Welcome to this week's edition of:

Happy Friday, Morton 709 Families, Staff, and Community,

This week brought meaningful connections across our district. Thank you to all the parents, caregivers, and educators who took part in parent-teacher conferences. These collaborative conversations are essential to strengthening the school-home partnership and driving student success.

Beyond the classroom, our Potters have given us plenty to celebrate! Congratulations to our athletic teams that secured conference championships this week, and best of luck to those advancing in the postseason. We're excited to cheer you on!

Quote of the Week:

“Every person that you meet knows something you don't; learn from them.” -H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Go, Potters.

Dr. Joe Sander

Superintendent

A fun, quick look at what's happening around the district!

Special thanks to Paul F Photo, Sue's Sports Pictures and Posts, and Morton Potter Athletics.

Did you know? The proposed County Schools Facility Sales Tax applies only to items currently subject to Illinois sales tax.

Here’s what would not be taxed:

• Groceries
• Prescription medications
• Vehicles (cars, trucks, boats, RVs, mobile homes)
• Farm equipment, parts, and inputs
• Personal/professional services (haircuts, accounting, legal services, etc.)
• Wholesale purchases

What would be taxed? Only items that are currently taxed under Illinois law. For example:

• Prepared foods (restaurants)
• Retail purchases (clothing, electronics, etc.)
• Online sales

If approved, this tax would help fund facility upgrades and improvements as well as mental health supports for students. Learn more about this referendum by attending our upcoming community meeting, visiting tazewellonecent.info, or contacting us directly!

Morton Early Voting Schedule

Temporary Voting Location: Morton Township, 300 West Jefferson St., Morton, IL 61550

Special Morton Location Hours:

• October 23rd -9 am to 6 pm
• October 24th - 9 am to 3 pm
• October 25th - 9 am to 3 pm

Learn more by visiting Redefine 709 or contacting Dr. Sander directly through this convenient "Got Questions?" form.

Our staff enjoys numerous professional development opportunities throughout the year, led by the talented instructional coaching team, staff, and administrators.

The 5th and 6th Grade Morton Elementary Choir gives young vocalists their first taste of being part of something bigger. The District is always grateful to Grace Church for opening its doors to the choir programs, allowing more family and friends to attend.

🐻🐻🐻🐻Home of the Lettie Brown Bears🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻

The Morton Elementary Choir (MEC) is a combined elementary choir. These Lettie Brown Bears gathered for a quick picture with Mrs. Waterfield at the performance.

They were the youngest performers of the evening, but they did a fantastic job!
The students enjoy seeing the older vocalists perform and dream of the day they will join them.

Keep singing, Lettie Brown Bears.

You never know what the week will bring!

The only thing guaranteed is that fun and laughter will break out.

Red Ribbon Week always brings staff challenges that make us smile!

Ask you student to explain the challenge. You might even try it at home.

Jackson O. is Morton Public Library's newest Kid Librarian!

Jackson is 9 years old and attends Lettie Brown Elementary School. He enjoys model trains and playing on the Nintendo Switch. He likes to read in his room and loves the Morton Library because it has good books.

Check out his favorites in Youth Services over the next couple of weeks when you drop by the Morton Public Library.

Monday, Oct. 26 - PTO Meeting 7:00 pm, 5th & 6th Choir MEC 2:30-3:45 pm

Tuesday, Oct. 27 - Challenge 2:30-3:50, ASL Club 2:30-3:30

Wednesday, Oct. 28 - Taekwondo 2:30-3:30, 3rd-6th grade Wednesday Art Club 2:30-3:50

Thursday, Oct. 29 - 5th & 6th Choir MEC 2:30-3:45 pm, K-2 Book Club 2:30-3:30, 3rd-6th grade Thurs. Art Club

Important Dates in October:

Thursday, October 22nd, and Friday, Oct. 23rd, Parent Teacher Conferences

Monday, October 26th: Lettie Brown PTO Meeting 7:00 pm

Friday, October 30th: Fall/Halloween Parties in the afternoon!

Wednesday, Nov. 4 - Early Release Day - 11:45 dismissal

Wednesday, Nov. 11 - Veterans Day - No School

Thursday, Nov. 19 - Family Reading Night 5:00-7:00

Wednesday, Nov. 25-Friday, Nov. 27 - Thanksgiving Break

Wednesday, Dec. 2 - Early Release Day - 11:45 dismissal

Tuesday, Dec. 8 - Winter Programs at Bertha

Friday, Dec. 18 - End of 2nd Quarter - 11:45 dismissal

Monday, Dec. 21-Jan. 4 - Winter Break - No School

Tuesday, Jan. 5 - Students Return to School - 11:45 dismissal

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The 5th- and 6th-grade choir did an amazing job at Monday night's concert. The Patriots were well represented in the choir. Mr. Rocke accomplishes so much with these students in so little time.

