Talk203 E-Newsletter
A Commitment to Neutrality and Inclusivity
As a nonpartisan educational institution, Naperville 203 is dedicated to providing a learning environment where all students can engage in meaningful discussions without bias. An election year presents a unique opportunity for real-world learning, allowing students to explore important issues, develop critical thinking skills, and understand diverse perspectives. To ensure that our schools remain safe spaces for all, we have established best practices for our educators when navigating these sensitive topics.
Our Approach to Political Discussions in the Classroom
Maintaining Professional Neutrality:
Our educators are committed to keeping their personal political opinions private. This ensures that all students feel respected, regardless of their own views, and that our classrooms remain focused on learning.Fostering Critical Thinking:
We use discussions about current events as opportunities to teach students how to think critically, evaluate different perspectives, and make informed decisions based on evidence and research. This aligns with our commitment to developing students' Critical Thinking and Global Citizenship.Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment:
Inclusivity is at the core of our educational philosophy. Our educators work diligently to create a classroom environment where all students feel welcome and valued, regardless of their background or beliefs. This reflects our focus on Adaptability and Global Citizenship.Setting Clear Boundaries:
To maintain focus on education, our educators politely refrain from sharing their personal political beliefs in the classroom. This helps preserve a neutral space where students can freely express their ideas and learn from one another, fostering a Learner’s Mindset.Promoting Respectful Discourse:
Respectful discussion is a cornerstone of our approach. Educators establish ground rules that encourage students to listen actively and engage with different viewpoints in a constructive manner, supporting our goal of enhancing Communication skills.
Our Commitment to the Community
We are deeply committed to our role as educators and to the well-being of our community. Our goal is to equip students with the skills to engage with the world thoughtfully and respectfully. We foster open dialogue, encourage critical thinking, and create a learning environment that honors and values the diversity of our community.
CogAT testing for 3rd-grade students will take place from September 9th to 13th.
Please encourage your child to get a good night's sleep and eat a healthy breakfast the morning of a testing session.
Attached is a letter from Dr. Patrick Nolten, Assistant Superintendent for Assessment and Accountability, with more information about the CogAT Assessments.
Please mark your calendar to join us for the 2024 Naperville 203 INC Volunteer Academy. We welcome ALL potential and current volunteers to attend this year’s Academy:
- Learn about, or enhance your experience, being a mentor or coach in the D203 junior high mxINCedu Program and/or in the high school INCubatoredu Program
- Engage in learning about the authentic, entrepreneurship curriculum and about working directly with students
- Gain a better understanding of the mutual benefits of being an active participant in the D203 INC pathway
- Network with other volunteers
We hope that you will be able to carve out some time in your busy schedule to join us for this event. We trust this partnership will be as rewarding for you as it is for the students with whom you will work in the mxINCedu and INCubatoredu classrooms!
Mark your calendars for Monday, September 23, and please RSVP with your lunch selection by September 17. Thank you! We look forward to seeing you on September 23 and to partnering to make this an exciting school year!
Please share this invitation with others who may be interested in learning more and possibly getting involved.
Journey Through the Galápagos – Spring Break 2025
Current Huskies and Redhawks have a unique opportunity to travel to the Galápagos Islands over Spring Break in 2025! This eco-driven tour offers students a firsthand learning experience of one of the most fragile ecosystems in our world. Students will discover these islands and follow in Charles Darwin’s footsteps, complete with swimming, snorkeling, and hiking alongside exotic animals!
Peru: Cuzco, Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca – Summer 2025
Huskies and Redhawks can join us on a journey to Peru in Summer of 2025! Explore the vibrant culture of Lima, marvel at the ancient temples and fortresses in Cuzco, venture into the Sacred Valley, and behold the breathtaking wonder of Machu Picchu—one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Cap it all off with a mesmerizing experience on Lake Titicaca.
The parent info session for both tours will be in the NNHS Learning Commons on Tuesday, 9/17 at 6 pm. Respond today at rsvp.eftours.com/m84cw5f. For more info on Naper Life Abroad in District 203 and our future tours, check out our website!
We are excited to invite you to a special event—the presentation of a proclamation recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month in the City of Naperville. Join us at the Naperville City Council meeting on September 17 at 7:00 PM. Your participation is invaluable.
ALMAS leadership is proud to spearhead this initiative to honor the rich cultural contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities to Naperville and beyond. This proclamation is a tribute to the vibrant heritage, diverse stories, and lasting impact of Hispanics and Latinos in our community.
Please RSVP. Everyone is welcome to attend—including families and children!
KidsMatter Volunteer Fair – Tuesday, September 17!
KidsMatter is holding our annual Volunteer Fair on Tuesday, September 17th from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Fort Hill Activity Center 20 Fort Hill Drive, Naperville. Come to learn about volunteer opportunities in our community! Whether you like working outside, with children, animals…. There is a volunteer opportunity for you! Nonprofits in our community need you! No registration necessary. For questions, please contact KidsMatter Director of Programs at 331-249-6838 or sherilyn@kidsmatter2us.org www.kidsmatter2us.org
September 17, 2024 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Fort Hill Activity Center
20 Fort Hill Drive, Naperville
High School Juniors and Seniors…ALIVE Needs You!
Parents encourage your upperclassman to make a difference by being a peer mentor for students in grades 5th-8th at the Alive Center. Training will be provided and will be great to include on their resume. Apply at https://bit.ly/MentorApp24-25.
Exciting September Programs for 5th - 9th Graders!
Exciting programs for 5th - 9th graders at the Alive Center! Join The Shanti Club for mental health, Wonder STEM for art & science fun, Alive with Pride for LGBTQ+ support, and Scratch Game Design Studio to build games! Free, but space is limited—register now!
HIGH SCHOOL RETREAT
October Snowball Unwritten registration Now Open Registration is now open for the Fall Snowball retreat October 25-28 at Camp Henry Horner! This teen-led/adult-guided retreat offers students the opportunity to discover something about themselves, make friends across school districts, have fun, and learn ways to impact peers. Spend a weekend focusing on self-care and Write Your Own Story, with us! https://360youthservices.org/snowball-registration/
Our Group Volunteering Calendar is Filling Quickly!
Have a group looking to give back? Snuggles for Seniors, Kindness Kits for the Homeless & Puppy Pit Stop – we have 25+ volunteer events for pre-k to seniors. Schedule yours today! Perfect for scout troops, sports teams, youth groups, classes & more.
