Monday Morning Memo: Monday Morning Memo 10/20/25

Tip (and Personal Story) of the Week

Engage using the Friz 5

I was lucky enough to get to work with another school district for a day this week, and I learned:

*It's a hard season everywhere.

*I'm so glad I work where I do. The district I visited--to a person--started each comment with, "These kids can't..." and then went on to blame the kids for EVERYTHING. What a gift it is to work in D114 where we focus on what we CAN do, problem solve (because there ARE problems), and truly co-labor to do the work.

It made me think of the importance of making sure learning is engaging, and how impactful it is when that's a focus. It can also be HARD to think of ways to do this...instruction is tailored, standard-focused, and supports our differing students in truly learning.

So, remember, you have tools to help, including:

*Solara AI (in Panorama) is a great source to ask:

"How can I make a lesson on (learning target) engaging for students whose reading levels vary from 2 years below (grade level) to 2 years above?"

Then ask it to make the tools, organizers, text, ideas you can take and use!

*If you don't like what you get from Solara, try Gemini! It's in "calculator" menu in Google:

And then it's this button:

Let's keep digging in...what's the why on Learning Targets?

WHAT:

3--Engagement Tasks(s)

WHY:

Research

I also asked Gemini to create a summary graphic of the key drivers of engagement, and it made this for us:

Pretty cool, huh? 😁

Our shared thoughts on WHY and options for HOW to implement Engagement Tasks:

Reflection Questions

How can I make an upcoming activity more challenging while also giving students a clear way to work together and talk through their ideas?

What's one new way I can encourage my students to show me what they understand and where they are getting stuck, so they feel more in charge of their own learning?

Check it out...Ken Williams on RIGOR AND ENGAGEMENT!

Ms. Erica- Thank you for your commitment to open and honest communication around difficult topics, You are truly appreciated. Most of all, thank you for leading with grace—it does not go unnoticed and makes a meaningful difference.

Mr. Sam – Thank you for stepping in to sub in my classroom on Friday. I truly appreciate your time, flexibility, and the kindness you showed while working with our Life Skills students. Your presence was a great support, and your willingness to help did not go unnoticed.

Amanda – Thank you for all of the behind-the-scenes work you continue to do. Words cannot fully express how much your dedication, time, and thoughtful effort mean to the Life Skills program. Your commitment and guidance are invaluable, and we are fortunate to have your support.

Pam – Thank you for being an incredible co-teacher and a constant source of support. I’m grateful for your presence every day. Even through this weeks twists and turns, you remained positive and led with compassion. Your dedication plays a key role in the success of our program, and I appreciate all that you do.

Mary, Sam, and Mary Kay – Thank you for your collaboration, creativity, and resilience. Your ability to face challenges with humor and determination is inspiring. Your teamwork and commitment to student success make a lasting impact, and it’s a privilege to work alongside you.

Mr. Russell – Thank you for your flexibility and willingness to assist wherever needed. Your calm demeanor and adaptability are a true asset to our team, and I deeply appreciate your support.

LIfe Skills Team and Service Providers- Thank you all for your continued dedication, professionalism, and heart. It’s a privilege to be part of such a passionate and collaborative team. Your work truly makes a difference in the lives of our students.

-Erin Donovan--Special Education Teacher at Lotus

To Karen, Alana, and Sammie for organizing our first-ever snack cart — what a hit! Students get to take the lead, and we get to enjoy some yummy treats. Win-win!

To the PreK team for having such an open and honest reflection around your team norms. Your willingness to reflect and grow together makes you even stronger.

To the Kindergarten team for being brave enough to try something new and taking the time to develop a grade-level management system. Your teamwork and creativity shine through in everything you do!

To the third and fourth grade teams for collaborating to share the playground so students can get the social time they need. Your teamwork helps make every day smoother!

-Chad, Erica, and Matt

Kudos to Michelle Magness for rubbing sting relief on my bee stung foot Friday. I appreciate you helping me right away!

Kudos to Melissa McCart for helping me through all the questions that have came up this week and last. I appreciate your help!

-Mollie Crow--Special Education Teacher at Lotus

Kudos to Brooke! You've only been here for a few short weeks and have already made such a difference! Your patience, flexibility and compassion with some of our students has been nothing short of amazing! We’re so grateful to have you as part of our district 114 family!

Sammie, thank you for meeting to discuss some changes needed for one of our shared students! I always appreciate your expertise!

