AJHS 7th Graders Explore Springfield! 🏛️
Our 7th-grade class recently embarked on its annual trip to Springfield with 200 students! The trip was packed with history as they visited Lincoln’s New Salem, the Lincoln Museum, and toured his historic Springfield home. 🎩 Students also explored the Old State Capitol, the current Illinois State Capitol, and the Illinois State Museum, learning firsthand how our state government has evolved. 📜 They paid their respects at the Lincoln Tomb and had the unique honor of meeting local heroes at the Illinois Military Museum. The unforgettable overnight trip wrapped up with a fun DJ dance party at the hotel! 🎶💃
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
Our 7th-grade class recently embarked on its annual trip to Springfield with 200 students! The trip was packed with history as they visited Lincoln’s New Salem, the Lincoln Museum, and toured his historic Springfield home. 🎩 Students also explored the Old State Capitol, the current Illinois State Capitol, and the Illinois State Museum, learning firsthand how our state government has evolved. 📜 They paid their respects at the Lincoln Tomb and had the unique honor of meeting local heroes at the Illinois Military Museum. The unforgettable overnight trip wrapped up with a fun DJ dance party at the hotel! 🎶💃
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
History has been made! 🚀 The Titans recently became the first-ever robotics team from AJHS to compete at the FIRST LEGO League World Festival Championships in Houston! Competing against 160 elite global teams, our brilliant 8th graders put in grueling 15-hour days refining code and attachments under the guidance of Coach Mr. Cho. 🤖 Their incredible perseverance paid off at the closing ceremonies, where they earned the prestigious Core Values Finalist Award for excellence in teamwork and inclusion, the only award brought home to the entire state of Illinois! 🏆
We also want to give a massive shoutout to the Master Kards, a talented 5th-grade parent-sponsored team (our Meridian students!) who reached the World Festival in just their second year competing! 🌟
Both incredible teams were officially recognized and celebrated for their historic achievements at the May 11 Board meeting! 👏 D102 is incredibly proud of all of these innovative students for representing our community on the world stage! 🎉
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
We also want to give a massive shoutout to the Master Kards, a talented 5th-grade parent-sponsored team (our Meridian students!) who reached the World Festival in just their second year competing! 🌟
Both incredible teams were officially recognized and celebrated for their historic achievements at the May 11 Board meeting! 👏 D102 is incredibly proud of all of these innovative students for representing our community on the world stage! 🎉
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
We are thrilled to share some exciting leadership updates within our D102 family! 🎉 At the April 27 Board meeting, the Board approved the reassignment of two district leaders effective July 1. Mr. Eli Rogers, currently our Early Childhood and SEL Coordinator, will be transitioning to Tripp School as its new associate principal. Meanwhile, Mr. Kevin Locallo will move from his current role at Tripp to become the new assistant principal at AJHS. 🏫 Both leaders will finish the school year in their current roles before beginning their new chapters this summer. Please join us in congratulating and welcoming both Mr. Rogers and Mr. Locallo to their new positions! 👏🌟
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
AJHS 7th Graders Explore Springfield! 🏛️
Our 7th-grade class recently embarked on its annual trip to Springfield with 200 students! The trip was packed with history as they visited Lincoln’s New Salem, the Lincoln Museum, and toured his historic Springfield home. 🎩 Students also explored the Old State Capitol, the current Illinois State Capitol, and the Illinois State Museum, learning firsthand how our state government has evolved. 📜 They paid their respects at the Lincoln Tomb and had the unique honor of meeting local heroes at the Illinois Military Museum. The unforgettable overnight trip wrapped up with a fun DJ dance party at the hotel! 🎶💃
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
Our 7th-grade class recently embarked on its annual trip to Springfield with 200 students! The trip was packed with history as they visited Lincoln’s New Salem, the Lincoln Museum, and toured his historic Springfield home. 🎩 Students also explored the Old State Capitol, the current Illinois State Capitol, and the Illinois State Museum, learning firsthand how our state government has evolved. 📜 They paid their respects at the Lincoln Tomb and had the unique honor of meeting local heroes at the Illinois Military Museum. The unforgettable overnight trip wrapped up with a fun DJ dance party at the hotel! 🎶💃
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
The AJHS Fine Arts wing has a beautiful new look thanks to our talented Studio Art Club members! 🎨 This creative group designed a series of five posters highlighting the various arts courses and clubs available to students, complete with a center poster featuring their mission statement. In an exciting milestone for the department, two of the student artists even designed its very first original logo! 🖌️ We love seeing our students use their leadership and artistic voice to leave a lasting mark on our school community. ✨
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
This week's retirement spotlight is on Mr. Jenkin, orchestra teacher at Meridian and AJHS! He's been in education for 40 years, 15 of them in D102. Take a moment to celebrate and get to know Mr. Jenkin.
