It's been a standout year at D181 filled with new partnerships, prestigious recognitions, and high-level academic performances by our students. As we reflect on the past several months, we're filled with gratitude for our staff, families, and community partners.
A few highlights come to mind: this summer, Prospect, Walker, Madison and Elm schools were named in Chicago Magazine's Top Elementary Schools List for DuPage County. This was based on student growth, district spending and our community survey. At a national level of recognition, Madison was named by the U.S. Department of Education as a 2019 Blue Ribbon School. This is the highest national award given and Madison has received it twice (the first time in 2009). Our business office also earned some accolades: we were awarded the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 16th consecutive year and a Aaa rating from Moody's Investors Service, the highest possible in Illinois.
While we love to see our name in lights, our students' continual growth and progress is always the core of our mission. According to the School Report Card released this fall, our students continue to perform at high levels. All of our schools are in the top two tiers of schools in the state: exemplary/top 10 percent (six schools) and commendable (three schools). The report also indicated we exceeded all of the state's academic targets for student proficiency on state-mandated assessments.
Our educators continue to focus on elevating our curriculum and boosting student achievement and, most importantly, meeting the needs of each and every child.
Outside of the classroom, we've been working to further develop our partnerships, near and far. We completed a successful exchange program in partnership with the LEAP Science and Math Schools in South Africa and the D181 Foundation. This partnership has many benefits to both of our communities as we share educational ideals and foster cultural and social awareness. As a lighthouse district, we were pleased to host visitors who want to know more about our instructional practices.
The annual Rotary Run Charity Classic in October was another whopping success this fall. Thanks to our students, staff, and family participation, $6,160 was donated to benefit D181 students. Thank you D181 community and the Rotary Club of Hinsdale for your support!
From all of us at D181, we wish you and your family a safe and happy new year. We'll be working hard to keep the positive momentum going!
- by Hector Garcia, superintendent
