If you weren’t able to attend our January event, this is a great opportunity to connect with us. The presentations and school tours will mirror what was shared previously, so you won’t miss a thing!

Families of rising 6th graders: please be sure to complete your registration for the fall semester as soon as possible. We will begin building student schedules later this spring and want to ensure every student is included in that process.

We hope to see you there as we continue to celebrate and share all the great things happening at Haven!

Hello, future Haven families!

We invite you to take a few moments to explore our February newsletter. Our goal is to provide one clear and reliable source of information so you can stay connected with Haven and informed about what’s happening, without feeling overwhelmed.

Here’s a quick look at this month’s updates:

Recap of Last Month:

• State of Haven Showcase and Orientation

Program Updates:

• Dual Language Program expands to Haven next year

• Submit questions via google form below (to be addressed in the Info Session)

Upcoming Events:

• Middle School Dual Language Info Sessions:

  • 2/24/26 – Virtual

  • 2/25/26 – In-person at Haven Middle School, 6:30 p.m.

• Next State of Haven Showcase: 3/25/26 at 6:30 p.m.

Important Reminders:

• Register rising 6th graders by 4/1/26 to begin fall 2026 classes

• Check D65 website for detailed registration info

• Registration Questions?
  For assistance, please contact D65 Registration Team:
  📞 Phone: (847) 859-8065
  ✉️ Email: registrationinfo@district65.net

Helpful Resources:

• School Assignment Process for 2026–2027

Thank you for staying engaged and informed! We appreciate your partnership and look forward to connecting soon.

Thank you to all the families who attended January’s State of Haven Showcase & Orientation. The evening featured informative presentations from our staff and meaningful perspectives from our student ambassadors, offering families a closer look at academics, student life, and the Haven community.

The photos shown above and below capture just a few snapshots from the event! Families who will be joining the Haven community this fall are encouraged to attend our next State of Haven Showcase on 3/25 at 6:30 PM in the Haven Auditorium. We hope you can join us!

The message below comes from D65 Director of the Multilingual Department - Amy Correa

Dear 5th Grade TWI Families,

We are excited to support your family’s transition to middle school! This email shares important information about the Dual Language Middle School Program and explains your registration options for the 2026-27 school year.

Please note: Regardless of your interest in your child being part of the Dual Language Middle School program, all rising sixth graders are required to complete the registration process to ensure that we have accurate information on file. Registration is open now and rising sixth grade registration closes April 26, 2026. View D65 Registration website

About the Middle School Dual Language Program

As a Two-Way Immersion (TWI) parent/caregiver, we hope that you have already seen the benefits of your child learning two languages. Students who complete grades K-5 in the TWI program continue into the district’s new Dual Language program in middle school. This program builds on the elementary school TWI experience and includes:

• 50/50 instruction in Spanish and English

• Math, Science, and Spanish Language Arts taught in Spanish

• Social Studies, Physical Education, Specials, and English Language Arts taught in English

• For classes taught in English, students will mix with their monolingual peers, allowing for new relationships and a richer learning environment.

Research shows it takes five to seven years for students to become fully bilingual. The middle school years are a critical time for strengthening and deepening bilingual skills and we are excited to be able to offer this new programming in District 65.

Additionally, ETHS is also building a dual language program! We are excited that our students will have a continuity of language learning opportunities from kindergarten in District 65 through 12th grade at ETHS.

Important Information for Bessie Rhodes, Willard, Washington, and Dewey TWI Families

School and Dual Language Program Assignment

All 5th grade TWI students at Willard, Washington, and Dewey will be automatically enrolled in the Dual Language program if their local-area (home) school is Haven or Nichols. All Rhodes 5th grade students will be assigned to Haven per the School Board resolution regarding the closure of Dr. Bessie Rhodes School of Global Studies. You will accept this placement in the School Assignment process if you wish to stay in dual language.

As a reminder, if your child attends Willard, Washington or Dewey and you live in the Chute feeder pattern, your child will be assigned to Chute. If your TWI student wishes to be part of the Dual Language program, families may request a permissive transfer to attend Haven or Nichols middle schools.

Transportation Eligibility

More information on transportation policy is available in the School Transition Hub.

Opting out of Dual Language in Middle School

If you do not wish to be part of Dual Language, families may request to leave the Dual Language program and return to your local-area school (home school). More details on this process were provided in the District 65 email titled “2026-2027 School Assignment / Asignación de escuela para el ciclo 2026-2027.

General Questions?

If you have questions about the Dual Language Middle School program, please contact my team by replying to this email (correaa@district65.net) If you have any questions about the permissive transfer or registration processes, please contact Registration at registrationinfo@district65.net. Additional information can be found on the District 65 School Transition Hub.

