District News

Diverse Learners Special Education Resource Fair

09/20/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 is giving parents of Diverse Learner students the opportunity to learn more about the various resources available to them during its Diverse Learners Special Education Resource Fair next month.

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Notice of Sept. 20 and Sept. 21 Board Meetings

09/18/2021

The monthly Operational Services & Student Achievement committee meetings of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in-person in the Lincoln Center Board Room, 1201 N. Sheridan Road.

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New Quarantine Support Plan for Students

09/16/2021

Earlier this week we publicly unveiled our Quarantine Support Plan, to support our students during required COVID quarantine periods. We recognize the importance of providing our students with instructional support while they are complying with required quarantine, and we appreciate our community’s patience as we finalized this important plan.

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District 60 Earns Communications Awards

09/15/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 was recently recognized with four communication awards in the Illinois Chapter of the National School Public Relations Association's annual communications contest.

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Notice of Board Quorum Week of Sept. 13

09/15/2021

Members of the Board of Education are dedicated to the students of Waukegan, and to the community itself. Board Members routinely attend special events throughout the school district and the community. At times a majority of a quorum of Board of Education members may be in attendance at the same event. From September 15-18 six Board Members will be attending the Annual CUBE conference in Atlanta. No business will be conducted by the Board of Education at this event, and it is posted only as a matter of public information.

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Recap of September 14 Board Meeting

09/15/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve the purchase of new athletic uniforms for John R. Lewis and Edith Smith Middle School students. The total cost is $53,503. Due to the renaming of Jefferson and Webster Middle Schools to John R. Lewis and Edith Smith Middle School, the athletic uniforms will have to be updated as well to reflect the change.

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Early Release Change at 6 Schools for Sept. 15

09/14/2021

Waukegan Public Schools is making an emergency change to the early release time of six elementary schools for tomorrow, Wednesday, September 15. As a result of bus shortages and scheduling conflicts, Cooke, Glen Flora, Greenwood, Hyde Park, North and Whittier, will now dismiss only an hour earlier than scheduled, as opposed to the normal two-hour early dismissal.

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Notice for Sept. 13 and Sept. 14 Board Meetings

09/11/2021

A Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 5:30 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person in the Lincoln Center Board Room, 1201 N. Sheridan Road. Closed Session will occur in Room 120.

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WPS New Black Parent Network Welcome Meeting

09/10/2021

As part of our District's ongoing efforts to build a culture of equity and inclusion for all students, employees, and community members, our District is excited to announce the establishment of a new Black Parent Network (BPN).

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District 60 to Host Hispanic Heritage Celebration

09/10/2021

As part of its Districtwide observance of Hispanic Heritage Month, Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 will be hosting its annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration later this month.

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Still Accepting Homecoming Parade Entries

09/08/2021

Organizations interested in participating in this year's Waukegan High School Homecoming Parade still have time to submit their entry.

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Vaccination Requirements for Staff

09/08/2021

Last month Governor Pritzker announced that all school employees in Illinois must be vaccinated against COVID-19 or be tested weekly. The mandate requires that those working in our schools, including contracted employees and regular volunteers, be vaccinated or submit to weekly screening.

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Illinois Science State Assessment

09/07/2021

Last school year the state science assessment administration were postponed until this fall due to the on-going pandemic and the district’s hybrid focus. During the week of September 13, students in grade 6 will participate in the Illinois Science Assessment administration. Students in grades 9 and 12 will take the Illinois Science Assessment on September 29. The Illinois Science Assessment is given yearly to measure student proficiency in general science. The results of this assessment will provide information that district staff can use to inform appropriate curricular decisions. Please ensure that your student is aware and in attendance for the week.

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Volunteer Through F.R.I.E.N.D.S Program

09/07/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 and John R. Lewis Middle School is inviting the community to take part in the middle school's official renaming ceremony this weekend.

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Enter our Homecoming Decorating Contest!

09/02/2021

As part of District 60’s annual Homecoming celebration, this year our Family and Community Engagement (FACE) department is giving community members the chance to express their Bulldog pride by participating in the 2021 Homecoming Decorating Contest.

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Special Message - August 31

08/31/2021

This afternoon we were made aware that a driver working with our District’s contracted transportation company has been arrested and charged with criminal sexual assault. According to law enforcement officials, the charges stem from the individual’s misconduct with a minor relative.

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COVID Communications, Quarantine & Instruction

08/27/2021

During our Board of Education meeting earlier this week we shared information about COVID cases in our schools. Since that time, I have received questions from many of you seeking clarity about communication in these instances.

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ACCESS for English Learners State Assessment

08/26/2021

Last school year two state assessment administrations were postponed until this fall due to the on-going pandemic and the district’s hybrid focus -- the ACCESS for English Learners and the Illinois Science Assessment. The Illinois Science Assessment will be administered to students in grades 6, 9, and 12 next month in September.

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Recap of August 24 Board Meeting

08/26/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve the Board Resolution - Annual Waiver of Facilities Use Fees for Certain Non-Profit Organizations. This Resolution will establish an efficient means of granting annual facilities-use fee waivers to non-profit organizations who use District facilities on a regular basis.

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Professional Learning Days Schedule 2021/2022

08/25/2021

All Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 schools are again participating in Professional Learning Days this school year. These days will allow for additional professional development opportunities for staff members, and will result in altered bell schedules on these days.

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PreK Registration Roundup on August 28

08/24/2021

Parents wishing to enroll their children in Waukegan Public Schools’ EPIC PreK program will have the opportunity to complete the registration process in one stop during the District's PreK Roundup event later this month.

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Notice of August 24 Board Meeting

08/22/2021

A Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person in the Lincoln Center Board Room, 1201 N. Sheridan Road. Closed Session will occur in Room 120.

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BPAC Welcome Meetings This Week

08/18/2021

Parents of Bilingual and Multicultural enrolled students are invited to learn more about the various resources available to them during our virtual Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee welcome meetings this month.

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My Stop Bus App is Now Live

08/17/2021

Waukegan Public School’s Versatrans’ “My Stop” bus tracking app is now live for the 2021-2022 school year. My Stop” can be accessed from any smartphone or tablet by downloading the app on Apple's App Store and Google Play, as well as from any computer at: https://vto.wps60.org/onscreen/Login.aspx

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PreK Informational Facebook Live Event on Aug. 19

08/17/2021

This Thursday, August 19, District 60 will host a informational PreK Facebook live event to assist parents who have yet to complete the registration process for the 2021-2022 school year.

