

Spring Trail Gazette
February 21st, 2025
Empowering Excellence, Embracing Diversity, and Enriching Futures
Every Minute Matters; Cada Minuto Importa
Spring Trail's Mission and Vision
Vision:
Spring Trail Elementary inspires each individual to believe in their potential for success by providing a safe, engaging, and diverse learning environment.
Mission:
Spring Trail Elementary is a safe and diverse learning community where staff and students work collaboratively to support and prepare students for lifelong learning through an academically challenging environment.
News You Can Use
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Principal's Message
As we close out Februray, we also wrap up our ACCESS testing in the building. However, more assessments are just around the corner. The teachers are busy preparing students for the tests, giving them the skills and strategies they need to be successful.
We will begin CoGat Testing for our second grade students on February 27th. Teachers will administer the Cognitive Abilities Test during the school day. This screening assessment is used as a portion of our screening to consider eligibility for gifted placement. If you are interested in having your child practice the assessment prior to the 27th, you can access the link below.
2nd Grade Level 9 Practice Test
In grades 3-6, we will begin IAR (Illinois Assessment of Readiness) Testing the second week in March. We should have our testing schedules ready for you by the next newsletter. The IAR assessment helps us understand how our students are performing and growing academically, compared to their peers across the state. The state uses this information to provide more support and resources to the schools with the greatest
needs. IAR testing will occur over several weeks and days with the teachers protoring the assessments. Students will take 3 math and 2 literacy assessments.
Our 5th grade students will engage in the ISA (Illinois Science Assessment) in early April. Mrs. Pettey, Mr. Zielke, and Mrs. Thayer have been busy this year preparing their students with the skills they will need for this assessment. We will provide you with more information the closer we get to testing.
STEM Expo
If your child loves science, creativity, and hands-on learning, the STEM Expo is the perfect event for them! This is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore, experiment, and showcase their curiosity in a fun and engaging way.
We encourage you to sign your child up and let them dive into the world of science, technology, engineering, and math! Don’t miss out on this exciting experience—register today!
International Night at Spring Trail Elementary
Don't forget to sign up for a table at our first ever International Night! We would love for you to showcase your culture and help Spring Trail embrace the diversity of our community!
Here are the details of our event.
Event Details:
Date: May 1st, 2025
Time: 6:00-7:30pm
Location: Spring Trail Elementary
If you are interested in hosting a table to share your culture with our community, please let us know by completing the Google Form below. Once we receive your response, we will provide additional information to help you prepare.
What's Happening in School?
Mrs. Price's Enthusiastic Kindergarteners
Mrs. Leakakos's Fabulous First Graders
Mrs. Leakako's first graders have been hard at work mastering Standard RI 1.2 as they wrap up their nonfiction unit! Students worked in teams, rotating through four different passages to identify the main idea and key details in each text. Using their own colored markers, they collaborated to record their answers. Then, they took ownership of their learning by using success criteria to self-monitor and ensure they met their learning goal. We are so proud of their teamwork and critical thinking!
Mrs. Fels's Thoughtful Fourth Graders
Mrs. Fels's students have been showing just how thoughtful they are by working hard on their ROAR behaviors and filling up their February Class Behavior Chart! Their dedication and teamwork paid off because they earned a reward of six new inflatable wobble cushions! They are already enjoying their comfy new seating as they continue to learn and grow. Way to go, fourth grade!
5 Essentials is NOW OPEN!!!
The state has opened the 5 Essentials Survey for our students, families, and teachers. We have from today until March 28th to complete the survey and we would like to encourage each of you to take a few moments to do so.
The goal for our school is to have 50% of our families complete this suvery. In order to make that happen we are offering a little incentive for your child when YOU submit the survey!!!! When you complete this survey, please print the attached photo and add your child's name to the document then send it to school with your child. Your child will EARN 10 Paw bucks for bringing this to their teacher! If you don't have a printer at home, you are also welcome to forward this message to your child's teacher with a note stating you completed the survey!
