The WJHS Panther Pride Newsletter

Welcome back, Panthers!

We hope everyone enjoyed a well-deserved break and is feeling refreshed and ready to jump into an exciting second semester at WJHS. With new goals, fresh energy, and plenty of opportunities ahead, we can’t wait to see what our students accomplish. Let’s make it a great second half of the year!

Our students made a big splash coming back from winter break by jumping right into a high-energy Battleship assembly filled with laughter, cheers, and friendly competition! Check out our Facebook for clips of the afternoon event!

Students had a blast starting the new year with some team building fun! While racing the clock, students practiced working together, encouraging teammates, and learning from mistakes during the first week back in panther territory.

Regular school attendance plays an important role in student success by keeping students engaged and connected to their learning. At the same time, we understand that a student’s health must always come first.

If your child is feeling unwell—especially with symptoms such as a fever, persistent cough, or other contagious conditions—please allow them time to rest and recover at home. Prioritizing health supports your child’s well-being and helps keep our school community healthy.

Not sure whether to send your child to school or keep them home? Please refer to the chart below for helpful guidance.

Thank you for partnering with us to find the right balance between strong attendance and self-care. Healthy students are better learners, and we are committed to supporting both wellness and academic success.

Missed the meeting? You can find all the information you need here.

Ready to sign up and pay? Do that here.

If you have any additional questions, please contact jburisek@cusd201.org

WJHS Student Council is thrilled to announce Pizza Wars 2026!

Join us on Wednesday, February 25th, from 5:30–7:30 PM for an epic night of pizza and fun.

Taste slices of delicious pizza from EIGHT local pizzerias and vote for your favorite!

It’s hard to believe the time has come—we’re officially starting plans for the 8th Grade Dance! Join us on Tuesday, January 13 at 7:00 PM at WJHS for our first dance planning meeting. We hope to see you there as we work together to make this year’s dance a truly magical experience for our 8th graders.

As we prepare for our 8th Grade Graduation Ceremony, please complete the attached form as soon as possible. This form is required to collect your student’s legal name and graduation gown measurements. Graduation gowns are required for students to participate in the ceremony, so timely completion is essential. Thank you for your prompt attention and support as we plan this special event for our students.

Our 8th graders took their Graduation pictures today, capturing a special milestone! Photo order forms were given to students, but you can also conveniently order pictures online at https://hrimaging.com/#shop. Don’t miss the chance to preserve these memorable moments!

Retakes are scheduled for Friday, February 20, 2026.

We also encourage you to take time to review your child’s current grades with them and discuss whether they are on track to meet the SSLC requirements. Ms. Quattrone and Mr. Lipinski will be meeting with students who may be at risk of not meeting the requirements for graduation activities, whether due to academic standing or incomplete SSLC hours.

Working together, we will collaborate with you and your student to create a personalized plan, providing the support and guidance needed to help them get back on track and achieve success.

Our 8th Grade Enrichment Industrial Arts and Enrichment Arts students will be heading to the Chicago Architecture Center on March 5, 2026! This trip will give students an authentic opportunity to explore design, structure, and engineering concepts connected to our curriculum.

Behavior Expectations:
To participate, students must meet all behavioral expectations. Any student who receives a disciplinary write-up or is placed on behavior steps after January 6, 2026 will not be eligible to attend. Please note that refunds will not be provided for students who become ineligible due to behavior.

Next Steps:
A permission slip with full trip details was sent home this week. Payment are due promptly.

Thank you for your support! Please reach out with any questions. Astrobl@cusd201.org

Interested in Travel Basketball? Check out the flyer below for more information and sign up using the following LINK.

Reminder for 6th Grade Families:
State law requires all 6th grade students to have a dental exam by May 15th. Valid dates for the exam are 11/15/2024 through 5/15/26. Forms can be brought into school, emailed to CKnight@cusd201.org, or faxed to 630-654-2203.

If you’re unsure whether your child’s form has already been turned in, please check with Nurse Knight. Thank you for helping us stay in compliance with this requirement!

Dental form is attached below.

WHS is sponsoring its first Daddy Daughter dance! CUSD201 students as well as community families, ages 3-13 are welcome and encouraged to join us! Register here!. Check out the flyer below for more information.

Stay connected with all the great things happening at WJHS! Follow our Facebook page for updates and highlights, check the WJHS Calendar for the latest information on clubs, events, and athletics, and tune into our Daily Announcements to stay informed.

Looking for even more to do? Be sure to check out events and programs offered by the Westmont

Park District, and don’t forget to explore the many opportunities available at the Westmont Public Library—there truly is something for everyone!

With appreciation,

Amy Quattrone
WJHS Principal