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Notice of August 17 BOE Committee Meetings

08/15/2021

The monthly Operational Services & Student Achievement committee meetings of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in-person in the Lincoln Center Board Room, 1201 N. Sheridan Road.

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District 60 to Host Onam Celebration August 18

08/13/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60's Family and Community Engagement department will host a community-wide Onam Celebration on August 18 on Lincoln Center's lawn.

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Recap of August 10 Board Meeting

08/11/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve the renewal and expansion of Becoming a Man (BAM) in the amount of $931,616.15 for the 2021-2022 SY. Additionally, the Board approved the purchase of Working on Womanhood (WOW) for the 2021-2022 SY in the amount of $691,547.

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Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year

08/11/2021

Ahead of our official first day of classes tomorrow, I want to wish everyone well as we begin the 2021-2022 school year. It is extremely exciting that in less than 24 hours we will be welcoming all of our families and students back into our buildings. I’m eager to experience the energy of our buildings tomorrow with everyone under one roof.

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Accommodation Requests for Masking and Attendance

08/10/2021

Waukegan Public Schools will begin the school year on August 12 with students reporting for full time in-person instruction. In accordance with District policy, and State of Illinois requirements, all students will be required to wear masks while inside our schools. Parents may request that their child receive accommodations for wearing a mask or attending school, based on a medical disability. Supports will also be made available to students for whom mask compliance is a concern for non-medical or behavioral reasons. Information on these requests can be found below.

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Notice of August 10 Board Meeting

08/08/2021

A Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person in the Lincoln Center Board Room, 1201 N. Sheridan Road. Closed Session will occur in Room 120.

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John R. Lewis Middle School Renaming Ceremony

08/05/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 and John R. Lewis Middle School is inviting the community to take part in the middle school's official renaming ceremony this weekend.

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Complete the Preparing for School Survey

08/05/2021

As we enter the final days prior to the start of the 2021-2022 school year, we know that many of our parents are experiencing a broad range of feelings as they prepare to send their children back to in-person instruction. For many of our families, this will be the first time in more than a year that their children will return to our buildings, and one of our foremost concerns is ensuring a smooth and comfortable transition back into the classroom.

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Join Us to Discuss the Upcoming School Year

08/03/2021

As the new school year draws closer we know there is a lot of information for our families to digest. Students will be back in our classrooms on August 12 in an environment that will look different than it did in the spring, and will certainly look and feel different than what many of our students may remember from the last time they attended school in-person back in March of 2020.

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Notice of Aug. 3 Special Meeting & Budget Workshop

08/01/2021

A Special Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, August 3, 2021, at 6 p.m. for Open Session. There will be no closed session. The meeting will be conducted in-person in the Lincoln Center Board Room, 1201 N. Sheridan Road. The regularly-scheduled Budget Workshop will follow the meeting.

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ESSER Return Continuity Plan

07/30/2021

On March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plans (ARP) was signed into law. In it, the U.S. Department of Education is providing an additional $121.9 billion for the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER III Fund). Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 (WPS60) is allotted a total of $50,586,354 in ESSER III (ARP). A total of $43,375,340 was made available directly to the District with a requirement that 20% of that amount must be spent to address learning loss. The remaining allocation is considered state level reservations for learning loss, summer enrichment and after school activities in amounts of $5,150,724, $1,030,145 and $1,030,145, respectively.

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Recap of July 28 Special Board Meeting

07/29/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve revisions to the following policies: Policy 5212 Grading; Policy 5213, Final Examinations. The Board of Education voted to approve the amendments to the Parent/Student Handbook on Rights and Responsibilities for the 2021-2022 school.

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Expected Health Protocols for Upcoming School Year

07/29/2021

Our first day of school is two weeks away, and we have some important information to share regarding expected health and safety protocols we will be following as we begin the 2021-2022 school year. The information in this letter mirrors health and safety details we presented to our Board of Education on July 28.

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Returning Student Registration Underway

07/28/2021

Families who missed the spring registration period will need to contact their child's school beginning Wednesday, July 28 to complete registration for the 2021-2022 school year.

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WPS to Host HVAC Contracting Presentation

07/26/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 is partnering with Johnson Controls to give local contractors the chance to learn more about opportunities related to the District’s 2022 HVAC upgrades.

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Notice of July 28 Special Board Meeting

07/26/2021

A Special Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Wednesday, July 28, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6:00 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person in the Lincoln Center Board Room, 1201 N. Sheridan Road. Closed Session will occur in Room 120.

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Summer School Graduation July 23

07/21/2021

Waukegan High School will celebrate the summer class of 2021 graduates this Friday, July 23, in the Trapp Auditorium.

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Reminder About Student Appearance Policy Changes

07/21/2021

As families prepare for the upcoming school year, we want to remind parents of elementary and middle school students that our schools no longer require students to wear uniform dress colors.

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July 31 Back to School Resource Giveaway

07/15/2021

We are writing to invite you to this year’s Back to School Resource Fair on July 31. The event will look and feel different this year, as the District continues to follow various COVID-related safety protocols.

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Edith Smith Middle School Renaming Ceremony

07/13/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 and Edith Smith Middle School is inviting the community to take part in the middle school's official renaming ceremony this weekend.

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SOPPA and Information About Students

07/01/2021

Our District has created an informational page on our website for our students and families to learn more about personal information associated with students under the Illinois Student Online Personal Protection Act (SOPPA).

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ESSER Funds Usage Survey

06/08/2021

Earlier this year President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan (ARP) into law. The rescue plan included $122 billion in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds for school districts across the country.

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Chromebook Upgrades for Eligible Devices

06/07/2021

Our District’s Information Technology Services department will be beginning the process of upgrading student Chromebooks on Tuesday, June 8. This initiative will run through the end of July, and parents will have several opportunities to upgrade their child’s District-issued Chromebook.

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District 60 Summer Meals Program Begins This Month

06/03/2021

Waukegan Public Schools’ Summer Meals program will begin later this month at 18 school sites across the District. During the Summer Meals program, all Waukegan children, including those enrolled in the District's summer programming, will receive free breakfast and lunch.

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Notice of June 1 Board Equity Workshop

05/30/2021

A Special Equity Workshop for the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. for Open Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person in the gymnasium of Whittier Elementary School, 901 N. Lewis Avenue.

