The Principal's Pawprint
News You Can Use, Straight From the Fox Den!
Dear Isaac Fox Families,
Meet "Isaac", the newest member of our IF Community!
You may have heard, but just in case you haven't, we officially have a fox mascot thanks to a collaboration between our SEL Squad of teachers and our generous PTO. Isaac's surprise debut occured at our Trimester 2 schoolwide celebration! Students jaws hit the floor and the decibel level went through the roof when Isaac was announced! Who knows when Isaac will return for a suprise visit to the halls of Isaac Fox - hopefully soon!
The month of February flew by and it's hard to believe that March is now here—bringing us closer to the upcoming spring break! Amidst all the excitement of PTO enrichments, our highly successful Bingo Night, and a fun-filled Roller Skating Night, our students have managed to still stayed focused on their most important job: learning every day. Soon, our 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders will begin the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR), an opportunity to show all they’ve learned. With a little preparation and the mindset of “PAWS” — Prepare And you Will Succeed — we know our students will shine!
There's no doubt our community of foxes will continue to Be Kind, Be Responsible and Be Safe, while we make our way to our final goal of the school year - 100 class goal positive paws!
This principal KNOWS we can do it together!
Proudly,
Mrs. Kelly Olivero
Principal, Isaac Fox Elementary
Karis Engeriser was Isaac Fox's Student of the Month for February!
Karis Engeriser, a 1st Grader in Ms. Bent's class was nominated for consistently demonstrating outstanding role model behavior in the classroom. She shows her ability to be future ready by following all expectations independently and never needs reminders, which shows her strong sense of responsibility. Her actions set a positive example for the rest of her classmates to follow each day. She approaches school with a positive attitude and brings joy to those around her. She loves sharing the things that make her happy, and her enthusiasm is truly contagious. Her effective communication creates a welcoming environment for everyone. It is extremely heartwarming to see the impact her positivity has on our classroom and school community. Way to go Karis! We are so proud!
Brain Break Academy brings wonder and excitement to all!
Brain Break Academy kicked off our most recent student celebration with an unforgettable experience! This high-energy, interactive assembly was jam-packed with ridiculous stunts, wild games, wacky competitions, mind-blowing magic, laugh-out-loud comedy, and uplifting messages. The show helped students and teachers focus, feel inspired, relax, and energize—everything needed for a successful Brain Break, all in one engaging performance!
As an added bonus, all staff members now have 365-day access to Brain Break Academy’s Teacher Toolkit, which includes 150+ Brain Break videos and classroom activities, with new content added weekly. This resource will continue to support student engagement, movement, and well-being throughout the school year. Thank you PTO for bringing this high energy event to IF!
Mrs. Hope, School Social Worker is honored as Staff Member of the Month!
Pictured here with her family, Mrs. Regina Hope, Isaac Fox social worker, exemplifies District 95’s values of perseverance, respect, and equity in all that she does. She supports students with determination and care, builds strong, trusting relationships with families and staff, and consistently advocates for inclusive, student-centered practices. Mrs. Hope also recognizes the importance of staff well-being, intentionally fostering connection, joy, and positive adult culture—most notably through the beloved Isaac Fox tradition of friendly duck and frog collecting. Her steady presence, thoughtful guidance, and genuine care make a lasting impact on both students and staff, enriching the LZD95 community as an educator and a parent. Congratulations, Mrs. Hope! Your hard work does not go unnoticed!
Isaac Fox recently formed a special bond with one of our MSS classrooms! All students in Mrs. Zell's middle school textile classes have been creating & stitching unique tooth pillows for our primary students to use to take home when they lose a tooth at school. Pictured here is Olivia Slosberg, the first Kindergartener to lose a tooth and receive one of these special keepsakes from Nurse Sucec's collection. She was so touched that she wrote a thank-you letter to the MSS student, further strengthening this connection as D95 learners. Each day, we see examples of our students continue to excel, living out the Portrait of a Graduate values by being effective communicators, global citizens, and advocates for others. Mrs. Zell's students aren't stopping there...5th grade....there's something in store for you later this year too!
Strong schools and homes work together to help children succeed. When we are on the same page, students feel more confident and supported in their learning. A great way to practice this partnership is to review your child’s report card with them. Take time to celebrate their progress, set specific goals for the coming months, and discuss any areas that need more focus. By having this conversation, you show your child that their growth is a shared priority. Thank you for taking an active role in your child's educational development!
- Monday, March 2nd: Registration for 26-27 School Year Opens for all returning students
- Monday, March 2nd: ISA (Illinois Science Assessment) begins this week for 5th grade
- Monday, March 2nd: Battle of the Books after school
- Monday, March 2nd: Chess Club after school
- Tuesday, March 3rd: 4th grade Orchestra (@IF) & Band Rehearsals (@ MW) before school
- Tuesday, March 3rd: Battle of the Books after school
- Tuesday, March 3rd: Sticky Fingers after school
- Tuesday, March 3rd: IF Musical Rehearsal after school
- Thursday, March 5th: 5th grade Orchestra before school
- Thursday, March 5th: IF Musical Rehearsal after school
- Friday, March 6th: Chorus Rehearsal before school
- Friday, March 6th: Reports Cards available to view at 12:00pm in ParentVue
- Monday, March 9th: Student Council Meeting before school
- Monday, March 9th: IAR (Illinois Assessment of Readiness) beings this week for 3rd, 4th and 5th graders
- Monday, March 9th: Battle of the Books after school
- Monday, March 9th: Chess Club after school
- Tuesday, March 10th: 4th grade Orchestra (@IF) & Band Rehearsals (@ MW) before school
- Tuesday, March 10th: Green Team after school
- Tuesday, March 10th: Sticky Fingers after school
- Tuesday, March 10th: IF Musical Rehearsal after school
- Thursday, March 12th: 5th grade Orchestra before school
- Thursday, March 12th: IF Musical Rehearsal after school
- Friday, March 13th: Piper the Therapy Dog visits IF
We would like to hear from you! The 5 Essentials survey link below is a key tool in ongoing efforts to improve student learning and school conditions at Isaac Fox.