Thanks for sharing, Mrs. Adolphson.

Why are they heroes?

They stand up to bullying and offer friendship to everyone.

The highlight? Everyone got to practice critical safety skills like "stop, drop, and roll" and "get low and go." Our Patriots learned that firefighters are real-life heroes—and now they know how to stay safe too!

A special thank you to the Morton Fire Department for taking the time to visit and inspire our first graders!

This engaging story follows Stanley Yelnats as he uncovers the power of friendship, redemption, and standing up against injustice. Students enjoyed exploring the book's characters, which deepened their understanding of how each person's choices and struggles connect to the larger story.

Students enjoyed exploring the different characters throughout the book, which deepened their understanding of how each person's choices and struggles connect to the larger story.

Through Stanley's journey at Camp Green Lake, students explored important themes about how bullying affects others and the courage it takes to do the right thing.

A great reminder that even in tough circumstances, kindness and loyalty can change everything!

Holes is a great book for family road trips. Most audiences and critics consider Louis Sachar's 1998 novel Holes better than the 2003 Disney film adaptation, though the movie is widely praised as one of the most faithful book-to-film adaptations ever made.

Being read to is good for people of all ages. Children love hearing stories over and over. They learn through repetition.

The book covers manners and shows how to serve guests.

It is full of color and dialogue.

Students colored their ghosts and matched each color to the food the ghost ate.

Our fundraiser kicks off next week! We have a big goal, and we need your help. No selling required and lots of amazing prizes to earn If you are as excited as we are, scan the QR code or go to http://jefferson61550.pledgestar.com/ and get started now!!

October:

26: PTO Meeting 6:30 pm (New Date)

26: Fall Fundraiser begins

30: Halloween Class Parties at 1:15 pm and Halloween Parade at 2:15 pm

November:

6: Fall Fundraiser ends

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🐊🐊🐊🐊🐊"Home of the Grundy Gators"🐊🐊🐊🐊🐊

Graham Cracker Fire Trucks!

Firefighter Jake is a big hit every year.

These powerful reminders are there for anyone who needs them—whether facing a tough moment or simply looking for encouragement.

Our Gators shared thoughtful examples that prove kindness and support can be as simple as the words we leave behind. A colorful way to build a stronger, more compassionate community!

These students had great examples to share!

Monday, October 26th - 5th/6th Music Program - 6:30 at Bertha Frank (MHS)

Friday, October 30th - Halloween Parade and Parties - 1:30 PM

Wednesday, November 4th - Early Dismissal (11:55 AM)

Wednesday, November 11th - Veterans Day - No School

Wednesday, November 25 - 29 - Thanksgiving Break - No School

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🦁🦁🦁🦁"Home of the Lincoln Lions" 🦁🦁🦁🦁

Bat Day is a kindergarten favorite! Our youngest Lions transformed their classroom into a bat habitat, crawling under their desks to create cozy caves.

Working in the dark with only flashlights to guide them, students experienced the world through a bat's eyes—discovering how these amazing creatures navigate and hunt. It's amazing to see how much fun learning can be when we step outside the ordinary, get creative with our spaces, and let our imaginations take flight!

During Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Awareness Month, Mrs. Schwind visited Mrs. Miller's class to help students understand that communication takes many shapes and forms.

This meaningful visit reinforced an important lesson: everyone has a voice, and everyone deserves to be heard.

Thank you, Mrs. Schwind, for helping us build a more welcoming and inclusive community where all students feel valued!

Our 5th- and 6th-grade students in the MEC Choir did a fantastic job at their first big concert of the year. We are so excited to get to work with Mr. Rocke after school, too.

The Lincoln Lions are on an exciting tour across the United States! In recent weeks, they've traveled out east to explore the birthplace of our nation, diving into the rich histories of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont. Each week brings new discoveries and fresh learning opportunities.

Beyond the lessons, this journey is strengthening our community in meaningful ways. Students and staff are bonding over shared pictures and stories from each state, creating connections and sparking conversations. It's a reminder that exploration—and the memories we make together—is what makes learning truly unforgettable!

Our 5th graders recently visited the Funk Prairie Home and Gem & Mineral Museum in Shirley, Illinois—and what an incredible experience it was!