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Wrapping Up the 2020-2021 School Year

05/28/2021

I hope this message finds you all well, and you are enjoying your final day before summer vacation. Today marks the conclusion of a school year that none of us will soon forget. So much has taken place between the beginning of the school year, and today.

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Recap of May 25 Board Meeting

05/26/2021

Special Presentations and Recognitions -The Board recognized former Board Member, Mr. Edgar Castellanos for this service on the Board from 2020-2021. -Representatives from the Waukegan High School JROTC recognized Board Member Ms. Lucy Leguizamo with its June Maguire Leadership Excellence Award. Additionally. Ms. Carolina Fabian was recognized with the JROTC Challenge Coin for her support of the organization’s Valentine’s for Vets program.

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Screening Day Added for WPS Accelerated Programs

05/25/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 will offer an additional day of screening this Friday, May 28, for families interested in admission to the Project Discovery, GAP, and Cooke Magnet accelerated programs. Please click here to request a time slot.

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June 5 Vaccination Event at Waukegan High School

05/24/2021

On Saturday, June 5 we will be partnering with Walgreen’s to host another COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Waukegan High School’s Brookside Campus. This opportunity is available to anyone ages 12+ to receive their first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

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Notice of May 25 Board Meeting

05/23/2021

A Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person. In an effort to safely accommodate the Board, staff, and members of the public, and to comply with Restore Illinois capacity limits, the meeting will be conducted in the Trapp Auditorium of the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus, 2325 Brookside Avenue. Closed Session will occur in Room E101.

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Food Service Distribution Changes for Summer

05/20/2021

Las Escuelas Públicas de Waukegan están haciendo cambios en su distribución de comidas al final de este mes.

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Special May 22 Closed Session Board Meeting

05/20/2021

A Special Meeting with Closed and Open Session of the Board of Education will be held on Saturday, May 22, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. in the Board Room at Lincoln Center. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) (16) the discussion will be held in Closed Session. The subject will be self evaluation conducted by a representative of the IASB. No action will be taken during the brief open session.

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WHS Graduation Ceremony Postponed to 6:30 p.m.

05/19/2021

Waukegan High School’s graduation ceremony for today, May 19, is being postponed an hour to 6:30 p.m. due to rain in the forecast.

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WHS Students Win Congressional Art Contest

05/19/2021

Two Waukegan High School students were recently announced as winners of Congressman’s Brad Schneider’s Congressional Art Competition. Seniors Kate Salinas and Kimberly Lagunas took first and second place respectively for their pieces, both of which were created with the theme “Unity.”

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Community Clothing Drive Events Planned

05/18/2021

Several Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 schools will be hosting clothing donation events as part of a Community Clothing Drive in the upcoming weeks.

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Class of 2021 Graduation Information

05/17/2021

Waukegan High School will host its 148th commencement exercises on Wednesday, May 19, Thursday, May 20 and Friday, May 21. The events will begin each evening at 5:30 p.m. at Weiss Field. An expected class of more than 700 students will make up Waukegan High School’s Class of 2021.

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Notice of May 18 Board Committee Meetings

05/16/2021

The monthly Operational Services & Student Achievement committee meetings of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in-person. In an effort to safely accommodate the Board, staff, and members of the public, and to comply with Restore Illinois capacity limits, the meeting will be conducted in the Trapp Auditorium of the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus, 2325 Brookside Avenue.

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Middle School 8th Grade Promotion Events

05/14/2021

Waukegan Public Schools’ five middle schools will host drive-through promotion events for 8th grade students on Monday, May 24. Each middle school will host separate events on school grounds to celebrate students’ matriculation to high school. Additional information on each schools’ celebration can be found below.

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Sports Programs for 5th-12th Graders

05/13/2021

Registration for our Athletic Department's FREE Summer Registration for our District's Sports Programs for 5th-12th grade students is now open. Families are encouraged to select as many sports as their schedule allows.

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Recap of May 11 Board Meeting

05/12/2021

Special Presentations -Representatives from Bravo Waukegan gave a presentation detailing some of the organizations' work with Waukegan students during the last year.

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May 25 Public Meeting for Home-Schooled Families

05/12/2021

On Tuesday May 25th, 2021 at 11:00 AM, a meeting conducted by Waukegan Community School District, will be taking place to discuss the District’s plans for providing special education services to students with disabilities who attend private schools or are home schooled within the District for the 2021-22 school year.

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Summer School Information Session

05/11/2021

This Thursday, May 13, our District will be hosting a live summer school information session beginning at 5 p.m. on the District's Facebook page.

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Infinite Campus Parent Portal Workshop

05/11/2021

This week our District will be hosting an Infinite Campus Parent Portal Workshop at Vertical Encounter Church in Waukegan. The event will take place Thursday, May 13, at 6:30 p.m., during which District staff will instruct parents on how to navigate the Infinite Campus Parent Portal.

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Notice of May 11 & May 12 Board Meetings

05/09/2021

A Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person. In an effort to safely accommodate the Board, staff, and members of the public, and to comply with Restore Illinois capacity limits, the meeting will be conducted in the Trapp Auditorium of the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus, 2325 Brookside Avenue. Closed Session will occur in Room E101.

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Vaccine Opportunity for Students Ages 12+

05/07/2021

In anticipation of Pfizer-BioNTech receiving Emergency Use Authorization from the Food and Drug Administration for its COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 12-15 next week, we have partnered with other districts in our area, to schedule a vaccine clinic in partnership with Walgreens to vaccinate students ages 12 and older.

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FAFSA Help for Seniors

05/07/2021

Waukegan High School will host special events next week to help seniors complete their required FAFSA forms. All students in the Class of 2021 are also required to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) Application to graduate OR complete a non-participation form.

Read More About FAFSA Help for Seniors

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Accelerated Programs Facebook Live Event

05/05/2021

On Thursday, May 6, District 60 will host a Facebook Live event focused on Accelerated Programs beginning at 6 p.m. During the informational event District staff will familiarize parents with our Accelerated program offerings, as well as how to complete the application process.

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Summer School Enrollment Open for Grades PreK-8

05/05/2021

Registration for Waukegan Public Schools’ summer program is now open for students enrolled in grades in pre-kindergarten through 8. Parents can enroll their children by clicking here. Parents may also contact their child’s school by May 18.

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Teacher Appreciation Video 2021

05/04/2021

Our school leaders have some special video messages for our amazing teachers today in honor of Teacher Appreciation Day!

