Evanston and Skokie School District 65 students are gearing up to hit the books as the summer break draws to a close.
The new school year kicks off on Thursday, August 22, prompting families to prep with paperwork and changes to school sports.
This year, the district has released a comprehensive back-to-school guide containing all the essentials like student fees, meal applications, and health forms.
Superintendent Angel Turner expressed optimism for the coming year, highlighting the importance of collaboration within the community.
Turner stated, "The future is bright if we continue to work together and keep our students at the heart of all we do."
One notable change for the 2024-2025 academic year is the restructuring of the athletic programs for third to fifth graders.
The city’s Parks and Recreation Department will oversee these sports, which aims to streamline operations and save funds.
Beginning this September, students will have access to flag football and cross-country teams at their elementary schools.
Winter and spring sports will also include popular activities like basketball, soccer, and track and field.
Registration for fall sports opened on August 12 and remains open until September 9, with financial assistance available for families receiving free or reduced-price lunches.
Families are urged to visit the district's website for more detailed registration information.
Key dates are the cornerstone of every successful school year, and District 65 has compiled significant dates for families to mark on their calendars.
The first day for kindergarten through eighth graders is August 22, with the Joseph E. Hill Early Childhood Center starting August 28.
Middle schools will kick off the day at 8:00 AM, releasing students at 3:05 PM, whereas elementary schools will start at 9:05 AM and end at 3:35 PM.
Curriculum nights are planned early on for parents to engage with teachers and learn about the school year.
Specific dates for key events are: August 22 marks the start of school; August 28 is the first day for JEH; and September 5 features the ‘Kits, ‘Cats, and Kids Block Party at ETHS.
On September 10, the Caregiver Council for Disability Inclusion meets, and districtwide PTA meetings are also scheduled for the same evening.
Annual registration also involves paying student fees, which cover necessities like classroom activities and transportation.
Families can pay these fees online via the district's web store and can find detailed instructions on setting up accounts.
Discounted fees are available for those eligible for reduced lunch, and all fees are waived for students on the free lunch plan.
Students are provided basic school supplies, so shoppers can save their money for essentials like backpacks and water bottles.
Illinois law mandates specific health requirements before students start certain grades, especially for preschool, kindergarten, and sixth-grade students.
Families are reminded to have updated health forms ready to submit prior to the school year.
To keep the community engaged, Evanston is also gearing up for the annual Great New York State Fair, set to run from August 21 to September 2.
From rides to food stalls, there’s no shortage of activities, with the fair open from 9 AM to 11 PM daily.
This year, admission is set at $8.32 for adults, with special days offering free admission for various groups.
Transportation options include park-and-ride locations paired with Centro bus routes, along with free shuttle services provided for students during the fair.
Of course, the attraction doesn’t stop at rides; food lovers can choose from nearly 120 different vendors featuring local cuisine.
The festival atmosphere is complete with live music, entertainment, and community engagement activities for families.
It's truly the start of what's shaping up to be an exciting season of learning and community bonding as Evanston prepares for both school and fair festivities.
Both updates remind families of the importance of planning and participation, enriching the school year and connecting them with the community's vibrant local culture.
Mark your calendars, get those registrations ready, and prepare to enjoy local events as summer fades and the school year begins!
