Superintendent Communication

August 13, 2025

We are thrilled to begin another exciting school year together! The first day is always filled with energy and anticipation—and this year was no different. It was amazing to see our students return, bringing life back into classrooms and hallways. Talking with students about their summer experiences and their hopes for the school year was invigorating.  Even after ten years as principal, I still feel so fortunate to be part of a place with such a rich history and amazing culture.  It’s an amazing feeling to be in a school where students challenge themselves in Honors, AP, and Dual Credit classes, where the majority of students get involved in extracurricular activities, and where students are excited about high school, preparing them for their post-high school plans. 

As we embark on this new year, we look forward to the many opportunities ahead for our students to grow, learn, and thrive. High school goes by quickly, and we encourage every student to stay engaged, challenge themselves, and take full advantage of the wide range of academic, extracurricular, and social experiences available.

Looking ahead, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is again using ACT as the required state assessment for all Illinois high schools.  This year, we will be providing a new opportunity for all students in grades 9-11.  On October 14, freshmen through juniors will be provided with the PreACT digital exam to help prepare them for the state-mandated ACT in the spring.   The PreACT aligns with the ACT, offering valuable diagnostic data and preparation benefits to students.  Maximizing individual scores on the ACT opens opportunities for all students; from simply including scores on job applications, to scholarship opportunities, to trade school admissions, to college admissions advantages, providing students opportunities to be successful on the ACT is important.  Additionally, for juniors interested in participating in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program,  the district is administering the PSAT/NMSQT on Saturday, October 11, 2025. So, mark your calendars and encourage your student to take full advantage of these opportunities in the coming months.  More information will be forthcoming as these dates approach.

We’re looking forward to another strong partnership between home and school this year! We know that families are the engine behind the success of our students, and we truly value the connection we share with our families.  Families are encouraged to stay engaged—whether by simply talking with your student about their day, communicating with teachers, or attending events.  We’re here to work alongside you and support your student every step of the way as they navigate all the experiences that high school has to offer.  One wonderful way to connect is to participate in this year’s Parent University series, a monthly program designed specifically to support you.  Please check the district website for complete details.  Another great way to get engaged is by attending Back to School Night on Tuesday, August 26.

Lastly, please be on the lookout for details from Principal Schoell regarding upcoming safety drills.  School safety will always be a top priority for us, and we go to great efforts to maintain a safe and secure campus.  That includes maintaining a safety planning team that meets regularly to evaluate and refine our safety plans.  Please encourage your students to take these drills seriously so we are well prepared.  We will be testing the Skylert emergency alert system, our method of communicating in the event of a potential emergency, on August 15, 2025, at 5:00 pm

I invite you to follow the wonderful things happening this year on the school website, Facebook, X, or Instagram.  On to day two!  Let’s make this school year a great one!

Keep It RED,

Dr. Jeremy Schmidt
Superintendent