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2021 Graduation Requirements Policy Revisions

05/03/2021

Last week our Board of Education took action to amend graduation requirements for the Waukegan High School Class of 2021. We know our students, families and the nation as a whole have been greatly impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, as well as social unrest in our country. This year's graduates have completed the last 15 months of high school under extraordinary circumstances, including extended school closures and a fundamental change in how instruction is delivered through remote learning for the majority, if not all, of their Senior year.

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New Board of Education Members Seated

04/29/2021

The Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 Board of Education officially seated four members on Wednesday, April 28. Mr. Jeff McBride, Ms. Anita Hanna, Mr.Brandon Ewing and Ms. Adriana Gonzalez were sworn in during a special organizational Board of Education meeting.

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Kinder & Returning Student Registration Event

04/28/2021

On Thursday, April 29, District 60 will be hosting a virtual Kindergarten and Returning Student Registration tutorial beginning at 5:30 p.m. on the District's Facebook page.

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Information about WPS60 Accelerated Programs

04/28/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 offers accelerated programs for students in grades kindergarten through 8th grade. Those programs are spread across three buildings. Project Discovery is housed in Little Fort Elementary School and serves students in grades 3-5. The GAP program is housed in Thomas Jefferson Middle School and serves students in grades 6-8. The accelerated program at Cooke Magnet Elementary School serves students in grades K-5.

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Recap of April 27 Board Meeting

04/28/2021

The Board of Education voted to establish a COVID Carry-over Leave Bank with individual employee vacation balances as of 6/30/21 which is defined as employee earned vacation days in excess of 10 days that can be used during their tenure in District and/or unused days paid post termination, resignation or retirement at the FY 2020-2021 base rate of pay. Due to COVID19 and responsibilities associated with increased workloads, employees were not able to take allotted leave during SY2020-2021.

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Waukegan Virtual Middle School Art Show 2021

04/27/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 is excited to announce the winners of its 2021 Middle School Art Show.

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BOE Organizational Meeting on April 28

04/27/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 will host a Special Board of Education Organizational Meeting on Wednesday, April 28 at the Brookside Campus’ Trapp Auditorium, 2325 Brookside Avenue.

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Hotspot Audit Events for Families

04/27/2021

I hope this message finds you well. When we began our transition into hybrid learning last year, our District provided extra supports for families, in order to help bridge the technological gap, and ensure everyone had access to the resources required to participate in online learning.

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Hotspot Recovery Events This Week

04/26/2021

Waukegan Public Schools will be hosting a series of Hotspot Recovery events this week. Any family that has a District hotspot that is inoperable, or is no longer needed, is encouraged to bring the device to the Welcome Center during one of the events below between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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Notice of April 27 Board Meeting

04/25/2021

A Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, April 27, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person. In an effort to safely accommodate the Board, staff, and members of the public, and to comply with Restore Illinois capacity limits, the meeting will be conducted in the Trapp Auditorium of the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus, 2325 Brookside Avenue. Closed Session will occur in Room E101.

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WHS Students Earn Art Scholarships

04/23/2021

Waukegan High School students collectively earned more than $1 million in scholarships in recognition of their artwork recently as part of the annual Illinois High School Art Exhibition (IHSAE).

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District 60, Sen. Johnson Work on Legislation

04/23/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 and State Senator Adriane Johnson have teamed up on legislation that could benefit school districts across Illinois. Senate Bill 813 (SB 813) will protect public schools from harsh financial penalties associated with COVID-related enrollment issues. Yesterday (April 22, 2021), the bill sailed out of the Illinois Senate in Springfield with overwhelming bi-partisan support (49 Yes, 6 No). The bill now goes to the Illinois House of Representatives.

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38 WHS Students Named State Scholars

04/22/2021

Nearly 40 Waukegan High School seniors were recognized this month by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) as “Illinois State Scholars.”

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Returning and New Student Registration Open

04/20/2021

A reminder that the registration process for returning students and incoming kindergarten students is currently underway.

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District 60 to Host Employment Facebook Live Event

04/20/2021

District 60 is teaming up with the College of Lake County to host a Facebook livestream this week highlighting the various employment resources available to parents, as well as how to find and apply for District jobs.

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Today’s Verdict and Support for Families

04/20/2021

This afternoon the world watched as the verdict was announced in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former police officer charged in George Floyd’s death. Mr. Floyd’s tragic and unnecessary death was the catalyst of social justice demonstrations last summer, and people around the world came together and used their collective voice to speak up against racism and to demand justice.

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Notice of Monthly Board Committee Meetings

04/18/2021

The monthly Operational Services & Student Achievement committee meetings of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be conducted in-person. In an effort to safely accommodate the Board, staff, and members of the public, and to comply with Restore Illinois capacity limits, the meeting will be conducted in the Trapp Auditorium of the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus, 2325 Brookside Avenue.

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High School Bus Transportation

04/15/2021

In response to COVID-19 capacity limits, there will be a change in how students who normally ride PACE bus transportation will be picked up for school.

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Vaccine Interest Questionnaire for Students

04/15/2021

Earlier this week we shared exciting information about an upcoming vaccine opportunity for Waukegan Public Schools’ students 16 and older to receive a free COVID-19 vaccine at upcoming events at the Waukegan High School - Brookside Campus. These student vaccinations are being made possible thanks to a partnership with Passport Health, and collaborations with Deerfield High School, Highland Park High School, North Chicago High School and Zion-Benton High School.

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Board Officially Renames Jefferson, Webster

04/14/2021

The Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 Board of Education officially voted to rename Thomas Jefferson Middle School and Daniel Webster Middle School during its April 13 Board Meeting.

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Recap of April 13 Board of Education Meeting

04/14/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve the purchase of 75 iPads and cases to be used in conjunction with the Crisis GO Safety iPass software for scanning WPS60 staff, students and visitors upon entry to all buildings. The estimated cost is $25,000.

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Important Information about Spring Assessments

04/13/2021

The end of the school year is fast approaching, and with that comes State-required Spring assessments. Each Spring, students across the nation participate in standardized assessments in various subject areas to measure student proficiency on State standards. Large-scale standardized assessments are one lens through which students, parents, teachers, and administrators can view progress towards proficiency alongside classroom level assessments.

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Vaccination Opportunity for Students

04/13/2021

We are writing today to inform you of an exciting opportunity for eligible Waukegan High School students to receive a free COVID-19 vaccination. Thanks to a partnership with Passport Health, WHS students 16 and older will be eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine at WHS-Brookside Campus beginning the first week of May.