-Melissa McCart--Special Education Teacher at Lotus

Dayja Wydzierzecki:
Thank you for helping me take down student work from the walls. I really appreciate your help!

Kim Husko:
Thank you for letting me use your classroom at the last minute — I really appreciate your flexibility, especially since I had bees in my room!

6th Grade Team (Katy G, Dayja W, Leah F, and Cynthia T):

Thank you for everything you all do, I love working with this team!

-Kaitlyn Goorsky--6th Grade Social Studies

A week late, but thank you so much to Mary H., Kaitlyn, and Brooke for creating the Super Star Token boards for Kindergarten! It was a great help :)

Thank you, Erica, for giving me space to talk things through. I really appreciate all of the support you have given so far this year!!

-Nicole Brinkman--Counselor at Lotus

Kudos to my teammates Jen and Cary for another successful field trip! Team work really does make the dream work!!!

Kudos to Sammi G for joining us last minute on our first grade field trip to Stade’s Farm! Your extra hands and eyes were very much appreciated! The kids loved having you there! Thanks so much!

-Kendra Logar--First Grade Teacher

I would like to send kudos:

Samantha Mock for always making copies in the morning, being flexible, and just overall your happy attitude.
Becky Hiles, Jamie Smeigh, and Oner Medrano for their laughs in the morning. Appreciate all the support you provide.
The 6th grade team for all their collaboration, willingness to always problem solve together, and just checking in and being genuine with one another.
Averie Schultz for being an amazing co-coach and friend. I have enjoyed working alongside you this season and just really appreciate your friendship and smiles.

-Dayja Wydzierzecki--6th Grade ELA Teacher

Sammie Geenan and Alana Carlson for doing such a great job with the snack cart... it was fun and a success for the students. Sammie.. also thank you for your organization skills you are a scheduling queen!!! Thank you for making me feel so special on my birthday!

Ashley Arff thank you for collaborating regarding a student.

Niccole Culbertson and Bryan Bailey for always making CB fun and interesting.

Karen Lobo--District Speech Pathologist

Kudos to Jeff Fewel for keeping the transportation running smoothly. Especially this week as we had to adjust routes on the fly due to a traffic incident.

-Erik Linquist--Bus Driver

Sammy G.

Thank you Sammy for having some of my students help with the snack cart. They really enjoyed it ! so so cute!

Also for making another trip around to get me a snack:)

-Misty Madula--Paraprofessional at Lotus

Kudos to Kaitlyn May for jumping in to help me out with 3rd grade lunch when her schedule shifted and she had some free time.

I really appreciate the help and I didn't even have to ask for assistance.

Thanks for being a team player.

-Courtney Maas--Paraprofessional at Lotus

Amanda Lorenz for putting up with me and our class all week.

Kaitlyn May for checking in with me when I was having issues with my friend.

Sonia and Penny for helping with my kids and the change in one of their lunch times.

Gina and Dina for helping my friend in the lunchroom.

Sherry thanks for being gone to make me appreciate you more.

Hallie for getting me back and forth all week safely.

Brian for getting me back to Big Hollow again.

-Colleen Robinson--Paraprofessional at Lotus

Kudos to Kaitlyn Goorsky for all the effort she puts into everything she does and still finds time to answer all my dumb questions!

-Cynthia Tsarpalas--6th Grade Science Teacher

Kudos to my fifth grade team for always being there to be supportive

-Melissa Rattner--Special Education Teacher at Stanton

Kudos to Dan Miller for being an awesome cross country co-coach. To Kaitlyn Goorsky for checking in with me. I appreciate it. To Karen Brnot, Niccole Culbertson, Cathy Jawnyj, Niall Schoenfelder, and Averie Schultz for being the most amazing teammates. What a joy it is coming to work everyday to work with these awesome people. To Dan Olson and Katy Gardner for trying to find ways to help our students to improve their math skills.

-Renee Evans--7th Grade Math Teacher

Thank you Amanda for taking care of my kiddos this week.

Thank you Colleen & Dina for problem solving Addy's new schedule without me.

Thank you Sammie for drafting up a goal while I was away from a computer for a few days.

Thank you Mary MP for being so flexible and changing your schedule yet again.

-Sherry Tietjen--Special Education Teacher at Lotus

Thank you Jessica Lieber for taking the extra time to connect with me to better understand a student. AND A big thank you to the 5th grade team for going above and beyond to connect with our students. Our kids are truly blessed to have you by their side each and every day.

