Hawthorn Board Highlights

Present

• Robin Cleek
• George Fievet
• Michael Engle
• Joel Finfer
• Karl Borchers
• Julie Clifford
• Stephanie Peters

• None

Stacie Brettner was approved as the next Assistant Principal at Middle School South. Stacie has proudly served the Hawthorn community for the past 10 years, including two years as a first-grade teacher, four years teaching third grade, and most recently, four years as the Building Assistant Supervisor at the Hawthorn School for Young Learners. In Stacie’s words, “I am absolutely thrilled to transition from working with our ‘littlest eagles’ to our ‘biggest eagles’ and cannot wait to join the incredible staff at Middle South. I am ready for this next chapter in my Hawthorn journey and look forward to a fantastic 2026-27 school year at Middle School South!”

Kristina Franchi was approved as the next Building Assistant Supervisor at Hawthorn School of Dual Language. Kristina joins Hawthorn from Antioch School District, where she has served as an Assistant Principal. She brings experience as a student-centered educator, including work as a Special Education LEA, implementation of PBIS behavior systems, and a passion for bilingual education from her previous experience as a Spanish teacher.

• A community member shared concerns regarding the district's exploration of artificial intelligence in education.

• The D73 Foundation presented a $19,000 donation to support family resources through the Hawthorn Food Pantry.
• The Lake County Regional Office of Education Foundation presented an $18,000 donation to launch a pilot vision support program modeled after the "See Better, Learn Better" initiative.

Congratulations to Dylan S., Pratheek G., and Rohan F. for qualifying for state-level competition and demonstrating outstanding dedication, preparation, and problem-solving throughout the season.

The Board also celebrated Middle School South and Middle School North State Bowling students for advancing to the IESA State Bowling Tournament: Evan L., Sam K., Everett P., Charlie O., Liam C., Henry D., Andrew M., and Skylar M. A special congratulations to Everett P., who advanced to day two of the tournament and finished 41st in the state among middle school boys bowlers.

Our Middle School South and Middle School North State Science Olympiad teams were recognized for their incredible performances at State. Congratulations to:

Middle School South: Smyan A., Siddarth B., Aditya B., Bhamini C., Dhanvin D., Riya F., Mukunda G., James H., Arohi J., Manjari K., Lakshay K., Alex L., Shravika M., Pranav P., Pranith P., Jai P., Saketh T., Oviya V., and Shiv V.

Middle School North: Vismaya A., Akasha B., Aarth B., Vihaan B., Darsh D., Aarush H., Atharv H., Sharv J., Anisha K., Nandita M., Neema N., Zainab S., Alex S., Brandon X., and Sarah Y.

Thank you to our coaches for supporting and encouraging these students throughout the season. Congratulations to all of tonight’s students. We are incredibly proud of the way you represented Hawthorn District 73 at the state level!

• Board Member Joel Finfer reported that the Illinois legislative session was scheduled to conclude on May 31 and noted that many education related issues were still being considered.

• Board Member Michael Engel shared updates on SEDOL's FY27 budget development process and upcoming Governing Board meeting dates. He also highlighted the upcoming Pucks for Autism hockey tournament fundraiser, which supports programming for children and young adults with autism.

• The committee reviewed food service improvements with Quest, including expanded menu options, increased communication with families, and plans for summer meal services.

• Updates were also provided on the district's five year facilities plan, transportation planning during local road construction projects, student bus tag collection, technology infrastructure improvements, and updated student device procedures for the 2026-2027 school year.

• Julie Clifford shared that the Foundation will resume meetings in June and encouraged community members to get involved. She also promoted the upcoming golf outing and highlighted a recent visit to The Nest, noting the important support it provides to Hawthorn families through food, clothing, and other resources.

Wellness Committee

• No report. The committee has concluded its work for the current school year.

• Dr. Hannigan highlighted upcoming eighth-grade promotion ceremonies, shared important traffic information for families attending the events, and thanked students, staff, and families for a successful school year.

• District administrators presented key considerations for a potential outdoor education program, including curriculum alignment, student accommodations, staffing, supervision, safety, transportation, and cost. An example model serving all fifth grade students was estimated at approximately $235,000. Board members expressed interest in keeping the concept open for future discussion while recognizing the significant planning and financial considerations involved.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on June 18, 2026 at Hawthorn District Office.