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District to Host Mindfulness Facebook Live Event

04/13/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 is teaming up with the Waukegan-based Lakes Behavioral Hospital to help teach parents about practicing mindfulness with their children.

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Notice of April 13 Board Meeting

04/11/2021

A Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in-person. In an effort to safely accommodate the Board, staff, and members of the public, and to comply with Restore Illinois capacity limits, the meeting will be conducted in the Trapp Auditorium of the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus, 2325 Brookside Avenue. Closed Session will occur in Room E101.

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April 12 is an Institute Day

04/09/2021

I hope this letter finds you well. As we transition to in-person learning for those families who choose to, I’d like to share my appreciation for the resilience and patience displayed of our school communities. For more than a year, our teachers have worked tirelessly to effectively adapt and refine their virtual instruction, and to implement new technologies designed to better engage students.

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The Importance of Safety Protocols

04/09/2021

As we wrap up our first week of Hybrid learning, I want to express the pride I feel for families and staff for your efforts to make these first days a success. It was amazing to visit schools this week and see teachers and students back in the same classroom for the first time in more than a year. Though the classrooms were smaller than we were used to, with less than 40 percent of our families opting for hybrid learning, this week gave me confidence that we can continue our transition moving forward.

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Apply to Join the Equity Advisory Council

04/08/2021

District 60's Department of Equity and Inclusion will be establishing an Equity Advisory Council.

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2021 Virtual Elementary Art Show

04/07/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60’s annual Elementary Art Show has gone virtual this year. The District-wide 2020-2021 art show is a snapshot of the amazing artwork created virtually by Waukegan elementary students this year.

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April & May Virtual Parent Training Events

04/05/2021

Waukegan Public Schools is partnering with the Waukegan Public Library to host five more weeks of informational live streams for parents throughout April and May. These events, which will be conducted in English and Spanish, will cover a wide variety of topics related to the District’s technology.

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Beginning our Transition to Hybrid Learning

04/04/2021

The day we have been anticipating for more than a year is here -- tomorrow is our first day welcoming students back into our buildings for in-person learning. The last year has been challenging for all of us, but throughout this process I have been continuously inspired by our amazing Waukegan Public Schools community, and the strength of our spirit.

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Changes to Food Distribution Schedules

04/01/2021

Waukegan Public Schools is making a change to its community-wide meal distribution schedule, to coincide with the start of hybrid instruction.

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Safety iPass - Our Student Screener

03/31/2021

With in-person attendance beginning next week, we want to introduce our families to Safety iPass, our District's new staff, student and visitor screener tool. This tool is used to screen all staff, students and visitors to ensure everyone entering our buildings is healthy and not subject to COVID restrictions. Safety iPass is created by CrisisGo, a platform we already use in our District. We officially launched the program this week with our staff and visitors, and next week we will begin the screening of students as well.

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Recap of March 30 Board Meeting

03/31/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve the professional development contract for Spring of 2021 with GLAD-Guided Language Acquisition Design to train 118 teachers at a cost of $128,400. The Board of Education voted to execute the purchase of professional development fees for Instructional Leadership Team members to attend the Writer's Institute at Teacher's College of Columbia University for Lyon Magnet School for a total of $5,950.

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Kindergarten and Returning Student Registration

03/30/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60’s online kindergarten registration for the 2021/2022 school year will open Thursday, April 1. Returning student registration will begin April 5. More information on these registrations can be found below.

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March 29 Hybrid Learning Q&A

03/29/2021

District 60 will be hosting another Hybrid Transition Q&A at 5 p.m. this evening. This week's session will cover the District's CrisisGo Safety iPass certification system and more.

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Notice of March 30 Board Meeting

03/28/2021

A Rescheduled Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, March 30, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. This Regular meeting was previously scheduled for March 23, 2021. The meeting will be conducted in-person. In an effort to safely accommodate the Board, staff, and members of the public, and to comply with Restore Illinois capacity limits, the meeting will be conducted in the Trapp Auditorium of the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus, 2325 Brookside Avenue. Closed Session will occur in Room E101.

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District 60 Awarded Meritorious Budget Award

03/23/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 has again been recognized with a Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) for the 2020-2021 budget year, from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO).

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Student Hybrid Assignments Now Available

03/22/2021

I hope you are all enjoying your Spring Break. We are writing today to inform families that ‘A’ and ‘B’ schedule assignments for students who have opted into Hybrid Learning are now available for parents to view. Our school district has finalized the assignment of students into A schedule (Monday and Wednesday), B schedule (Tuesday and Thursday), or fully virtual schedule, based on parents’ structure preference.

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March 23 Board Meeting Moved to March 30

03/21/2021

The Board of Education meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 23, 2021 has been moved to Tuesday, March 30, 2021, to accommodate the District's Spring Break. Open session for the March 30 meeting will begin at 7 p.m. An agenda for that meeting will be forthcoming in the days prior to the meeting’s date.

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March 22 is Spring Break Week

03/19/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60's official Spring Break will be the week of March 22. During this week, schools will be closed, and there will be no instruction. The week of March 29 will be dedicated to staff orientation and training, ahead of the start of Hybrid Learning. On March 29-April 1, staff will be in attendance, but there will be no student instruction, or student attendance. April 2 is Good Friday, and our District will be closed. Instruction resumes on Monday, April 5.

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No Meal Distribution During Spring Break

03/17/2021

Waukegan Public Schools will be modifying its meal distribution services in advance of Spring Break, in an effort to support students while schools are closed during the week of March 22. No meal distribution events will be hosted during the week of March 22, however, we are doubling the amount of meals families receive this week.

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Staying Safe During Spring Break

03/16/2021

Next week our District will begin its Spring Break. As I am sure you’re aware, as part of our transition to Hybrid Learning, this year's Spring Break for students has been extended by an extra week while staff prepare for the return to in-person learning. This means Spring Break will begin Monday March 22, and instruction for students will not resume until Monday, April 5. During the week of March 29, staff will return to our buildings for a week dedicated to orientation, safety protocols and professional development.

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Watch our March 15 Hybrid Transition Q&A

03/16/2021

Last night our District hosted a Hybrid Transition Q&A on our our Facebook page. Anyone who missed the stream, but is still interested in watching it can do so here.

