D73 Digest

The D73 Digest is your go-to source for Hawthorn District news, updates, and events. Whether you're looking for important reminders, celebrations, or ways to stay involved, you’ll find everything you need right here.

We’re launching a new Hawthorn Shoutouts campaign to celebrate our incredible educators — and we want your help! Families are invited to submit a short video of their child thanking their teacher or staff member and sharing something special about them.

Selected videos may be featured on our district social media channels and in future newsletters.

Each year, the Key to 73 Hawthorn Education Foundation hosts a holiday toy drive to support Hawthorn students and ensure families do not go without during the season. This year, the Foundation received a list of more than 300 students whose families needed help with groceries, supplies, or gifts. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we are able to provide essential items and holiday gifts to every student in need. This weekend, Hawthorn staff volunteers helped wrap the donations—thank you to all who supported this effort.

Hawthorn Food Pantry - As a reminder, our food pantry is always open to the Hawthorn community. If your family could use some support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Sol Cabachuela to arrange a pick-up time at cabachuelas@hawthorn73.org or by text at 224-370-2090.

The Connection Corner is your go-to space for insights and resources that strengthen the home–school connection while supporting your child’s social, emotional, and behavioral growth.

The MPAC met on Tuesday, November 18 at Elementary South to provide input on parent engagement events, supporting students with at-home learning tools, and Q&A about Parent Teacher Conferences.

The next meeting will be on January 13 at the School of Dual Language from 6-8 p.m., and will be a workshop led by Dr. Ferney Ramirez on the topic “Successful Parents: Practical Teachings to Raise Your Children to Be the Best.” This is a highly engaging workshop that will provide tools to support your children both at home and at school. All families are welcome to attend! Be on the lookout for more information.

Future Stevenson High School Students - Language Placement Details

Incoming freshmen with previous language experience or who are heritage learners planning to attend Stevenson High School next school year and are interested in taking a language course must complete the online Language Placement Exam on Saturday, December 13.

The registration deadline is Friday, December 5. For details, please visit the Benchmark FAQ or register using the Registration Link.

Future Vernon Hills High School Russian Language Arts Course Placement information

There will be a placement test for students interested in Russian Language Arts, more details can be found on this flier.

Future Vernon Hills High School students in Spanish Language Arts (Dual) or Spanish World Language at Hawthorn will receive the AAPPL writing assessment to support placement during the week of December 1-5 at their respective middle school.

At Hawthorn, we know that a healthy breakfast fuels success! Students who start their morning with a nutritious meal are more alert, focused, and ready to learn. Breakfast is available every day at all Hawthorn schools for all students.

Start the day strong and have your child join us for a morning meal that powers learning!

We know winter hasn’t even arrived yet, but we’re already dreaming about sunshine and summer fun! 🌻 Mark your calendars — Hawthorn’s summer programs are set for June 8–26, Monday through Friday (no school on June 19).

Our summer lineup includes Extended School Year (ESY), Early Start Kindergarten (ESK), Hawthorn Enrichment Institute (HEI), Hawthorn Music Camp, Summer Scholars, and Volleyball Camp.

More information about each program and registration details will be shared after winter break.

Lincoln (PreK) ESY Dates: TBD

Join D73’s volunteer program, Hawthorn Helpers, and be part of a caring and dedicated team of parents and community members who support our schools!

📌 Learn more here: Hawthorn Helper Information
📧 Questions? Contact Family Liaison Sol Cabachuela at cabachuleas@hawthorn73.org

If your student is new to Hawthorn and you live in the Vernon Hills High School attendance area, please reach out to begin the high school registration process:
📧 v.registration@d128.org
📞 847-932-2088

Additionally, if you are a current Hawthorn family and move into the Vernon Hills High School district during the school year, you’ll also need to contact the high school to register your student.

Starting this process early helps ensure a smooth transition to high school!

We’re excited to share a new tutoring opportunity for D73 middle school students, organized by Vernon Hills High School’s National Honor Society! This program is open to all students, including English learners, and will take place at the Aspen Drive Library. Students can drop in as needed, but are encouraged to fill out the interest form ahead of time.

📍 Location: Aspen Drive Library
🗓️ Drop-in format – flexible and welcoming

The Cougar Parent Connection is partnering with Vernon Hills High School to host a VHHS Spirit Lounge during the Hawthorn Row Hot Cocoa Stroll next weekend. This family-friendly event is a great opportunity for our future Cougars to join in the fun, featuring photo opportunities with Cody the Cougar, Hawthorn gift card giveaways, and free light bites from The Yard House. The lounge will be located right next to the mall festivities, including Santa, live reindeer, ice skating, and more.

Congressman Schneider’s Brad’s Bookworms program is now open for the 2025–2026 school year. Students are invited to read 10 books with the help of a parent or guardian and submit their progress online at https://schneider.house.gov/students/brads-bookworms. All participants will be invited to a special celebration with Congressman Schneider in early 2026 and will receive a certificate. Students may also enter the annual Bookmark Design Contest. Forms can be completed online.

Christ Lutheran Preschool is now accepting enrollments for the 2025–2026 school year! Welcoming children ages 2.5 to 5, the program offers a warm, inclusive environment where every child can learn and grow. Come see what makes this preschool special—all are welcome!

📞 (847-367-5791) For more information or to schedule a visit, contact Christ Lutheran Preschool today.

Parents/Guardians of 8th Graders: It’s never too early to start preparing for the transition to high school!

Wanderlight Pathways, founded by Golden Apple Award–winning educator Todd Katz, offers one-on-one and small group coaching for students in grades 9–11. This program focuses on executive functioning, leadership, and building confidence to help students thrive in high school.

Wanderlight complements the strong foundation built in middle school by empowering students with the tools they need to navigate increased independence.

🌐 Learn more at wanderlightpathways.com
📞 Contact: 224-255-3087

Looking for a fun and meaningful way for your K–5th child to learn, grow, and make friends?

Join Cub Scout Pack 273 — where adventure, character-building, and lifelong memories begin!

This fall’s lineup of hands-on activities include:

• McHenry Farm Stroll

• Boo Camp

• Halloween Party

• Zoo Field Trip

• Snacks Thanksgiving

• Community Service at Feed My Starving Children

… and so much more!

Give your child the chance to explore, lead, and thrive — all while having a blast. Come be part of the Pack 273 family! Scan the QR code on the flyer or click this link to find out how your child can join the fun with Pack 273!