You might be asking what is done with the data from the survey. The state uses the data to generate a report for the School Report Card which impacts our overall school rating. In addition, the school uses the data to set goals for themselves to help make Spring Trail the BEST it can be!
We would love for all of our families to engage in the survey. The survey identifies five indicators that lead to important student outcomes, including improved attendance and larger test score gains. The five indicators that positively affect school success are:
- Effective Leaders
- CollaborativeTeachers
- Involved Families
- Supportive Environments
- Ambitious Instruction
Research derived from the 5Essentials for School Success has proven that schools strong on at least 3 of the 5Essentials are 10 times more likely to improve student outcomes. In order to participate in this survey, you can click on the link below.
http://survey.5-essentials.org/illinois/survey/parent/
We truly appreciate your support!
Registration is NOW OPEN
Early Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is now open!
Now is the time to register your children for the upcoming school year. Registering early will help the school prepare and staff their building appropriately. Don't wait, register today!
Registering during this window you can:
- Register ALL of your other children at the same time. You only need 1 application
- Help us retain our wonderful teachers
- For students who qualify for transportation, we can start planning routes
- Let us know if you are interested in our award-wining dual language program
- Don't worry, no fees will be collected at this time
Step 1
Using Infinite Campus Parent
Families who currently have students enrolled at U-46 please use this link to login to Infinite Campus Parent.
ALL students are required to be registered annually.
Use this link, Campus Parent Login Assistance, to reset your password or retrieve your username. Your email address on file will be required.
The link to the online application can be found in the Shorcuts section on the right side of your screen, or use the menu button (three horizontal lines on the top left of your screen) and select MORE. Then scroll down and select Online Registration.
You will be registering all of your students at the same time.
2025-2026 :
Please choose the EXISTING STUDENT REGISTRATION. Look for your application status.
You CAN add all new students to the STUDENT section after you have reviewed and updated your existing students on the same application.
- Required: please begin your registration.
- In Progress: please continue your application, answer all questions, and do not forget to use the submit button.
- Complete: Thank you! Your application has been submitted. You may review and/or print out a PDF of our application.
If any new student is listed in the Non-U46 section, there is a checkbox to add them as a student. Do not add children to Non-U46 students, if you wish to enroll or have them screened for preschool services. Only add them as students.
If you have moved, you may enter your new address into the application. You will need to contact your school(s) to provide them with the required proof of residency.
If your application's progress shows COMPLETE, and you need to add a new or any student not listed on your existing application, you can use New Student Registration*.
Please write down your application number for future reference. The application will pull in all of your current information. Please review each section before adding your new student.
Once all sections are completed, use the red submit button, then contact your school.
Please keep your application number handy.
*Please note that you are limited to one "Existing Student" and one "New Student" application. Contact the Registration office if you have already used both options.
Step 2
When contacting your school
Please be prepared to provide your application number, required documentation and forms or changes to household information.
Even though your child is already enrolled, annual registration and up-to-date documentation is required.
Please call your school in advance, they may require an appointment.
You MUST contact your school
- If you have added new students
- Need to turn in required documentation or forms (See Printable Forms below)
- Recently moved or have other information to update
- Have a lease or use an Affidavit of Resident form
- Need assistance with registration
All new students will need the following (See Printable Forms below)
- Birth Certificate*
- Proof of Residency from Category A + B as listed on the Proof of Custody and Residency form
- Physical and Immunization updates will be due prior to the first day of school
- Consent for Release of Records from previous school
For more information on Registration, you can go to the link provided below.
Are You Moving???
If you and your family are moving, please make sure you complete the Google Form below. Once completed, we will send out the appropriate paperwork for you to complete.
Thank you!
Class Placement Request
Student placement discussions will begin soon regarding the upcoming school year. Teachers will work collaboratively with administration to place students in classrooms. We are providing parents an opportunity to share written information pertaining to their child’s learning needs. This form will be available to parents until April 4th, 2024. The link is located below and is listed on our school website. There are a few guidelines below that we are asking you follow.
Please DO NOT submit specific teacher names. We ask that learning characteristics of the child be the main focus of your request. Also, please understand the final placement is at the discretion of building administration.