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Summer School Interest Survey

03/15/2021

Waukegan Public Schools will be offering all students in grades PreK-12 the opportunity to participate in a summer school program for Summer 2021. To assist with planning, we are requesting that all families complete a brief survey, so we can gauge parent and student interest in attending one of our summer programs.

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District to Host Live Hybrid Transition Q&A

03/14/2021

On March 15, our District will host a live bilingual Hybrid Learning Transition Q&A for our families.

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District to Resume In-Person Board Meetings

03/12/2021

The undersigned President of the Board of Education, hereby gives notice that beginning the week of March 15, the Board of Education for Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 will resume in-person public meetings. Meetings will also continue to be broadcasted live on the District’s YouTube channel.

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Lyon Accepting Student Applications for 2021-2022

03/11/2021

The fall registration period for enrollment in Lyon Magnet School has begun. Enrollment is open to all WPS students living within the district's attendance boundaries. Families interested in enrolling in Lyon Magnet are required to submit an application, which can be found at the school, or can be downloaded here: application

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Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60’s Birth to Three Program recently received a “Quality Confirmation” designation for its early childhood Baby TALK program.

Birth to Three Program Earns Quality Conformation

03/10/2021

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60’s Birth to Three Program recently received a “Quality Confirmation” designation for its early childhood Baby TALK program.

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Recap of March 9 Board Meeting

03/10/2021

Members of the Jefferson renaming committees gave a presentation detailing the process they undertook to to rename the schools, and three finalists were presented to the Board of Education. Finalists or Jefferson include: Barack and Michelle Obama Middle School, John Lewis Middle School, and Dolores Huerta & Cesar Chavez Middle School. Finalists for Webster include: Ellen Ochoa Middle School, Katherine Johnson Middle Schools and Edith Smith Middle School.

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Announcing the Start of Hybrid Learning

03/09/2021

Over the last 12 months, our District has worked to adapt to a new way of life. We’ve been forced to radically change how we learn, teach, and support our families through this global pandemic. We know this prolonged uncertainty has made life challenging for all of us, but throughout this process I have been continuously inspired by the resilience and adaptability of our amazing Waukegan Public Schools community, and the strength of our spirit.

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Information about the Pandemic EBT Program

03/08/2021

The Illinois Department of Human Services is again sharing some valuable information for families regarding the State’s Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) program. P-EBT is a food assistance benefit for students who receive free or reduced-price meals in schools under the National School Lunch Program. P-EBT benefits will help Illinois families buy food during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Notice of March 9 Board Meeting

03/07/2021

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. There is also an option to dial in using your phone by calling (571) 317-3129. When prompted, enter the access code: 423-225-093.

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Cooke Accepting Student Applications for 2021-2022

03/05/2021

Waukegan’s Cooke Magnet School is now accepting applications for entrance testing for the 2021-2022 school year, for students entering kindergarten through grade 5. Limited enrollment opportunities are available for students entering grades 1-5.

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Hybrid Learning Check-In

03/04/2021

Last month we announced that our District’s Hybrid Plan schedule could be beginning as early as mid-March. Determining timelines for announcements regarding Hybrid instruction is never an easy task, and oftentimes we lack the clarity we hoped for as a targeted date approaches.

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Discover UWLC's 211 Helpline

03/03/2021

Tomorrow, March 4, our District's Family and Community Engagement Department is teaming up with the United Way of Lake County for this week's Family Workshop. Tune in at 5:30 p.m. to our Facebook page to learn more about the resources available to families who use the UWLC's 24-hour information and referral 211 hotline.

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Flor Carter Named Golden Apple Finalist

03/02/2021

Ms. Flor Carter, interim principal at Waukegan Public Schools’ Alternative/Optional Education Center was recently announced as a finalist for the 2021 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Leadership.

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District 60 Hybrid Safety Videos

02/26/2021

Following several months of planning, our District is in the process of finalizing our preparations for the eventual return of students and staff to our buildings. While this planning process has been all encompassing across our District’s departments, our largest emphasis has been centered around implementing new ways to ensure the safety of our students, staff and visitors upon their return.

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Recap of February 23 Board Meeting

02/24/2021

Special Recognitions and Presentations - Representatives from Waukegan to College gave a presentation about the organization and its goals. - District leadership gave a presentation celebrating District principals and assistant principals for their continued efforts during the ongoing pandemic.

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WHS Program PLACCE's Mask Up For Love

02/23/2021

Students in Waukegan High School's Program PLACCE recently delivered 125 masks to Bayside Terrace, LLC. in Waukegan. As part of a class project called "Mask Up for Love," students and staff members worked collaboratively to make and deliver the masks to the residents at the facility.

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Notice of February 24 Special Meeting

02/23/2021

A special Meeting to review the Superintendent's evaluation, will be held on Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. primarily in Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. No action will be taken during a brief open session.

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Spots Still Available for Paint & Celebrate Event

02/22/2021

There's still time to reserve a paint kit to participate in our District's virtual Paint and Celebrate event this Thursday, February 25.

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Notice of February 23 Board Meeting

02/21/2021

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093.

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District Hosts First Finance Information Session

02/19/2021

Last evening our District hosted its first of two virtual Finance Information Sessions for the community. The livestream can viewed in its entirety here. Families can still submit questions ahead of our final informational stream, which will begin at 1 p.m. on Monday, February 22. You can submit your questions here.

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Important Update about Hybrid Learning

02/18/2021

The last several weeks have been promising in terms of our capability to safely transition to our Hybrid Learning model. We’ve seen a significant decrease in local COVID transmission rates, while also seeing a huge increase in opportunities for District staff members to receive their first dose of the vaccine. These trends, which I discuss in more detail below, are putting us on a path toward eventually reopening for hybrid instruction this semester. The exact date is still not known, but today we want to announce that our Hybrid Plan will not begin until at least March 15.

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District to Host BHM Paint and Celebrate Event

02/17/2021

As part of our District’s celebration of Black History Month, District 60’s Family and Community Engagement department is partnering with Waukegan-based One Crown Studios to host a Virtual Paint and Celebrate Facebook Live event.

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Notice of Board Quorum - Feb 18

02/17/2021

Members of the Board of Education are dedicated to the students of Waukegan, and to the community itself. Board Members routinely attend special events throughout the school district and the community. At times a majority of a quorum of Board of Education members may be in attendance at the same event. On February 18 at 6 p.m. and February 22 at 1 p.m. a quorum of the Board may be present at virtual Finance Information Sessions being hosted by the district.

