North Shore 112 Monthly

• End-of-year video message from Dr. Lubelfeld
• 2025-2026 school calendar
• Board of Education news
• Staff recognition
• Family resources for the summer
• And more!

• 6/03: Last Day of A.M. Early Childhood
• 6/04: Early Release for K-8
• 6/04: Last Day of P.M. Early Childhood
• 6/04: Last Day for 8th Grade
• 6/04: Edgewood and Northwood Graduations
• 6/05: Last Day of K-7 (Early Release)
• 6/10: Regular Board of Education Meeting
• 6/19: Juneteenth (District Office Closed)
• 6/26: Special Board of Education Meeting
• 6/30: Board of Education Facilities Committee Meeting

• If the video does not play properly here, you can also access it on our Vimeo page.
• Watch a Spanish-language version of the video, translated using artificial intelligence.

Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is open for all grades, including kindergarten. Visit www.nssd112.org/registration to complete the process.

If you have any questions about registration, please email parentportal@nssd112.org or call 224-765-3052.

Summer hasn’t even started yet, but for those of you already thinking ahead, the important dates for the 2025–2026 school year can be found below:

• Full 2025-2026 school calendar
• Month-by-month overview of 2025-2026
• District website calendar page

Front row: Jenny Butler (secretary), Art Kessler (president), Melissa Itkin (vice president)

Back row: Dr. Mike Lubelfeld (Superintendent), Bennett Lasko, Lisa Hirsh, Jaret Fishman, Lori Fink, Dr. Monica Schroeder (Deputy Superintendent)

The next regular Board of Education meeting will be on Tuesday, June 10 at Northwood Middle School. It will begin at 7 p.m. You can find an agenda and livestream link on our website.

On Tuesday, June 26, the Board of Education will hold a special meeting to review and vote on the administration’s recommendation to consolidate the dual language program at Oak Terrace. The meeting agenda and livestream link will be available on our website.

The Board will review construction bids for the upcoming Braeside renovation project. Please note that this meeting will not be livestreamed.

Our staff gives their all throughout the year, but May was especially demanding, and they powered through with heart, energy and focus. We’re so proud of the way they are finishing the school year strong. May also gave us the chance to recognize some of the incredible educators who make D112 such a great place for kids.

Thank you, D112 staff, for everything you do. You truly are the best.

Congratulations to Kirby Bartelstein, Melissa Berkowitz, Jackie Jacobson, Shara Lieberman, Amber Udoni, Lexi Robinson and Sara Simons on being nominated for this year’s Lake County Educator of the Year Award. They were honored at a county-wide celebration on May 7.

Ravinia kindergarten teacher Jori Handelsman was named one of just a few teachers across Chicagoland to win a special Teacher Appreciation Week prize: free Lou Malnati’s for a year! She was nominated by a parent and selected for this fun (and delicious) honor. Congratulations! Ravinia is lucky to have you!

Northwood dual language teacher Jen Sobel was named the recipient of the 2025 Golden Apple Award, presented annually by the Highland Park Community Foundation. She was selected from a distinguished group of finalists that included Edgewood art teacher Sharon Steckel and Edgewood social studies teacher Michael Buss. Nominated by members of the community, all three educators were honored at the May Board of Education meeting for their outstanding contributions to our schools.

The district honored its 2025 retirees at a celebration on May 22. Congratulations to Susie Axelrod, Cindy Baggio, Constance Roth Cunningham, Lauren David, Stella Flores, Patty Heinzen, Sheri Henkel, Edye Kaplan-Schwarz, Marcy Lesser, Amy March, Charlie Privett, and Marcie Weiser on remarkable careers in education and the lasting impact they’ve made in our community. We wish each of them all the best in their next chapter!

Pride Month is observed annually in June to celebrate the dignity, equality, and increased visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. This month commemorates the Stonewall riots, which occurred at the end of June 1969 and are widely considered a catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Pride Month is a time to reflect on the struggles and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community and to continue the fight against discrimination and injustice. LGBTQ+ Pride Month is not only a celebration of love, identity and acceptance but also an opportunity to raise awareness about the issues facing the LGBTQ+ community and to advocate for full equality and inclusion in all aspects of life.

Resources:

• Anti-Defamation League resources for Pride Month
• 10 ways to celebrate Pride Month with your kids

In this section, you’ll find summer events and programs for parents/guardians and students, along with helpful resources to support families during the break.

Cartwheel is a national mental health provider for students/adolescents. They provide rapid access to care for students by providing them access to a licensed clinician within seven days of referral (virtually). Clinicians are available during school hours, after school, nights, weekends, and breaks. Additionally, Cartwheel offers the ability for psychiatric evaluations and medicine management.