Students explored the fascinating history and natural wonders on display, stepping back in time while discovering the beauty of our region's heritage.

The visit left a lasting impression on the museum staff. Mrs. Dalberg shared that the Funk Prairie Home looks forward to the Lincoln visit each year, particularly because our students consistently demonstrate exceptional behavior and respect. Mrs. Dalberg, Mrs. Sanders, and Mrs. McKee were so proud of their students. What a wonderful compliment to our Lions!

These field trips remind us that learning extends far beyond the classroom, and our students represent Lincoln with pride wherever they go.

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🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺 Home of the Huskies 🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺

Principal Erickson borrowed a template from the Center for Intensive Behavioral Supports to make some individualized breathing boards for Den 1. The Husky pack knows that true strength isn't just physical—it's mental too.

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Shout-out to the MJHS choir and Limited Edition for their fantastic concert this week. You never disappoint. Mr. Beutel leads with passion and enthusiam and you made incredible music together.

Congratulations to this group of athletes for qualifying for the IESA State Finals.

It is a highly competitive sport, and you did a great job!

A safe, warm, and fun event for infants through Grade 4 students. MJHS Students now serving at this event were once attendees.

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It is all about community, connections, costumes, and high-level competition. Or is it the parades, pageantry, percussion, and passionate parents (and caregivers) that raise the pride in performance? Whatever it is, it is special for those who commit and pursue excellence.

All Band Photos: Paul F. Photo.

Want to experience the full What Gives You Wings show without traveling far? Join us for the Marching Potters’ Community Night performance!

• Date: Monday, October 26

• Time: 7:30 p.m. (gates open at 7 p.m)

• Location: Morton High School

• Admission: Free to the public

The band will perform its full show in uniform, sharing its hard work with friends, neighbors, and the next generation of 709 performers. A bake sale with tasty treats will be available, and after the performance, the high school will host a reception and displays for graduating seniors.

Admission is free, but every attendee through the gate supports the band. Each year, generous sponsors partner with the band to pledge $1 per person in the stands, making the event an important fundraiser for the program. We hope you’ll come out and cheer on the Marching Potters!

Be sure to listen to "The Coaches Show" for the details. Oh, what a night!

Welcome back to the MPTV Coaches Show! This week, we're thankful to have Morton High School AD Scott Jones join us to discuss hosting football at Dozer Park and this fall's MHS Hall of Fame induction. We also share postseason updates on soccer and cross-country, along with additional news and notes on Potters Athletics.

The Morton Potters Tennis team is sectional Champions!

Good luck to Coach Tilford and our Girls Tennis Team as they compete at the IHSA State Finals this weekend! Congratulations and Go, Potters!

Washington Co-op swim takes Galesburg Invite! The girls are UNDEFEATED in dual/tri meets as they head into the postseason.

Morton swimmer results are below:

• Senior Maya Happel placed 3rd in the 100 breast, 4th in the 100 free, and 2nd in the 200 free relay.
• Senior Nika Happel placed 3rd in the 100 back, 2nd in the 200 free relay and 1st in the 400 free relay.
• Junior Anna Hartzell placed 3rd in the 200 medley relay and 3rd in the 200 free relay
• Freshman Eva Sefried placed 3rd in the 500 free, 4th in the 200IM, 2nd in the 400 free relay, 3rd in the 200 medley relay

Next up:

10/24 Mid Illini Conference

11/7 IHSA Sectionals

Mid-Illini Cross Country Meet 2026, Morton took 1st place as a team!

Potters Advance to the Regional Final Saturday with a 2-0 Shutout of Metamora.

They will play Washington at Metamora with a kickoff at 10 am

The competition is tough, but they were tougher! Congratulations, girls!

💫💫💫💫"Home of the Potters!"💫💫💫💫

Mrs. Holmgren's students worked in collaborative groups to review for the upcoming photosynthesis quiz.

• What did it look like? Everyone contributing. Students using resources to confirm their thinking. Creativity in design.
• What did it sound like? Questioning. Explanation of thinking. Sharing of ideas. Encouragement.

It was not the sound of silence; it was the sound of learning.

The MHS DECA chapter has officially hit 52 members—and we're excited to see the momentum continue! Our Distributive Education Clubs of America team is thriving and ready to grow even stronger.

From painting pumpkins to mastering competition strategies at DECA Bootcamp, these students have been making the most of their time together. They've sharpened their skills, practiced for competitive events, and launched fundraising initiatives to help cover competition expenses. The chapter is off to a fantastic start!

