Martin Memo
Sept 6, 2026
Satchel Pulse- September 28th through October 16, 2026
It is the mission of Huntley Community School District 158 to educate and empower all students, always. In order to accomplish this, teachers and staff regularly monitor student progress. Huntley 158 uses Satchel Pulse, a tool that measures our K-12 students’ learning in relation to the Illinois Social and Emotional Learning Standards and CASEL competencies. Just as Aimsweb and STAR are screeners for math and literacy, Satchel Pulse serves as a screening tool that monitors a student's growth in developing skills such as self-management, goal-setting, collaboration, and decision-making.
How will the Satchel Pulse survey be utilized?
The Satchel Pulse screener is similar to a temperature check - it provides us with a quick view of what your student is doing in different areas like decision-making, organization, and managing stress. These skills are important and will continue to grow as your student gets older. Using this screener, teachers can adjust how they teach your student and give extra help where it's needed. It helps students become better at making decisions, building relationships, staying focused, and managing stress. Additionally, it gives families a better idea of what your student is good at and where they might need some extra help. This can guide you in supporting your student's learning at home and understanding how they're developing.
Survey data is reviewed by district and building teams in order to determine instructional shifts for all students to ensure our learners are equipped with the skills they need to maximize success in meeting behavioral and academic expectations. In addition, the data may be used by teachers or a student-specific team to identify, support, and monitor progress of individual student needs.
What is a social and emotional assessment tool and why is it important?
A social and emotional assessment tool is a survey that monitors a student's growth in developing crucial skills, such as self-management, goal-setting, empathy, and decision-making. This tool enables teachers to tailor instruction, offer interventions, and provide support based on identified needs. It supports students by preventing challenges, ensuring accurate placement beyond test scores, and fostering a sense of achievement. Educators use the information to inform instructional shifts and create accessible learning environments. Additionally, it provides families with insights into a child's strengths and areas needing support, offering guidance for reinforcing skills at home and a more comprehensive understanding of their child's development.
What is social and emotional learning and why is it important?
Social and emotional learning (also referred to as SEL) helps students learn how to communicate effectively and manage their emotions. Studies have shown that students’ social emotional skills serve to increase academic performance, attendance, positive behavior, employability, and post-secondary success. Additionally, teaching these competencies support our ability to maximize students’ access to the academic and behavioral expectations at Huntley 158, as well as our graduates’ preparedness to enter the workforce. Learn more about Huntley 158’s approach to SEL here.
What does the Satchel Pulse assessment tool look like?
At the elementary level (grades K-5), teachers will complete a survey for each student in their class using a rubric aligned to the skills outlined above. See sample rubric (pages 1-3).
At the middle school and high school level (grades 6-12), Satchel Pulse provides students an easy-to-use assessment with 25 simple questions. See sample questions (page 4-5). Students in grades 6-12 rate their skills in the following areas: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationships, and responsible decision-making. Student responses help us learn how to best support their ongoing development in these five areas.
Will Satchel Pulse results be shared with families?
Yes. Parents/guardians will receive their child’s Satchel Pulse results at the end of October. At that time, families will be invited to provide their own input on the same areas covered in the survey via an electronic survey if they choose.
Who will see my child’s Satchel Pulse survey results?
Similar to math and literacy data, your student’s data will be handled responsibly and with confidentiality. Administrators analyze the impact of social and emotional learning, guide resource allocation, and adjust instructional focus. Teachers identify trends and potential barriers to success to determine support that may be needed. Parents also receive survey results and can provide input through a survey about their child's experiences at home if desired. Your child's Satchel Pulse survey results may be seen by building and district administrators, their classroom teacher, and when applicable, intervention/related services staff (counselors, social workers, IEP teams, interventionists, facilitators, etc).
Can I opt my child out of the Satchel Pulse survey?
Yes. Those who wish to opt their child out of the Satchel Pulse survey must complete this form by Friday, September 11, 2026. Note: A new opt-out form must be submitted each year.
If you would like to learn more about the Satchel Pulse survey, please contact your building administrator or Dr. Anna Hoyou, Assistant Superintendent of Learning and Innovation, at (847) 659-6108.
Thank you for your continued partnership to educate and empower all students always.
Anna Hoyou, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Innovation
847-659-6108
⌚ Smartwatch Reminder
Students may wear smartwatches to school, but they should be used only as watches during the school day. Students may not use them to text, make calls, take pictures, play games, or access other features.
If a student uses a smartwatch inappropriately, they will be asked to remove it, turn it off, and place it in their backpack. If it happens a second time, the watch will be brought to the office and must be picked up by a parent or guardian
Many smartwatches offer a School Mode that limits features during school hours. We strongly encourage families to use this setting to help students remain focused on learning. Thank you for your support!