District 95 highly values the insights and perspectives of parents/guardians; please complete the survey to assist in shaping the educational environment and experience for students.
Survey Participation Details:
- Survey Period: February 3, 2026 - March 13, 2026
- Who Will Participate at IF: All teachers and 4th & 5th grade students
- Parent/Guardian Participation: All parents/guardians are encouraged to complete the survey. A 20% or higher response rate will generate a specific parent/guardian report.
- For More Information: Visit https://www.5-essentials.org/illinois
The Importance of Play!
Play or group activities across the ages (early childhood, elementary, adolescence) is critical for development. Play (or group interactions such as being on a team or in a theatrical production) allows kids to learn and practice critical skills - such as understanding rules of engagement, understanding different ways to socialize with peers, and conflict resolution.
Understanding how to balance play/group interaction opportunities with competing screen time interests can be challenging for families. Parents/guardians can learn more about the benefits of play and ways to create opportunities for these critical learning experiences HERE.
Crossing Deerpath - Please use crosswalk!
No Left Turn During Drop Off TIme
There have been an increase in the number of cars that have been avoiding the car drop off line and turning left to drop off directly in front of the main entrance. It is vital that our bus line remains open during this time. As you enter through the front entrance off Cuba Rd., please turn right and follow the drop off line. Our supervisors ensure that the line moves with efficiecy and also remains safe. Your cooperation is appreciated!
Car Pool Lane Drop Off and Pick Up Procedures
When dropping off or picking up your student in the car lane near MSS, it is important that you remain in your car at all times. Students need to be exiting the vehicle on the side nearest the sidewalk and schools. If students need help unbuckling, buckling, gathering and carrying items, then it is best to park in a spot in front of MSS or alternatively use the back lot near the soccer field and walk your child into school. Following this procedure helps maintain safety and efficiency as we get our students from home to school and back again each day. Thank you for your cooperation!
Addition of Cones to AM Arrival Carpool Pickup Zone
During the colder weather months, we often see an increase in the number of students being driven to school and dropped off in the morning. As a result, it is important that our drop-off procedures remain both efficient and—most importantly—safe. There is no need to pull all the way up to the stop sign before your child exits the vehicle. The designated drop-off zone, marked by two large orange cones, begins at the Middle School South entrance and extends up to the stop sign. Once you have come to a complete stop within this zone, it is safe for your student to exit the vehicle on the sidewalk side. Please take a moment to review the standing reminders included later in this newsletter, and thank you for your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and smooth arrival process for everyone.
If you need to communicate with your child during the school day, please contact the school office. This includes times such as lunch and recess. Our office staff will make sure your message is delivered or will connect you with your child if it’s necessary in the moment.
We also remind students that if they need to reach you, they should always ask an adult in the building for assistance. Please take a moment to talk with your child about what to do if they need to contact you during the school day and model appropriate communication practices.
By following this process, students can stay focused on learning, and our staff can best support them if a need arises. Thank you for your cooperation and partnership!
Parent Student Handbook: 6.80 Student Use of Electronic Devices
Parent Communication Guidelines
School staff work diligently to create environments that foster learning with minimal distractions. A personal electronic device (i.e., cell phone, smart watch) can be a distraction for a student during the school day. District 95 seeks to partner with parents/guardians so that we can minimize distractions during class time. To this end, parents are discouraged from communicating to their student's personal electronic device during school hours – apart from exceptional/emergency situations.
Thank you for your cooperation!
When visiting Isaac Fox, you will need to bring your license or ID in with you each time you enter the school for use with our Raptor system located in our vestibule. Please have patience while all visitors to our community check in and out. The office staff is always available to help if needed. Thank you for doing your part to help keep our school and safe and inviting environment for all!
Pick up Time and Change in Transportation Method
We strongly discourage students from being dismissed between 2:30-2:50 pm due to the dismissal lines and buses at that time. If you need to pick your child up early, please arrange for a time prior to 2:30pm.
Understand that no changes in student transportation will be made without a written or verbal request from a parent or guardian.
Once we have established your designated travel, you must notify your child’s teacher and the office in writing or via phone call each time a change is made from that routine. If a change in transportation is necessary please adhere to the following guidelines: Notify the office of the dismissal change via note or phone call prior to 2pm.
If you'd like to volunteer this year at any time as Isaac Fox you must do the following:
- Complete a volunteer form and return a paper copy with signature to the front office.
- Watch the volunteer video.
- Complete this form that serves as your verification that you've complete steps 1 & 2.
- Look for opportunities throughout the year to volunteer at Isaac Fox and sign up!
