Our second and third-grade students recently joined the global Hour of AI event during technology time with Mrs. Pingel! 🤖 Students explored what AI is and how it can be used responsibly to make a positive impact on our world. 🤝
In a hands-on activity, our young innovators "trained" an AI robot to distinguish between marine wildlife and ocean pollution. 🌊🐟 This exciting lesson showed them a real-world example of how machine learning can help clean up our oceans and protect the planet! 🌍🚀 We are so proud of our students for exploring the technology of the future today! 🌟 #D102 #EveryDayEveryStudent



Step back in time with Mr. Teplinsky’s 5th graders! 📜
Our students didn't just read about history this week—they lived it through an immersive Discovery colony simulation.
Working in teams, these young pioneers established their own settlements, facing the same high-stakes survival choices as the very first colonists. From choosing defensible land and budgeting limited resources to negotiating trade deals and alliances with neighboring groups, they experienced the complexities of building a society from the ground up. 🤝🌾
Beyond the history books, our students sharpened essential 21st-century skills like critical thinking, strategic planning, and teamwork. 🧠✨ By navigating unexpected hurdles and working together, they proved that the best way to understand the past is to build it ourselves! 🏗️🇺🇸 #D102Impact #D102 #EveryDayEveryStudent
Our AJHS theater students delivered four powerful one-act plays addressing key teen issues like peer pressure, technology, and self-acceptance. The performances were fantastic! The students independently managed every aspect of the show, from lighting and audio to props and curtains. True student leadership! 💡 All concession proceeds were donated to Omni Youth Services, supporting local teens.
Congratulations to the cast, directors Mrs. Simon & Ms. Frank, and all our wonderful parent and staff volunteers.
#D102Impact #EveryDayEveryStudent



Our amazing PE department is maximizing the new "mega gym" by offering a diverse rotation of activities! 💪 Right now, students are mastering their skills in a Volleyball Unit 🏐 or crushing their goals with Fitness Conditioning. 🏃♀️🏋️♂️
And when the snow flies in the Midwest? ❄️🌨️ That's when more fun begins! Students can earn choice time and enjoy awesome options like high-energy Gaga Ball (a student favorite!) or, for the truly adventurous, exciting outdoor sledding! 🛷
The teachers were so proud to give students new experiences in the fresh air—some students even said it was their first time sledding ever! Students loved creating core memories while getting active! #D102Impact #EveryDayEveryStudent



Students in Ms. Bischoff's 6th grade Science classes successfully concluded their Thermal Energy unit with a fascinating, hands-on exploration of dry ice. 🧤🧊
Through observation and experimentation, students were able to determine the unique property of dry ice: it sublimates (changes directly from a solid state to a gas state 💨), completely bypassing the liquid phase. The young scientists were especially excited to see the dramatic effects of manipulating the dry ice’s environment, which successfully triggered visible chemical reactions! 🤩🔬
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102Impact





We are incredibly proud to celebrate the success of two dynamic teams at the recent IAC Academic Bowl Regionals! Way to go, students! 🎉
Meridian 4th-Grade Team: Our Meridian 4th-grade knowledge stars clinched a fantastic 2nd place finish! They powered through eight teams and made it to the final round against the Francis Parker 5th-grade team. The final was competitive, with only a few points separating the scores! 👏
Aptakisic 7th-Grade Team: The Aptakisic 7th-grade brainiacs also achieved an impressive 2nd place! They competed against eight rivals, earning their spot in the championship round against the Daniel Wright 8th-grade team. Their final round was just as fiercely competitive, decided by only a few points! 🤩
What a tremendous achievement showing the hard work and dedication of our students! We are so proud! 🍎📚
#D102Impact #everydayeverystudent


They managed to get this fun activity in just before Thanksgiving break and the snow arrived! 🦃❄️ The children navigated obstacle courses 🏃♀️ and collected their own leaves. The best part? They had to rush back to escape the (fake!) skunk! 💨🦨
They finished by adding their beautiful collected leaves to a class tree display. 🌳🖼️ What an engaging way to learn storytelling and follow directions! ✅
#D102Impact #EveryDayEveryStudent



Mrs. Iacullo's kindergarten class held their very first "Furry Friday" with special guests, Chinu and Mr. Praveen, from the D102 Therapy Dog Program.
Before the visit, students learned how to safely approach and greet a dog. All students got to practice greeting Chinu and Mr. Praveen, and many were able to read a book with Chinu. The visit was a huge success and described as "amazing" by the students! #D102Impact #EveryDayEveryStudent