🌟 Congratulations to Martin’s Huntley High Five student, Elliott, from Mrs. Greif’s class! 🌟
In just a short time, Elliott has made a wonderful impression through his kindness, respect, helpfulness, and positive attitude toward learning. He truly demonstrates the qualities of an Engaged and Responsible Citizen, one of Huntley 158’s Portrait of a Learner competencies.
We are so proud of you, Elliott! 💙💛🐾
🌟 Proud Pals in Mrs. Sargent’s 3rd Grade! 🌟
Mrs. Sargent’s third graders kicked off a new classroom tradition today—Proud Pals!
Each week, students will be recognized for showing kindness, perseverance, growth, leadership, and being a positive member of our classroom community. Today, we celebrated our very first group of Proud Pals!
We are so proud of these Huskies!
Don’t stop until you’re proud!
Cooper-Ms. Gross-Third Grade
Max-Ms. Ross-Fourth Grade
Rudraa-Mrs. Butler-Fourth Grade
Jack-Ms. Bueche-Fifth Grade
Julia-Mrs. Kresal-Fifth Grade
Exemplary Huskies
🎉🐾 Help Us Make Martin Reward Days Extra Special! 🐾🎉
Our students have been working hard to follow our schoolwide expectations and earn Husky Bucks! Martin Reward Days give students an opportunity to use their Husky Bucks to participate in fun activities and celebrate their positive choices.
Volunteers are a vital part of making each celebration successful! We are looking for volunteers on:
- September 28 at 9:30 a.m.
- September 29 from 1:00–2:30 p.m.
- September 30 from 9:00–9:30 a.m.
Please complete the volunteer form by September 15. Thank you for helping us celebrate our hardworking Huskies! 💙
Get Involved and Join PTAC!
Are you looking for a meaningful way to get involved in our school district? We invite you to consider serving as a representative on our district Parent-Teacher Advisory Committee (PTAC) for the 2026–27 school year.
This year, we are working to strengthen communication and connection between our schools and the district by increasing awareness of the important work of PTAC. We are seeking one parent and one staff representative from each school to attend three meetings during the year and serve as a liaison between their building’s parent group and the district PTAC.
About PTAC
PTAC is a school board-required committee led by the superintendent that meets regularly to review and provide input on key areas, including:
Student discipline policies and their implementation, including considerations for students with disabilities
The reciprocal reporting system between the school district and local law enforcement
School bus safety procedures and how they are reflected in discipline policies
Policies addressing student behavior, including supports for students at risk of aggressive behavior and bullying
Guidelines related to the administration of medication at school
Meeting Schedule
All meetings will be held at the District Office from 6:00–8:00 p.m. on:
Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Tuesday, January 12, 2027
Tuesday, April 20, 2027
Representatives will be asked to share updates and gather feedback at their school’s parent meetings (such as PTO/PTA or school advisory groups) to ensure two-way communication between the district and each building.
Important Note
While PTAC plays an important advisory role and informs recommendations to the Board of Education, it is not a decision-making body.
Interested in Participating?
Please complete the interest form by Sunday, September 6, 2026.
Your voice matters, and your perspective is essential to this work. We look forward to partnering with you to support our students, staff, and school community.
If you are looking to be involved at the school level rather than the district level, more information on ways to do that will be coming out soon.
Join Us for Our Upcoming MPAC Meeting!
Huntley Community School District 158 is excited to welcome all Huntley 158 multilingual families to our next Multilingual Parent Advisory Committee (MPAC) meeting on Monday, September 14, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 p.m. at the District Office, Room 180, 650 Dr. John Burkey Drive in Algonquin. MPAC provides families an opportunity to connect with district staff, share ideas, ask questions, and help support the success and well-being of our multilingual students. Your voice matters, and we hope to see you there!
Register NOW for the 9th Annual Hootenanny 5K
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Time: Race starts @ 7:15 p.m.
Location: Downtown Huntley Square
Cost: $25 adults; $20 kids
All Huntley 158 staff, families and community members are invited to participate in the Huntley Education Foundation's annual Hootenanny 5K run/walk through the heart of Huntley on Saturday, September 12. The Hootenanny is the Huntley Education Foundation's largest fundraiser and is presented in partnership with the Village of Huntley and Huntley Community School District 158.
Now in its 9th year, the Hootenanny helps fund scholarships for students and classroom grants for teachers, directly benefiting Huntley 158 staff, students and schools. For the past several years, the foundation has been able to award $50,000 in scholarships to HHS students thanks to funds raised by the Hootenanny.
Come out and join us for some good, old-fashioned family fun on September 12! To learn more and register, click the link below.
School Anxiety, Avoidance & Refusal: Symptoms and Interventions
Topic: School Anxiety, Avoidance & Refusal: Symptoms and Interventions
Tuesday, September 29, 2026, 6PM - 7PM
Presenter: Jacqueline Rhew, LCPC
Open to all Huntley 158 families
Join via Google Meet
September is Attendance Awareness Month and Huntley 158’s motto is “Your Presence is Your Power.” Every day a student is in school is an opportunity for them to build relationships, learn and access support.
