Welcome back to school! We hope your winter break was filled with relaxation, laughter, and time to recharge. As we return to school, we are filled with excitement and optimism for the months ahead.

This semester is an opportunity for a fresh start—new goals to achieve, lessons to learn, and friendships to strengthen. Whether it’s diving into a favorite subject, joining an extracurricular activity, or taking on a new challenge, we encourage everyone to embrace this new beginning with enthusiasm.

Together, let’s make this semester a time of growth, discovery, and success. Thank you for being part of our CUSD201 community—we’re so glad to have you back!

Here’s to an incredible 2025!

Hello 8th Grade Parents,

Exciting times are ahead! Our 8th graders are gearing up for graduation and a fantastic send-off dance in May to celebrate their journey and success as Panthers. We're calling on our 8th grade parents to help make this event a memorable one!

Our first planning meeting will be held:

Tuesday, January 27th

@ 6PM

WJHS Media Center.

It's a great chance to bring your ideas and enthusiasm to the table as we plan a night to remember.

Whether you’re a pro at event planning or just keen to lend a hand, we welcome your involvement in any way. Every bit of help counts, from decorations and snacks to music and more.

On December 21, WJHS made history as the wrestling team achieved an incredible milestone, securing 1st place across the board at the Tiger Invitational Tournament.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our amazing coaches for their unwavering dedication, hard work, and patience. We also extend our gratitude to the parents who not only allowed their kids to be part of this incredible journey but also spent over 8 hours cheering and supporting the team.

WJHS wrestlers, let’s keep the momentum going! Check out our Facebook page for some great pictures from the event!.

Erin’s Law, House Bill 6193 was signed by Governor Pat Quinn on January 24, 2013. This law requires schools to implement an age-appropriate sexual assault and abuse awareness and prevention curriculum for grades pre-K through 12.

Victor Pacini, a survivor of sexual abuse, author and motivational speaker, will be assisting our schools in implementing this mandate. Mr. Pacini’s program is developmentally appropriate, interactive, and aligned with learning standards. The focus of his presentation is to teach children basic skills to keep them safe from dangerous or abusive situations. The concepts that will be discussed are:

• Distinguishing safe from unsafe touches

• Safety rules at home and school

• Saying “NO”

• Safe/Unsafe Secrets

• It’s not the child’s fault if someone touches him or her

• Telling a trusted adult

Mr. Pacini’s organization will be presenting at our schools. The date for the student presentations at WJHS is Jan. 15, 2025.

Requests to Opt-Out: If you prefer that your child opt-out of this prevention education session, please email Amy Quattrone @ aquattrone@cusd201.org

Early Act is excited to bring back the annual Valentine card-making parties this January! Join us after school for a fun and creative way to spread love and earn service hours. It’s an easy and enjoyable opportunity for students looking to give back and make a difference!

Our 8th-grade students put their science skills to the test with an engaging lab practical! As the culminating activity for their Physical/Chemical Changes Unit, this hands-on assessment challenged students to apply their knowledge and showcase their mastery in a real-world context. What a fantastic way to wrap up the unit!

The Media Center is inviting enthusiastic students to share the joy of reading with Miller students! Auditions will be held on Monday, January 27th, during lunch in the Media Center. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to inspire young minds and make a meaningful impact!

Attending school regularly is key to success, helping students stay engaged and connected with their learning. However, we also recognize that health comes first.

If a student is feeling unwell, especially with symptoms such as fever, persistent coughing, or contagious conditions, it’s best to rest and recover at home. Taking care of health not only aids recovery but also helps protect classmates and staff from illness.

Unsure when to send them, and when to keep them home? See the chart below for some helpful guidelines.

Let’s work together to balance the importance of education with the need for self-care. Healthy students are better learners, and we’re here to support both wellness and academic success!

We’re excitedly planning an amazing OE trip this year, and we want you to join us! To secure your spot, please complete these three steps:

1. Submit a permission slip.
2. Fill out the Google Form.
3. Make your payment.

A big thank-you to everyone who has already completed these steps!

Unfortunately, Mrs. Burisek is still unwell. To ensure everyone has enough time, we’re extending the sign-up deadline to next Friday, January 17, at 3:30 p.m.

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to email jburisek@cusd201.org.

This is going to be an unforgettable trip—we can’t wait to have you with us!

Attention 8th Grade Parents:
If you haven’t done so already, please complete the graduation gown survey ASAP. The survey was emailed to all 8th-grade families last week and must be submitted for each student.

Important:
A gown will not be ordered for your child without a completed survey, and a gown is required for participation in the graduation ceremony.

If your child will be using a sibling's gown from a previous WJHS year, there is an option on the survey to indicate this. If you select "No gown required," the gown fee will be removed from your Skyward account.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter!

Our 8th graders took their Graduation pictures today, capturing a special milestone! Photo order forms were distributed during lunch on Wednesday, but you can also conveniently order pictures online at https://hrimaging.com/#shop. Don’t miss the chance to preserve these memorable moments!

Ms. Quattrone and Mr. Lipinski will be speaking with parents/guardians of students who are currently in jeopardy of not participating in graduation activities due to requirements for academic standing or SSLC hours.

By working together as a team to create a plan both with and for your student, we will provide them with the tools and direction necessary.

Before we headed off for the holiday break, our talented students and dedicated staff treated us to a spectacular holiday concert that truly captured the spirit of the season. What a memorable send-off to end the year! Check it out on our Facebook page and remember to check the WJHS calendar for up-to-date information on Clubs, Events, and Athletics at the Jr. high.