May Edition-Proud Hawk Community

Dear Heritage Families and Community,

As we close the 2025-2026 school year, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to our students, families, staff, Board of Education, and community for another incredible year at Heritage CUSD #8.

This year was filled with celebrations, accomplishments, growth, and meaningful moments across our district. We celebrated students through academic achievements, performances, athletic successes, field trips, leadership opportunities, and the many everyday experiences that make our schools special. From our youngest learners exploring new opportunities to celebrating the Class of 2026, there were many reasons to be proud.

Parent & Student University continued to create meaningful opportunities for students and families while strengthening connections beyond the school day. We are grateful for the support of the University of Illinois, ROE #9, SOAR, ISAC, local businesses, community organizations, volunteers, and donors who helped create memorable experiences and expand opportunities for our students.

Throughout the year, we also continued planning for the future through strategic initiatives, facility improvements, and ongoing conversations focused on strengthening opportunities for students and supporting long-term success at Heritage. We will continue to welcome input to keep these sessions meaningful.

Most importantly, I want to thank our staff. Their dedication, flexibility, and unwavering commitment to students continue to make Heritage a special place. Even as the school year concludes, much of their work continues. Many staff members will dedicate time this summer to planning, participating in academic open gym sessions, preparing curriculum, engaging in professional learning, and creating new opportunities for students. Their continued commitment and investment in our schools do not go unnoticed.

As we begin summer break, I encourage everyone to take time to rest, recharge, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy a well-deserved break.

If you have not yet completed online registration for the 2026-2027 school year, we encourage families to do so by June 1 as we finalize planning for the upcoming school year. As a reminder, fees will not open until July. Completing registration now assists us with class lists, transportation planning, staffing, and preparations for a successful start to the year. Families needing assistance are welcome to stop by either school office, and our staff would be happy to help with the registration process.

As we transition into summer, please remember that we are still here to support and assist our students, families, and community. If you have any questions or need assistance during the summer months, please do not hesitate to reach out. You may contact me at (217) 896-2041 ext. 132 or at norton.kimberly@heritage8.org. You may also contact Julie Pearman at Heritage High School at (217) 834-3016 or julie.pearman@heritage8.org. We are happy to assist and look forward to continuing to support our students and families throughout the summer months.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Heritage is special because of the people who make up this community, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our students, families, and community.

Have a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable summer.

With appreciation,

Dr. Norton

We enjoyed celebrating retirees Mrs. Sanders, Mr. Sorensen, Mrs. James, Mrs. Cramer, and Mrs. Zwilling, along with recognizing Mr. White as he begins his next chapter as the incoming Shiloh Superintendent. Their combined 135½ years of service to Heritage have made a lasting impact on our students, staff, and school community.

Thank you to everyone who attended, shared stories, and helped make the celebration so special. Congratulations and best wishes on this next chapter!

As we reflect on another outstanding year at Heritage CUSD #8, we want to extend our sincere gratitude to the many donors, sponsors, organizations, and community partners who invested in our students and schools. Your generosity, support, and belief in our students helped create meaningful experiences and opportunities throughout the year.

Special thanks to:

• Anonymous donors who quietly supported student opportunities and programs
• Heritage PTC

• Prospect Bank
• Longview Bank
• Philo Exchange Bank
• Loman-Ray Insurance
• Don’s Auto Center
• Happy-y-Daze Shine, LLC
• Franczek
• Homer Sports Commission
• Feed Our Kids
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and affiliated partners
• Beckman Institute
• Grainger College of Engineering Physics Van
• Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology Outreach Team
• Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)
• ROE #9 SOAR
• FCCLA and student volunteers
• Guest presenters, scholarship donors, local businesses, volunteers, and community organizations

Your generosity supported learning experiences, Parent & Student University, student enrichment opportunities, athletics, special programs, scholarships, meals, partnerships, and countless memorable moments throughout the year.

Thank you for helping us strengthen our schools and continue building opportunities for students across Heritage CUSD #8. We are grateful to be part of such a supportive and caring community.

The Board reviewed the first reading of PRESS Issue 121 policies and discussed local additions regarding board meeting notices and roll call procedures for action items.

Board members reflected on their recent governance work with Dr. Perry Hill related to Board Protocols, Board-Superintendent Communication Expectations, and Board Self-Evaluation processes. Members shared appreciation for the structure and framework developed to support communication, collaboration, and efficient board operations. These items will return as action items at the next meeting.

The Board also reviewed the upcoming amended budget hearing, which will include adjustments related to IDEA transportation funding and the self-purchase bond process. Discussion also included updates regarding the district bus fire investigation and ongoing follow-up related to the claim process.

Several action items were approved, including annual representative appointments, a memorandum of understanding with the Heritage Education Association regarding a band and chorus stipend for 2026-2027, renewal of the district property and casualty insurance, approval of 2026-2027 School Improvement Plans, authorization for summer bill processing and fiscal operations, compensation adjustments, and coaching appointments.