What roles did you serve during your time in D102?
"My role at D102 was always teaching 5th-grade beginning orchestra students and 6th-grade 2nd-year orchestra students. Beyond that, I have taught an extracurricular Sforzando strings ensemble for 6th- through 8th- grade orchestra students and have co-taught Chamber Orchestra with Nicole Vettraino Stott."
What are some accomplishments since working in D102?
"I was nominated for D102 Middle School Teacher of the Year, which was an honor bestowed on me by all my colleagues who have made me a better teacher."
What do you look forward to doing during your retirement?
"Play viola in a community orchestra, golf, garden, travel with my wife, continue finding ways to promote climate health, possibly run for my local school board, and become a better electric bass guitar player!"
Is there anything you would like to share with the D102 community?
"My 15 years working in D102 have been the best years of my forty-year career. I attribute that to many factors (administration, colleagues, school board and parent support), but my closest contact has always been with the teachers in the music department. I have never felt as part of a team as I did with them, and they have all helped me become a better educator. D102, you truly are a special place to work!"
What roles did you serve during your time in D102?
"My role at D102 was always teaching 5th-grade beginning orchestra students and 6th-grade 2nd-year orchestra students. Beyond that, I have taught an extracurricular Sforzando strings ensemble for 6th- through 8th- grade orchestra students and have co-taught Chamber Orchestra with Nicole Vettraino Stott."
What are some accomplishments since working in D102?
"I was nominated for D102 Middle School Teacher of the Year, which was an honor bestowed on me by all my colleagues who have made me a better teacher."
What do you look forward to doing during your retirement?
"Play viola in a community orchestra, golf, garden, travel with my wife, continue finding ways to promote climate health, possibly run for my local school board, and become a better electric bass guitar player!"
Is there anything you would like to share with the D102 community?
"My 15 years working in D102 have been the best years of my forty-year career. I attribute that to many factors (administration, colleagues, school board and parent support), but my closest contact has always been with the teachers in the music department. I have never felt as part of a team as I did with them, and they have all helped me become a better educator. D102, you truly are a special place to work!"
Our talented 7th- and 8th-grade chorus members at AJHS beautifully brought "The Story of Cinderella" to life! 🎤 Through a variety of expressive songs, the vocalists shared their unique interpretations of the classic story's emotional themes. In the spirit of the Fairy Godmother, our generous community collected donations for Home of the Sparrow to support women, children, and families in need. ✨ Thank you to our incredible performers for using their artistic talents to make a real-world difference! 🎶🌟
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
Meridian School recently hosted its second Lighted School House of the year, carrying on a beloved tradition that unites our entire community! ✨ Families and staff enjoyed a night packed with interactive games, temporary tattoos, and even a live magician. 🪄 A huge thank you to Ms. McGurgan and Mrs. Murdach for their leadership, and to our dedicated volunteers for making this evening so special for our students. 🏫🎈
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
It's time to highlight another amazing D102 retiree! This week, we are spotlighting Mrs. Vicky Jacobs. She's been in D102 for 36 years, her entire career! Take a moment to celebrate and get to know Mrs. Jacobs.