Looking for simple ways to support your family’s well-being this summer?

The transition from school to summer can bring excitement, but also stress, uncertainty or even feelings of isolation. To help, Cartwheel has created a free Summer Wellness Activity Guide with fun, low-cost ideas for all ages.

Inside, you’ll find activities focused on:

• Mindfulness & relaxation

• Creative expression

• Family connection

• Structure & routine

Download the guide in English

Download the guide in Spanish

Upcoming Cartwheel Webinar: Thursday, June 5, 6-7 p.m.

"Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health: Strategies for Parents and Caregivers"

Join Cartwheel and Dr. Jessica Fish for a live webinar focused on how parents and caregivers can support the mental health of LGBTQ+ children and teens. Learn how to create an affirming home environment, improve communication, and advocate for your child in schools and beyond. The session will include practical strategies, resources, and a live Q&A. REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT

To learn more about Cartwheel, please reach out to your child's school or to Dr. Holly Colin, assistant superintendent for student services, at hcolin@nssd112.org.

The Highland Park Public Library's popular Summer Reading Club returns! Children entering kindergarten through 8th grade can read and complete activities to earn prizes. The Summer Reading Club runs from June 6 until August 1. To sign up, stop by the Youth Services desk at the library.

For more information, visit https://hplibrary.org/summer-reading-club.

Looking for flexible summer learning options? Illinois Virtual Schools and Academy (IVSA) is offering two enrichment programs that may be of interest to District 112 families:

• Summer Spanish Fun Camp (Grades 3–6) – A fun and interactive way for students to build their Spanish skills through games, songs, and hands-on activities.
  
  
• Summer Bootcamp Program (Grades K–8) – Designed to help students reinforce key math and reading skills and get ready for the next school year.

ParentGuidance.org is a free online resource that offers parents and guardians support and guidance on various mental health and parenting topics. The platform provides expert-led courses, coaching, and tools to help parents navigate challenges related to child behavior, emotional health and family dynamics.

Explore the June newsletter from ParentGuidance.org:

• June Newsletter (English)
• June Newsletter (Spanish)

Parent Coaching is a FREE resource where you can meet with a coach to get personalized support for any challenges you or your child may be facing. Take advantage of this resource created by therapists to support you and your loved ones. Register at https://cookcenter.info/coaching.

Safe2Help offers students a safe, confidential way in which to share information that might help prevent suicides, bullying, school violence or other threats to school safety. It is available 24/7 and offers students a safe outlet to share information on school safety issues in a confidential environment. It can be accessed via a free app, text/phone, and website (Safe2HelpIllinois.com).

• Call: 844-4-SAFEIL
• Text: SAFE2 (72332)
• Email: help@safe2helpil.com

Braeside math interventionist Christine Buti and Principal Jamie Kahn proudly display the school’s new No Place for Hate banner, celebrating Braeside’s official designation by the Anti-Defamation League.

Congratulations to all nine of our schools for earning the designation of No Place for Hate by the Anti-Defamation League! This recognition reflects a yearlong commitment by our students and staff to creating inclusive, respectful and safe school environments. Each school worked hard to meet the program’s criteria, which included forming a No Place for Hate committee, signing the ADL’s Resolution of Respect, and completing schoolwide activities that promote equity and challenge bias.

We’re proud of the dedication and collaboration that made this achievement possible across the district. Thank you to everyone who played a role in fostering a culture where all students feel seen, valued, and supported.

Construction at Ravinia is entering its final stages, and the progress is impressive. While there are still a few finishing touches to complete, the building has been completely transformed into a modern, student-centered learning environment. We look forward to welcoming the community into the updated space soon.

Meanwhile, work is also progressing nicely at Sherwood, with renovations moving along as planned. At Braeside, preparations are underway for a summer move to Green Bay School, where students and staff will be housed next year while construction gets underway on their building.

In partnership with Ravinia Festival’s Reach Teach Play program, the 112 Education Foundation is offering free lawn passes for District 112 families to attend this summer’s Kids Go Classic concert featuring the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performing Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony. The event includes interactive pre-concert activities for the whole family.

• Sunday, July 20
• Gates open/ticket pickup at 2 p.m. | Concert at 5 p.m.
• Ravinia Festival

Tickets are limited and must be reserved in advance at 112foundation.org. Registration closes July 6.

Founded in 1995 and celebrating its 30th anniversary, the 112 Foundation is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization committed to enriching and enhancing educational opportunities for all students in North Shore School District 112. Since it operates separately from the district and doesn’t receive tax revenue, the Foundation relies on community support and fundraising to bring innovative programs to D112 schools.

The Lake County Regional Office of Education Foundation has officially launched Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Lake County, bringing free, high-quality books to children from birth to age 5, regardless of family income. This program helps build early literacy skills and fosters a lifelong love of reading.