Online registration for the 2026–2027 school year continues to make progress. Families are encouraged to complete registration as soon as possible to assist with staffing, transportation planning, and scheduling. Information regarding registration support opportunities will continue to be shared.

Facilities and summer work continue moving forward. Roofing projects have been completed, with parking lot, track, and Health Life Safety electrical work beginning this summer. Maintenance planning is underway to prepare our spaces for 2026-2027!

The next regular Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 15. Topics include the amended budget hearing and E-Learning agreement discussions.

Notice of Public Hearing – E-Learning Plan Renewal

Heritage CUSD #8 will hold a public hearing regarding the renewal of the district's E-Learning Plan at the Board of Education meeting on June 15, 2026. Illinois law requires school districts to renew their E-Learning Plans every three years.

The district's E-Learning Plan outlines how instruction, attendance, student engagement, and access to learning will be maintained during approved E-Learning Days. Community members are invited to review the plan and provide feedback during the public hearing.

Thank you to our PTC for continually supporting opportunities that expand student learning, enhance athletics, and foster fun and engaging experiences throughout our schools. Your support helps make a positive impact on our students and school community!

Here are a few examples below!

The Elementary/Junior High wrapped up a busy and successful school year filled with accomplishments, celebrations, and memorable experiences. Spring sports seasons concluded, and students were recognized for their efforts and achievements during the awards ceremony.

Junior High Track experienced tremendous growth this season with 28 student-athletes in grades 6–8 participating, representing a significant increase from previous years. Athletes performed exceptionally well at both the conference meet and sectionals. Coach Paul implemented a Personal Record (PR) tracker for each athlete and shared the data with Board members. Throughout the season, athletes collectively broke their personal records more than 100 times, highlighting their hard work, growth, and dedication. This year also introduced a new event, the Sprint Relay. As a new event, both the 7th and 8th grade relay team times will be added to the school record board, creating a new milestone for Heritage Junior High Track.

The Elementary/Junior High also completed the first year of implementation of the new Into Math curriculum. Overall, the first year was a positive transition and a successful experience.

Students across all grade levels participated in many engaging opportunities this spring. Kindergarten through fourth grade students participated in RIF and each received a free book from the Homer Library. Several 8th grade students attended the Trade-Up Conference at Parkland, and Kindergarten through second grade, along with Junior High students, participated in field trips throughout May. Students in grades K–8 also showcased their talents through band and choral performances.

The school celebrated 8th grade promotion and recognized many student accomplishments during the awards ceremony. AR students earning over 100 points were recognized, with the top point earners receiving special recognition: #3 Carter Lowe, #2 Lilly Riggs, and #1 Anna Riggs, who achieved an impressive 700+ points. Students in grades 5–8 participating in athletics were also recognized, along with academic award recipients in grades 6–7.

PTC hosted FUN Day, including a Storm Science assembly to help close out the school year. Third through fifth grade AR winners celebrated with a trip to Elevate, while Junior High students enjoyed a trip to Homer Lake.

Thank you to our students, staff, families, and community for helping make it a wonderful school year. We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable summer!

Kindergarten had the privilege of having Mr. Pearse (Thomas’ dad) come in to play and teach us about some string instruments, an electric guitar, and a concertina.

He taught us about how each instrument is played and how science and math are both tied into music and playing musical instruments.

He let each child come up and play the instruments and we even had a father and son jam session

🫧🌱 First and Second Grade Fun! Enjoy exploring this video of first grade and taking a peek into all of the hands-on learning happening in our elementary classrooms! A special thank you to the Elmores for providing engaging stations that allowed our students to actively learn, explore, and create.

Our 1st graders have been busy with an entire bubble-themed experience filled with experiments, crafts, planting pumpkins, and more! Meanwhile, 2nd graders are making smoothies, planting gourds, and both classes are enjoying some exciting discoveries under the microscopes.

Learning is even more meaningful when students can explore, create, and experience it firsthand!

Fifth grade students in Mrs. Tison’s class recently put their creativity and learning on display through their Landform Projects! Students created hands-on models featuring a variety of landforms, showcasing their understanding of geography concepts in fun and engaging ways. From rivers and mountains to islands, valleys, and more, each project reflected creativity, effort, and learning brought to life.

Great job to our fifth graders for their hard work and to Mrs. Tison for creating meaningful learning experiences that make learning memorable!

Students enjoyed some time outdoors making memories, casting lines, and celebrating the end of the year together. From reeling in catfish and bluegill to gathering around to check out the big catches, it was a great day of fun, laughter, and friendship. Experiences like these create some of the best middle school memories.

The High School wrapped up the school year with many celebrations, recognitions, and student accomplishments. Students of the Month included Andrii Bilyi, Clark Roland, Peyton Curry-Varner, and Evan Long.