If you choose to complete this form, an email will be sent directly to Mrs. Dupuis, Principal and Mr. Krause, Assistant Principal for the 25-26 school year. Mrs. Dupuis and Mr. Krause will review the documents when working with teachers to place students into classrooms.
Summer Connection
School District U-46 is excited to be able to offer another year of enriching summer programs, which are all grouped under the name of Summer Connection. However, due to the expiration of federal COVID relief funds, our summer school programming that we offered the last few years for elementary and middle school students will not occur this year.
Enrollment for Summer Connection will not open until March 10, but here are some details we are able to share:
NEW! A two-day Kinder Camp will be offered at 10 elementary schools for children who will be entering kindergarten at those schools in August.
There will be special, voluntary, two-day programs for students transitioning to 7th grade (Middle School Experience,) 9th grade (Freshman Connection), or senior year (College Jumpstart).
Current high schoolers (9th through 12th graders) will be able to take courses for credit recovery or enrichment during the Summer High School being offered at Streamwood High School.
The Extended School Year program will be held at Streamwood High School (for grades 7th through 12th) and at Liberty Elementary School (grades K-6 and EN2.) Students’ IEPs will determine eligibility.
Summer athletic camps will occur at all five of the District’s comprehensive high schools.
Current sophomores and juniors will be able to apply for a variety of paid summer internships that require a commitment of approximately 60 hours.
In some cases, the summer programming will include a free breakfast or lunch and transportation for eligible students. We’ll continue to share more info in the coming weeks.
PTO Calendar Update
Shout outs to Spring Trail Staff
Click on the form below to give a little love to the teachers and staff at Spring Trail Elementary.
Teacher Shout Outs
Shout Outs from our Community to our Amazing Staff
To Miss Caputo from Riley D: Ms. Caputo is very understanding and is always willing to help Riley if she is struggling with anything. She LOVES Ms. Caputo!
Attendance Incentive
We’re at it again! Our school-wide Attendance Goal is back in action until Spring Break! Right now, our year-to-date attendance is 94.7%, which means we’re in the watch zone, but we know we can do better! Let’s work together to boost our attendance back up to 97%!
From February 24 to March 24, students who show up every day, on time (8:30 AM - 2:30 PM, Monday-Friday) will automatically be entered into a weekly raffle for an AWESOME REWARD! 🎟️ The more you show up, the more chances you have to win!
Remember: Stay healthy, wash those hands, and be here every day, because showing up means winning in learning AND possibly scoring a cool prize!
Let’s do this, Spring Trail! 💪🏽✨
Previous PBIS EVENTS!
We we're MERMAID for each other!
On February 12th, students who saved up 20 PAWs had the exciting opportunity to participate in a special Painting Heart Activity! As part of our PBIS rewards program, this hands-on event allowed students to express their creativity while celebrating kindness and positivity.
With paintbrushes in hand, students designed colorful heart-themed artwork, showcasing their artistic talents and earning a well-deserved reward for their positive behavior. It was a fantastic way to reinforce the importance of what it means to ROAR, all while having fun!
Upcoming PBIS EVENTS!
Stuff The Tank! February 26th
🌊🎨 Paint a Portal to the Sea! 🎨🌊
Get ready to make a splash! On March 5th, students have the exciting opportunity to PAINT A PORTAL TO THE SEA! 🌊🐠✨
By paying just 10 PAWs to their teacher by Monday, March 3rd, students can help bring our Under the Sea school theme to life by decorating windows throughout the building with vibrant ocean-inspired artwork! 🎨🐙🦀
Let’s transform our school into an underwater adventure—one brushstroke at a time! Don’t miss out on this fin-tastic chance to show off your creativity! 🎨💙
Celebrating Black History Month at Spring Trail
Throughout February, Spring Trail is proud to honor, share, and learn about Black history! Our hallways will showcase inspirational individuals chosen by each grade level, highlighting their achievements and contributions. Every Friday, our teachers will incorporate special activities and discussions to recognize Black History Month, fostering awareness, appreciation, and meaningful conversations.
