Today marks the final day of the 2025-2026 school year! As we take a moment to pause and reflect on the achievements and milestones of the past 10 months, I hope every family celebrates the tremendous growth their child(ren) experienced throughout the school year. Growth takes many forms, whether it be developing new academic skills, picking up an instrument for the first time, or venturing out to make new friends through one of the many extracurricular opportunities afforded to students.
Like our students this year, our staff modeled continuous improvement and growth throughout the implementation of new literacy materials and newer math materials focused on creating more rigorous academic experiences while addressing the needs of learners wherever they are in their development.
The District’s Strategic Plan, adopted in 2024, continues to shape and guide SD74's direction. We understand that creating a learning environment that develops moments in and out of the classroom is an essential means of establishing a positive learning experience for students. Additionally, this year, we centered on the Vision Statements portion of our Strategic Plan. Specifically, examining ways in which students form a sense of belonging with their classmates and the adults in their school day. Forming these relationships is at the core of maximizing what students can accomplish in a given academic term. We will continue to keep this aspiration at the forefront of our planning as we look ahead to the next school year.
Last week afforded our learning community the unique chance to recognize and celebrate the collective accomplishments of 8th graders in the Class of 2026. This class leaves a positive footprint that serves as a model for future groups. Congratulations to every member of our graduating class! We wish you nothing but the best and continued success in your future endeavors. You are always welcome back … Once a Jaguar, Always a Jaguar!
This summer brings several smaller construction projects around campus. While we do not have any large-scale plans, the Board of Education and administration are committed to making ongoing improvements to our campus to ensure our buildings function at the highest level for students and staff.
The campus will remain active throughout the summer months as we host the SD74 Summer Adventures program, an Extended School Year program for the Niles Township District for Special Education students, and Lincolnwood Parks and Rec programs, both inside Lincoln Hall and on our grounds adjacent to Todd Hall.
While the school year provides many memories that students will hold on to for years to come, the summer months offer a unique chance to break away from our normal patterns, experience new places, explore new interests, and take advantage of everything the warmer, longer days have to offer. Part of the excitement when it comes time to begin the new school year will be the anticipation of hearing all about the adventures that will unfold in the coming weeks!
Amongst all the fun, it is also vital that you find ways to keep your mind active by doing things like regularly incorporating reading into your daily routine.
Our targeted dates for summer Tuesday Newsday communications will be June 30, July 28, and August 18. Please review those newsletters for important information about the upcoming school year.
Have a fun and wonderful summer!
In Educational Partnership,
David L. Russo, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
