Dear D181 Families,

Throughout the year, I have the wonderful opportunity to visit classrooms to see firsthand outstanding instruction and spend a few minutes with our students. This past month, I sat next to one of our 2nd graders at Oak School and heard Ms. Quinn, our Art teacher, discuss symmetry with our 1st-grade students as they prepared to draw a ladybug. While Ms. Quinn explained and modeled the key components, let me tell you that it was not easy, but everyone in the class was deeply engaged in the process. In middle school, our students were engaged in a Renaissance inquiry project and were happy to discuss their personal interests with me.

This month, the solar eclipse allowed learning to spill outside the classroom walls. Our district administrators from the Department of Learning worked extensively with the D181 Foundation and the Hinsdale Library to create a learning experience where students could witness this unique solar spectacle all as one. This was the sort of event where our students witnessed something firsthand, and older siblings were able to talk to younger ones about what they observed and discussed in class.

As we look forward to May and celebrating our educators, I’m glad we continue seeing multiple organizations acknowledging our work. We recently noticed that Public School Review had ranked D181 as one of the best Districts in the nation. Us News & World Report has ranked all our schools in the top twenty in Illinois. While we are very proud of our overall performance, I’m glad that our collective work is giving many students a great daily experience at school.

Please remember that Staff Appreciation Week arrives on May 6; I invite you to join me in celebrating our incredible staff. Their dedication, collaboration, and passion are the backbone of our student success. I look forward to seeing you at our school events.

Sincerely,

Dr. Hector Garcia

Despite location, all our students were treated to a glimpse of the celestial marvel last week, either venturing outside with proper eye protection or experiencing the eclipse virtually through a live stream.

We can't thank the D181 Foundation, Hinsdale Public Library, Department of Learning, and staff enough for their incredible coordination of the D181 eclipse viewing. Their teamwork created a truly amazing and educational event, allowing everyone to safely witness this once-in-a-lifetime celestial spectacle.

In a display of community spirit, the "Stuff the Squad" initiative concluded with a resounding success. This collaborative effort, partnering with the Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills, and Hinsdale Police Departments, yielded a remarkable collection of 4,000 pounds of food and supplies for HCS Family Services. 

The district extends its sincere gratitude to the students, families, staff, and participating police departments for their generosity and commitment to supporting those in need within our community.

The D181 Foundation recently hosted a fantastic Young Writers Night at HMS! This celebration of student creativity featured book distribution, an inspiring author talk and engaging writing workshops. It was a night filled with joy and encouragement for students and families.

Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

7:00pm - 8:30pm

In Person at the Hinsdale Central Auditorium

Click Here to Register

Click Here for Complete Details

Summer Learning Registration Closes Tonight

D181 Summer Learning Program: Register Now!

In-person program at Clarendon Hills Middle School (June 10-28, 2024).

Click here to view the course catalog

Click here for registration and complete program details

All students currently in D181 Preschool/ECE or entering Kindergarten through 8th Grade for the 2024-25 school year must complete the District registration and fee payment process (including the payment of all past due fees from the current school year).

Visit our registration link for more information

As the weather warms and many students choose to walk or bike to school, let's prioritize safety in our neighborhoods. Here are some reminders for families:

• Walk and bike on designated paths whenever possible. This helps keep everyone safe, especially young children.
• Practice safe street crossing. Always use crosswalks, look both ways before crossing, and make eye contact with drivers.
• Be visible! Wear bright clothing and reflective gear if possible.
• For cyclists, ensure your bike is in good working order. This includes properly inflated tires, functioning brakes, and a securely fastened helmet.

For local safety education information, click below:

• Hinsdale Safety Public Education