Purple and Proud Newsletter

Dear Panther Families,

I hope this message finds you enjoying a relaxing and refreshing summer! As we look ahead to the 2025–2026 school year, I’m filled with excitement for what lies ahead. At Litchfield High School, we remain committed to providing a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where every student is empowered to grow academically, socially, and personally.

This year, we are embracing the theme "The Panther Way: Lead. Learn. Grow." This message will guide our work with students, staff, and families as we continue to build a strong school culture rooted in high expectations, meaningful relationships, and a shared sense of pride in our school community.

We’re welcoming some fantastic new staff members, expanding opportunities through new courses, and continuing to refine our support systems to ensure every student is seen, supported, and successful. Whether you're a returning family or new to our Panther family, we are so glad you're here.

Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your ongoing commitment to your child’s education. We can’t wait to welcome our students back and kick off another incredible year together!

Enjoy the rest of your summer, and as always—Go Panthers! 💜🐾

Warmly,
Hilary Wagenblast, Principal

We’re excited to welcome the Class of 2029! All incoming freshmen are invited to attend Freshman Orientation on Wednesday, August 6th from 3:00–5:15 PM. Students will meet new classmates, explore the high school, and walk through their class schedule—getting a head start on the new year!

At 5:00 PM, a brief parent/student meeting will be held in Simmons Gym, followed by a short Driver’s Education meeting at 5:15 PM for all families. Afterward, families are encouraged to attend Panther Prep Night for more back-to-school resources.

We hope to see you there!

If you have any questions, call LHS main office at 324-3955. 💜🐾

Panther Prep Night will be held on Wednesday, August 6th from 5:00–6:30 PM for all LHS students.

Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors should follow the arrival schedule provided on the event flyer as closely as possible. Freshmen will transition to Panther Prep Night immediately following Freshman Orientation and the Driver’s Education meeting.

At Panther Prep Night, students will:

• Take their ID/School Picture

• Receive their Chromebook and class schedule

• Purchase PE uniforms, parking passes, and yearbooks

• Decorate their lockers and practice using a combination lock

• & much more!

Can’t attend? No problem! Students who are unable to attend will receive their materials on Wednesday, August 13, the first day of school. Please report to the main office upon arrival to pick up your items. Picture Make-Up Day will be held on Tuesday, August 19 for ID/Yearbook pictures.

• Registration takes place in your skyward account. Register prior to Panther Prep Night. Reminder you can not register using the Litchfield app; you must use the website.
• Bus Transportation is scheduled through our Transportation Director, Bob Witter. Reach our to our Main Office at 217-324-3955 with any questions.
• Parking Stickers are mandatory to park on school grounds. You may purchase one during registration, at Panther Prep Night, or during the year by picking up the form in the main office from Casey Logsdon.
• Physicals are needed to enter high school and participate in extracurriculars at LHS. Bring an updated copy if needed to the Panther Prep Night to turn into Nurse Hays.

• August 5 - Link Crew Training Day (student email will be coming from Mrs. Wagenblast with more information for those who signed up)
• August 6 - Freshmen Orientation (see info above)
• August 6 - Panther Prep Night (see info above)
• August 13 - First Day of School: 1:30 dismissal
• August 13 - August 19 - Schedule Change Request Window (see student email from Mrs. Cress for information)
• August 14 - 1:30 Dismissal
• August 14 - Junior Class Meeting during 8th hour
• August 15 - 1:30 Dismissal
• August 15 - Senior Class Meeting during 8th hour
• August 18 - Sophomore Class Meeting during 8th hour
• August 19 - Freshmen Class Meeting during 8th hour
• August 19 - Picture Retake Day
• August 19 - SCI/Outside Programming classes attend
• August 19 - Board Meeting @ 6pm at the Unit Office
• August 25 - Panther Points announced (see student email for information)
• September 1 - Labor Day - No School
• September 29 - October 3 - Homecoming Week
• October 3 - Homecoming Football Game
• October 4 - Homecoming Dance (more information coming soon)