What roles did you serve during your time in D102?
Tripp Special Education teacher 1990-1992
AJHS Special Education Teacher 6th, 7th and 8th
Inclusion Facilitator
What are some accomplishments since working in D102?
“Throughout my teaching career, I earned a master's degree, Type 75, National Board Certification, and have coached a variety of sports and clubs.”
What do you look forward to doing during your retirement?
"Enjoy my 'free time'."
Is there anything you would like to share with the D102 community?
“With 38 years in special education, I’ve taught, learned, and grown alongside some of the most inspiring teachers here in D102. I specialized in individualized instruction, advocacy, and creating classrooms where every learner is valued and supported.”
What roles did you serve during your time in D102?
Tripp Special Education teacher 1990-1992
AJHS Special Education Teacher 6th, 7th and 8th
Inclusion Facilitator
What are some accomplishments since working in D102?
“Throughout my teaching career, I earned a master's degree, Type 75, National Board Certification, and have coached a variety of sports and clubs.”
What do you look forward to doing during your retirement?
"Enjoy my 'free time'."
Is there anything you would like to share with the D102 community?
“With 38 years in special education, I’ve taught, learned, and grown alongside some of the most inspiring teachers here in D102. I specialized in individualized instruction, advocacy, and creating classrooms where every learner is valued and supported.”
Our 8th-grade scientists are "going bananas" for genetics! 🍌 During their latest science unit, students put their hypotheses to the test by performing a DNA extraction on bananas. Every group successfully isolated the genetic material, getting a firsthand look at that distinct, jelly-like DNA. 🧬 It was an incredible hands-on way to explore the building blocks of life and strengthen their inquiry skills. 🔬🧪
Our Pritchett Panthers recently crossed the finish line at the annual Girls on the Run 5K! 🏃♀️ This after-school program is about so much more than endurance; our runners worked hard to build confidence, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the season. 👟 We are so proud of our ten determined athletes who cheered each other on from start to finish alongside their parents and running buddies. 🏅 Congratulations to all our runners on this spectacular achievement! 🌟
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
Our Early Childhood families recently joined us for "The Beauty is in the Process," an event centered on the joy of creative exploration! 🎨 Families visited various stations to experience the difference between product and process art firsthand. It was wonderful to see the recycled art collaborations between our EC students and their 5th-grade buddies on full display. ✨ Our youngest learners were so proud to lead their parents through their classrooms and showcase their amazing growth and capabilities. 🏫🌟
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
Music is in the air at Meridian as our students master rhythmic patterns and practice techniques! Mrs. Pacanowski’s class is learning how to break down complex songs into manageable sections for better clarity and focus. 🎶 It was wonderful to see them perform as a group with such impressive posture and technical form. 🎷 Great work to our talented musicians on their dedication to the craft! 👏
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
Big news from D102! 🏆 We are bursting with pride to announce that Pritchett Elementary’s very own Ed Harrington has won the Regional Office of Education’s Educational Service Personnel Award! 🌟
Ed’s commitment, dedication, and infectious passion for his work at Pritchett are second to none. Whether he’s keeping our school running smoothly or sharing a kind word with a student in the hallway, Ed embodies what it means to be a champion for our kids. 🏫✨
Thanks to "Mr. Ed" for making a huge impact on our D102 community!
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
Ed’s commitment, dedication, and infectious passion for his work at Pritchett are second to none. Whether he’s keeping our school running smoothly or sharing a kind word with a student in the hallway, Ed embodies what it means to be a champion for our kids. 🏫✨
Thanks to "Mr. Ed" for making a huge impact on our D102 community!
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
🏆 Aptakisic FBLA Makes History! 🚀
Big news from the AJHS Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) club! In their very first year, students made a massive debut at the Middle School State Competition in Decatur, and the results were legendary.
