Forest School News (1.25.26)

We’re excited to share a short video highlighting how students at Forest build connections, explore their interests, and find a sense of belonging at school. Currently, over 80% of students in grades 1–5 participate in one or more groups, clubs, or activities. This video was recently shared at a Board of Education meeting, and we extend a special thank you to the District 62 Communications Department for collecting the footage and creating the video. Take a few minutes to see how student voice and participation help our students learn, lead, and belong at Forest.

Artwork created by the students of District 62 and Maine West will be on display at the Des Plaines Public Library from January 22nd to February 1st. Be sure to stop by and check it out!

A special reception will be held on January 28th from 6:00-7:00 PM. Please come check out the artwork and meet some of the artists! Several Forest students (listed below) will have their artwork on display.

• 1st Grade: Lily F. and Oliver L.
• 2nd Grade: Eduardo P. and Riley S.
• 3rd Grade: Safiya S. and Miles S.
• 4th Grade: Summer K. and Doaa E.
• 5th Grade: Kamila S. and Michelle S.

Details:

• Who: The GENCenter invites children to submit their artwork for the Community Art Fair.
• What: The GENCenter (formerly The Frisbie Senior Center), in partnership with the Des Plaines Art Guild is inviting District 62 students to participate in their Community Art Fair.
• When:

• Friday, February 13: Students must drop off their artwork between 4:00-8:00 PM
• Saturday, February 14: Art Fair from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Sunday, February 15: Art Fair from 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

• Where: GENCenter - 52 E. Northwest Highway in Des Plaines
• How: To participate, students should sign up via the Community Art Fair website.

Additional Information:

• This opportunity is *FREE* - There is no fee for artists to exhibit.
• Students must sign up in order to be featured in the Art Fair.
• Students do not have to be present at the Art Fair, but the artwork must be dropped off between 4:00-8:00 PM on Friday, February 13.
• Artwork can be for sale, but that is not necessary.

Questions? Call 847-293-8431

MaineStay Youth & Family Services provides FREE or affordable programs for youth of all ages, with a focus on social-emotional learning opportunities that aim to maximize each child's full potential. There are also opportunities for adults, couples, and families.

In addition to the specific program information shared in the Forest School News from January 18th, please check out the MaineStay Winter Programs Catalog. This catalog has been linked in the "Family Resources" section of the Forest School News and will remain there through the winter for your reference.

We're sorry we had to postpone Movie Night! We are looking at potential dates to reschedule and will share updated information with families ASAP. Stay tuned!

The Forest PTC is going to the Wolves Game! Join us Sunday, February 15th as the Wolves take on the Colorado Eagles. Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased at this link.

Do the events above sound fun but don't line up with your schedule? Or would you like to learn more about what we can do for our students? Please consider joining the PTC! Membership gives you our meeting minutes and the first opportunity to volunteer at school events! You can join us here: Membership Form. You can also check out the Forest PTC Website.

Spirit Wear featuring the new Falcon logo is now available on our website.

Week of January 26

• 1/26-1/30: ACCESS Testing for ML students continues
• 1/27: Stuffed Animal Kit pickup at Des Plaines Public Library starting at 9:00 AM
• 1/28: D62 & Maine West Art Show Reception from 6:00-7:00 PM at the Des Plaines Public Library

Week of February 2

• 2/2-2/6: ACCESS Testing for ML students continues
• 2/2: Illinois 5Essentials Survey window opens - More information coming soon!
• 2/3: Maker's Place (ages 9-12) at the Des Plaines Public Library from 4:00-5:00 PM

Week of February 9

• 2/10: PTC Dine & Share with Giuseppe's Pizzeria
• 2/10: PTC Meeting at 7:00 PM

• District 62 Community Partnerships & Resources - A full list of D62 community partnerships.
• Virtual Bulletin Board - View community flyers on the D62 website. Updated regularly.
• MaineStay Youth & Family Services - Click on the MaineStay tab for Youth Programs.
• MaineStay Winter Program Guide - Click to view various flyers for winter programs!
• Self-Help Closet & Pantry of Des Plaines - Learn more about available community resources.
• Community Backpack Project - Weekly backpack program - Contact Forest if interested.
• Des Plaines Public Library - A calendar of events at your local public library.

District 62, Forest, and the Des Plaines community have so many wonderful resources available for families. If you are experiencing financial hardship, food insecurity, looking for community resources, or exploring opportunities for parent learning, we are here for you!

To help the Forest SEL Team better understand what resources to connect you with, please fill out the Forest Family Resources form for us to follow up with you about any resources needed. Responses are kept confidential and will only be seen by the SEL team unless you specify otherwise.

Website: Forest Elementary School

Address: 1375 South 5th Avenue Des Plaines, IL. 60018

Phone: (847) 824-1380

Social Media: Facebook & Instagram

Principal: Ms. Amber Soike

Assistant Principal: Ms. Traci Reiner