
News from District 153
October 25, 2023

NOVEMBER 15, 2023
Search for Willow School's Next Principal Underway
With Principal Melissa Lawson retiring at the end of the school year, District 153 is searching for just the right person to fill her shoes. We are seeking parent and community resident input to guide the search process.
Let us know your thoughts! Please take our community survey by November 30.
A Sneak Peek at the James Hart Fall Musical, Aladdin Jr!
Don't Miss Aladdin Jr., Thursday and Friday
Join Aladdin, Jasmine, and the fast-talking, wisecracking Genie as they discover mystical caves, take magic carpet rides, and outwit the evil sorcerer, Jafar. Adapted especially for young performers, this musical includes favorite Alan Menken songs such as “Friend Like Me,” “A Whole New World,” and “Prince Ali,” as well as wonderful new songs added for the Broadway production.
Tickets are $7 (kids age 3 and younger are free) and are available at the door.
2022-2023 Dockweiler Awards Announced
Recipients of the 2022-23 Tom Dockweiler Award were announced at the November 13th Board of Education meeting. The award, named for former school board member Tom Dockweiler, honors one student at each of our schools who showed great academic improvement during the previous school year through hard work, persistence, and a positive attitude.
Willow School recipient Willa Easter
Churchill School recipient Aiden Jones
James Hart School recipient Zaria Nunn
Educators Honored for Excellence
Six exceptional staff members were presented with “Jerry Morin Excellence in Education” Awards at the November 13th school board meeting. The annual award recognizes outstanding teaching in School District 153 and was established in honor of former school board member Jerry Morin who retired in 2007 after 14 years of service. Awards are presented to one teacher and one support staff person from each school.
James Hart School recipient 6th-Grade special education teacher Paula Bulliner
Churchill School recipient interventionist Jeanette Nichols
Willow School recipient 2nd-grade teacher Christen Vazquez
James Hart School recipient Crystal Gladney, Dean's assistant
Churchill School recipient Lynn Whitehead, assistant
Willow School recipient Chloe Ross, assistant
Veterans Day in District 153
Instead of taking Veterans Day off, District 153 opts to stay open. Students get the opportunity to learn about the sacrifices of those who served and show their appreciation. This year, we were honored to be able to celebrate nearly 50 veterans and current military service members at our Nov. 10th Veterans Day flag raising, school assembly, and breakfast at James Hart School.
'Tis the Season for Helping Others
Willow School is conducting a food drive until THURSDAY, NOV 16.
The James Hart Friends of Rachel is hosting a coat drive through FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1. You can drop off your gently used coats at any school office!
PTA Host Book Fairs and Fine Arts Competition
PTA is hosting their Scholastic Book Fair the week of November 13th-17th and on Monday November 20th during parent teacher conferences. Click here for more information.
Attention Student Artists: Submissions Due December 1!
Homewood PTA is participating in the National PTA Reflections Fine Arts Competition. This year's theme is "I am hopeful because..." Click here for more information
We post notices and information about activities and events that may interest your family on our homepage in our virtual backpack. Don't forget to check it from time to time!
About Us
Email: shelley.peck@hsd153.org
Website: hsd153.org
Location: 18205 Aberdeen Street, Homewood, IL, 60430
Phone: 708-799-8721
Facebook: facebook.com/hsd153
Twitter: @Homewood153