Last week, our wonderful Kindergarteners at Tripp held their special Foodless Feast! Instead of food, these thoughtful students brought in menus listing all the things they are thankful for. They were absolutely adorable in their hand-made turkey hats, sharing songs, and reading poems! 💖
Most importantly, families showed incredible generosity by working together to gather donations for our local food pantry. What a heartwarming way to celebrate gratitude and community!
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102Impact










🤩 Building Connections at AJHS! 🤝✨
What a fantastic way to head into Thanksgiving break! 🥳 AJHS held its first-ever school assembly centered on spirit, games, sportsmanship, and teamwork! 🏀🏆 It was truly special to have the whole school gather in one space at the same time! 🏫
Staff and students from all grades teamed up for hilarious minute-to-win-it games like fun relays 🏃♀️ and the challenging box stacking challenge 📦, encouraging teamwork and providing non-stop laughs 😂. Our building principals and staff made absolutely sure this memorable moment was a significant #D102impact on connection before students and staff went off to break. 🦃🍂
We are so proud of the AJHS spirit! #EveryDayEveryStudent





🤩 Building Connections at AJHS! 🤝✨
What a fantastic way to head into Thanksgiving break! 🥳 AJHS held its first-ever school assembly centered on spirit, games, sportsmanship, and teamwork! 🏀🏆 It was truly special to have the whole school gather in one space at the same time! 🏫
Staff and students from all grades teamed up for hilarious minute-to-win-it games like fun relays 🏃♀️ and the challenging box stacking challenge 📦, encouraging teamwork and providing non-stop laughs 😂. Our building principals and staff made absolutely sure this memorable moment was a significant #D102impact on connection before students and staff went off to break. 🦃🍂
We are so proud of the AJHS spirit! #EveryDayEveryStudent





🤩 Building Connections at AJHS! 🤝✨
What a fantastic way to head into Thanksgiving break! 🥳 AJHS held its first-ever school assembly centered on spirit, games, sportsmanship, and teamwork! 🏀🏆 It was truly special to have the whole school gather in one space at the same time! 🏫
Staff and students from all grades teamed up for hilarious minute-to-win-it games like fun relays 🏃♀️ and the challenging box stacking challenge 📦, encouraging teamwork and providing non-stop laughs 😂. Our building principals and staff made absolutely sure this memorable moment was a significant #D102impact on connection before students and staff went off to break. 🦃🍂
We are so proud of the AJHS spirit! #EveryDayEveryStudent






Parents kicked off the morning with an insightful session, learning about the vital role different types of play have in fostering cognitive, social-emotional, and physical growth. What a fantastic way to support our little learners! 🌱
Then, the students took over, diving into incredible play stations! They explored with large cardboard boxes, creative loose parts, exciting sensory messy play, and imaginative dramatic play setups. It was a day of open-ended exploration and pure joy! 🎉
Thank you to all the amazing families who participated! ❤️
#D102Impact #EveryDayEveryStudent





Families connected through rhythmic movement, music, and community spirit! Guided by the wonderful Mrs. Binder (Pritchett) and Mrs. Soto (Tripp), attendees plunged into joyful folk dances from around the world. 🌍 They mastered unique steps, sequences, and gained a beautiful appreciation for diverse cultures through this expressive art. 💖
What an incredible way to learn and connect!
#D102Impact #EveryDayEveryStudent





Superintendent McIntyre acknowledged their partnership at the November 11 meeting by presenting each member with an official D102 staff jersey! Now, our Board proudly wears the same gear as all D102 employees throughout the district.
Thank you, D102 Board of Education, for your service! 🍎
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102

Their thoughtful notes expressed appreciation for the courage and bravery shown by our military every single day. The letters have been mailed through A Million Thanks to reach deployed troops around the world! 🌎 We are so proud of our students for taking this meaningful action.
#D102Impact #EveryDayEveryStudent




Check out the stunning work from Mr. Soto’s Art Encore class! 🤩🌟
Students recently wrapped up an impressive, multi-step project where they moved beyond simple drawing and dove into complex design techniques like collage, stripes, weaves, and notches. ✂️🧵
These pieces aren't just art—they're dimensional, layered compositions requiring meticulous planning and creative integration of elements. We are so proud of the skill and craftsmanship displayed by our emerging artists! 👏🙌
#D102 #EveryDayEveryStudent




At the October 27 Board of Education meeting, we proudly recognized students from across D102 for exemplifying the Portrait of a Graduate traits! Board President Sklansky and Superintendent McIntyre welcomed these outstanding students who received a handshake, certificate, and keychain for their commitment to these key skills and values.
The Portrait of a Graduate defines the whole-child success we aim for, preparing students not just for academics, but for college, career, and life. Congratulations to all our first-quarter honorees! We can't wait to celebrate more students this year!
#D102 #EveryDayEveryStudent #D102Impact
