D73 Digest!
Meghan Caby Appointed Principal of the Hawthorn School of Dual Language
Meghan Caby, who currently serves as Building Assistant Supervisor at the Hawthorn School of Dual Language, has been appointed to serve as the school’s next principal beginning in the 2025–2026 school year.
Meghan brings 16 years of educational experience in Illinois, including the last 12 years at Hawthorn District 73. She began her journey at Aspen Elementary, supporting first and second grade students as a classroom teacher before transitioning to special education as a Learning Behavior Specialist. Since 2022, she has played a vital leadership role at the School of Dual Language, supporting students, staff, and families with care and dedication.
Meghan holds a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Augustana College, a Master’s in School Leadership from Concordia University Chicago, and a Learning Behavior Specialist Endorsement from Olivet Nazarene. Her deep pride in the Hawthorn community is matched only by her passion for supporting student growth and her love for her two children.
Please join us in congratulating Meghan Caby on her new role as Principal of the Hawthorn School of Dual Language!
Summer Programs - Registration is Open!🌻
Hawthorn Enrichment Institute and Music Camp sign up is open! Enroll through Hawthorn’s Web Store!
Hawthorn Music Camp
Music Camp offers fun band, orchestra, and music learning opportunities, including large and small group rehearsals, music theory, and indoor/outdoor activities.
Music Camp is scheduled from June 23 through July 2.
Participation in the HEI and Music Camp enrichment programs are fee-based, and parents/guardians must provide transportation. Fees structure: one session is $252 and two sessions is $500. Scholarships are available at the time of enrollment.
DEADLINE EXTENDED to Become a D73 Golf Outing Sponsor
The Race is On 🏁
Hawthorn School for Young Learners is currently in the lead, with 72.95% of students already registered—but the race is far from over! Who will claim the coveted Registration Trophy this year?
Last year, Townline Elementary took home the prize and are currently in 2nd place—will they defend their title, or will another school rise to the challenge?
Don’t forget to complete your returning student registration by May 1 to help your school reach 100% first. Let’s make this a record-breaking year!
Register now: https://www.hawthorn73.org/enroll/registration
Translatable, Printable, ADA (Google Doc) Lists
If you need a supply list in a language other than English, Spanish, or Russian, please contact: floresj@hawthorn73.org
Printable (PDF) Lists in Table Format
If you need a table-format supply list in a language other than English please contact: floresj@hawthorn73.org
Tee up for a great cause! Key to 73 and Hawthorn PTO are hosting the Annual Hawthorn D73 Golf Outing on June 6 at White Deer Run Golf Club, and we want YOU to join us for a day of golf, fun, and giving back!
Your participation helps fund vital programs like the Back-to-School Supply Drive, Coat Drive, Food Pantry, Holiday Gift Drive, Student Grants, and more—supporting students and families in our Hawthorn District 73 community.
We can't wait to see you on the course! This annual event unites our community for a day of golf, fun, and fundraising—all in support of Hawthorn students and staff! 100% of proceeds go directly toward ready-to-learn initiatives.
Let’s drive change FORE our schools and students! ⛳💙
A message from the PTO!
Help Us Celebrate Our Amazing Teachers During Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5-9)!
We have a number of amazing volunteer opportunities available to help us celebrate all the wonderful teachers in District 73! We have openings for in person setups, opportunities to purchase supplies for the week, and opportunities to give your favorite teacher a little surprise.
April PTO Meeting – All Are Welcome!
Join us for the May PTO Meeting at Hawthorn Middle South on Tuesday, May 13, at 7:00 PM.
- Free on-site childcare will be available in the cafeteria.
- A virtual meeting link is available upon request—email secretary@hawthornpto.org for access.
We hope to see you there!
Are you connected?
Inside the April issue, you’ll find:
Navigating Social Development
Navigating Emotional Development
SEL updates from around the district
And much more!
Parents and guardians, this is your go-to resource to stay connected to your child's social, emotional, and behavioral development. Don’t miss out!
SAEBRS/MySAEBRS Social-Emotional Spring Benchmark Screening
Hawthorn School District 73 focuses on the growth and learning of the whole child. This includes programming that supports students’ social and emotional well-being. One way we help ensure that students’ needs are being met is by participating in benchmark assessments for social-emotional learning three times each year using the SAEBRS/mySAEBRS screening tool. Click the buttons below for more information.
If you need either document below in a language other than English, please contact: floresj@hawthorn73.org
Volunteers Needed: Language Ambassador Program
We are excited to launch the Language Ambassador Program this spring to support our newcomer families and help them feel at home in our school community. As a volunteer Language Ambassador, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with families, share language and cultural insights, and provide guidance on navigating school processes. Training will be provided, and volunteers will be accepted on an ongoing basis.
For any questions, feel free to reach out to the Language Ambassador Program Coordinators:
Megan Goldman, goldmanm@hawthorn73.org (847-990-4269)
Nicole Merryfield Coy, merryfieldcoyn@hawthorn73.org (847-990-4219)
Join us in making a difference and building a stronger community for all!
