Leyden Pride
February 23, 2026
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Important dates
Mar 2 - No School - Casimir Pulaski Day
Mar 24 - Family Conferences
Mar 30 - Apr 6 - No School - Spring Break
Family Conferences rescheduled to March 24
Leyden’s second semester Family Conferences which were originally scheduled for Tuesday, March 17, have been rescheduled for Tuesday, March 24. This is due to a scheduling conflict with Election Day.
All conferences will be held in-person from 5 - 7:30 p.m. and no advanced registration is needed. Families who attend will be provided the student’s current schedule upon arrival. Please reach out to the main offices at 847-451-3122 (West) or 847-451-3000 (East) for additional information.
Action Needed: Family input on state survey
Through the Illinois State Board of Education, families have an opportunity to share their thoughts on the important elements of Leyden’s school effectiveness in a state survey called 5Essentials. In order to remain compliant with this state requirement, Leyden needs a minimum of 20-percent participation from families. At this time, we are at 9-percent at East and 8-percent at West for participation. Input is kept confidential and helps us understand our families and as we make decisions moving forward.
The input provides Leyden administrators with important information that helps to better understand our families, students and staff. We encourage families to please share feelings, insights, and perspective with us via this survey, which opens tomorrow and remains open through March 13. Direct emails will be sent tomorrow as well, including the link.
Scholarship applications due February 27
Leyden seniors are encouraged to apply for one of more than 30 local scholarships using the Common Local Scholarship Application. The application portal is open now and will close on Friday, February 27, at 10:00 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity. Be sure to submit your application and any required materials before the deadline.
Popular guest speaker featured at upcoming BPAC meeting
The Bilingual Parent Advisory Council (BPAC) will host its next meeting on Tuesday, February 25, at 6:00 p.m. in the Eagle’s Wing at West Leyden. The meeting will feature a presentation by Dr. Ferney titled “Parent Partnerships That Inspire: Supporting Children Through Stronger Relationships.” This engaging and popular session will explore how strong parent-school partnerships can positively impact student success and well-being. Dinner will be provided for the whole family and childcare will be available during the meeting. All are welcome!
Leyden's spring musical opens March 5
Leyden Fine Arts presents, In the Heights, a musical running March 5-7 at 7 p.m., with a matinee performance Sunday, March 7, at 2 p.m.
In the Heights is a musical about a close-knit Latino community over three sweltering summer days. The story follows Usnavi, the owner of a local bodega who dreams of winning the lottery so he can return to his native Dominican Republic and restore his father's old business. Several residents chase their "sueñitos" (little dreams) while overcoming mounting obstacles.
The performances take place in the West Leyden auditorium, 1000 Wolf Road. Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and free for Leyden students with an I.D.
This year’s production features over 80 students from both campuses, showcasing incredible talent on stage and behind the scenes.
One Amazing Story: Ashraf Amaya
We bet you might not know we have a former National Basketball Association (NBA) athlete working here at Leyden! Special Education Teacher Ashraf Amaya played for the Vancouver (Memphis) Grizzlies and the Washington Bullets (Wizards) for a total of 85 games after a standout showing on the team at Southern Illinois University. In addition to teaching, he also coaches the sophomore boys basketball team. Learn more about this "local boy’s" journey to the NBA and to a teaching career here at Leyden.
Little Leydenettes Shine at Valentine’s Day Event
Leyden celebrated Valentine's Day by hosting 50 elementary and middle school dancers who joined the Leydenettes dance team. The Little Leydenettes learned routines alongside the team, culminating in a performance during halftime of the Varsity basketball game.
Look who's going to State!
Erick Worwa (Boys Wrestling), Zoey Dodgers (Girls Wrestling), and the Girls Bowling team have all advanced from sectionals and will compete at their respective IHSA State Tournaments!
IN THE NEWS
IN THE COMMUNITY
East Leyden Parent Club fundraiser
Join other Leyden families for a fun night of basketball and community at Leyden Family Night at the Windy City Bulls. This event is sponsored by the East Leyden Parents Club, this special fundraiser will take place on March 12, at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates. The Windy City Bulls, the official NBA G League affiliate of the Chicago Bulls, will tip off at 7:00 p.m., with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. A portion of every ticket sold will be donated back to the East Parent Club Scholarship Fund, making this an exciting way to support our students while enjoying a great night out with fellow Leyden families.
Connect with us:
Email: pr@leyden212.org
Website: www.leyden212.org
Location: 3400 Rose Street, Franklin Park, IL, USA
Phone: 847-451-3000
Facebook: leydenpride212
Twitter: @leydenpride212
Instagram: leydenpride212
YouTube: leydenpride212