We would love to hear your questions about our Dual Language expansion for next year. Our goal is to gather your input in advance so we can thoughtfully address as many questions as possible during our in-person Middle School Dual Language Information Session on 2/25/26 at 6:30 p.m. at Haven.

Please take a moment to share your questions using the Google Form linked below. Your feedback will help us ensure the session is clear, informative, and responsive to what matters most to your family.

We look forward to connecting with you soon!

Middle School Dual Language Information Sessions

📅 02/24/26

• Time: 12:00–1:00 PM

• Format: Virtual (All-District Session)

• Location: Google Meets - Link

• Who should attend: 5th-grade TWI parents/caregivers interested in the middle school dual language program

📅 02/25/26

• Time: 6:30–7:30 PM

• Location: Haven Middle School (In-Person)

• Who should attend: Incoming Haven Middle School Dual Language students and families

State of Haven Showcase and Orientation #2

📅 03/25/26

• Time: 6:30–7:30 PM

• Location: Haven Middle School (In-Person)

• Who should attend: Families and Students that will be new to Haven for SY26-27

Hello Rising 6th Grade Families!

I am excited to welcome you to the Haven Middle School community. As your family begins thinking about the transition from elementary school to middle school, I want to take a few moments to introduce myself, share a snapshot of who we are at Haven, and outline what you can expect as we prepare for August 2026.

My name is Chris Latting, and I have had the honor of serving as principal of Haven since July of 2020. Prior to joining District 65, I worked as a substitute teacher, an 8th grade science and social studies teacher, a K–5 assistant principal, and a K–5 principal in Joliet Public School District #86. During my time at Haven, I have grown alongside our students, staff, and families, and I am truly looking forward to partnering with you and your child over the next three years as part of our Haven family.

The years since COVID have marked a period of significant progress and transformation for Haven Middle School in academics, school culture, and student experience. Prior to the pandemic, Haven was designated a Targeted School by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). In October of 2023, we proudly earned a "Commendable" designation, meaning we currently have no underperforming student groups on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR). This achievement reflects the intentional work and collaboration of our leadership team, staff, students, families, and community partners.

We are equally proud of the progress we have made in student belonging and school climate. Over the past three years, Panorama Survey results show an increase from 41% to 60% of students reporting that they feel valued and connected at Haven. This now exceeds the district average!

Haven has also achieved remarkable academic growth:

• In ELA, we saw the largest improvement among 12 schools, with a 30.4-point increase in students reaching performance levels 4 or 5 on the IAR between Spring 2022 and Spring 2024.
• In Mathematics, Haven recorded a 12.8-point gain, the highest growth in the district, placing us among 10 District 65 schools to show improvement.

Students performing at levels 4 and 5 have met or exceeded expectations, demonstrating readiness for the next grade level and positioning themselves on track for college and career success.

These achievements reflect our unwavering commitment to growth, improvement, and our investment in:

• Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
• AVID Elective Course and School-wide strategies
• Community partnerships
• Family engagement
• Restorative Practices
• Student voice and leadership
• Enhancing campus aesthetics

Together, these initiatives have helped us begin to foster a supportive and thriving environment where students are empowered to grow, achieve, and succeed!

If you are available and interested in attending one of our annual parent information sessions please save the dates to attend the State of Haven Showcase & Family Orientation This engaging event provides a close-up look at Haven’s academic programs, student supports, leadership opportunities, and school culture. Families new to Haven will also get a chance to explore daily life at our school and see how we support every student’s growth and success. Time, date, and details are included in the flyer below. Please join us!!

Dates and Time:
📅 Wednesday January 28, 2026
📅 Wednesday March 25, 2026

⏰ 6:30 PM sharp
📍 Haven Middle School

Come celebrate our progress, meet staff and student leaders, and discover what makes Haven a thriving community!

I look forward to meeting and collaborating with each of you over the next three years here at Haven!

Thank you!

Calling all current and future Haven families! Join us for our State of Haven Showcase & Family Orientation and get an inside look at what makes Haven a place where students thrive.

During this event, you’ll:

• Explore Haven’s academic programs and student supports

• Learn about leadership opportunities and student voice

• See how we build a welcoming, supportive school community

When to Attend:
📅 Wednesday , January 28, 2026

📅 Wednesday March 25, 2026

⏰ 6:30 PM sharp
📍 Haven Middle School

This is a great chance to meet staff and student leaders, celebrate our progress, and discover the many ways Haven supports students’ growth and success. We can’t wait to see you there!