ISBE Parent Survey for Families of Students with Disabilities
Each year, from January through May, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) surveys a representative sample of parents of students with disabilities to determine how well schools throughout the state are involving parents in their children’s education. The survey results are a required component of ISBE’s Annual Performance Report (APR) to the United States Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). Hawthorn District 73 is included in the 2025 survey sample. Parents/Guardians may receive a letter in the mail from Measurement Inc. on behalf of ISBE between February and May that contains a link, a QR code to the parent survey and the student specific ID number. This enables parents and/or guardians to complete the survey online. The letter from Measurement Inc. will contain a student specific 7-digit survey ID below the individualized survey QR code. Once you have access to the survey, you will enter the student specific ID which takes you to a specific parent survey. The letter also includes information should you need assistance to complete the survey in English or Spanish, are unable to locate their student specific ID number, or need information.
Check Out the April Family Liaison Newsletter!
Stay connected with the latest resources, events, and important updates in the April Family Liaison Newsletter! Don't miss out on helpful information designed to support our students and families. Read it here.
Hawthorn Helpers
Join D73’s volunteer program, Hawthorn Helpers, and be a part of a dedicated team of caring parents and vibrant community members! We are welcoming new volunteers for our new school year! To learn more click on the following link: Hawthorn Helper Information.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to Family Liaison Gabriela Cervantes at cervantesg@hawthorn73.org.
Explore LINQ Connect: Your Hub for Managing School Meals
Visit our LINQ Connect page to discover all the features, how-to guides, and essential eligibility information you need to manage your child's school meal experience seamlessly. LINQ Connect provides a comprehensive suite of tools that allows you to access your account safely, whether through our app or online. Enjoy features such as automatic payments, low balance notifications, and detailed real-time transaction reports. With a unified dashboard, you can effortlessly manage funds and monitor meal activities for all the district students in your household. Experience convenience at your fingertips with LINQ Connect!
Looking for Mental Health Support?
We are excited to announce that our district has access to ReferralGPS, a valuable resource designed to connect families with a Care Navigator. Whether you have insurance or not, ReferralGPS will help you find the right therapist or provider for your needs. This program is funded by a grant through the Regional Office of Education (ROE).
Come get “Hooked on Scouting” with Cub Scout Pack 273! Grab your fishing pole and join us for an afternoon of fun! We’ll provide the bait.
Date: Sunday, May 4th
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Location: Bob Lewandowski Park, 534 S. Prairie St, Mundelein
RSVP: Please let us know you are coming (Cub Scout Fishing) so we have enough bait for everyone.
This event is open to incoming kindergarteners (fall 2025) through 5th graders and their families.
Questions? Email: committee.chair@pack273vh.org
Elevate Your Young Player’s Game with Kicklab – A New Local Resource!
Dear Hawthorn Families,
We’re excited to introduce Kicklab, a new indoor soccer facility in Vernon Hills designed to enhance player development through high-tech training. With interactive targets, real-time leaderboards, and cutting-edge training pods, Kicklab provides a fun, engaging environment that helps young players build confidence and improve their skills.
Spring registration is now open! Kicklab is the perfect complement to rec and club soccer, offering players extra touches, game-like training, and a competitive edge in a fun setting.
Training Classes – Using advanced soccer technology, our structured sessions focus on ball mastery, dribbling, passing, receiving, and shooting—helping players refine technique, make quicker decisions, and gain confidence on the ball.
[Explore and register for training here]Open Play – Players can book 60-minute sessions to explore our interactive games, track their scores, and challenge their friends.
[Book Open Play here]Parties – Celebrate birthdays or special events with a high-energy, soccer-themed party at Kicklab!
[Book a Party here]
We’d love to see your young player at Kicklab this spring! Feel free to reach out with any questions, and check out the photos below to see the fun in action.
— The Kicklab Team
Venture Athletics Summer Camp – Register Now!
Get ready for a summer of fun, adventure, and learning at Venture Athletics Summer Camp! Designed for kids ages 4-12, this camp offers exciting weekly themes, including Superhero Week, Ninja Warrior Week, Disney Week, and more!
📅 June 2 – August 8
⏰ Flexible schedules available: Half-day, full-day (9:00 AM – 3:30 PM), or full-week options
📍 8 Oak Creek Plaza, Mundelein, IL
✨ 10% sibling discount available!
Spots are filling fast—secure your spot now! Learn more and register at www.ventureathletics.com
Summer Farm Camp – Registration Now Open!
Looking for a unique summer experience for your child? Liberty Prairie’s Summer Farm Camp offers hands-on activities like animal and plant care, fiber arts, gardening, and farm tours for campers ages 5-12.
📅 4 Weekly Sessions: June 23 – July 18
🕘 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Extended day option available until 4:00 PM)
🌿 Fun activities include: Gardening, farm tours, crafts, and more!
Learn more and sign up at: libertyprairie.org
We Need Super Subs Like You!
Are you passionate about education and looking for a flexible way to contribute to our community? Hawthorn District 73 is on the lookout for enthusiastic and dedicated substitute teachers to join our team! Whether you’re looking to inspire young minds occasionally or more frequently, we have opportunities that fit your schedule. Learn more about how you can make a difference and check out the perks of becoming a "Super Sub" by visiting our substitute teacher page at Hawthorn Substitute Careers. Join us in shaping futures—one class at a time!
