Proud Hawk Community

Hello, Proud Hawk Community!

Over the past several weeks, we have had many opportunities to celebrate our students in meaningful ways, including a wonderful Prom and several recognitions that highlight their achievements, leadership, and character. These moments are always a reminder of the pride we have in our students and the positive impact they have on our school community.

Prom was a special highlight, and we extend congratulations to our 2026 Prom King and Queen, Andrii Bilyi and Kaydynn Curry-Varner. It was a great evening filled with celebration, connection, and lasting memories for our students.

One of the most memorable events was our Hall of Fame induction. It was truly a special evening as we honored this year’s inductees, Samantha McGarigle Bothwell and Chantel McGarigle Corrie, recognizing their accomplishments, dedication, and the lasting impact they have had on Heritage. Both inductees represent the very best of our district, and it was inspiring to celebrate their achievements alongside family, friends, staff, and community members. In addition to honoring our inductees, we also recognized Mrs. Sanders and Mr. White for their years of service and leadership within our district. Their commitment to Heritage has made a lasting impact, and we are grateful for all they have given to our students and community.

A special thank you to Mrs. Cindy Happ for her thoughtful planning and incredible attention to detail in organizing the evening. From start to finish, every aspect of the event reflected care and pride in our district. Because of her efforts, everyone in attendance felt welcomed, valued, and proud to be part of the Heritage community.

As we move through the final weeks of the school year, we look forward to continuing these celebrations, including upcoming ceremonies and events that recognize the hard work, growth, and accomplishments of our students across all grade levels.

This time of year also brings meaningful transitions. We are especially excited to celebrate the Class of 2026 on May 17, followed by our 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony on May 18. These milestones are important moments for our students and families, and we look forward to honoring their hard work and accomplishments.

As we reflect, we are also looking ahead. Online registration for the 2026-2027 school year is now open through TeacherEase. Our goal is to have all returning students registered by the end of May. Early registration allows us to effectively plan staffing, class sections, and student supports to best meet the needs of our learners. If you are new to the district or know of a family planning to join Heritage, we welcome you and encourage you to reach out to our school offices for assistance with the registration process.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact our offices. Any parent/guardian of a new or incoming kindergarten student may begin calling the school offices to set up a TeacherEase account starting May 1, 2026.

Kindergarten and new K–8 students: Please contact Shelly at 217-896-2421 ext. 1200

New high school students: Please contact Julie at 217-834-3393

Please be prepared to provide a frequently used email address, as this will be used to establish your TeacherEase account.

Thank you for your continued support of Heritage CUSD #8. We look forward to finishing the school year strong and celebrating together.

❤️💙

With appreciation,

Dr. Kimberly Norton

The Board of Education received an update from Board Member Kimberly Keniley-Ashbrook, who recently represented Heritage at a regional meeting in Paris hosted by the Illinois Association of School Boards. The meeting included discussion of IASB initiatives and brought together representatives from 37 school boards within our division. A key focus was the presentation on “Strategic Budgeting During Uncertain Times,” which highlighted the importance of closely monitoring school finances and preparing for potential changes in federal funding. Board Member Ashbrook will share her notes with the full board, and it was also confirmed that she and Board Member Courtney Montgomery will attend an upcoming governance meeting on behalf of the district.

The Board was also recognized for its continued commitment to strong governance practices. Dr. Norton presented a plaque from the Illinois Association of School Boards honoring Heritage’s achievement in Board Governance Recognition. Individual board members were also acknowledged for their professional growth, including recognition for Curt Elmore and Zachary Wells, along with distinguished honors for Board Member Montgomery and Board Member Ashbrook.

Under new business, the Board discussed the potential development of a board self-evaluation process. Dr. Norton shared a sample model developed by Dr.Perry Hill, which includes indicators focused on meeting preparation, agenda structure, and adherence to governance practices. Board members discussed the value of timely feedback and continuous improvement, with further discussion anticipated at a future governance meeting.

The Board approved several personnel changes, including staff resignations and new coaching and sponsor appointments for the 2026-2027 school year.

In addition, the Board approved the Homer TIF Intergovernmental Agreement and authorized the purchase of two activity buses through IDEA carryover funds to support student transportation needs. Health and Life Safety electrical work was also approved at both school buildings to address identified needs and maintain safe learning environments.

The Board also approved the 2026-2027 meeting schedule and renewed membership with the Illinois Elementary School Association and IllinoisHigh School Association.

April has been a busy and successful month at Heritage High School. We are proud to recognize our Students of the Month: Anthony Happ, Ashlyn Barkley, Violet Chesnut, and Addison Fleming.

Students had a variety of enriching experiences this month. Storm Science provided an engaging assembly thanks to the PTC, while Student Council and FCCLA members represented Heritage at their respective State Conventions. Our FFA program hosted a successful banquet, installed new officers, and will hold its annual plant sale April 30 through May 2. Several students also attended the University of Illinois Engineering Open House, and sophomores had the opportunity to visit the CANDLES Holocaust Museum. In addition, our Career Day field trip provided valuable exposure to future opportunities.

We are proud to share that Joshua Stierwalt and Rylan White were honored at the LPC Senior Luncheon, and Owen Ashbrook connected with our Biology, AP Biology, and Earth Science classes through a virtual presentation.

Academically, ACT testing has been completed and ran much more smoothly than in previous years. Our Band and Chorus students performed at Organizational Contest, both earning First Division ratings, an outstanding accomplishment.

Athletically, track athletes continue to perform well, with several earning top-five finishes at meets. The Conference Meet will take place on May 8. Baseball currently stands at 3–9 overall (2–3 conference), and softball is 0–8 overall (0–3 conference), with both teams continuing to work hard and show growth throughout the season.

Looking ahead, we have many exciting events on the calendar, including Honors Night on May 5, NHS Induction on May 6, and Graduation on May 17.

As we approach the end of the school year, we remain focused on finishing strong and celebrating the many accomplishments of our students.

Our Heritage Hawks continue to make us proud! Congratulations to Bre Ploense for being recognized by the News-Gazette as a track and field standout. Clark Roland earned 1st place in the 800-meter run at the Tiger Invitational, and several of our athletes are closing in on school records. Kalyn Miller is getting very close to breaking the school record in shot put, and Kiara Jones is just 2 seconds off the school record in the 3200-meter run.

Great work, Hawks! ❤️💙

Both the JV and Varsity Scholastic Bowl teams have performed well this season. Track season is also going strong and students are preparing for Sectionals and State.

On April 15, several elementary classrooms welcomed high school students as part of the high school’s Career Day, providing valuable connections and learning opportunities for our younger students.

Additionally, students in grades K-4 will once again participated in Reading is Fundamental (RIF) Library Day, hosted by the Homer Library.

There are several exciting events planned in the weeks ahead as we close out the school year, and we look forward to celebrating our students’ continued growth and accomplishments.

Go Hawks!