1. Parents/Caregivers must register their child(ren) for 6th grade. You can do this beginning in February. Please complete before end of this school year
2. There are 625 students who attend Haven Middle School.
3. The principal and assistant principal "loop" with students each year. This means that your child's administrator will remain with them (and you) through 6th, 7th, and 8th grades.
4. Each grade level has its own school counselor and social worker. These teammates also loop with students throughout their middle school experience, allowing for deep relationship building and support over the three-year middle school journey for students and families.
5. Haven students have opportunities to engage in extracurricular D65 athletics, intramural sports, student leadership, and a variety of after-school clubs and activities.
6. Over the past three years, Haven staff members, including all of the SEL teammates, have attended professional learning on the implementation and maintenance of Restorative Practices IIRP.
7. Each year 5th graders attending Haven's feeder elementary schools (Willard, Lincolnwood, Orrington and Kingsley) are invited for a fieldtrip to visit Haven each spring to visit Haven and learn about what to expect in middle school.
8. We welcome all future Haven families and students that will be attending Haven during the 2026-2027 school year to join us at our State of Haven Showcase & Family Orientation

It’s crucial to complete the registration process for your rising 6th grader before the end of this school year. Delayed registration can disrupt essential communications from Haven to you, limit course availability for your child, and create a domino effect that can negatively impact your child’s first day of middle school—something we want to help you avoid.

To ensure a smooth transition, please visit this link for detailed instructions on completing your child’s 6th-grade registration. Alternatively, you can schedule an appointment with the registration department for assistance. Please note that walk-ins are not accepted. I'm sharing this information early to help you stay prepared and informed.

Student Registration for rising 6th graders for the 2026 - 2027 school year begins in February. Be on the lookout for more specifics from D65 soon!

• Physical exam performed within 12 months of the first day of 6th grade

• Tdap Shot

• Meningitis Shot

• Hepatitis B Shots (series of three shots)

• Dental Exam performed on or after December, 2025

The School Based Health Center at ETHS offers physical exams and shots free of charge for students who have state insurance. For students who receive free/reduced lunch; Exams are $12.00 and shots are $3.00 per shot. Students who have private insurance are only eligible for a physical exam at full price ($33.00). Please call 847-424-7265 to set up an appointment.

Health documents should be mailed to Health Services, 1500 McDaniel Ave 60201 or they can be uploaded (PDF format preferred) during the registration process.

If you're interested in learning more about the grade-skipping evaluation process, please take a moment to review these procedures. Our district's process includes five key steps, typically spanning four to five months from start to finish.

If you feel your child’s academic needs are not being fully met through grade-level instruction, we strongly encourage you to begin the process as early as possible. In many cases, the evaluation process itself can result in strategies that enhance academic performance within the current grade level.

Students who qualify for grade skipping will be enrolled in the appropriate advanced courses during the following school year. Please note that mid-year course changes are not offered. This process applies to rising 6th, 7th, and 8th graders for the 2026-2027 school year.

D65 Alternate Placement Procedures - Overview Link

We will be hosting (5th grade to 6th grade) transition meetings for students with an IEP or 504 plan that include parents, your child's case manager, and our Haven team later this spring. When meetings times are solidified you will be notified, but at this time there is nothing you need to do. As always feel free to touch base with your child's current case manager with any questions that you have.

This pivotal role empowers Ambassadors to offer invaluable feedback and insights on various facets of school life, including its culture, climate, and initiatives. Furthermore, Ambassadors play a pivotal role in shaping both new school initiatives and enduring traditions at Haven. This year, approximately 30 dedicated Ambassadors serve in diverse leadership capacities, contributing to the dynamic tapestry of our educational community.

This spring, 5th-grade families will have the opportunity to learn about AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), an academic elective offered at Haven for grades 6–8. AVID is designed to prepare students for high school, college readiness, and long-term success by developing essential skills such as critical thinking, organization, effective communication, and collaboration.

In AVID, students engage in a college-preparatory curriculum. As a part of this curriclum students frequently engage in activities including note-taking strategies (such as Cornell Notes), tutor-facilitated study groups, goal-setting, and field trips. They also participate in experiential learning, motivational activities, and career exploration, all aimed at fostering academic growth and building the skills needed to excel.

Families will soon have the opportunity to apply for their child to join Haven's AVID program. Stay tuned for details from your child’s elementary school later this semester. In the meantime, visit the D65 and ETHS AVID webpages for more information.

This year, our first cohort of Haven AVID students will graduate and continue their AVID journey in high school. We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and growth, and we can’t wait to see all they accomplish as they take these next exciting steps toward their future!

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Website: https://haven.district65.net/
Location: 2417 Prairie Avenue, Evanston, IL, USA
Phone: (847)859-8200