These leaders jumped right into the opportunity to grow DECA at MHS.

As the competition season approaches, MHS DECA members are preparing for an exciting year! District competition takes place in January, followed by the state competition in Chicago in March. Qualified students may have the opportunity to compete at DECA's International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Anaheim, California, in April. These competitions allow students to showcase their business knowledge, problem-solving, and presentation skills while competing against other students.

Business teacher and DECA sponsor Mrs. Abigail Davis is excited for what's ahead for MHS DECA and the many ways it will help students learn, grow, and represent Morton!

Follow MHS DECA on Instagram at @m.h.s_deca to stay updated on its activities, events, and fundraising!

The Morton High School Marching Band is the Class 2A Champion at the 2026 Illinois State Marching Band Championships, marking the band’s 21st consecutive class win!

The Potters also took first place at ISU in Class AAA and received four caption awards: Best General Effect, Best Visual Performance, Best Musical Performance, and Best Auxiliary. These achievements reflect the musicians’ talent, hard work, and teamwork, as well as the dedication of everyone who supports the band. In the finals, the Marching Potters were only .75 points behind O'Fallon, which took first place. Talk about close!

The band earned top honors at the Lincoln-Way Marching Invitational in New Lenox, Illinois, taking the Grand Champion title.

In this Care U episode, Don & Stephanie discuss connection.

Connection matters, but how connected are we really? In this episode, we explore the Six Points of Connection and reflect on the relationships, communities, places, and activities that create belonging in our lives. We also consider what our connections model for the children in our care and how intentional connection can impact those around us. We hope you enjoy the episode.

Learn more about the Chamber of Connection: https://www.chamberofconnection.org/

We hope you enjoy this episode.

Questions? Want to hear more about something? Did something really hit home? We love FEEDBACK at Care U.

Redwing Basketball Sign-up is happening now. Use the QR code to register your student on "8 to 18" for your convenience.

Be sure to add next week's parent/caregiver meeting on 10/20/26 to your calendar.

This is an exciting new year of learning and connecting as we care for students and families.

Student Support Services is excited to offer these opportunities for families to learn, ask questions, and plan for your student's future. We are grateful to have experts to help guide the way.

You do not have to be a Morton 709 student, but Ms. Lindsay Franklin, Director of Student Support Services, would like to note that these sessions are for families of students who require specialized care as they age out of our Morton 709 programming.

The 2026-27 Early Childhood Education and Preschool for All calendar is available. There are times when these young learners will have a unique schedule due to their half-day schedule. Please review this schedule and share it with family and other caregivers.

• The next Developmental Screening is on October 14, 2026
• Screenings are by appointment only.
• Call 309-284-8033.

The Board of Education's next meeting is Tuesday, November 11, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

🦇October 2026 Dining Menus and October Newsletter 🎃

Click here for: 🎃October 2026 Breakfast Menu

November 2026 Breakfast Menu

Breakfast Prices: Grades K-12: $1.85

Student Extra Entrée: $1.10; Extra Milk: $0.70

Adults/Visitors: $2.75

Click here for: October 2026 Elementary LUNCH Menu

Click here for: 🎃October 2026 Morton Academy LUNCH Menu

🎃Grundy Preschool Snacks: October 2026

Click here for: 🎃October 2026 MJHS LUNCH Menu

MJHS Extras cost extra: MJHS A La Carte Menu

🌮This Week at MHS:

MHS Lunch Menu -

October 26th - 30th (Salad Bar)

November 2nd - 6th (Pizza Bar)

November 9th - 13th (Southwest Bar)

November 16th - 20th (Burger Bar)

November 23rd - 27th (Pasta Bar)

November 30th - December 4th (Sandwich Bar)

Extras cost extra: MHS A La Carte Menu

MHS Coffee Bar Menu

Morton Food Services is excited to offer breakfast for all. What started as a trial at Jefferson School has grown to every Morton 709 school.

Breakfast is a great way to start the day!

⚾👟🏐 MHS Athletics & Activities Homepage 🏀🥎⚽🏌🏻‍♀️

⚾👟🏐 MJHS Athletics & Activities Homepage 🏀🥎⚽🏌🏻‍♀️

2026-27 Early Childhood Education and Preschool for All calendar

2026-27 School Year Public Calendar

Just a reminder, the Revised 2026-27 Calendar includes school in session on election day. The state did not declare it a holiday, so the schedule was revised.

2027-28 School Year Public Calendar

How do I pay for it?

Safety Letter

Please request these records before the June 15, 2027, deadline.