To learn more or register, visit www.LCROEFoundation.org.

Highland Park High School is now accepting registrations for the 2025-2026 Little Giants full-day childcare program. Designed for children ages 2–4, the program offers a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum in a nurturing and creative environment. Please note, this is a District 113 initiative. Space is limited. For more information or to schedule a tour, contact Director Lynne Benson at LBenson@dist113.org.

The Highland Park Police Department is once again offering its popular Junior Police Academy for District 112 students ages 9 to 14. This year’s program runs August 4–8, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Highland Park Police Department.

Space is limited and participation is by reservation only. Interested families should contact Officer Teresa Stadler at 847-926-1122 or email tstadler@cityhpil.com to request an application.

Electric bikes and scooters are growing in popularity, but safety is key. The City of Highland Park has shared important reminders for families about local rules, including helmet requirements and where e-bikes are allowed.

We’re looking for volunteers to help with an important project led by our Director of Safety and Security. On July 7 (from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and/or 12 t0 3 p.m.) and July 8 (12 to 3 p.m.), we’ll be repacking the Emergency Medical bags. These bags are placed in every D112 elementary and middle school classroom.

If you're able to lend a hand during any of these time slots, please fill out this form or contact Solvei Jurmu at sjurmu@nssd112.org. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Parents should be aware of popular apps that may pose risks to children, including anonymous messaging, location sharing and access to inappropriate content. Regularly checking devices, reviewing downloaded apps, and using parental controls can help keep children safe. Ongoing conversations about responsible social media use and online safety are also important for protecting children from potential dangers.

Below is a list of apps parents should know (Click the image to view a larger version).

If you have firearms in the home, these tips can help you store them safely and protect your child from accidental harm.

Store Guns Locked and Unloaded

• Always store firearms unloaded. Use a gun safe, lockbox or a trigger lock to keep guns secure. Store ammunition separately in a locked container.
  
  

Never Rely on Hiding Alone

• Hiding a gun is not enough. Children are naturally curious and may find it. Use secure locking mechanisms regardless of how well-hidden the firearm is.
  
  

Educate Your Children About Gun Safety

• Teach children: Never touch a gun. If they see a gun, leave the area immediately. Tell an adult right away. Reinforce this regularly.

Talk to Other Parents

• Before your child visits another home, IT IS OK to ask: “Do you have guns in the home?” “How are they stored?” It’s a reasonable and responsible question to protect your child.

In Emergencies, Prioritize Safety

• If you believe your child or someone else might be at risk, remove guns from the home temporarily. Use local law enforcement, friends or family to hold firearms securely if needed.

Lead by Example

• If you are a gun owner, model responsible behavior: Handle guns safely, show respect for firearm laws and safety practices. Reinforce the message that guns are not toys.
  
  

Know the Illinois Law in Regards to Gun Ownership: Illinois State Police Firearms Services Bureau. The cities of both Highland Park and Highwood, have enacted local firearm regulations, particularly concerning assault weapons and large-capacity magazines, to enhance community safety.

As you know, the district has been exploring how generative artificial intelligence can enhance learning, teaching, and productivity. We currently have ongoing pilots with Magic School AI and School AI. You’re welcome to explore both platforms anytime using the links below:

• Magic School AI
• School AI

If you’d like to engage further and explore the reasoning behind our use of these tools, check out a new assistant created by Dr. Lubelfeld.

• PlayLab AI: https://www.playlab.ai/project/cm6kvdue009o1l64h6pya357o

Having an issue with your student's device? Need assistance with district software, such as Infinite Campus? Submit a support ticket and a member of our tech team will reach out as soon as possible.

We’re excited to share the next chapter for North Shore School District 112! In March, the Board of Education approved a new Strategic Change Agenda, a plan shaped by the voices of more than 200 parents, staff, students and community members. The agenda sets a clear path for our future, focused on student success, well-being and strong relationships.

Learn more at www.nssd112.org/strategic-agenda.

Our staff works hard to create schools where students want to learn and teachers want to teach. High-quality materials and technology give our staff and students the tools needed to be innovative and highly engaged. As a member of District 112, you’ll be working to advance yourself as well as fulfill a long legacy of District 112 being the home of pioneering educators, dedicated staff, and innovative instructional practices. Visit careers.nssd112.org to learn more!

Address: 445 Sheridan Road, Highwood, IL 60040

Phone: 224-765-3000

Website: nssd112.org

Facebook: facebook.com/nssd112

Instagram: instagram.com/nssd112

Twitter: @nssd112

Contact Us: nssd112.org/contact

If you have any questions about the newsletter, please contact Ben Finfer at bfinfer@nssd112.org.