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!

Congratulations to Townline Elementary for achieving 100% registration!

While we didn't meet our ambitious, district-wide goal of 100% by May 1 (we're currently at 90%), there's still time to register. Don't miss out—help us prepare for the upcoming school year. Register today!

Come support our talented young performers in their production of "Matilda Jr." at Middle School South. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy an entertaining show while cheering on our students. Please reserve your tickets and join us for a magical theatrical experience!

• Friday at 7:30 PM
  
• Saturday at 3 PM and 7:30 PM
  

We’re thrilled to announce that during the week of May 13 your child will be receiving a brand new 10th Gen iPad! This initiative is aimed at enriching our students' learning experience with the latest technology.

To ensure a seamless transition, we kindly ask for your assistance:

• Please send your child to school with their current iPad, fully charged, along with the charging brick and cable, ready for the swap that week (May 13th).

  
  

We’re excited about the opportunities this upgrade will offer to our students and appreciate your support in this important transition. In the coming weeks, you will also receive some fun and helpful resources you and your child can use to learn more about these devices over the summer. In the meantime, review our Digital Learning Agreement which includes items such as acceptable use, device fee structure and network safety. If you have any questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to contact the Hawthorn Tech Department.

We are thrilled to announce that during the week of May 13, we will be distributing new 10th gen iPads to 6th and 7th grade students! This initiative is aimed at enriching our students' learning experience with the latest technology.

• Please make sure your child brings their current Chromebook to school fully charged, along with the charger, cable, and case, ready for the exchange.

We’re excited about the opportunities this upgrade will offer to our students and appreciate your support in this important transition. In the coming weeks, you will also receive some fun and helpful resources you and your child can use to learn more about these devices over the summer. In the meantime, review our Digital Learning Agreement which includes items such as acceptable use, device fee structure and network safety.

What about 8th graders? We will have a scheduled time when they will return their Chromebooks at school before heading out for the summer!

If you have any questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to contact the Hawthorn Tech Department.

Please be aware that within the next few weeks, Hawthorn District 73 will be applying pesticide, herbicide, and fertilizer products as part of our grounds maintenance protocol. In accordance with the Lawn Care Products Application and Notice Act, 415 ILCS 65/3, and the Structural Pest Control Act, 225 ILCS 235/10.3, we are ensuring that community members, parents, and staff are notified prior to these applications which are expected to occur on May 18, 2024. Notifications will also be sent out if any scheduled applications are canceled. For any concerns or inquiries, please contact Facilities Secretary Terri Quinn at quinnt@hawthorn73.org.

Our next food distribution will take place on May 22, from 4 - 6 PM 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

Hawthorn has been ranked as the 3rd most diverse school district in Lake County by Niche, a leading data analysis website focused on educational insights. We're proud of our diverse community!

Great news for our Hawthorn community! Chicago Parent has listed our elementary and middle schools in their latest articles on the Best Elementary Schools and Best Middle Schools in Lake County. We're proud to be recognized for our commitment to excellence. Check out the articles!

The D73 DRIVE Podcast offers a unique glimpse into our vibrant educational community. Through engaging conversations, insightful interviews, and updates on district initiatives, we connect with students, parents, educators, and staff. This podcast enriches our community's experience, fosters communication, and showcases the incredible talent and dedication within our schools. Tune in to stay informed, inspired, and involved in the ongoing journey of educational excellence at Hawthorn District 73.

"In this episode, we talk about how the design and aesthetic of a classroom and physical spaces can help — or hinder — student learning."

See below for registration deadlines.

Summer Program offerings include Hawthorn Music Camp, Hawthorn Enrichment Institute (HEI), Extended School Year (ESY), Summer Scholars, and Early Start Kindergarten.

Monday, June 10 - Tuesday, July 9

• Session 1: June 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 20 (HEI)

• Session 2: June 24, 25, 26, 27 & July 1, 2, 8, 9 (HEI and Music Camp)

• No School: June 19, July 3, July 4, Fridays.

• Summer Scholars, ESY, and Early Start Kindergarten programs run through both sessions

Registration for Early Start Kindergarten is now closed.

Hawthorn Music Camp offers band, orchestra, and music learning opportunities, including large and small group rehearsals, music theory, and indoor/outdoor activities. The program is intended for students who currently participate in band or orchestra, and will be held June 24 - July 9. Student hours are from 8:15 AM - 12:15 PM and parents/guardians must provide transportation. Please register through the Hawthorn District 73 Web Store.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MAY 20

Hawthorn Enrichment Institute (HEI) fosters a student’s love for learning by providing fun and enriching summer learning experiences. Parents/Guardians must provide transportation and student hours are from 8 AM - 12:00 PM. Please register through the Hawthorn District 73 Web Store.

Session 1 will be held June 10 - June 20

Session 2 will be held June 24 - July 9

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MAY 20

Make it to the end of this D73 Digest for the answer, but read the rest of this newsletter first 😆

If you missed the April 18 board meeting, catch up with the Hawthorn Highlights!

Please consider the following:

• Donate through the PTO Store to purchase FlowerGrams and to donate money to the staff lunch. No donation amount is too small! Flowergrams are closing TODAY, Thursday, May 2 at midnight!
• New this year: Enjoy no additional charge for each FlowerGram after your fifth purchase. Buy as many as you like and pay no more than $15 total!
  