The district is kicking off its first virtual Family Learning Series this year with a presentation by Jacqueline Rhew, a licensed clinical professional counselor, who specializes in school refusal and anxiety in children. The virtual event is free and open to all Huntley 158 families.
Rhew’s presentation will provide parents and caregivers with practical strategies to support their child who may be struggling with school anxiety, avoidance, and school refusal.
She will explore factors that contribute to school avoidance and help parents learn how to recognize early warning signs and unhelpful coping patterns, and better understand how anxiety and avoidance can reinforce one another.
In addition, Rhew will outline specific interventions to help children manage anxiety, increase motivation, set realistic goals, and gradually re-engage in school. Parents will also learn strategies for responding to anxiety without unintentionally reinforcing avoidance, promoting healthy coping and problem-solving, and using communication that builds self-advocacy, confidence, and independence.
Huntley Community School District 158 partners with Care Solace
This partnership provides mental health care coordination services. This resource is completely confidential and available to all students, staff, and their families at no cost.
As the new school year begins, supporting our youth's mental health is more important than ever. The new school year can bring feelings of both anxiety and excitement as students transition into a new grade or perhaps even a new school.
We have provided a Back to School resource packet for parents and families who are navigating through this time. Click here to access the kit.
By working together, we can create an environment where our children thrive. As a reminder, Care Solace partners with our school to offer valuable mental health care coordination services to connect you with community-based providers for counseling, therapy, and more.
To access Care Solace:
Call 888-515-0595: Their multilingual helpline is staffed 24/7/365.
Visit caresolace.com/huntley: Explore mental health providers independently or click "Book Appointment" for personalized assistance.
Thank you for being dedicated parents in the Huntley Community School District 158 community!
Math Fact Fluency
This year, we are placing a greater emphasis on building students’ math fact fluency. Research shows that when students can recall basic math facts accurately and efficiently, they are better prepared to focus on more complex mathematical thinking, including problem solving, patterns, and algebraic reasoning. Students will continue to strengthen their understanding of math concepts through Illustrative Mathematics, while also participating in short, daily math fact fluency practice. Students will complete brief (1–2 minute) fluency checks to monitor progress and set goals. These are not graded tests, but quick check-ins designed to help students build automaticity and confidence. We will use a research-based approach called Facts on Fire that provides focused practice, immediate feedback, and support as students build accuracy and fluency. Practice will take less than 15 minutes each day and will remain balanced with rich math instruction, discussion, and hands-on learning.
You can support your child at home by practicing a small set of facts at a time. A helpful approach is:
● 1 new fact
● 7 familiar facts
● 1 well-known fact
Some students may benefit from practicing an even smaller set of facts. Games with cards or dice are also great ways to make practice fun and engaging.
Thank you for partnering with us as we help students become confident, capable, and fluent mathematicians!
💙💛 Join the CMPTA! 🌟
We're excited to kick off another amazing school year and continue supporting our wonderful Reed Road school community! 🎉 The CMPTA helps make so many fun events and memorable experiences possible for our students and staff.
Our first meeting is September 2, at 6:30 p.m. at Chesak Elementary, and everyone is welcome! 😊
Can't make the meeting? No worries! We'd still love for you to become part of our CMPTA community and enjoy all of the great events and opportunities CMPTA supports throughout the year. Every family is welcome, and every level of involvement makes a difference! ❤️
🏃♀️🐾 Fun Run Volunteers Needed! 🐾🏃♂️
Our upcoming Fun Run is the only fundraiser sponsored by the CMPTA, making it an especially important event for our Reed Road Campus! It is a wonderful opportunity for students, families, and staff to come together for a day filled with movement, school spirit, and fun.
We are looking for volunteers to help make the event run smoothly and safely. If you would like to volunteer, please register using the link below by September 18.
For planning and safety purposes, late registrations and day-of volunteers will not be accepted.
CMPTA Family Event- All Seasons Orchard-Sept 20th
Join the CMPTA Family Events Committee for a fun family day at All Seasons Orchard on Sunday, September 20th with a rain date Sunday, September 27th!
Tickets are $9 per person for PTA members and $11 per person for non-PTA members, and your ticket includes full barn access. If your family would like to go apple picking, that is an additional $12 per person and can be purchased at the event.
Tickets must be purchased by September 9th, so start texting your ECC, Chesak, and Martin friends to see who will be joining! Ticket pick up information will be sent via email week of the event. Check out the All Seasons website to see more information about the farm-https://allseasonsorchard.com/
NEW: Explore School Meals with My School Menus
New, interactive school breakfast and lunch menus are now posted online! Visit the My School Meals website or download the mobile app to view interactive menus and nutritional information in the language of your choice. Read this article below for more information about My School Meals, MySchoolBucks, and more!