2026 June Newsletter
June 4, 2026
As I prepare to close this chapter as Principal of Lincoln Elementary, my heart is filled with gratitude, pride, and joy. Serving this incredible school community has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments that reflect the hard work, dedication, and spirit of our students, staff, and families.
Throughout my career—as a teacher, science coach, assistant principal, and principal—I have always believed in pushing both students and staff to continuously improve outcomes, raise expectations, and uphold high standards for every child. At every school where I have served, my focus has remained the same: creating a culture of growth, accountability, excellence, and opportunity for all students. Lincoln Elementary has been a shining example of what can happen when educators, families, and students work together with high expectations and a shared vision for success.
This year has been nothing short of remarkable. Together, we cultivated a culture where students were encouraged to grow academically, believe in themselves, and discover the joy of learning. Watching our students flourish has truly been the greatest reward.
I have also reviewed the preliminary IAR reading and math scores, and I am pleased to know that I am leaving Lincoln in a better position for continued success. While there is always more work to do, these early indicators reflect the meaningful progress our students and staff have made together.
Our students demonstrated outstanding academic growth throughout the year. In reading, 67.2% of students achieved typical Student Growth Percentile (SGP) growth, increasing by 2% from last year. We also saw measurable gains through our CBM assessments, with reading scores increasing by 35 students and math scores increasing by 19 students. These accomplishments are a testament to the relentless commitment of our teachers, support staff, students, and families.
One of the highlights of this year has been the exceptional success of our bilingual learners. Our students earned an impressive 87.5% proficiency rate in Star Lectura, with 7 out of 8 students meeting proficiency goals. Even more exciting, our Star Lectura SGP rose to 75%, showing an 8% increase from last year. In mathematics, our students also achieved strong success through Star Matemáticas, with 66.7% of students demonstrating typical growth, representing a remarkable 16% increase from the previous year. These accomplishments reflect the strength, resilience, and brilliance of our multilingual learners.
Perhaps one of the most inspiring stories this year has been the incredible increase in student engagement with reading. Our Accelerated Reader program experienced a tremendous surge in participation, growing from 67 active students last year to an amazing 240 this year. Students passed an incredible 5,683 AR comprehension quizzes, demonstrating not only improved literacy skills but also a genuine excitement for reading.
The love of reading extended into myON, where our students collectively read an astonishing 13,096,366 words this school year. Students averaged 49 minutes of reading time, an increase of 7 minutes from last year, while 219 active readers maintained consistent participation throughout the year. Every word read represents growth, imagination, perseverance, and opportunity.
Our Freckle programs also showed tremendous growth and student commitment. In Freckle Math, participation increased to 268 active students, 93 more than last year. In Freckle ELA, students increased their average engagement time to 59 minutes, growing by 34 minutes from the previous year. These milestones speak to the dedication of both students and staff to continuous learning and achievement.
As I reflect on my time at Lincoln Elementary, I am incredibly proud of all we have accomplished together. Lincoln has always been more than a school—it has been a family, a place filled with hope, resilience, laughter, and love. The successes we celebrate today are the result of a community that believes deeply in children and works tirelessly to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.
I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to Dr. Anita Rice, former Superintendent of District 156, and to the Board of Education for your unwavering support, transparency, and belief in my leadership throughout my time as Principal of Lincoln Elementary. Your guidance, encouragement, and commitment to students and staff helped create opportunities for growth and success across our school community.
To the hiring committees, teachers, and staff who trusted the vision for Lincoln Elementary and worked collaboratively to move our school forward—thank you for your partnership, dedication, and willingness to lead with heart. The accomplishments we celebrate today would not have been possible without the collective effort, resilience, and passion of an extraordinary team devoted to children.
Thank you to our teachers and staff for your unwavering dedication. Thank you to our families for your partnership and trust. Most importantly, thank you to our students for bringing joy, energy, and inspiration into our halls every single day.
Although this may be my final newsletter as Principal of Lincoln Elementary, the memories, relationships, and pride I carry with me will last forever. It has truly been an honor to serve this extraordinary community.
With heartfelt gratitude and appreciation,
Mrs. LaTanya S. Donald
Principal, Lincoln Elementary
Once a Lincoln Leader, Always a Lincoln Leader!
All summer programs will operate Monday through Thursday, from June 8 through June 30.
Program Times
Summer School: 8:10 a.m. – Noon
Summer Enrichment: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Meals
Breakfast will be served to all Summer School participants.
Lunch will be provided for all students participating in summer programs.
Please contact the school office if you have any questions regarding summer programming.
Parents, the 2026–2027 school supply lists are now available. Please review the list for your child's grade level and begin gathering supplies to ensure they are prepared for the first day of school.
On May 5th, our band students had the wonderful opportunity to attend a performance at Governors State University featuring the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s Harmony & Hogwarts concert. Under the leadership of Mrs. Pimental, Choir Director, and Mx. Pulido, Band Director, students experienced a live orchestral performance that brought music from the world of Harry Potter to life while also learning about the power of collaboration, musicianship, and performance. The trip was both educational and inspiring, and our students represented Lincoln with outstanding behavior and enthusiasm throughout the day.
Lincoln Elementary is proud to announce the receipt of a generous $20,000 grant from Enchanted Backpack, an investment that will directly support student recognition initiatives and enhance our positive school culture.
This funding will allow Lincoln Elementary to expand programs that celebrate student success, including attendance incentives, Student of the Month recognition, and schoolwide celebrations that encourage students to demonstrate Tiger Pride every day. These efforts help create a school environment where students feel valued, motivated, connected, and inspired to succeed.