• Head over to the Staff Appreciation Page on the PTO website and look at each school's wishlist of supplies or volunteer to help out!
  

Are you connected? Be sure to check out the monthly publication of The Connection Corner! It's your gateway to understanding and supporting your child's social, emotional, and behavioral growth and development.

Hawthorn 5th graders will be participating in a social-emotional learning workshop at their school with Simply Bee Counseling this spring. During the workshop, students will learn about the 'Big 4'—thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and urges to act—and how to become more aware of them. Led by Simply Bee CEO Audrey Grunst, LCSW, the workshop will introduce students to the Growth & Resiliency Model©, a five-step model designed to foster personal growth and emotional development. This workshop will not only equip students with essential skills for navigating their emotions and thoughts, but will also incorporate engaging activities such as yoga and team-building to promote mindfulness, collaboration, and emotional awareness. If you have any questions about this workshop, please reach out to your building principal.

Hawthorn District 73 is committed to the well-being of our community. We've partnered with ReferralGPS to provide a confidential, no-cost service helping students, staff, and families connect with local mental health and substance use treatment. Access it at ReferralGPS - Hawthorn73 to find the right help when looking for mental health resources.

Our new cafeteria point of sale system is here! As of April 1, the K12 PaymentCenter has closed, with all balances now securely transferred to the new LINQ Connect Portal, a robust Titan School Solutions product. LINQ Connect offers a simpler, more integrated way to manage your child's meal account. Sign up now to enjoy convenient access to menus, easy account replenishes, and more.

For questions about your student’s meal account balance please call either Jennifer Ezop at 847-990-4223 or Gabriela Cervantes at 847-990-4245 .

We want to emphasize the significance of regular attendance. Students absent more than 10% of school days are considered chronically absent, impacting their learning journey. Should your student need to miss school, please inform us within 24 hours. Arriving late also results in a tardy record.

What You Can Do: Your child's presence enriches our school community, and we eagerly anticipate their contributions. To support their success, we encourage regular attendance and invite you to use the PowerSchool Parent Portal for updates on attendance and grades. If you or your child need any assistance, our doors are always open. Let's work together to ensure a thriving educational experience for your student.

The Vernon Hills Park District provides a safe summer day camp experience for the children of our community.

• All camp staff are CPR/AED certified and are required to complete a variety of trainings in Behavior Management Techniques.

• All campers enrolled, as well as staff, adhere to the District's Code of Conduct.

• Lifeguards at Turtle Creek Waterpark are CPR/AED certified and are required to attend weekly trainings all season.

Explore the many camp options offered for kids 3-12 years. Choose the camp that best fits your child's interests and family schedule.

April 16 Registration begins for the PALS Before & After School Program for the 2024-2025 school year. Learn More

Apr 22-May 24 Spring session After School Enrichment Programs: Chess, Cooking, Drawing, and Science. Learn More and REGISTER

Ballet Folklórico Tayahua invites you to "A Night in Mexico" on May 11th at the Genesee Theatre. A familiar sight at Hawthorn District events, this esteemed dance company will enchant you with a performance that transcends borders. This family-friendly show will dazzle with traditional Mexican dances, live music, and vivid costumes, while also promoting Mental Health Awareness. Join us for a night that honors Mexico's rich heritage and supports a great cause. Don't miss this chance to support our local children and enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience!

Dive into The Center for Gifted's Summer Wonders Programs, designed specifically for curious minds from 1st to 6th grade, and the Science Spectacular for 6th to 8th graders. Since 1983, these programs in Lincolnshire have been offering enriching classes taught by expert teachers, no testing required—just an eagerness to learn. Choose from half-day or full-day options to explore new interests and expand your child’s horizons this summer!

Is your child ready to discover their passion for music this summer? Vernon Hills Montessori Academy offers an exciting Music Summer Camp, perfect for budding musicians to explore, learn, and create. Here’s what they can look forward to:

• Interactive Music Workshops: Hands-on learning with instruments like guitars, pianos, and drums, plus songwriting and composition sessions.

• Expert Instruction: Personalized guidance from experienced instructors to enhance musical skills and confidence.

• Fun Group Activities: A mix of musical games, ensemble performances, and outdoor adventures.

• Creativity Unleashed: Opportunities for campers to express themselves, explore various musical styles, and unleash their creativity.

• Safe and Supportive Environment: A focus on safety and inclusivity, ensuring a positive experience for all campers.

• Fitness and Wellness: Gym classes and swimming sessions to keep campers active and healthy.

Spaces are limited, so don’t wait to give your child the gift of music this summer. For more information or to enroll, call 847-918-0342 or visit vernonhillsacademy.com. Let's make this a summer to remember with the power of music!

Unlock your child's academic potential with Mentor Center Tutoring, a program designed to enhance the educational journey of students in Kindergarten - 8th grade. This dedicated team of tutors, composed of high school students proficient in Algebra 1 and beyond, offers personalized support in math, reading, and science. This opportunity not only fosters a love for learning among younger students but also enables these high school tutors to earn valuable volunteer hours. Best of all, their tutoring services are offered completely free of charge.

Stay up-to-date with Hawthorn District 73 events! Tap the calendar icon to access our District calendar webpage.

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A ton.