

D73 Digest Special Edition!
Calling all middle school families for Snowflake Night
October 24th
Good morning, Hawthorn families! D73 Digest brings the latest Hawthorn District news straight to your inbox. From system updates to upcoming community events, this bi-weekly newsletter is your go-to source to stay informed and engaged with our school community. Don’t miss out on important reminders and district happenings—take a quick glance to keep up with our active school community!
News
Middle School Families 📣
Last Call: Snowflake Night Registration Deadline is Tomorrow!
Don't miss out on this incredible family experience at Snowflake Night 2024! Tomorrow is the final day to register for this engaging event, which promotes self-awareness, social awareness, and responsible decision-making for our 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students and their families. Join us on Friday, November 8th, from 2:35-8:00 p.m. for students and 6:15–8:00 p.m. for parents/guardians. To secure your spot, please register by Friday, October 25th using the links provided. We hope to see you there!
Keep the Good Times Rolling...
Snowflake Day was a huge success! Snowflake Night is an extension of our Snowflake Day that all middle school students participated in on September 26th. Take a quick look at how much fun our middle schoolers had on this special day!
Please register by Friday, October 25 to reserve your spot. For full details, please select Middle South or Middle North.
We're One Month Away From Our Device Buyback Event!
Hawthorn District 73 is thrilled to announce an upcoming device buyback event, in partnership with Secured Tech Solutions. From November 26 to December 9, 2024, our community will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase used district MacBooks and iPads. Mark your calendars and don't miss out!
Hawthorn Food Pantry Distribution
Our next food distribution will take place on November 20, from 4 - 6 p.m. at Middle North - 201 Hawthorn Parkway Vernon Hills. If you are in need of food, or have any questions please reach out to Gabriela Cervantes at 847-990-4245 or cervantesg@hawthorn73.org
If you are interested in donating to the food pantry, items can be dropped off at the District Office (841 W. End Ct.) or at Middle North. Thank you for your support!
Upcoming Virtual Hawthorn BPAC Meeting
The purpose of the BPAC is to create a community of parents, staff and community members to advocate together for our multilingual students. BPAC also seeks to connect multilingual families across the district and partner with D73 to promote parent trainings/workshops to support students. BPAC sponsors cultural events and collaborates with other parent organizations (PTO) and school teams. For more information contact Gabriela Cervantes cervantesg@hawthorn73.org
BPAC’s Día de Los Muertos Celebration!
Mark your calendar for November 4 from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at Hawthorn School of Dual Language! Bring the family for a fun evening of music, crafts, and delicious food as we come together to celebrate this special tradition. More information to follow—stay tuned!
Hawthorn D73 Annual Holiday Toy Drive
We are collecting new, unwrapped toys for our annual Hawthorn School District 73 Holiday Drive now through December 6! Drop off donations at the Hawthorn District Office (841 West End Ct, Vernon Hills) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Gabriela Cervantes at cervantesg@hawthorn73.org.
We’ve partnered with Snickelfritz Toys in Vernon Hills, you can shop local or online and support our drive!
We also have an Amazon Wish List, and items can be shipped directly to the District Office.
Securly Home
This is a reminder that Hawthorn School District 73 uses Securly to ensure students stay safe while using school-issued devices. Earlier this year, you should have received an email from Securly.com that will take you through the steps to access the Securly Home Portal or mobile app. From there, you can view your child’s online activity history.
Please see the Securly Home Letter document for more information on using Securly at home to monitor and adjust settings.
2025 Hawthorn Summer Programs 🌻
Please mark your calendar for next summer’s program dates!
Hawthorn Summer Program offerings include Hawthorn Enrichment Institute (HEI), Hawthorn Music Camp, Extended School Year (ESY), Summer Scholars, and Early Start Kindergarten.
More information about program offerings and registration will be shared after winter break.