Join us as we celebrate the impact, resilience, and legacy of Black leaders—past and present!
Breakfast and Lunch Menu
Click on menu if you want to view a larger version.
Important Dates
Black History Month Begins
Saturday, Feb 1, 2025, 07:00 AM
Institute Day - NO SCHOOL
Friday, Feb 28, 2025, 07:00 AM
School District U-46, IL, USA
Ramadan Begins
Friday, Feb 28, 2025, 12:00 AM
Spring Book Fair and Art Show
Tuesday, Mar 4, 2025, 04:30 PM
Spring Trail Elementary School, Spring Valley Drive, Carol Stream, IL, USA
5th Grade Orchestra Concert
Tuesday, Mar 4, 2025, 06:30 AM
Bartlett High School, West Schick Road, Bartlett, IL, USA
Glow Run
Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025, 08:30 AM
Spring Trail Elementary School, Spring Valley Drive, Carol Stream, IL, USA
6th Grade Orchestra Concert
Thursday, Mar 6, 2025, 06:30 PM
Bartlett High School, West Schick Road, Bartlett, IL, USA
Community Partnerships
PTO Newsletter
Be sure to check out the PTO Newsletter from last week.
Care Solace
Synergy Soccer Club
Our students have expressed their love for soccer, showing great energy and enthusiasm for the game during recess! If your child is interested in playing outside of school, one of our wonderful paraeducators has recommended a local soccer league that might be a great fit. This is a fantastic opportunity for kids to build skills, stay active, and have fun as part of a team!
The Essentials Exchange
South Elgin High School will now have the Essentials Exchange open to our school community on one Friday of the month from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. We have all types of clothing, MANY winter coats and cold weather accessories (scarves, hats, gloves), formal clothing including prom dresses, and toiletries. Availability of items can fluctuate, so make sure to come and visit us as soon as you can! All items are free. The Essentials Exchange is located in our mobiles, so please park in the back parking lot near the tennis courts next to the mobiles.
All items are free of charge, but they are on a first-come, first-served basis, and no holds please.
- Clothing: Coats, hoodies, jeans, athletic wear, dresses, button-up shirts, blouses, purses, children's clothes, and SEHS spirit wear.
- School supplies: Notebooks, binders, folders, markers, pens, pencils, rulers, and backpacks.
- Toiletries: Toothpaste, toothbrushes, body wash, deodorant, feminine products, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion.
- Accessories: Scarves, hats, earrings, necklaces, shoes, and purses.
To visit the SEHS Essentials Exchange:
- Students can visit during the school day; please fill out the form on this website.
- If a parent would like to visit and shop, they need an appointment.
- If you would like an appointment, please call the main office at 847-256-3760 to schedule one.
- Or, call Genevieve Hebeka at 847-256-3760 x 3056 or email at: genevievehebeka@u-46.org .
We are now proudly presenting Free Clothing Fridays. No appointment is needed!
Dates of operation are: 1/24, 2/21, 3/21, 4/25 and 5/16 from 3:30 to 6:30 pm.
Please park at the back of the school near the tennis courts.
Fun Activities to Engage in as a Family
Kidslist is a fantastic website that offers a multitude of activities families can engage in. Be sure to check it out.
Right At School
Whether 2025 has brought changes to your schedule, or you’re looking to engage your child in
enriching activities before and after school, Right At School is here for you! Spring Trail’s trusted provider of before and after school programs is still accepting registrations for the remainder of the school year.
In addition to providing a safe place to make friends outside of the school day, Right At School gives students the opportunity to participate in supervised homework time, daily educational activities, all-ages and all-abilities games and sports, leadership development, and more. New families that register for Right At School with the code WINTER25 will save 25% on tuition from now through March 31st. View schedules, pricing, and register here.
We are on Social Media!!!!!
You can now engage with Mrs. Dupuis, Mr. Krause and Spring Trail Elementary via social media! Be sure to check out our updates!!!!
X:
@ndupuis5
@Jason_Krause5
Instagram:
Springtrailelem