Talk203 E-Newsletter
Explore Resources from Our Focus 203 Sessions
Thank you to everyone who participated in Focus 203. These sessions provided a collaborative platform for students, staff, and community members to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of education in Naperville 203.
Access Session Resources
If you were unable to attend or wish to revisit the ideas and insights shared, we have made all materials available online.
Available Resources Include:
- Session Recordings: Watch full recordings of each session to hear key presentations and discussions.
- Presentations: Review the slides and materials shared during the sessions.
- Session Notes: Access detailed summaries highlighting key takeaways.
Focus 203 Highlights:
- In Session 2 of Focus 203 we shared a summary of our problem of practice, the timeline we have utilized for our Innovative School Experience work, and current structural barriers we are working to address. We also shared each educational level's design team proposals for addressing the structural barriers that exist, including how we aim to create more personalized, meaningful learning experiences for students and the key structural changes we are proposing across all levels to address these challenges and create the conditions for innovation to thrive.
Decisions regarding shifts to eLearning or school closings are never easy, as they require careful consideration of multiple factors to ensure the safety of our students and staff. These factors include weather conditions, road and transportation safety, the ability of students and staff to travel safely, and guidance from the National Weather Service. While we prioritize safety of students and staff above all else, we also make every effort to maintain in-person learning whenever possible, recognizing its importance to our students and families.
Any decisions will be communicated by 6 AM and shared on the district’s website at www.naperville203.org and shared through our social media channels.
In light of recent inquiries about immigration policies, we want to reaffirm our commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment where all students can learn and thrive. Information about a student’s or family’s immigration status is private and protected under state and federal law. District staff will not disclose this information unless required by law, such as with a court order or written consent. Our schools are prepared to handle any such inquiries with care, ensuring students’ rights and privacy are protected to the fullest extent allowed by law.
For additional resources for immigrant students and families, visit the District’s website here. If you have further questions, please contact Dr. Maribel Guerrero.
On January 29th, 2025, Andrea Fisher, LCPC and Kierra Pauly, LSW, from Linden Oaks Medical Group, will present "Understanding Emotion Regulation in Children and Adolescents" as part of the District 203 Parent Education Series. This session is specifically designed for parents and caregivers. Andrea and Kierra will provide valuable education on understanding emotion regulation and providing strategies for parents to use at home. Resources will be provided for learning more about emotional regulation across stages of development.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, January 29th
- Time: 12:00 – 1:00pm
- Zoom link: https://naperville203.zoom.us/j/91502163496
Explore Greece in Summer 2026!
Attention current 8th-10th grade students and families! Experience the best of Greece on an unforgettable journey through ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes! Students will explore iconic sites like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Knossos Palace, stroll through charming neighborhoods in Athens and Santorini, and sail to Spinalonga Island for a glimpse into the island’s past. From the black sand beaches of Santorini to the picturesque sunset views of Oia, every day promises new adventures. The trip concludes with a lively Greek evening of delicious food, traditional music, and dancing! Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to create lifelong memories—join us on this once-in-a-lifetime tour!
Parent Information Session:
Date: Wednesday, January 29
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: NNHS Learning Commons
Reserve your spot today at bit.ly/Greece26.
For questions, contact Brian Glasby at bglasby@naperville203.org and view our past travels at bit.ly/naperlifeabroad.
NNHS lab-based Huskie Preschool is looking for preschoolers for our Spring Afternoon Session! Children ages 3-5 that are potty trained are invited to participate! The session begins mid-February and goes through early May. Please reach out to Dana Klen with any questions or interest. The registration link is included and more information regarding cost and dates/times of preschool can be found there.
The Illinois Secretary of State, Alexi Giannoulias, invites students in kindergarten through twelfth grade to participate in the 2025 Organ/Tissue Donor Program Student Poster Contest. This creative opportunity not only showcases student talent but also educates youth about Illinois’ organ and tissue donor registry, empowering them to make informed decisions when they become eligible to register at age 16 or 17.
Contest Details:
- Who Can Enter? All Illinois students in grades K–12.