Summer Program Dates: Monday, June 9 - Tuesday, July 2
Session 1: June 9 - June 18 (HEI)
Session 2: June 23-July 2 (HEI and Music Camp)
No School: Thursday, June 19, Thursday, July 3, all Fridays
D73 DRIVE
Newest Podcast Episode: VICTORY
Who is doing something unique at Hawthorn? This episode focuses on the Hawthorn Aeries program and what your fellow educators will be learning and experiencing throughout this year with our Apple Professional Learning Coach.
Reminders
Hawthorn Coat Drive
In partnership with the Knights of Columbus (St. Mary of Vernon), we are hosting a coat drive to provide new winter coats for students in need. Your support can make a real difference: sponsor a coat for just $25 or a case of 12 coats for $305. To contribute, make a monetary donation and note "Coat(s)" in the comments. Thank you for helping keep our students warm this winter!
From Our Family Liaison
The October Family Liaison newsletter is here! It’s packed with fun updates, including the latest adventures of Sam the Eagle in our community. It's a great way to stay informed and connected with all the amazing work happening around us.
D73 Spiritwear!
Hawthorn Helpers
Join D73’s volunteer program, Hawthorn Helpers, and be a part of a dedicated team of caring parents and vibrant community members! We are welcoming new volunteers for our new school year! To learn more click on the following link: Hawthorn Helper Information. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to Parent Liaison Gabriela Cervantes at cervantesg@hawthorn73.org.
Explore LINQ Connect: Your Hub for Managing School Meals
Visit our LINQ Connect page to discover all the features, how-to guides, and essential eligibility information you need to manage your child's school meal experience seamlessly. LINQ Connect provides a comprehensive suite of tools that allows you to access your account safely, whether through our app or online. Enjoy features such as automatic payments, low balance notifications, and detailed real-time transaction reports. With a unified dashboard, you can effortlessly manage funds and monitor meal activities for all the district students in your household. Experience convenience at your fingertips with LINQ Connect!
Looking for Mental Health Support?
We are excited to announce that our district has access to ReferralGPS, a valuable resource designed to connect families with a Care Navigator. Whether you have insurance or not, ReferralGPS will help you find the right therapist or provider for your needs. This program is funded by a grant through the Regional Office of Education (ROE).
Educate and Empower Events
Parent/Guardian events are BACK! Check out the incredible lineup of events for this fall!
Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age – Elementary Edition
We are thrilled to bring the Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age – Elementary Edition documentary to Hawthorn District 73! This special edition is designed specifically for elementary-aged children and their families, exploring the impact of screens on young minds. The film addresses important topics like managing screen time, balancing technology use, and fostering healthy digital habits in children. Join us for this informative and thought-provoking event, followed by a discussion on practical strategies for navigating the digital world. Together, we can help our children thrive in a tech-driven environment!
📅 Date: October 29
🕖 Time: 7 - 8 p.m.
⚫ Format: In-person
📍Location: Elementary South School
👥 Audience: Elementary school parents/guardians
Supporting our Children in their Hardest Moments: A Deep Dive into Emotional Regulation with Dr. Doug Bolton
Our children are facing emotional challenges like never before, and it can be hard to know how to respond in their toughest moments. In this presentation, Dr. Doug Bolton, psychologist, author, and educator, will guide us through the latest brain science on emotional regulation, offering new ways to understand these challenging moments. You'll gain practical strategies to support your children when they're struggling, helping you connect with them and guide them through their hardest times with greater resilience.
📅 Date: November 19
🕖 Time: 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
⚫ Format: In-person
📍 Location: Townline Elementary
👥 Audience: All parents/guardians
Hawthorn Board of Education
Hawthorn Board Highlights
Missed the October 17 board meeting? Check out the highlights!
📆 Next Meeting: November 14
Hawthorn PTO
Hawthorn Hustle! 🏃🏻♀️🏃🏻♂️
Mark your calendars for November 2 at 10 a.m. and head to Century Park in Vernon Hills for our Annual Hawthorn Hustle 5K Run or 1 Mile Walk/Stroll. Whether you’re ready to lace up your sneakers or just want to cheer on your favorite D73 teachers, staff members, and friends, this is an event you won’t want to miss! We hope to see you there for a day of fun and community spirit.
