August 6, 2024

Build 220 projects nearing completion at BHS

Four years ago our community came together to pass a $147M referendum to improve the educational experience for our students. As we prepare to begin the 2024-25 school year, all major projects from the district's Build 220 initiative will be completed on time and are projected to come in under budget.

The final touches are underway on the last remaining projects at Barrington High School. These include renovating the Hart Road Lot and Stadium Parking Lot, cafeteria, athletic department office, athletic and student entrances, and mechanical upgrades.

BHS cafeteria improvements (pictured) will include three new flexible classroom spaces, new flooring, lighting, and paint, new flexible furniture, video wall installation w/ large flat-screen TV, new sound system, and two new single occupancy restrooms. Click here to view the latest construction video.

The athletic entrance near the pool (pictured) and student entrances will be easily identifiable with large canopies that match the main entrance to the high school. In addition, each entrance will each have a secure vestibule. Click here to view video of the nearly completed secure vestibule.

The new athletics office is conveniently located next to the main gym.

Kindergarten Lab to be completed for start of school

This summer construction crews have been transforming two BHS classrooms into the district's innovative new K-Lab! The two classrooms will be connected by an observation lab for high school students enrolled in early childhood education classes. The full-day Kindergarten Lab Program will provide unique learning opportunities to kindergarten and high school students, thanks to its location at BHS. Click here to view the latest construction video.

At its August 13 meeting, the Board of Education will consider placing a $64 million referendum question on the November election ballot. This is nearly $12 million less than Option 3 ($75.5M), which was the preferred option by the community based on the past six months of significant community feedback. The $64 million question would include the following projects:

• New community auditorium at Barrington High School
• Safety and security districtwide
• Music rooms at BHS
• STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) labs at BHS
• Middle school science classrooms
• Fine arts classrooms at BHS
• Mechanical systems
• Fine arts programming enhancements at BHS
• Windows, doors, and flooring 

If the Board votes to approve the question on August 13, more detailed information about the projects will be shared following the meeting.

Barrington 220's strategic plan, Framework 220, consists of six strategic priorities. Within each priority, there are several objectives. This school year the district plans to focus its work on the following seven objectives:

• Learner Agency (Personalized Learning)
• Grade-Level and Program Transitions (Health & Well-Being)
• Social Media Awareness (Health & Well-Being)
• Infrastructure/Facilities (Stewardship)
• Support Strategic Priorities (Communication & Community Partnerships)
• Professional Development (Inclusive Education)
• Global Awareness (Future Readiness)

To track the progress of the work being done within each strategic priority, please visit the Framework 220 dashboard.

D220 implementing PK-12+ social emotional learning program this school year

As part of the Framework 220 work completed during the 2023-24 school year, Barrington 220 is excited to implement a new social emotional learning curriculum this year called Character Strong. This will be the district's first time implementing a PK-12+ SEL program. Character Strong emphasizes the development of safe, predictable learning environments where all feel included. Its three main tenets are: Be Kind, Be Strong, Be Well. To learn more about Character Strong, please visit the Family Strong website.

Reminder: four early release days this school year

Barrington 220 contracts with Quest Food Management Services Inc. for all meals served in grades K-12. 

• K-8 Menus: Visit the LINQConnect page and select your school from the dropdown box in the upper right corner. 
• BHS Menu: To view the weekly menu at BHS, visit the Meal Planner website and type in "Barrington High School" in the search bar. 

Nurses are now accepting Pre-K, K, 6, 9, and 12 mandated health examinations and vaccination records. These are due BEFORE September 1, 2024. Please submit forms directly via email to: districtnurseoffice@barrington220.org or deliver them to the District Administrative Center at 515 W Main St., Barrington, IL. Click here to learn more.

2024-25 theme to be revealed mid-August

Each school year year Barrington 220 selects a theme for the entire district. The theme is designed to inspire and guide our school community throughout the year. Please stay tuned for the 2024-25 theme, which will be revealed right before the start of the school year!

Instead of sending fliers home in student backpacks, Barrington 220's Virtual Backpack is a place for parents to find important fliers and information from community groups, schools, and the district. Please also "like" Barrington 220 on Facebook and follow us on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to keep up with the latest photos, video clips, and news from across the district. You can also view upcoming events on the district calendar.

Every fall Barrington 220 hosts a Safety Week where all schools participate in safety drills that are mandated by the State of Illinois, including fire drills, tornado drills, lockdown drills, and bus evacuation drills. Our 6th Annual Safety Week will be held September 9-13. More information will be shared next month. Click here to learn more about safety in Barrington 220.

Barrington National Night Out

The Barrington Police Department’s National Night Out event will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, in downtown Barrington. Enjoy an evening of neighbors coming together for free food, family-friendly activities, and getting to know Barrington’s public safety personnel.

Barrington Youth and Family Services is holding two free back-to-school events for students this month!

Incoming BHS freshmen are invited to join BYFS to learn more about practical tips and tools to improve their school performance. The event is set for Wednesday, August 14 from 9:30 a.m. -11 a.m. at the BYFS office at 118 Applebee Street. Register by August 12 by emailing info@barringtonbyfs.org.

Incoming 6th graders through freshmen are invited to a workshop focusing on managing back-to-school anxiety. The event is set for Thursday, August 15 from 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. at the BYFS office. Register by August 12 by emailing info@barringtonbyfs.org.

The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce invites all families to its annual Family Expo at Citizens Park on Saturday, August 17 from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy a day of kids activities, giveaways, music, entertainment, and more. Click here for more information.