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Upcoming Finance Information Sessions

02/15/2021

I am writing to share additional information about our upcoming Finance Information Sessions. These informational meetings will be a great opportunity for our finance team to present an important comprehensive overview of our District’s strengthening financial condition over the years, and share related information on financial controls, budgeting, and best practices.

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Feb. 16 Meal Distribution Postponed to Feb. 17

02/15/2021

Waukegan Public School’s Tuesday morning meal distribution for February 16 is being postponed as a result of continued snowfall. Morning meal distribution will occur on Wednesday, February 17. There are no changes planned for Thursday’s afternoon meal distribution.

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Notice of Feb. 16 Committees Mtgs & Feb. 17 Special Meeting

02/14/2021

The Board of Education will host its regularly-scheduled Student Achievement and Operation Services committee meetings on Tuesday, February 16, 2021, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Additionally, a Special Meeting to review the Superintendent's evaluation, will be held on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. primarily in Closed Session.

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Virtual Parent Training Events Begin This Month

02/11/2021

Waukegan Public Schools is partnering with the Waukegan Public Library, to host five weeks of informational live streams for parents throughout February and March. These events, which will be conducted in English and Spanish, will cover a wide variety of topics related to the District’s technology.

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Recap of February 9 Board Meeting

02/10/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve the purchase of kitchen equipment at Miguel Juarez Middle School in the amount of $17,219 and Waukegan High School, Brookside Campus in the amount of $16,098. Funds for these purchases will be reimbursed by the Illinois State Board of Education according to the equipment assistance grant awarded to the Child Nutrition department.

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Black History Month in Waukegan Schools

02/08/2021

As part of Black History month, Waukegan Public Schools celebrate and study African-American history, culture, and leaders. Throughout the month, schools plan various virtual activities and lessons. Below are some highlights happening in our schools. Check back for updated information from our schools throughout the month of February.

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District to Host Finance Information Sessions

02/08/2021

We are inviting you to attend a virtual Finance Information Session where our District’s finance team will present an overview of the District’s strong financial condition, and answer questions that you might present on the subject. These remote meetings will take place on the following dates and times:

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Special Message From Oakdale - February 8

02/08/2021

I am writing to you in response to an unfortunate situation that occurred during a second grade lesson Friday. As part of Black History Month, each of our teachers have been incorporating African American history into their classes. It was brought to our attention that earlier today, during a Black History-focused lesson, that the term “colored people” was used on a presentation that was displayed to students.

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Notice of February 9 Board Meeting

02/07/2021

Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely.

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Food Service Continues This Week

02/07/2021

Waukegan Public Schools will host regular meal distribution this week on Tuesday, February 9 and Thursday, February 11. In anticipation of colder-than-average temperatures this week, families are reminded to dress warmly when visiting one of 116 meal distribution bus stops.

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Facebook Live Hybrid Learning Q&A on February 8

02/05/2021

On Monday, February 8, our District will be hosting a live Hybrid Learning Q&A session on our District’s Facebook page, beginning at 6 p.m. During the event, parents and staff will be given the opportunity to have their questions answered by District leaders.

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2020-21 Illinois 5Essentials Survey Open

02/03/2021

Waukegan Public Schools is once again joining the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) in the 2020-2021 statewide 5Essentials survey of school climate and learning conditions. This survey provides parents a unique opportunity to voice their opinions and ideas on improving their schools. You can take the survey here: https://survey.5-essentials.org/illinois/

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JROTC Valentine’s Day Cards for Veterans

02/01/2021

Waukegan High School’s JROTC program will host its annual Valentine’s Day Cards for Veterans event this month in support of local veterans. Similar to last year, cadets will collect Valentine’s cards to donate to the Midwest Veteran’s Closet in North Chicago, which will then distribute the cards to various local veteran associations and organizations.

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Isam Hussaini Selected as New Student Board Member

01/27/2021

The Board of Education for Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 welcomed Waukegan High School Junior Isam Hussaini as its newest Student Board Member during its January 26 meeting. Isam replaces Van Weddle, who completed his yearlong term as the district’s third student board member. Isam’s term as a non-voting member will run through January 2022.

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Notice of Board Quorum

01/27/2021

Members of the Board of Education are dedicated to the students of Waukegan, and to the community itself. Board Members routinely attend special events throughout the school district and the community. At times a majority of a quorum of Board of Education members may be in attendance at the same event. On January 27 the Board Members will be virtually participating in the National Equity Project's Leading for Equity in Complexity Board Member Sessions. No business will be conducted by the Board of Education at these events, and they are posted only as a matter of public information.

Read More About Notice of Board Quorum

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Recap of January 26 Board Meeting

01/27/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve the consulting agreement with RJ Harris and Associates in the amount of $37,300. The consultant will provide training and professional development to the Senior Leadership Team, Board of Education, and other educators in Waukegan aligned to the Superintendent's focus on Equity and Organizational Effectiveness. Topics include but are not limited to Cultural Awareness, Managing Bias and Inclusion, Leading vs Managing, Emotional intelligence, Communication styles/skills, Establishing trust, Conflict resolution, Relationship building, evolving role of board members, etc.

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Extending Remote Learning Through March 1

01/26/2021

Today we are announcing we will be extending remote instruction through at least Monday, March 1. This will allow us the time to further monitor COVID-19 metrics and infection rates, as well as allow for more individuals to be vaccinated. As we’ve stated previously, the transition into hybrid learning will not be made until we believe it is safe to do so, based on relevant metics, and the recommendations of health experts.

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Bus Stop Meal Distribution Canceled for January 26

01/25/2021

In anticipation of inclement weather, our District will be canceling its bus stop meal distribution tomorrow, January 26. The Brookside drive-thru will remain open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and normal distribution will resume Thursday, January 28.

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Notice of January 26 Board Meeting

01/24/2021

As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. In the event that meeting capacity is met, attendees may also watch the meeting live on the District's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/waukeganpublicschools.

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Answering Your Hybrid Plan Questions

01/20/2021

I want to thank all of you who joined us yesterday evening as we unveiled our Hybrid Re-entry Plan during the Board of Education committee meeting. It was wonderful to see so many people tune in for the important presentation. If you were not able to log in, you can view a recording of the meeting on our YouTube Channel. During the meeting, staff spent one hour presenting our Re-entry Plan, and then we spent nearly two hours answering important questions from parents and staff.