- Categories:
- Kindergarten–2nd Grade
- 3rd–5th Grade
- 6th–8th Grade
- 9th–12th Grade
- Submission Deadline: Entries must be postmarked by January 31, 2025.
- Judging: Artwork will be reviewed by a committee of Secretary of State employees.
- Prizes: Winners from each category will receive an invitation to a recognition ceremony at the Capitol in Springfield. Their artwork will be prominently displayed on LifeGoesOn.com and in Secretary of State DMVs, public libraries, and hospitals across Illinois.
For entry forms and official rules, visit the Contest Rules and Entry Form page.
Questions?
Contact Lauren Gilbert, Organ/Tissue Donor Program Office Manager, at 217-558-1322 or lgilbert@ilsos.gov.
Encourage your students to participate in this meaningful and educational contest!
The Rotary Club of Naperville offers annual scholarships for students through the Rotary Club of Naperville Scholarship Committee
Scholarship applicants must live within the attendance boundaries of Naperville School District 203 or Indian Prairie School District 204 and must graduate from high school during the academic year of application. Local parochial high school seniors who reside in Naperville school districts 203/204 are also encouraged to apply. Scholarship candidates may not be related to a member of The Rotary Club of Naperville.
Email Questions/Concerns to Maria Caselli, Chair, RCN Scholarship Committee, mcaselli@napervillerotary.com
Apply Here: https://rotaryclubofnaperville.org/grants-scholarships/
JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2025
World-renowned authors and clinicians present relevant, research-based information to support positive youth development. Our free programs empower and strengthen families, individuals and communities by sharing practical strategies to help humans of every age thrive.
Explore upcoming events here: https://gpsparentseries.org/upcoming-events/
Wednesday, Jan. 29
Noon & 7 P.M.
Sam Quinones
The Changing Landscape of the Drug Epidemic: Fentanyl Poisoning, Meth & More
Thursday, Jan. 30
Noon & 7 P.M.
Dr. Tina Payne Bryson
The Way of Play: Little Moments, Big Connections for YES Brain Kids
Tuesday, Feb. 4
Noon & 7 P.M.
Emma Goldberg
Future Proof: Positioning Students for the Changing Tide of Work
Thursday, Feb. 6
7–8:30 P.M.
Dr. Edith Treviño
B-PAC in Spanish: Positive Parenting Mindsets -- A Guide to Mental Endurance
SPANISH ONLY
Thursday, Feb. 13
Noon & 7 P.M.
Amy Blankson
Digital Thriving: Technology and the Future of Happiness in a Hyperconnected World
Tuesday, Feb. 18
Noon & 7 P.M.
Dr. Amishi Jha, Glenbard South graduate, with Dr. Kimberly Schonert-Reichl
Peak Mind: Enhance Your Attention, Focus, and Performance to Become Your Best Self
Tuesday, Feb. 25
7 P.M.
Duncan Kirkwood
IN PERSON - LIVE LIFE WELL WEEK -- The Critical Skills to Unleash Perseverance, Passion and Purpose
Thursday, Feb. 27
7–9 P.M.
Sarah Ward and Dr. Jessica Minahan
HYBRID EVENT -- Practical Strategies for Reducing Anxiety and Increasing Executive Function Skills (Organization, Time Management & Task Completion)
Early Bird Tickets: Alive's Masquerade Jubilee Gala!
Don’t miss Alive Teen Center’s Masquerade Jubilee: A Decade of Dreams! 🌟 Early bird tickets are now available. Join us for an unforgettable night supporting teens' futures. 🎉 Secure your spot today!
https://bit.ly/alivemasquerade25
FREE After-School Drop-In & Tutoring for 5th–12th Graders!
Alive Center offers FREE after-school drop-in times Monday–Friday from 3–7 PM! Join us to connect, discover passions, and lead. Plus, get FREE tutoring in every subject on Wednesdays & Thursdays, 4–6 PM. Don’t miss out—stop by today!
Family-Friendly Volunteer Events: Join Us!
Coming up first: Be Mine Bingo with seniors and Birthday-in-a-Bag for kids in need. Inside Out Club one-time events are for kids as young as 3 and their families to grow and give back together. Sign up to reserve your spot!
