Principal Patten's Newsletter
May 7, 2026
Dear Onahan Community,
As we wrap up another vibrant week at Onahan, my heart is incredibly full. There is a specific kind of energy that takes over a school building when the staff feels truly seen and celebrated, and that was palpable every single day this week.
A World-Class Thank You to our PTO and Onahan Families
On behalf of the entire faculty and staff, I want to extend a massive thank you to our incredible PTO for their coordination of Staff Appreciation Week. To say we were "spoiled" would be an understatement!
Our taste buds traveled the globe thanks to the daily themed meals you provided. From the fresh flavors of Greece and the comforts of Italy to the festive Mexican feast and a delightful Continental Breakfast, every meal was a delicious reminder of this parent community’s generosity. Beyond the food, the excitement surrounding the raffle baskets and gift cards brought so many smiles to our hallways. We feel deeply appreciated, fueled up, and ready to finish the school year strong.
Safety First: A Shared Responsibility
While we celebrate our community, I must also ask for your partnership in addressing two safety trends we’ve noticed during morning drop-off and afternoon dismissal. Please take a moment this weekend to review the following with your children:
Heads Up, Phones Down: We have observed an increasing number of students crossing the street while looking directly down at their phones. It is vital that students make eye contact with drivers and look both ways before stepping into the street. A digital notification is never worth a physical risk.
Sidewalk Etiquette for Bikers: Our young cyclists are doing a great job staying active, but we need to ensure our sidewalks remain safe for pedestrians. If your child bikes to school, please remind them to provide a verbal warning (e.g., "On your left!") when passing walkers. Sudden passes without warning can lead to accidents for both the biker and the pedestrian.
MAY SOCIAL EMOTIONAL AWARENESS CALENDAR
AND A SPIRIT WEEK TO GO WITH IT...
GIVEBACKS...A WAY TO HELP ONAHAN
COME HELP SPRUCE UP AND MEET OTHER FAMILIES
SPRING FLING DANCE FOR 6TH-8TH GRADERS...GET TICKETS
FIELD DAY - CELEBRATION FOR A GREAT YEAR!
This is a heartwarming day with downright wholesome fun. Don't miss out! FIELD DAY VOLUNTEER SIGN UP
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
Amazon Wish List for Parade Items:
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/B60LJQQK6J83?ref_=wl_share
Google Form for Parade Participation:
LET'S GO TO THE BALL PARK AND SEE THE CHICAGO DOGS
AROUND THE CLASSROOM
NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION CEREMONY
STOCK MARKET ENRICHMENT ACTIVITY - Part 2
Onahan took 1st (Luke R, Luke D, Chayse, and Oliver), 2nd (Patsy, Maggie, Jamie), and 3rd (Seamus, Mihai, Nicholas, and Joseph) place at the stock market competition Wednesday at the Charles Schwab office! The students came back so excited and said they really enjoyed the whole experience.
5TH GRADE GOES ON A CHICAGO BOAT TOUR
JUNIOR AND SENIOR BAND CONCERT
THANKS FOR THE REFRESH, MRS. GALLAGLY!
OUR SCHOOL APPRECIATES THE HARDWORKING LUNCH MANAGER AND PORTER (NOT PICTURED)