Lincoln’s partnership with Enchanted Backpack has continued to grow over the years and has made a tremendous impact on our students, staff, and families.
Continued Support Through the Years
In 2023, Lincoln Elementary was selected to participate in Enchanted Backpack’s Mobile Van Delivery Program. Through this initiative, the school received an incredible variety of brand-new resources and supplies tailored to meet the needs of our school community. Donations included core school supplies, approximately 1,500 books, recess equipment, art supplies, winter clothing, shoes, personal care items, games, incentive items, and much more.
In 2024, Lincoln Elementary School District was awarded participation in the Wash & Dryer Program. This program has provided valuable support for students and families by ensuring access to clean uniforms and clothing. The washer and dryer have also supported athletic programs and assisted the nurse’s office when students need clean clothing during the school day.
Currently, in 2026, Lincoln Elementary School District has been named a recipient of an Adopt-A-School Grant through Enchanted Backpack. This grant will support the installation of digital signage throughout the school to improve communication and engagement with students, staff, families, and visitors.
In addition to these opportunities, Enchanted Backpack also sponsored a staff appreciation lunch in January, and our students will enjoy pizza during upcoming field days — another thoughtful gesture demonstrating their continued commitment to our school community.
A Special Thank You
Lincoln Elementary extends sincere appreciation to Joe Froelich and Debbie Grinnell, Co-Directors of Enchanted Backpack, along with the dedicated warehouse team, for their unwavering support and partnership.
We would also like to recognize the individuals who played an instrumental role in helping secure these opportunities for our school: Mrs. Donald, Principal of Lincoln Elementary; Dr. Rice, former Superintendent of District 156; Ms. Regina Huston, Director of Facilities and Operations; Mr. Andrew Joshua, Director of Information Technology; and Mrs. Socorro Evans, Family Engagement District Staff member. Their leadership, collaboration, and advocacy helped make these opportunities possible for our students and families.
At Lincoln Elementary, we believe every child deserves to be seen, celebrated, and encouraged. We are deeply grateful to Enchanted Backpack for investing in our students, staff, and the future of Lincoln Elementary.
Go Tigers!
This year, our dance team, under the exceptional choreography and leadership of Ms. Spencer Earles and Ms. Earles, created a recital filled with joy, creativity, artistry, rhythm, and passion. Their vision came to life through captivating performances that showcased the talent, dedication, and hard work of every dancer. The recital was a celebration of movement, expression, and teamwork that inspired and delighted everyone in attendance.
On May 12, 2025, Lincoln Elementary School 156 proudly hosted an engaging virtual cross-cultural presentation for eighth-grade students through Google Meet. The presentation was led by a teacher from Detlof Preparatory School in Ghana, in collaboration with Mr. Koussantie and Mr. Duah, international teachers at Lincoln Elementary School. This meaningful event was designed to promote global awareness, celebrate cultural diversity, and broaden students’ understanding of Ghanaian traditions, customs, and values through direct interaction with an educator from Ghana.
During the presentation, students explored the rich cultural significance of the Akan naming ceremony and the importance of day names within Ghanaian society. They learned about traditional rites of passage in Ghana and the custom of naming children eight days after birth. The presenter shared the meanings behind male and female day names based on the day of the week a child is born, along with the character traits and cultural beliefs associated with those names.
The session also highlighted key elements of the naming ceremony, providing students with a deeper appreciation for Ghanaian heritage and traditions. Students were highly engaged throughout the experience and enjoyed the opportunity to participate in a meaningful cultural exchange that fostered respect, curiosity, and global understanding.
Lincoln Elementary School International Teachers Google Meet SY25-26.mp4
The Lincoln Elementary Music Department was proud to present our Spring Concert on May 13th at 6:00 PM. The evening celebrated a wonderful year of growth, dedication, and musical achievement. Families and guests enjoyed a variety of performances that brought students together through music and showcased the hard work, progress, and talent they developed throughout the year. From beginning musicians to advanced ensembles, students demonstrated teamwork, creativity, confidence, and a true love of music in a joyful concert that united our school community through performance and school spirit.
A special thank you went to Mrs. Pimental, Choir Director, and Mx. Pulido, Band Director, for their passion, leadership, and commitment to inspiring our students and making the evening such a memorable celebration of music and learning.
What an electrifying showdown it was — filled with energy, teamwork, laughter, and unforgettable moments! From incredible saves and powerful serves to nonstop cheering from the sidelines, the event became more than just a game — it was a true celebration of spirit, unity, and fun!
Everyone brought their passion, their loudest cheers, and amazing volleyball vibes as teams battled it out in one of the most exciting face-offs of the season! The games were unforgettable, the smiles shone bright, and the good times rolled all day long!
The teachers defeated the students in two sets. This was the closest the students had come in several years. The first match ended with a score of 20-25, and the second match ended with a score of 23-25.
Lincoln's staff was proudly represented by Ms. Aguillard, Mr. Anderson, Mr. Bingham, Mr. Duah, Mr. Duncan, Ms. Martinez, Mr. Raisbeck, and Mr. Urbanczyk, who brought determination, teamwork, and school spirit to the court throughout the exciting matchup.
Lincoln Elementary School Staff VS Student Volleyball Game SY25-26.mp4
We congratulate all of the 4th Quarter Award recipients recognized at the Awards Assembly! Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed. We are proud of your accomplishments and the positive example you set for others. Keep striving for success and continue to make a difference in our school community. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
