D73 Digest

The D73 Digest is your go-to source for Hawthorn District news, updates, and events. Whether you're looking for important reminders, celebrations, or ways to stay involved, you’ll find everything you need right here.

We’re launching a new shoutouts campaign to celebrate our incredible educators — and we want your help! Families are invited to submit a short video of their child thanking their teacher or staff member and sharing something special about them.

Selected videos may be featured on our district social media channels and in future newsletters.

Parents are invited to attend a Kindergarten Information Meeting on February 4 at 6 p.m. at Middle School North (201 Hawthorn Parkway). Presentations will be offered in English and Spanish and will cover registration, dual language options, a typical kindergarten day, and an opportunity to meet our principals.

This meeting is for parents only.

District 73 is excited to begin planning our first-ever Hawthorn Heritage Faire, a celebration of the many cultures, languages, and traditions represented in our school community. Families are invited to share a country, culture, or heritage by hosting a table featuring artifacts, photos, clothing, music, art, food, or hands-on activities. If you’re interested in learning more or considering participating, please complete the interest survey. Completing the form does not commit you to participating and simply helps us plan and connect with interested families. For questions, contact Nicole Merryfield Coy, Director of Multilingual Learning, at merryfieldcoyn@hawthorn73.org | 847-990-4219.

Please note that Thursday, February 12 will follow an early release schedule due to Parent/Teacher Conferences. Families are encouraged to plan accordingly.

The 2026–2027 school year calendar is now available. Families are encouraged to review key dates, including the first and last days of school, holidays, and breaks, to help with planning ahead.

Please continue to talk with your child about bus expectations, including staying seated, using respectful language, and following driver directions. When families and schools share the same message, we help ensure a safe and positive experience for all bus riders.

Remain seated, keep hands and objects to yourself, and follow driver directions.

Sit appropriately and be ready for your stop.

Use an appropriate voice, keep aisles clear, and care for bus property.

Use respectful language and actions toward peers and adults.

At the Jan. 15 Board meeting, the Key to 73 Foundation presented more than $26,000 to support Hawthorn families and students, including funding for Eagle Net to help maintain reliable internet access and support for the Hawthorn Food Pantry, ensuring students have what they need to learn and thrive.

The Connection Corner is your go-to space for insights and resources that strengthen the home–school connection while supporting your child’s social, emotional, and behavioral growth.

We know winter hasn’t even arrived yet, but we’re already dreaming about sunshine and summer fun! 🌻 Mark your calendars — Hawthorn’s summer programs are set for June 8–26, Monday through Friday (no school on June 19).

Our summer lineup includes Extended School Year (ESY), Early Start Kindergarten (ESK), Hawthorn Enrichment Institute (HEI), Hawthorn Music Camp, Summer Scholars, and Volleyball Camp.

More information about each program and registration details will be shared after winter break.

Lincoln (PreK) ESY Dates: TBD

Join D73’s volunteer program, Hawthorn Helpers, and be part of a caring and dedicated team of parents and community members who support our schools!

📌 Learn more here: Hawthorn Helper Information
📧 Questions? Contact Family Liaison Sol Cabachuela at cabachuleas@hawthorn73.org

Looking for something fun for your child on their day off? Kids can enjoy a full day of activities including Movie Friday, Blaze Pod games, social-emotional learning, and free play with games, puzzles, and more. Drop-off is from 7:30 a.m. with pick-up by 6:00 p.m. Cost is $25 for afterschool members and $55 for non-members. Children should bring a lunch, snacks, and a water bottle (extra snacks available for purchase). Register at https://sparkpages.io/?i=_IXyb. The program is held at 706 E. Hawley St., Mundelein. For questions, call 847-970-9494.

Looking for a fun and meaningful way for your K–5th child to learn, grow, and make friends?

Join Cub Scout Pack 273 — where adventure, character-building, and lifelong memories begin!

This spring's lineup of fun, hands-on activities include:

• Quiver Fest (archery)

• Yeti Quest

• Police Dept Field Trip

• Winter Cabin Camping

• Pinewood Derby Races

• Community Service

… and so much more!

Give your child the chance to explore, lead, and thrive — all while having a blast.

Come be part of the Pack 273 family! Scan the QR code on the flyer or click this link to find out how your child can join the fun with Pack 273!

Do you have a family member, friend, or neighbor who is currently serving or has served in the U.S. Armed Forces? The Village of Vernon Hills, in partnership with American Legion Vernon Post 1247, is seeking honorees for their Military Banner Program.

Each honoree will be celebrated with a light pole banner displayed proudly throughout the community. The program is free and the application process is simple—it can be submitted by anyone, including a family member, friend, or neighbor.

This is a wonderful way to recognize the service and sacrifice of veterans and active-duty members, especially from the next generation of local heroes.

Learn more and apply here:
Call for Honorees
Military Banners Info

Thank you for helping us honor those who serve.

We’re excited to share a new tutoring opportunity for D73 middle school students, organized by Vernon Hills High School’s National Honor Society! This program is open to all students, including English learners, and will take place at the Aspen Drive Library. Students can drop in as needed, but are encouraged to fill out the interest form ahead of time.

📍 Location: Aspen Drive Library
🗓️ Drop-in format – flexible and welcoming

Congressman Schneider’s Brad’s Bookworms program is now open for the 2025–2026 school year. Students are invited to read 10 books with the help of a parent or guardian and submit their progress online at https://schneider.house.gov/students/brads-bookworms. All participants will be invited to a special celebration with Congressman Schneider in early 2026 and will receive a certificate. Students may also enter the annual Bookmark Design Contest. Forms can be completed online.

Christ Lutheran Preschool is now accepting enrollments for the 2025–2026 school year! Welcoming children ages 2.5 to 5, the program offers a warm, inclusive environment where every child can learn and grow. Come see what makes this preschool special—all are welcome!

📞 (847-367-5791) For more information or to schedule a visit, contact Christ Lutheran Preschool today.

Parents/Guardians of 8th Graders: It’s never too early to start preparing for the transition to high school!

Wanderlight Pathways, founded by Golden Apple Award–winning educator Todd Katz, offers one-on-one and small group coaching for students in grades 9–11. This program focuses on executive functioning, leadership, and building confidence to help students thrive in high school.

Wanderlight complements the strong foundation built in middle school by empowering students with the tools they need to navigate increased independence.

🌐 Learn more at wanderlightpathways.com
📞 Contact: 224-255-3087