Thank you Karen Skorup, Jillian Reczyk, Christina Gardner, Cathy Jawnyj, and Leah Falster for making time this year to discuss the progress of the students on my caseload. I have faith that our kids will benefit from your efforts to connect and guide them during this crucial stage of their development.

Thank you to Kim Husko, Kendra Smeigh, and Avery Schultz for your amazing efforts in facilitating the PBIS program. It’s exciting to see how much it has grown, and I look forward to seeing continued progress in our school!

Thank you to Matt Shannon, Lynn Smolen, and Tom Cardamone for all your support this school year. I look forward to our continued partnership in supporting all students, families, and staff.

Thank you Michele Burgess and Jill Becmer for everything. Your ability to answer any questions with patience and smiles never ceases to amaze me.

Thank you, Tyler Fisher, for all your help and support this school year. Your prompt assistance makes my days go smoother.

Thank you, Renee Evans, for reminding me to head out for a walk with you during lunch; I promise to make it one of these days.

A super shout-out to the October Birthday team for providing breakfast to the Stanton Team at the staff meeting!

Last but not least, thank you, Meghan Reimers, for your close partnership in EVERYTHING! I appreciate the sparkle you bring to our office space every day as we navigate the ups and downs.

~Kim Mack Social Worker @ Stanton

Sending a big shoutout to my amazing teammates! Your smiles, kindness, positive energy, and lunch fun make even the busiest days brighter. I’m so grateful to work alongside people who truly lift others up! (SPED Team)

Ashley Arff and Sherry Tietjen who constantly motivate, cheer on, and build others up! Your encouragement does not go unnoticed. You remind us all that teamwork is about heart as much as effort. I appreciate you ladies and the entire team!

Erin Donovan- A special thank-you! You never fail to greet others with a smile or kind word. You make mornings brighter and tough days easier :)

I just want to take a moment to shout out Kelly Roland for being such a kind and positive face around here! Your smile, warmth, and genuine energy make such a difference! You bring light wherever you go, and I’m so grateful for your presence.

No particular reason, just because she’s the best school psych! Kim, your kindness, calm energy, and constant support don’t go unnoticed. You always show up for students and staff with such care and positivity. We’re so lucky to have you!

-Ashley Brown--Social Worker at Lotus

KUDOS to Kaitlyn May, Brooke, and Mary Honea for all their help on Friday to get Kinders new behavior system up and running!

Kudos to Kaitlyn May and Mary Honea for putting all of our tokens on the desks on Wednesday!

Kudos to Erica for helping me make a phone call home for a student and being a huge helper!

Kudos to all for a great collaboration on Tuesday at SST!

-Adisyn Illg--Permanent Sub at Lotus

Thank you Brooke for jumping right in on day one and supporting our friend. You are amazing.

I appreciate you!

Thank you Joan for being willing to test a new student and for accommodating your time for her big needs. I appreciate you so much!

Christine Spittler--2nd Grade Teacher

To...

Our Transportation Team for all your hard work!

Colleen Robinson for being a super para last week on Route 10!

Matt Peters, Tom Cardamone, Jeff Fewell, and Natalie Udstuen for handing a bus accident last week.

Team Kinder for a great SST meeting!

Everyone for doing all the things while I've needed to be out lately.

Natalie for presenting at a state level hearing for us to request consideration for the Lotus playground...and seeing that the State Superintendent of Schools was one of the 4 people in the hearing!!!!

The Stipend Committee for all your collaboration.

And...again...

To Chad, Erica, Matt P, Matt S, and Tom for being AMAZING PRINCIPALS!!! We are soooo glad you are leading the way!

Heather

Lotus Book Fair

Just a reminder, please make sure you sign up for a preview and purchase day for the book fair for next week!

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HriCyY1Yc5NyFS7vVTK_N2wKY3mtEZep2Rxbc8Uu-YI/edit?usp=sharing

Unity Day! 🧡

REPEAT INFO

Lotus Family Reading Night--From the FABULOUS Kim VanHoorelbeke

I wanted to get this out there as it's already October next week. Please see attached flier below (1st part is English) along with a SIGN UP SHEET. The more the merrier. It's at a fun time of the year and the families truly enjoy it from year to year. We can't do it without you.

We have a lot of new staff so wanted to give a brief description. Family Reading Night is 2 hours where families can come during that time frame to participate. The point of it is to help promote reading together or students reading to family. There will be 8 reading rooms to choose from, a Spooky/Fun Book Walk in the Gym, along with an Art station and food/treat.

