SUPERINTENDENT NEWSLETTER

Dear FSD 145 Staff and Families,

The photo accompanying this article captures a simple but meaningful moment; Preschoolers sitting in their cubbies, books in hand, waiting for the school day to begin. At first glance, it may seem like an ordinary part of the morning routine, but this small moment tells a much bigger story.

Think back to the first day of school. For many of our youngest learners, that cubby was a new place, an unfamiliar space. They weren’t sure where to hang their backpacks or what came next. Some held on tight to a grown-up’s hand at the door, unsure about this new experience. Nine weeks later, they walk in, find their spot, and get ready to learn. Those books in their hands are the first steps toward everything ahead of them. That’s what being Future Focused looks like at four years old.

The same kind of growth is happening in each of our nine schools. Kindergartners are reading their first words and beyond. Middle schoolers are finding their footing with new schedules and bigger expectations. Seniors are filling out college applications and planning life after FHS. Each milestone looks different, but every one is building toward our students’ futures.

“One of the most meaningful ways we can strengthen the partnership between home and school is through Parent-Teacher Conferences. With that partnership in mind, I encourage you to join us for Parent-Teacher Conferences on Monday, November 2. Conferences are your chance to hear about your child’s progress, celebrate what’s going well, and partner with teachers on the goals ahead. Our staff know your kids well, and they’re looking forward to seeing you.

An Important Board Meeting on November 4

Being Future Focused also means planning for the district our students will need years from now. The Board of Education will meet on Wednesday, November 4, at 6 PM, in Jones-Farrar multipurpose room. Please enter through Door O which is the door that leads to the cafeteria.

At this meeting, the board will vote on the tentative tax levy. The board will also consider giving direction to my administration to prepare the documents needed for a referendum on the April 6, 2027 ballot.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve shared information about our district’s financial picture and the decisions ahead of us. This meeting is an important next step in that conversation, and I encourage staff and families to attend, listen, and be part of it. Our kids are counting on all of us.

Celebrating Our Students

Fall sports have wrapped up, and we’re so proud of every athlete who competed and gave their best this season. I also want to recognize and thank our coaches for their dedication, encouragement, and commitment to helping our student-athletes excel both in competition and beyond.

A special congratulations to FHS sophomore Angelina Sala on her outstanding tennis season and trip to state! Read more about Angelina’s accomplishments later in this newsletter.

Congratulations also to our 2026 ILMEA (Illinois Music Education Association) District 8 musicians! These talented students in grades 7–12 earned spots in the District 8 ensembles, representing FSD 145 in band, choir, orchestra, and vocal jazz. Thank you to their instructors and families for supporting them along the way.

From the cubbies at our preschool to the courts and concert stages, our students are showing what Future Focused looks like every day.

Here’s to the future we’re building together!

Dr. Anna Alvarado

This edition of Inside 145 shines the spotlight on Blackhawk Elementary School, home of the Bolts, where believing in students, celebrating successes, and building meaningful relationships are at the heart of the school community. From schoolwide morning meetings to creative learning opportunities, Blackhawk is helping students develop the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed. Take a closer look at what makes Blackhawk a special place to learn and grow!

At Blackhawk Elementary School, the day begins with a sense of community. Students and staff gather in the gym for morning announcements, celebrations, and the Pledge of Allegiance. And on any given morning, they might be greeted by a giant inflatable unicorn, shark, or zebra!

Led by Principal Stacey Kleindl, Blackhawk serves approximately 380 students in kindergarten through fifth grade, supported by a dedicated team of 64 staff members. The school is also home to the district's elementary Spanish bilingual program, adding to the rich diversity of languages, cultures, and experiences that make up the Blackhawk community.

What makes Blackhawk special?

Blackhawk's schoolwide theme, "Don't Stop Believin'," continues a three-year focus on the power of belief — believing in students, staff, and what can be accomplished through teamwork. As Principal Stacey Kleindl explains, "We believe in our students, our staff, and the power of working together." That belief is reflected in the school's welcoming environment, commitment to student success, and emphasis on recognizing achievements both big and small.

As an AVID Elementary school, Blackhawk intentionally develops students' organizational and collaborative skills to help them become successful learners. The school even has three "Desk Warriors" who visit classrooms and use an organization rubric to provide students with feedback on their organizational skills!

What does a typical day look like?

With nearly 380 students, no two days are quite alike! Each morning begins with the entire school coming together in the gym for announcements, celebrations, and opportunities to connect as a school community.