Every single competing student placed 1st or 2nd in their categories! This achievement is the result of months of rigorous preparation, mastering complex tests, and delivering professional presentations across multiple business disciplines.
🥇 The Results Are In:
1st Place: Exploring Business Ethics
1st Place: Exploring Coding & Programming
1st Place: Exploring Customer Service
1st Place: Exploring Digital Video Production
1st Place: Exploring Marketing Strategies
2nd Place: Exploring Business Issues
Next Stop: San Antonio! ✈️
Because of their incredible performance, the entire team has qualified for the National Leadership Conference this June! Congratulations to our future business leaders on this historic milestone. D102 is so proud of your hard work and professionalism!
#D102 #EveryDayEveryStudent #ImpactD102
Big news from the AJHS Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) club! In their very first year, students made a massive debut at the Middle School State Competition in Decatur, and the results were legendary.
Every single competing student placed 1st or 2nd in their categories! This achievement is the result of months of rigorous preparation, mastering complex tests, and delivering professional presentations across multiple business disciplines.
🥇 The Results Are In:
1st Place: Exploring Business Ethics
1st Place: Exploring Coding & Programming
1st Place: Exploring Customer Service
1st Place: Exploring Digital Video Production
1st Place: Exploring Marketing Strategies
2nd Place: Exploring Business Issues
Next Stop: San Antonio! ✈️
Because of their incredible performance, the entire team has qualified for the National Leadership Conference this June! Congratulations to our future business leaders on this historic milestone. D102 is so proud of your hard work and professionalism!
#D102 #EveryDayEveryStudent #ImpactD102
Mrs. Elana Glomp is our retirement feature for the week! 🍎✨ She is spending her final month teaching first grade at Pritchett. Take a moment to learn about Mrs. Glomp’s incredible career in D102! 🏫🙌
💡 Fun Fact:
“I have taught several of my former students' children.”
🏆 What are some accomplishments since working in D102?
“I feel my biggest accomplishment is the connections made with my students and their families. To have former students come back years later and let me know how much of an impact I have made in their lives is magical, especially since every single student holds a special place in my heart!”
✈️ What do you look forward to doing during your retirement?
“I plan on visiting my kids, reading, volunteering, and whatever I decide to do!”
💌 Is there anything you would like to share with D102?
“It has been my honor to have spent all these years with wonderful friends, colleagues, students, and families of D102! What a wonderful place to be!”
#D102DifferenceMaker #D102 #EveryDayEveryStudent #ImpactD102
💡 Fun Fact:
“I have taught several of my former students' children.”
🏆 What are some accomplishments since working in D102?
“I feel my biggest accomplishment is the connections made with my students and their families. To have former students come back years later and let me know how much of an impact I have made in their lives is magical, especially since every single student holds a special place in my heart!”
✈️ What do you look forward to doing during your retirement?
“I plan on visiting my kids, reading, volunteering, and whatever I decide to do!”
💌 Is there anything you would like to share with D102?
“It has been my honor to have spent all these years with wonderful friends, colleagues, students, and families of D102! What a wonderful place to be!”
#D102DifferenceMaker #D102 #EveryDayEveryStudent #ImpactD102
This Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re celebrating the incredible educators who show up every day to make a lasting IMPACT on our students. 🍎✨
Take a moment this week to thank a teacher who has impacted your life. A quick note or a shoutout can make their day!
#D102 #EverDayEveryStudent #ImpactD102
Take a moment this week to thank a teacher who has impacted your life. A quick note or a shoutout can make their day!
#D102 #EverDayEveryStudent #ImpactD102
NFL Star Maema Njongmeta Inspires AJHS! 🏈🎺
It was an incredible day at AJHS as we welcomed back one of our own! Alumni and current NFL linebacker Maema Njongmeta visited our students to share his inspiring journey from our hallways to the professional turf. 🏟️✨
Njongmeta took a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about playing the trumpet in Mrs. Rakickas’s class (who is still rocking it as our band teacher today! 🎶). Now a member of the Carolina Panthers 🐈⬛ (and formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals), he spoke candidly about what it takes to reach the highest level of athletics.
