The Wolves Weekly Update
August 28th, 2026
Our school has one purpose—to be a place where students learn, belong, and thrive. This week, we see that purpose in action across every age and stage—from our youngest learners exploring new ideas to our seniors gathering for Senior Sunrise as they begin their final year at Pleasant Hill. Students are learning alongside their classmates, finding ways to participate that work for them, trying new things, and celebrating their successes—all important parts of belonging and thriving at school.
We are also looking beyond the classroom as we begin imagining how to help Willis Woods thrive and create an outdoor learning space for future generations of Pleasant Hill students.
First graders get comfortable and settle in for their literacy lesson. Sometimes learning looks best from your favorite spot on the classroom rug!
Third graders sharpen their math skills on the computer while enjoying a sucker earned for great behavior.
Students experiment with techniques and make observations as they work to create the perfect bubble.
This 6th grade student is putting the scientific method to work by testing different techniques to create his giant bubble during the Bubble Lab.
This 6th grade student is showing off a bubble resting in her hand during the Bubble Lab.
Congratulations to Nathan, this week's Quote of the Week winner!
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela
This year, virtual learning is helping us continue to offer opportunities such as Spanish, Band, and Chorus even when an in-person instructor is not available locally. Through a combination of our RISE classroom technology and Illinois Virtual Schools & Academy (IVSA), students are able to connect with Illinois-licensed teachers and access courses that we might otherwise be unable to offer locally.
While the instructor may be joining students virtually, these are still active, instructional classes where students participate, practice, build skills, and learn together. Like any new instructional model, there will naturally be a learning curve as students and staff become familiar with new routines, technology, and expectations. Mrs. Peebles is supporting students in the classroom throughout this transition, helping with technology and materials and working alongside the virtual instructors to help students be successful. We appreciate everyone's patience as we continue to learn, adjust, and strengthen the experience.
Our RISE membership also connects us to a larger network of learning opportunities, including live events, technology events, professional development, virtual field trips, and programs featuring experts and organizations from across the country. For example, available programming has included a live virtual tour of the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, giving participants the opportunity to explore the research laboratory and learn from a live guide. Experiences like this can bring opportunities to Pleasant Hill students that would otherwise be difficult to access in person.
We are just beginning to explore what is possible with these resources, both for enrichment now and potentially for additional course offerings in the future. For a small, rural school, opportunities like these can help us reach beyond what is available within our own walls. We may not be able to bring every opportunity to Pleasant Hill, but we can find new ways to bring Pleasant Hill students to the opportunity.
Connecting with their instructor
Singing their first song for their instructor
We are learning more about the history—and the future—of Willis Woods! Mr. Edwards shared that the cypress trees were planted in the 1940s, making them more than 80 years old. Last week, Scott Lamar with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) visited Willis Woods to help us better understand the health of the trees and what will be needed to care for the area.
One of the most exciting things we learned is that our cypress trees aren't even considered mature yet! Mr. Lamar explained that, with proper care, these trees could potentially be part of Willis Woods for another 400 years.
The visit also helped identify some work that needs to be done. Several ash trees have been affected by the emerald ash borer and will need to be removed before weakened trees and limbs become a safety concern. The woods also contain a significant amount of mulberry and wintercreeper, along with other vegetation that will need to be considered as we develop a plan for the area. Mr. Lamar plans to return in late September or October to begin identifying and marking trees that should be removed.
We also appreciate community members who pointed out that vegetation near the railroad tracks is limiting visibility for traffic. Improving the sightline in that area will be one of the items we work to address.
Ultimately, my hope is to see Willis Woods become an outdoor learning space for our students—a place where science, agriculture, and environmental education can happen right here on our campus. We are even beginning to think about whether the old Ag Pond could someday be revived as part of that learning space.
Best of all, Mr. Lamar has offered to return and spend time with our students, teaching them about the trees and plants growing right here in Willis Woods. We are looking forward to giving our students the opportunity to learn from an expert while also helping them understand and appreciate a unique piece of Pleasant Hill history.