Panther Tracks

8/21/25 5-8th Grade Cross Country Practice Starts 2:40-4:30

8/25/25 7th Grade & 8th Grade Volleyball Tryouts 2:40-4:30
8/25/25 7th & 8th Grade Co-Ed Soccer Tryouts 2:40-4:30

2025-2026 form only needs to be filled out one (1) time a year and it is to be completed before Athletics or clubs begin!

COMPLETE THIS FORM Complete the above form to provide electronic signature for the following:
Agreement to Participate
Code of Conduct
Parent Meeting

1. Tell us about you (your family)

I'm a proud graduate of Prairie Ridge High School-Go Wolves! I earned my degree from Eastern Illinois University and hold a Master’s in Literacy Coaching and Instruction from St. Xavier University, as well as a second Master’s in Leadership from Concordia University. One of my most favorite things to do is spend time with my family. I also love to travel. I have visited many places and I hope to explore more of Europe in the future!

2. What is something that makes you really proud?

This is my 20th year at Prairie Grove School District. I recently won State with my women’s softball team, and we’re headed to Nationals this weekend.

3. What is your favorite hobby?

One of my favorite hobbies is playing sports! I love being outdoors whenever possible. I still play softball and volleyball competitively, but if you ask, I will try just about any game! I also have a WaveRunner and spend as much time on it as I can.

4. What is your favorite food?

Sushi

5. What is something you have learned lately?

I truly enjoyed getting to know our new Prairie Grove staff and learning about their unique talents and experiences. I’m excited to work alongside them, learn from them, and grow together as part of our school community.

6. If you were an animal, what would you be and why?

I would be a dog. I had the best chocolate lab, and the unconditional love from a pet is truly life changing.

7. What is your favorite thing about Prairie Grove?

Our families, staff, and students truly are the heart of the Prairie Grove Community. As I celebrate my 20th year here, I can say without a doubt that it’s the kindness, dedication, and support that makes Prairie Grove such a special place to be. I’m grateful every day to be a part of this amazing school community that continues on into the high school as well.

1. Tell us about your family.

My husband, Matt, and I have been married for 16 years. We have two amazing kids who keep us busy and having fun. Our daughter, Amelia, is heading into 7th grade and loves playing volleyball, basketball, and travel softball—go GTS! Our son, Ben, is starting 5th grade and enjoys fishing, basketball, and travel baseball—go Cobras! Rounding out our crew is our little morkie, Leinie. As a family, we love swimming, playing games, going for walks, and just spending time together.

2.What is something that makes you really proud?

Seeing my children grow into the people they are today—learning from their mistakes and watching them strive to be even better each day—makes me incredibly proud. I’m also proud to work here at Prairie Grove and to call myself a Panther!

3. What is your favorite hobby?

With all of the activities my children are involved in, I would say my favorite hobby is watching them compete in their sporting events. This is probably because that is all I have time for! I also love crafting and making gifts for people.

4. What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is ice cream! Cookies and Cream, Cookie Dough, and Peanut Butter are some of my favorites. Serving it on a waffle cone is the best!

5. What is something you have learned lately?

I have learned what a wonderful school community we have here at PG. It has been great getting to know so many people and I can’t wait to meet all of the families and students.

6. If you were an animal, what would you be and why?

If I were an animal, I would be an elephant. Elephants have excellent memories, and I could use a little help with mine! Elephants are also incredibly intelligent, social, and live in groups. I love being around people!

7. What are you most excited about as you join Prairie Grove?

I am most excited about joining a new team. I love that I get to work alongside Mrs. McKenzie and all of the great people that have one common goal, doing what’s best for kids!

What is the hardest rock on Earth?

For this week, if you are a junior high student, email your answer to Mrs. Master (jmaster@dist46.org). If you are an elementary student, email your answer to Mrs. McKenzie (jmckenzie@dist46.org).

We can't wait to see you next week! If you would like, turn in the following color sheet to Mrs. Master or Mrs. McKenzie to have your work displayed at Prairie Grove!

As you may be aware, there are certain Illinois Health requirements for certain age levels. Please see the information below and make careful note if it pertains to your child.

Proof of a complete physical examination in preschool, kindergarten and 6th grade must be submitted to the health office by October 15, 2025 or, per Illinois State School Code, your student will be excluded from school.

Preschool

Complete Preschool Physical Examination. No additional immunization requirement if up-to-date.

Kindergarten

Complete Physical Examination and all required immunizations including:

• Two doses of MMR Vaccine

• Four doses of Polio Vaccine

• Four doses of DPT/DPTaP Vaccine

• Two doses of Varicella Vaccine (chicken pox)

Complete Kindergarten Dental Examination- Must be turned in prior to May 15, 2026.

Complete Kindergarten Vision Examination- Must be turned in prior to October 15, 2025.

2nd Grade

No additional physical/immunization requirements if up-to-date.

Complete 2nd grade Dental Examination - Must be turned in prior to May 15, 2026.

6th Grade

Complete Kindergarten Physical Examination and all required immunizations

• Tdap
• Meningococcal vaccinations

Complete Dental Examination- Must be turned in prior to May 15, 2026.

Complete Vision Examination- Must be turned in prior to October 15, 2025.

Want to know more about what PTO is up to? Interested in helping them achieve their mission of supporting ALL students? Visit their website for up to date information on events and initiatives!