As we move into the spring semester, we want to share some important information regarding upcoming state assessments. This spring, our students in Grades 3–5 will participate in the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR). The IAR is designed to measure student proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics based on the Illinois Learning Standards. Rather than just testing memorization, these assessments evaluate critical thinking, complex problem-solving skills.

English Language Arts: Monday, March 16 & Tuesday, March 17

Mathematics: Monday, April 13, Tuesday, April 14, Wednesday, April 15

How You Can Help

We want our students to feel confident and prepared to show what they know. You can support your child by ensuring the following on testing days:

Punctuality: Please ensure students arrive at school on time so they can begin their sessions with their peers in a relaxed environment.

Fully Charged Chromebooks: Since the IAR is a computer-based assessment, it is vital that students bring their school-issued Chromebooks fully charged each morning.

Healthy Habits: A nutritious breakfast and a good night’s sleep go a long way in helping students maintain focus and energy throughout the morning.

We are incredibly proud of the hard work our students and teachers put in every day. These assessments are just one way for our students to demonstrate their growth and academic achievement.Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our school community. If you have any questions regarding the testing window, please feel free to contact the main office.

Warmly,

Holly Zimmer, Principal

CUSD 200 is looking for engaged community members to join the Citizens’ Advisory Committee (CAC) for the 2026-27 school year. The CAC works to provide valuable input on educational and district-related initiatives to district administration and the Board of Education.

Candidates must reside within CUSD 200 boundaries and shall not miss more than two meetings without first notifying an officer of the CAC or the superintendent’s office. Members serve one-year terms (up to five consecutive years) and meet regularly (usually monthly) throughout the school year.

Applications are due by March 27, 2026, and can be filled out and submitted online by clicking here or visiting the CUSD 200 website.

Questions? Please contact: Dianna Hutchison at (630) 682-2002 or dianna.hutchison@cusd200.org.

You are cordially invited to "The Blue Note Bistro: An Evening of Jazz" on Saturday March 21st at Wheaton North High School, featuring performances from the jazz ensembles of Wheaton North, Franklin Middle School, and Monroe Middle School. This family event is open to the public, and starts with free swing dance lessons from 6-7pm, followed by live music and a silent auction. Concessions will be available for purchase.Tickets are on sale now at https://wnhs-jazz-fundraiser.square.site/. 

Students at Hawthorne Elementary School are always learning and growing. One of the things we pride ourselves on at Hawthorne is the work we do to ensure students understand, demonstrate, and reinforce schoolwide expectations. At Hawthorne, students learn about the Hawthorne Way during the first week of school with Mrs. Zimmer. During the year, we work to reinforce the things we learn about the Hawthorne Way.

The Happy Heart Award is a recognition ticket given to students who go above and beyond to demonstrate the Hawthorne Way during the school day. Students who earn this will receive a ticket with their name on it, the staff member who recognized them, and the reason they were recognized. The recognition portion will go home to celebrate with family.

Congratulations to this week's Happy Heart Award drawing winners!