Parent Letter for Family Reading Night 2025

2025 Family Reading Night Staff Volunteer

Staff can bring their families as well :) Thanks in advance for anytime you can give as I know it's precious.

Field Trips

If you are planning for a field trip, please remember:

All field trip requests must be submitted to the principal no later than the 15th of the previous month of your trip.

Example: Trip is in March, Form must be in by February 15th. This allows time for approval and our drivers to select trips.

1. Complete the Field Trip Request Form.

2. Submit the form to your Principal for approval.

2. Principals, if approved, submit to NATALIE UDSTUEN to arrange transportation.

Work Orders

When you have something you need the Facilities Team to handle for you, please complete a Work Request. Be sure to include the LOCATION in the "summary" field.

Absence Reporting

Please refer to this document for all things absence reporting. Please send any questions to Maddie Mercado or me.

THANKS!

Injury Reporting

If you are injured on the job, you MUST IMMEDIATELY do the following:

1. Report this injury to an administrator.

2. Report the injury to Company Nurse.

Thanks in advance!

Remember the Employee Assistance Program!

The EAP is typically a great place to start when you need care and aren’t sure what support you or a family member might be needing. They can guide you to specific care and even set up the appointment for you. Take advantage of this confidential and supportive service to address any

personal or work-related challenges you may be facing by calling Perspectives at 800.456.6327.

Check out this flyer for the IEA's 4th Annual Fall Fest on November 15!

Stay informed by reading the Region 49 Newsletter

Other opportunities to check out:

Fall Teaching & Learning Collectives - Virtual Book Study Registration is OPEN!

September 28 - November 22 | up to 26 PD Hours Register HERE

Choose a book and settle in for the fall session of IEA’s virtual book studies. With 5 titles across Collective themes of Student Wellness, Justice and Equity, Instructional Strategies, and Educator Wellness - there is a book for everyone!

All IEA members are invited to participate: Virtual Book Study

Questions? Contact Jenny Seitz.

Aspiring Educators & Early Career Fall Events - Registration Now Open!

Please help spread the word and encourage members to attend these upcoming events:

Early Career Fall Blitz/Aspiring Educators Fall Retreat

AND...don't forget

See what your membership has to offer! Go to ieanea.org to see all of the happenings and most up to date information on union matters. Go to ieanea.org/benefits/ to explore discounts and deals that are offered to you with your membership.

Good morning, District 114!

Thank you to everyone who made it out to last week's Eat Out to Help Out at Chipotle on Tuesday! You're participation helped us earn $143.68!

We're still seeking nominations for secretary of the PTA. If you're interested in self-nominating or have questions about the position, please email us at PTA@foxlake114.org. We're hoping to vote in the next fabulous member of the board at our next meeting on November 10th!

We have some great things planned for this week. Read on for more details!
Fall Book Fair at Lotus
October 20th through October 24th
Setup will be on October 17th
Sign up to work a slot here!
Each day you volunteer, you'll get $10 in Scholastic Dollars to spend at the fair!
THIS WEDNESDAY! Family Reading Night
Wednesday, October 22nd
Held at Lotus
Themed reading rooms/ Spooky book walk/ Yummy treats
Email Kim VanHoorelbeke at kim.vanhoorelbeke@foxlake114.org to RSVP
Stanton Halloween Dance
Friday, October 24th
7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Open to 5th through 8th graders
$5 admission ($4 with 2 canned food donations)
Admission includes entrance, a slice of pizza, lemonade, and popcorn
Students should RSVP here so we can get an idea of how many students are coming and what kind of pizza they prefer!
If you're a parent who would like to volunteer to help set up, serve food and drinks, and/or help clean up: please sign up here!
Help us reach our goal of 90+ members this school year! We currently have 75 members, including 38 teachers and staff, and 37 parents/guardians. Thank you to Jeremy Serna for signing up last week!!!

Here's what you need to know:
Dues are $10 for the whole year! That's less than a dollar a month!
You'll receive a District 114 PTA Calendar featuring student artwork (calendars were sent home last week check those backpacks!)
Join here today!
Join the PTA and help enrich your child's educational experience this year!
Make sure to join our Facebook Group Page!

We hope to see you at our next meeting on Monday, November 10th at 6:00 pm at Lotus. You can also join the meeting virtually on Google Meet here!

Have a great week!

YOUR PTA Board