Students participated in several memorable experiences throughout the spring. Art Club and Interior Design students traveled to Springfield to tour the Dana Thomas House. Prom was a memorable event, with Andrii Bilyi and Kaydynn Curry-Varner crowned Prom King and Queen. Students also enjoyed a successful Post Prom trip featuring Sky Zone, Andretti Go Karts, and Medieval Times.

The school celebrated many student and community achievements throughout the month. Hall of Fame inductees Samantha McGarigle Bothwell and Chantel McGarigle Corrie were recognized, and the annual Art Show showcased incredible student talent. The Honors Banquet was well attended, and appreciation is extended to the many scholarship donors who continue supporting Heritage students. NHS Induction was successfully held, Fourth Quarter Breakfast Club students were recognized, and newly elected Student Council officers took their oath of office.

Student organizations and activities also had a successful spring. The FFA Plant Sale was well attended, and the Band and Chorus Spring Concert provided an enjoyable evening of music for families and the community. Graduation activities, including the graduation walk-through and commencement ceremony, were meaningful celebrations for the Class of 2026.

Students also earned notable academic and extracurricular recognitions. Colby Schrock was recognized at the IHSSBCA Banquet as an All-State Second Team Scholastic Bowl selection. ACT scores were delayed due to a statewide scoring issue, with corrected scores expected by June 2. PreACT data is currently being reviewed and analyzed.

Track and field athletes had an outstanding season. Three new school records were established: Gryeson Guevara in the 3200-meter run, Kiera Jones in the 3200-meter run, and Clark Roland in the 1600-meter run. Kalyn Miller earned conference champion honors in shot put. Heritage will also be represented at the IHSA State Finals at EIU, with Clark Roland advancing in both the 800-meter and 1600-meter runs and Bre Ploense also qualifyied in the 200-meter dash.

Spring sports seasons concluded with softball finishing 0–18 overall and 0–8 in conference play. Baseball finished the season 4–17 overall and 3–7 in conference play while advancing into regional competition.

Thank you to our students, staff, families, and community members for another successful school year and for the continued support of Heritage High School.

Congratulations to Heritage High School athletes Bre Ploense and Clark Roland on outstanding seasons and representing Heritage at the state level! Bre recently competed in the 200-meter dash at the IHSA State Finals, while Clark has qualified to compete in both the 800-meter and 1600-meter runs this Thursday at EIU. Reaching the state stage is an incredible accomplishment and reflects the dedication, hard work, and perseverance each has shown throughout the season. The entire Heritage community is proud of both of these student-athletes and all they have accomplished. Best of luck to Clark as he competes Thursday, and congratulations to both on an incredible season!

🔥 Sparks were flying in Advanced Welding as students had the opportunity to use the manual plasma cutter as part of a hands-on project experience! Students practiced precision cutting techniques while applying skills learned in the shop to real-world fabrication tasks.

Pictured are Maddox Odum and Tyler Lisanby putting their skills to work and gaining valuable experience through hands-on learning. Great work by our students as they continue building technical skills and exploring future career pathways

Hands-on learning continues in our Industrial Arts classrooms as students put skills into action through welding, woodworking, fabrication, and design projects! Students are gaining real-world experience while applying creativity, precision, and problem-solving skills.

Tyler Lisanby used the oxy-acetylene torch to soften and bend solid round stock using a hammer. and has also been using wood lathes in Advanced Woodworking to create table legs for his License Plate Table project.

Christian Paul is creating an organizer to hold wood finishing stains and used a biscuit jointer to strengthen his project with biscuit joints.

Cooper Parsons is adding finishing touches to his end table project by using a round-over bit to create smooth, curved edges on the table legs.

Trent Gilbert is designing a custom stool project in Advanced Welding using square tubing and wood. He used an angle grinder to create a smooth finish and incorporated a swivel design with a footrest for added function and comfort.

Students are not only learning technical skills but also designing, creating, troubleshooting, and bringing ideas to life.

Students also enjoyed a great learning experience during our recent Libman tour! Thank you to Mr. Frost for providing opportunities like these help connect classroom learning with career pathways and real-world applications.

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Our high school students showcased some truly phenomenal works of art during their Art Show earlier in the week. We are incredibly proud of the creativity, talent, and dedication displayed in each exhibit.

We are so blessed to have Mrs. Hermosillo as she is an inspiration to our students and continuously encourages them to express themselves through their creativity and artistic talents.

Below are a few examples of the phenomenal work featured.

Thank you to everyone who attended our Elementary Spring Concert and K-8 Art Show! We are incredibly proud of our talented students for sharing their hard work, creativity, and performances. ❤️💙

A special thank you to Mr. Lee, Mrs. Hermosillo, and accompanist Angie Ruwe for their dedication and all they do to support our students. Another top-notch event showcasing the amazing talents of our students and staff!

Over 60 music parents and students made the annual trip to Indiana Beach! Good weather and great fun! There's more than corn in Indiana!

• Ocean Literacy from NOAA
• Ocean Education activities from National Geographic
• Then, get students busy saving our oceans with this contest