Beyond football, Njongmeta emphasized the power of mental fortitude and community. He left our students with powerful words to live by, like "Speak life into yourself" and "Engage with the people who believe in you." 🗣️✨
The visit wrapped up with a Q&A where students got to connect personally with a pro! Thank you, Maema, for providing our students with a roadmap to tackle their goals with confidence! 🙌
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
It was an incredible day at AJHS as we welcomed back one of our own! Alumni and current NFL linebacker Maema Njongmeta visited our students to share his inspiring journey from our hallways to the professional turf. 🏟️✨
Njongmeta took a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about playing the trumpet in Mrs. Rakickas’s class (who is still rocking it as our band teacher today! 🎶). Now a member of the Carolina Panthers 🐈⬛ (and formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals), he spoke candidly about what it takes to reach the highest level of athletics.
Beyond football, Njongmeta emphasized the power of mental fortitude and community. He left our students with powerful words to live by, like "Speak life into yourself" and "Engage with the people who believe in you." 🗣️✨
The visit wrapped up with a Q&A where students got to connect personally with a pro! Thank you, Maema, for providing our students with a roadmap to tackle their goals with confidence! 🙌
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
Headline: Celebrating Excellence in D102! 🌟
At the April 13 Board of Education meeting, we were honored to recognize five exceptional students from each of our schools, ranging from Early Childhood through 8th grade.
These students were nominated by their teachers and principals for truly embodying the core competencies of our Portrait of a Graduate. Whether it’s leadership, empathy, or critical thinking, these young leaders are setting a fantastic example for their peers!
Board President Sklansky and Dr. McIntyre presented each recipient with a special keychain and certificate to commemorate their achievements. Join us in giving a huge round of applause to these outstanding D102 students! 👏🎓
🔗 Read more about the Portrait of a Graduate: https://www.d102.org/o/atsd/page/portrait-of-a-graduate
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
At the April 13 Board of Education meeting, we were honored to recognize five exceptional students from each of our schools, ranging from Early Childhood through 8th grade.
These students were nominated by their teachers and principals for truly embodying the core competencies of our Portrait of a Graduate. Whether it’s leadership, empathy, or critical thinking, these young leaders are setting a fantastic example for their peers!
Board President Sklansky and Dr. McIntyre presented each recipient with a special keychain and certificate to commemorate their achievements. Join us in giving a huge round of applause to these outstanding D102 students! 👏🎓
🔗 Read more about the Portrait of a Graduate: https://www.d102.org/o/atsd/page/portrait-of-a-graduate
#EveryDayEveryStudent #D102 #ImpactD102
✨ Success by Design at AJHS! 🚀
Mrs. Byrne and Mrs. Dengsavang’s ELA students recently completed a research unit exploring how individuals achieve success despite significant challenges. Students analyzed reliable sources and identified key traits such as perseverance and leadership that fueled their subjects' accomplishments.
This study revealed that success results from developed skills rather than luck, thereby enhancing their critical thinking and research abilities. The unit inspired the class by proving that dedication can turn any obstacle into an opportunity. This hands-on project provided students with both academic growth and a roadmap for their own future goals.
🎓💡
#D102 #ImpactD102 #EveryDayEveryStudent
Mrs. Byrne and Mrs. Dengsavang’s ELA students recently completed a research unit exploring how individuals achieve success despite significant challenges. Students analyzed reliable sources and identified key traits such as perseverance and leadership that fueled their subjects' accomplishments.
This study revealed that success results from developed skills rather than luck, thereby enhancing their critical thinking and research abilities. The unit inspired the class by proving that dedication can turn any obstacle into an opportunity. This hands-on project provided students with both academic growth and a roadmap for their own future goals.
🎓💡
#D102 #ImpactD102 #EveryDayEveryStudent