Save the Dates for the Dueling North Campus VS South Campus McTeacher Fundraisers
- NORTH CAMPUS, Thursday, November 14, 2024 5-8 p.m.
- SOUTH CAMPUS, Thursday, November 21, 2024 5-8 p.m.
November PTO Meeting: ALL ARE WELCOME!
Please join us at our next monthly PTO meeting on Tuesday, November 12 from 7 - 8 p.m. The meeting will be held at Townline Elementary (810 Aspen Dr.) in Vernon Hills.
On-site, FREE childcare will be provided, so feel free to bring your children.
A virtual link to the meeting is available upon request (please email secretary@hawthornpto.org).
Halloween Room Parties: Support Needed!
Sign Up for Room Parties!
Find your specific school sign up link here: https://hawthornpto.org/programs-events/room-parent-program/
The Connection Corner
Are you connected?
Discover tips, resources, and a glimpse of SEL activities happening around our district. Strengthen the home-school connection and nurture well-rounded, resilient kids!
The Connection Corner – October Edition 🎃
The Connection Corner is back with a special October edition! Gain insights to support your child socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. Strengthen the connection between home and school!
From Our Friends
Village of Vernon Hills
Vernon Hills Park District Fall Fest 🍁
Fall Fest is this Friday and we are so excited to see your smiling faces and creepy costumes!
To get us even more excited, here's some of our favorite memories from past Fall Fests!
Fall Fest:
Bring your ghosts and goblins to our annual spooktacular family event featuring indoor trick or treating, the annual costume contest, and more! This event will sell out, so be sure to buy your tickets early!
Registration is required for all participants, adults included. (Children under 2 years are free)
Register here:
Or go to:
vhparkdistrict.org -> Register Online -> Activities -> search: "Fall Fest" -> Enroll Now
PALS and Enrichment Program Newsletter
Check out the Vernon Hills Park District's October newsletter for D73 families, featuring details about the PALS Before and After School Program and various enrichment programs held at our elementary schools.
Community Partners
Lions Club Holiday Pancake Breakfast
Lions Club Annual Holiday Pancake Breakfast at Hawthorn School for Young Learners!
Date: December 8, 2024
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Hawthorn School for Young Learners- 637 N. Aspen Drive, Vernon Hills, IL 60061
You don’t want to miss the fun! We’ll have:
Crafts for the kids and the whole family
Time to make your holiday wishlist
Special activities and surprises
A visit from the North Pole
Delicious pancakes for all!
Bonus: The first 50 kids to register will receive a special goodie bag!
Buy your tickets here: https://bit.ly/3BMVD6V
VH Cougars 12U Baseball Team- Let’s Strike up some FUN!
Join us for a spook-tacular Boo-ling Party on October 26, from 2 PM to 5 PM, at Lakeside Rec Center! Admission is $25 per person and includes bowling, shoe rental, a DJ, Halloween lights, a Pink Pin contest, and so much fun. Raffle tickets are also available for purchase online.
Don't miss out—grab your ticket now!- Spooktacular Costume Boo-Ling Event
Families in Mundelein High School District
Early voting has started for the Mundelein High School capital improvements referendum. The proposed plan addresses key needs at the 63-year-old building, which now houses over 2,200 students in a facility built for 1,500. The improvements include essential repairs to mechanical systems, additional classrooms, updated instructional technology, enhanced Career & Technical Education spaces, and health and safety upgrades.
Early voting is available through November 2 at Fremont Township Office and until November 4 at District 120’s West District Office. For more details on the proposal, visit www.d120.org/2024-proposal.
Check early voting times at the Lake County Clerk’s website: Early Voting Locations, Dates, and Times.
🌟 **8th Graders: Free Master Dance Class!** 🌟
Hey Future Freshmen of Stevenson High School!