Throughout the day, classroom instruction, specialized services, and student support programs work together to meet the diverse needs of learners.

Did You Know?

• Blackhawk is home to the district's elementary Spanish bilingual program, where students develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in their first language while building English proficiency.

• Every two weeks, grade levels recognize an AVID Star Student using established criteria. Honorees have their pictures taken and receive a special yard sign delivered to their homes!

• Students may be greeted by a giant inflatable animal during morning arrival — just one of the fun ways Blackhawk creates a welcoming atmosphere.

What programs and opportunities should families know about?

One of Blackhawk's unique offerings is Quest Clubs, held every Friday. Staff members lead clubs featuring activities such as rock painting, soccer, Pokémon, theater, and yoga. Students select activities based on their interests and participate in six- to eight-week cycles.

These clubs provide opportunities to explore new interests, build friendships, strengthen relationships with staff, and develop a greater sense of belonging.

Blackhawk also places a strong emphasis on students' social-emotional well-being. In addition to having a school social worker, the school partners with community mental health counselors who provide services directly at school. This allows students to receive important support during the school day without missing school for outside appointments.

How does Blackhawk demonstrate "All In For All Kids"?

At Blackhawk, the little things make a big difference. Every student is greeted as they enter the school each morning, reinforcing the message that each child is valued and belongs.

"Our staff understands that the little things matter," Kleindl emphasized.

From academic support and social-emotional services to student celebrations and enrichment opportunities, the Blackhawk team works to create an environment where every student feels supported and encouraged to succeed.

What accomplishments make Blackhawk especially proud?

Blackhawk has been selected to participate in the verification process to become an AVID Demonstration School! "We are incredibly proud that Blackhawk Elementary has been selected to participate in the verification process to become an AVID Demonstration School!" Kleindl shared.

Only two schools in Illinois were selected for this opportunity, making it an exciting recognition of the school's commitment to implementing AVID strategies and helping students develop the skills needed for future success.

What's something happening behind the scenes that deserves recognition?

Supporting student attendance requires consistent effort, collaboration, and communication with families.

Blackhawk's goal is for every student to miss nine or fewer days of school each year. Staff monitor attendance weekly, connect with families through phone calls and home visits, and work to identify barriers that may prevent students from attending regularly.

The school also recognizes students and families through monthly attendance incentives and special experiences throughout the year. These efforts reinforce the importance of being present, engaged, and ready to learn.

What's ahead for Blackhawk?

Excitement is building for Blackhawk's upcoming winter concert, which will be held at the Jeanette Lloyd Theater for the first time! The event will provide students with a special opportunity to showcase their talents on a larger stage.

Through its commitment to academic growth, student well-being, meaningful relationships, and celebrating success, Blackhawk Elementary continues to demonstrate what it means to be All In For All Kids.

At Blackhawk, "Don't Stop Believin'" is more than a theme — it's a belief in the potential of every student, every day.

Congratulations to Freeport High School sophomore Angelina Sala, who earned a spot in the IHSA Girls State Tennis Tournament!

Adding to this impressive accomplishment, Angelina was the only sophomore at the Belvidere Sectional to qualify for State! Her achievement is a testament to her hard work, determination, and dedication to the sport. Her impressive performance at the State Tournament gave us even more reason to celebrate. Angelina, you represented FSD 145 exceptionally well, and we couldn't be prouder!

2 Years, 2 Trips to State, 2 More to Go! The Pretzel Family looks forward to seeing what the future holds for this talented young athlete!

Congratulations, Angelina!

Get ready to be amazed as our incredibly talented FHS students bring Willy Wonka to life! From the actors and singers on stage to the musicians in the pit and the technical crews working behind the scenes, this production promises to be a sweet showcase of Pretzel talent! Tickets go on sale Monday, November 2! Don't miss your chance to experience the magic!

🎟️ Purchase Tickets Here

The second edition of Pretzel Performing Arts: Off the Stage takes you beyond the spotlight for another look at the creativity, dedication, and hard work that bring performing arts to life across our district. Discover what’s happening on and off the stage!

View Edition 2 of the Newsletter!

REMINDER: NO SCHOOL NOVEMBER 2 & 3

Families, please remember that there will be no school for students on Monday, November 2, and Tuesday, November 3.

Monday, November 2 – Parent-Teacher Conferences

Families will receive information from their student's school or teacher regarding their scheduled conference time.

Tuesday, November 3 – District Institute Day

District staff will participate in professional learning and development.

Thank you

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