KSD 140 Connection

As we begin the second half of the school year, I want to take a moment to welcome everyone back and share a few important reminders and updates.

Staying Connected Through ParentSquare

Clear communication between home and school plays a vital role in student success. Our teachers and administrators use ParentSquare to share updates about classroom learning, student progress, and school events. Please take a moment to ensure your notification settings are up to date. School staff are available to help if needed.

Winter Weather and eLearning Information

As winter continues, it is important for families to stay informed about weather-related procedures. Please visit the Emergency Closing section of our website for details on winter weather guidelines, how families get notified, and what to expect on eLearning days.

Fernway and Keller Construction Update

I am pleased to share that renovation projects at Fernway and Keller elementary schools remain on schedule and within budget. Once completed, Fernway’s improvements will include significant infrastructure upgrades to support HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and data systems, along with a new gymnasium and updates to the commons, media center, main entrance, school office, restrooms, and select classrooms.

At Keller, phase one construction includes eight new classrooms and additional restrooms for students and staff. To accommodate the new addition, phase two involves relocating Keller’s existing playground and adding a dedicated blacktop space for recess and bus rider arrival/dismissal. Bids for this second phase are due February 10, with an anticipated start date in the spring. Once complete, the expansion will create a more functional and comfortable environment for Keller students and staff.

Both projects are fully funded through district reserve funds, with no state grants or external funding sources used. Together, these improvements support safe, appropriate learning environments and reflect the district’s long-term planning efforts.

Thank you for your continued partnership as we work together to ensure a successful second semester for all students.

Sincerely,

Dr. Dan Callaghan

Superintendent

Use the links below to view the list of upcoming events and activities for the Grissom and Prairie View Class of 2026.

• Grissom Middle School
• Prairie View Middle School

Congratulations to KSD 140 Symphonic Band members Lukas B., Ryan K., Liam L., Adam M., and Emmett W. These students were selected from those who auditioned throughout the entire State of Illinois to perform with the All-Illinois Junior Band (AIJB) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

The AIJB is an All-State Honor Band composed of junior high musicians selected through a rigorous audition process.

We are incredibly proud of these students for their hard work and dedication to music!

At the January 22 board meeting, members of the Prairie View sixth/seventh-grade girls' basketball team were recognized for an outstanding season. The team finished with a 13-1 record and were the Southwest Interscholastic Conference (SWIC) tournament champions. Megan M., Makenzie N., and Brooke S. received SWIC all-conference honors, and Makenzie N. was the tournament MVP.

Coached by Mr. Pat Griffin, the Prairie View Eagles roster includes Ava A., Maria A., Annalisa A., Sydney B., Kylee J., Sadie L., Megan M., Makenzie N., Marianna P., Greyson R., Leyan R., and Brooke S.

Way to go, Eagles!

At the January Board of Education meeting, Grissom Middle School celebrated the success of its Peer Mentor Program, an initiative in which Grissom students work alongside peers in multi-needs classrooms to build connections, develop friendships, and learn valuable life skills.

Grissom principals Mr. Rumbaugh and Mr. Weinberg introduced the students and teachers involved in the program and shared its purpose through a video highlighting the many ways participants engage throughout the school year by learning together, participating in school activities, and forming meaningful, positive relationships.

Grissom PE teachers Mrs. O’Neil and Mrs. Ryan then presented a current initiative connected to the program, showcasing students as they demonstrated inclusive workouts designed for all ability levels. These workouts will be recorded and developed into video lessons to further promote accessibility and participation for all students.

Teachers leading the Peer Mentor Program, Mrs. DeCarlo and Mrs. Fricano, concluded the presentation by sharing upcoming program activities and goals.

The presentation ended with a powerful moment as students presented Board members with t-shirts, inviting them to join their team in advancing positivity, inclusivity, and fun throughout the school community.

The peer mentors and the teachers leading the program, Mrs. DeCarlo, Mrs. Fricano, Mrs. O’Neil, and Mrs. Ryan, go above and beyond every day to make the Peer Mentor Program a model of inclusion and connection for all students involved. It is truly one of the most impactful and inspiring initiatives at Grissom Middle School.

Way to go, Patriots!

Each January, Andrew High School brings Step-Up Days to our eighth-grade Grissom and Prairie View students.

Step-Up Days are designed to inspire and prepare our future high schoolers. Students have the unique opportunity to connect with Andrew teachers and student leaders, explore various course offerings, discover countless clubs, activities, and sports, and learn how to get the most out of their high school experience.

We’re thrilled to see our middle schoolers take this exciting step forward and can’t wait to watch them soar as Andrew High School’s newest T-Bolts.

Wednesday, January 28 - Beginning Band Winter Concert - 7:30 p.m. at Prairie View Middle School

Friday, February 6 - Half Day - Early Dismissal - Elementary schools dismiss at 11:10 a.m., and middle schools dismiss at 12 noon

Friday, February 13 - Middle School Breakthrough - 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Prairie View Middle School

Monday, February 16 - Presidents' Day - No School

Thursday, February 19 - Board of Education Meeting - 7 p.m. at the Administration Center

Saturday, February 21 - IGSMA Solo and Ensemble Concert - 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Summit Junior High School

Monday, March 2 - Teacher Institute Day - No school for students

Wednesday, March 4 - Music in Our School Concert - 7:30 p.m. at Prairie View Middle School

Kirby School District 140

16931 S. Grissom Drive, Tinley Park, IL 60477

Phone: 708-532-6462

Website: ksd140.org

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