Are you passionate about dance or simply curious to dip your toes into the world of movement and expression? Well, we've got an exciting opportunity just for you!
**What:** Free Master Dance Class
**When:** Saturday, November 23, 2024
**Time:** 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
**Where:** Room 2112 at Stevenson High School
This is the perfect chance for all incoming freshmen interested in Dance 1 to get a sneak peek into Stevenson Dance. Led by our talented Dance Leaders and faculty, this fun-filled class is designed to preview our Dance 1 classes.
No dance experience? No problem! This class welcomes everyone, regardless of their dance background. All you need is your enthusiasm and a willingness to move.
**Attire:** Come ready to dance in leggings, yoga pants, or sweatpants, paired with a tank top or T-shirt. No need for shoes, but don't forget to bring a water bottle to stay refreshed!
Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now for a taste of what Dance 1 has in store for you as a Stevenson High School freshman.
Upcoming Admissions Events at Carmel Catholic High School
We invite your family to explore the value of a Carmel Catholic education by attending any of our upcoming Admissions events, including Open House on Sunday, November 3. Register at carmelhs.org/admissionsevents/.
Lake County STEM for Girls Conference - November 2, 2024!
The Lake County STEM for Girls Conference is back this year! Hosted by the Northern Lake County Conference of high schools and Kildeer School District, this event provides young girls with the opportunity to engage in hands-on STEM activities led by women professionals in various STEM fields.
The conference also features a STEM fair, and parents/guardians are encouraged to join adult sessions on topics like saving for college, supporting high school students, and mindfulness.
📅 Date: November 2
📍 Location: Grayslake Central High School
⏰ Registration Deadline: October 25
For more information or to register, please see the attached flyer or contact lcstemforgirls@gmail.com.
CUB SCOUT PACK 273
Looking for an extracurricular activity for your child that fosters character, outdoor skills and teamwork and does not involve electronic devices? Fill out this form so you can learn more about why your family belongs in scouts. Every child that registers with Pack 273 by 10/31/24 will receive a free t-shirt. It is not too late to join in the adventure! More Info - Cub Scout Pack 273
2024 Girls Who Code Camp
Calling all future coders! Join the Girls Who Code chapter at Vernon Hills High School for the 2024 Girls Who Code Camp, running on November 7, 14, and 21 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Vernon Hills High School (Room 0200). This camp is completely FREE, but space is limited to 25 students, so be sure to sign up soon before it fills up!
Parent Support Group: Empower Yourself Through Connection
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of parenting? You’re not alone. Join a virtual parent support group, meeting Mondays at 7 PM, where you can connect with others who understand. Sessions are $35 for 12 weeks. Drop in when available. Sign up at: info@touchstonetherapycenter.com.
Parent Support Group: Empower Yourself Through Connection
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of parenting? You’re not alone. Join a virtual parent support group, meeting Mondays at 7 PM, where you can connect with others who understand. Sessions are $35 for 12 weeks. Drop in when available. Sign up at: info@touchstonetherapycenter.com.
Want to Become a Hawthorn Eagle?
We Need Super Subs Like You!
Are you passionate about education and looking for a flexible way to contribute to our community? Hawthorn District 73 is on the lookout for enthusiastic and dedicated substitute teachers to join our team! Whether you’re looking to inspire young minds occasionally or more frequently, we have opportunities that fit your schedule. Learn more about how you can make a difference and check out the perks of becoming a "Super Sub" by visiting our substitute teacher page at Hawthorn Substitute Careers. Join us in shaping futures—one class at a time!
Stay Connected
Stay up-to-date with Hawthorn District 73 events! Tap the calendar icon to access our District calendar webpage, where you can discover all the upcoming activities across our nine schools. Don’t miss out on any important dates – visit now to plan ahead!
Upcoming Appreciation Days!
October 25 - The Illinois Principals Association (IPA) encourages all communities in Illinois to celebrate Principal Appreciation Week October 20-26, 2024, and Principal Appreciation Day on Friday, October 25, 2024.
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