Woodlawn Principal's Blog 5/9/25

5/9/25

We finished off another week as the end of the year is closing in on us.  Our students continue to work hard in class and the Woodlawn staff continues to challenge our students academically.  Unfortunately, the students are challenging us behaviorally, but that is par for the course this time of year. Check out the blog this week for a few new items.  


Upcoming Dates:

5/13- Early Release- Students dismissed at 1:30 p.m.

5/23- Half Day- Students dismissed at 11:10 a.m.

5/23- Last Day for 8th Graders

5/26- No School 

5/27- 8th Grade Graduation 5:30 p.m.

5/29- Last Day for 6th and 7th Graders

5/29- Half Day- Students dismissed at 11:10 a.m.


Check out the PTO BLOG!   


Talent Show 

Our Woodlawn Talent Show will be this Tuesday, May 13th at 6 p.m.  I cannot wait to see our students show off their amazing abilities!   


Lloyd Bachrach - Yes You Can!  

Each year, our 8th-grade students are treated to an assembly by Mr. Lloyd Bachrach as he talks about the challenges he has faced in life and how he has persevered to become a success.  This inspirational message is one that our students will value throughout their time in high school and beyond.  Thank you to our PTO for sponsoring this meaningful assembly.


MAP Testing (Spring)

As we wrap up MAP make-up testing, we expect to send reports home to families next week (mid-week). If you have any questions, please reach out.


Dental Exams for 6th Grade Students ONLY

Please note that your child’s completed dental examination has an upcoming due date, per Illinois school law. The deadline for the dental examination is no later than May 15 of the current school year. Proof of this required dental examination must have been completed within eighteen months prior to the May 15 deadline.

If you haven’t already done so, please make an appointment with your child’s dentist for a dental examination, have him/or her complete the required form, and return it to your child’s school nurse.

State of Illinois Proof of Dental Examination Form - Click Here

In the event that you are unable to fulfill this requirement, the state of Illinois does permit a waiver of the examination - Click here

If you have any questions, please contact Denise Kaufmann - [email protected].


NEW *Student Summer Tech*

As we approach the end of the school year, we want to take a moment to touch base about student technology and expectations as we wrap up our time with students. Similar to this time last year, KCSD96 will collect all devices before summer break and return them when students come back in the fall. Please note, that students will not be required to back up any of their files as their data will still be in place when they get their iPads back in the fall.

Teachers will be collecting the following items: 

For Grades K, 1, and 8:

  • iPad
  • Case
  • Logitech Crayon
  • Block Charger + USB-C cable

                  -Optional: USB-C audio adapters

For Grades 2-7

  • iPad
  • Case
  • Logitech Crayon

                   -Optional: USB-C audio adapters

This process allows us to track inventory, so everything is ready for the 2025-26 school year. Additionally, it gives us the opportunity to set clear expectations with students about responsible device use when they receive them in the fall. It also helps us protect our resources by reducing the chances of devices being lost, stolen, or damaged. Finally, by keeping devices at school, we support healthier summer habits focused on outdoor play, social-emotional growth, family time, and rest. 

Please note, that students who attend ESY will have access to their devices while they are here learning. Additionally, if a student uses their device as a communication tool, the district will not be collecting their device over the summer. If you have any questions, please reach out to Jessica Barnes or Kasie Dolan.


Virtual Backpacks

District Virtual Backpack: https://www.kcsd96.org/about/virtual-backpack

Woodlawn Virtual Backpack: https://www.kcsd96.org/w/virtual-backpackhttps://www.kcsd96.org/w/virtual-backpack


Mother’s Day 

Happy Mother’s Day to all of the incredible Woodlawn moms.  Everyone at Woodlawn wishes you the best day and we hope you can spend the day exactly how you want.  


Teacher Appreciation Week 

The Woodlawn staff was spoiled by our incredible PTO this week.  Thank you for all of the donations and time spent by our volunteers who helped throughout the day.  The staff knows how lucky we are to have the support of such great people and this community.  


Click here for the Woodlawn Daily Announcements.  


Finally, it is about time I recognize my wife for all she has done to contribute to the success of Woodlawn.  Having been a middle school principal for many years, you put in a lot of hours.  In no way is that a complaint, instead it is the reality of the job.  Early morning meetings, the school day itself, sporting events, and/or nighttime activities or school board meetings.  Throughout my career, Julie picked up the slack, which I created by not being at home as much.  Activities for four kids, different locations at different times, everything was just taken care of. Always. Now, believe it or not, the job of a principal can be stressful at times.  I know there were days (months) when I was not easy to live with.  Julie always supported me and supported Woodlawn in every way possible.  It is amazing how a school, not even in your school district, becomes a part of your family throughout the years.  Julie, I thank you and I am going to be presumptuous enough to thank you from the entire Woodlawn community for all you have done to make Woodlawn great.                                     Once a Woodlawn Wolf, always a Woodlawn Wolf.