June D10 on the 10th

• Peacock Charger Report
• Franzen Falcon
• Benson Bulletin
• IPTO News

As I prepare to move into the Superintendent role on July 1st, I want to take a moment to recognize the exceptional leadership and tenure of Mr. Craig Benes as he retires from his Superintendent role within our District at the end of June. Craig’s dedication to Itasca and our school district has helped shape a district that is committed to student success, strong community relationships, a stand-out fine arts program, student safety, and outstanding academic growth.

Craig began his tenure with our district in 2015 after 17 years with Chicago Public Schools. Since 2015, he has guided the district through major improvements, including the expansion of pre-kindergarten, the transition to full-day kindergarten, and maintaining in-person learning during the pandemic. He also oversaw major capital improvements such as the Benson addition and playground. During his tenure, the District achieved historically high academic achievement and growth while supporting a well-rounded education and expanded opportunities in Fine Arts and Athletics. His leadership has left a lasting mark on every school and classroom.

On a personal note, I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to follow in Craig’s footsteps. His commitment to ensuring a thoughtful, long-term, and smooth transition reflects the same professionalism and care that has defined his leadership. It has been an honor to serve alongside Craig and learn from his example. His impact will be felt for years to come.

I am excited about the future of District 10 and the opportunities ahead. As we move forward, we will continue to build upon the strong foundation established under Craig’s leadership, honoring the values and commitments that have made this district such a special place to learn and grow.

We wish Mr. Benes a happy and fulfilling retirement!

-Dr. Heidi Weeks

Registration for the 2026–2027 school year is officially open for all new and returning students.

Whether you're enrolling a kindergartener for the first time or re-registering a returning student, make sure to complete this process as soon as possible. Timely registration helps us plan class sizes, staffing, and resources to ensure the best possible start for every student.

It is recommended to register by June 14th to avoid the late registration fee.

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to our district office. Let’s get ready for another great year of learning, growth, and community at D10!

In anticipation of Mr. Benes tenure coming to an end with Itasca District 10, he has reviewed the Board of Education highlights from the last eleven years. Although every district faces challenges at times, we would like to invite you to see what has worked and made D10 both stronger and better. We invite you to review this three part series below.

During the summer months, you may notice some updates to our transportation program ahead of next school year. Drivers and transportation staff will be wearing high-visibility safety vests, and buses will begin displaying the First Student name and branding. While the appearance may look different, you can expect the same commitment to safe, reliable transportation and the same dedicated local team serving students each day.

Children beginning Kindergarten in August 2026 for the 2026-2027 school year are required to take part in an assessment. These assessments take place on Wednesday, August 12th and Thursday, August 13th. Please sign your child up for a slot using the link below.

Sign up for a Kindergarten Assessment

The Board of Education meets regularly on the second Wednesday of each month. Meetings are held at the Itasca Village Hall, 550 W. Irving Park Road, Itasca, Illinois, at 7:00 P.M, unless noted otherwise. If a closed session is needed, it is held prior to the regular meeting at 6:00 P.M.

Upcoming Board Meetings

• June 10, 2026

• August 12, 2026

Looking for fun ways to keep your kids reading this summer? Many organizations offer free summer reading programs with books, pizza, prizes, and more.

Itasca Library "Plant a Seed, Read" Summer Reading Program: Runs May 26 - July 31. Sign up, track your reading and earn fun prizes!

Pizza Hut Summer Book It Program: The long-running BOOK IT! Program encourages reading through rewards and certificates redeemable for pizza.

Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program: Students in grades 1-6 read any eight books, log them in the journal, and receive a free book from their store. Valid July 1 – Aug 31, 2026.

Half Price Books Summer Reading Camp: Beginning on June 1, registered participants can access printable camp components all summer. Kids can take their completed reading logs to their local HPB to receive $5 Bookworm Bucks in June and July.

The Itasca Park District is offering a free basketball camp taking place on July 23-24 at the Recreation Center. Join us for this free Boys & Girls Basketball and Sportsmanship Camp! This two-day experience designed for 5th–8th grade student-athletes will sharpen their basketball fundamentals through skill development, competitive drills, and game play while learning the value of teamwork, respect, and positive leadership. The camp will emphasize character, accountability, and sportsmanship just as much as scoring and defense, encouraging athletes to compete with integrity and confidence while becoming positive role models for younger student-athletes.

We hope you’ll join us for the 1st Annual Randy O. Legacy High Stakes for Students Poker Fundraiser on Thursday, September 3rd. An exciting night of cards, community, and giving back. Whether you’re a seasoned poker pro or simply looking to enjoy a fun evening filled with dinner, music, and raffles, this event truly has something for everyone. Best of all, 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit District 10 students, helping create new opportunities and support their future success.

Save the date: Thursday, September 3rd @ The Belvedere in Elk Grove

Registration, ticket purchase, donations and more information will be available July 1st on the website below!

Do you know someone in the D10 community who goes above and beyond to make our schools a better place? Whether it’s a dedicated teacher, a helpful student, a rockstar bus driver, or an incredible parent/guardian, we want to recognize them!

The Board of Education celebrates those who make a positive impact through Board Salutes - special shout-outs given during board meetings and recorded in the official minutes.

The Board of Education wants to recognize these everyday heroes with a Board Salute!

Looking for local events, programs, and activities for your family? Be sure to check the below community flyer page on the district website! We regularly share updates about happenings in the area. Check it out to see what’s new!

Franzen Backpack

Peacock Backpack

Our school libraries are always in need of volunteers! Click the link below for more information on how to volunteer.

Safe2Help offers students a safe, confidential way in which to share information that might help prevent suicides, bullying, school violence or other threats to school safety. It is available 24/7 and offers students a safe outlet to share information on school safety issues in a confidential environment. It can be accessed via a free app, text/phone, and website (Safe2HelpIllinois.com).

Call: 844-4-SAFEIL

Text: SAFE2 (72332)

Email: help@safe2helpil.com

D10 is always hiring. If you, or someone you know is interested, please visit our employment website!

Want to see more of the amazing things happening in our classrooms and stay up-to-date with the latest news? Follow us on social media!

Located below you can access the following:

• D10 Website
• Curriculum Information
• Registration
• Calendars
• Benson Primary School
• Franzen Intermediate School
• Peacock Middle School