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Hybrid Re-entry Plan Presentation Tonight

01/19/2021

Since the initial closure of schools nearly 10 months ago, our District has been hard at work preparing for the eventual return to in-person instruction. A lot of work has gone into creating a plan which we believe will meet the unique needs of our staff, students and community. After careful planning and collaboration with our bargaining units and stakeholders, we are prepared to release additional details about what you can expect as we plan for eventual return of students into our buildings. Talks with our Unions are ongoing and we are still working through issues. We have been working together and we expect them to be resolved amicably.

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Notice of January 19 Board Committee Meetings

01/17/2021

The Board of Education will host its regularly-scheduled Student Achievement and Operation Services committee meetings on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Because of larger-than-normal anticipated attendance, individuals are encouraged to join the meeting via the District's YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/waukeganpublicschools.

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District Seeking Nominations for School Renamings

01/14/2021

The renaming committees for Daniel Webster Middle School and Thomas Jefferson Middle Schools are seeking nominations for potential new names for the two Waukegan schools.

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Spring In-Person Instruction Questionnaire

01/13/2021

Last week we announced that we are committed to remaining in a 100 percent Remote Learning environment through at least February 15. Planning has been long underway for the eventual return of students into our classrooms, however. An important part of this planning process is determining how many students we can expect in our buildings as we gradually transition from Remote Learning to Hybrid Learning, where students will engage in both in-person and remote learning.

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Recap of January 12 Board Meeting

01/13/2021

The Board of Education voted to approve the purchase of Crisis Go Self Certification Software to help facilitate daily COVID-19 screenings upon the return to hybrid instruction at an estimated cost of $10,875. The district will implement a self-screening, self-certification software to help facilitate daily COVID-19 screenings of staff, students, visitors, and contractors upon the return to hybrid instruction.

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Notice of January 11 & 12 Board Meetings

01/09/2021

A Special Board Meeting to conduct individual interviews with the finalists for the Student Board Member position will be held on Monday, January 11, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, January 12, 2021, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session.

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Meal Distribution Resumes January 7

01/06/2021

Waukegan Public Schools will resume its free meal distribution for students on the afternoon of Thursday, January 7. Thursday meal distribution will begin at 3 p.m. at 116 bus stops and at the Brookside Campus for drive-thru service.

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Remote Learning Extended to Mid-February

01/04/2021

Happy New Year to the entire Waukegan Public Schools community. It is my hope that you all had a wonderful holiday season, and you are enjoying the final days of Winter Break. Since the start of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we have made a promise to our families that we will share timely updates about our District’s plans. In that spirit, today I am writing to let you know that our District has made the decision to once again push back the start of Stage 2 of our reopening plan. We will remain in our 100 percent Remote Learning structure through at least the Presidents’ Day holiday on February 15.

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Winter Break Begins December 23

12/22/2020

Waukegan Public Schools will be on Winter Break beginning December 23. Winter Break will go through Tuesday, January 5. Wednesday, January 6 is Records Day, and will be a non-instructional day. Instruction will resume for students on Thursday, January 7. All District schools and offices will be closed to the public from December 23 through January 3.

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EPIC Program Launches 12 Days of Reading

12/21/2020

Waukegan Public School’s E.P.I.C preschool program is launching its new 12 Days of Reading event during the Winter Break. Beginning December 23, preschool families are encouraged to get into the holiday spirit by reading a different holiday-themed book for 12 consecutive days.

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Math U Virtual Family Workshop Tonight

12/17/2020

This evening our District will host its second Virtual Family Workshop. Tonight's virtual Math U workshop will begin at 5:30 p.m., and will be lead by District 60 Elementary Math Coordinator Matthew Foster.

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Modified Winter Break Meal Distribution

12/16/2020

Waukegan Public Schools will be modifying its meal distribution services in advance of Winter Break, in an effort to support students while the District is closed for the holidays. While no meal distribution events will be hosted on days the District is closed during break, nearly two weeks of meals will be made available on Tuesday, December 22.

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Notice of December 15 Board Committee Meetings

12/13/2020

The Board of Education will host its regularly-scheduled Student Achievement and Operation Services committee meetings on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, beginning at 6:00 p.m. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093.

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Equity Focus Groups Forming

12/11/2020

The Department of Equity and Inclusion for Waukegan Public Schools is seeking stakeholders to join one of its newly created Equity Focus Groups. These Focus Groups will work to gather opinions, ideas, and beliefs on equity from parents, students, staff and community members.

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Chromebook Monitoring Tool

12/09/2020

To promote the requirements of the Child Internet Protection Act and Board Policy 6043, District Chromebooks are already loaded with an application called Hapara. When students are using a District Chromebook to attend a class remotely or on-site, the teacher can use Hapara to monitor what students are doing on their screens. If, during class or after-school tutoring time, students are using an application or visiting a website that is not part of the lesson, the teacher will be able to use Hapara to close the inappropriate application or website.

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Recap of December 8 Board Meeting

12/09/2020

Special Recognitions and Presentations -The Board of Education recognized the late Rev. Arthur Gass with a Resolution of Honor in recognition of his service to the Waukegan community. -The Little Fort Lions Club gave a special presentation detailing some of the organization's work, and they also recognized Board Vice President Rick Riddle’s work with the organization.

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Virtual Parent Workshops Begin this Month

12/08/2020

Waukegan Public Schools is launching a new Virtual Parent Workshops Series this month through our Family and Community Engagement department aimed at strengthening at home learning.

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Middle of the Year (MOY) Assessment Update

12/08/2020

In a typical year, Waukegan Public Schools utilizes the NWEA MAP test to assess students in grades 3-8 in the areas of English Language Arts and Math three times during the course of a school year (fall, winter, and spring). This information is useful to inform classroom instruction and determine what students know at a given point in time as we progress through our curriculum.

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District Virtual Contractor Workshops This Week

12/07/2020

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60, in conjunction with architect Wold Architects and Engineers, will host two special virtual workshops this week aimed at educating local contractors on the process of working with school districts and other public agencies. The free virtual open houses and question and answer sessions will be held for all construction and mechanical contractors in the Waukegan and Lake County area.

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WHS Mission and Vision Survey

12/07/2020

Waukegan High School is working to update its vision and mission statements to reflect the thoughts and feelings of the community. With that in mind, the school is currently asking students, parents and staff to help shape its future vision by completing a brief Vision Statement Survey. Please complete this form to assist the school’s mission design team, and have your voice heard.

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Notice of December 8 Board Meeting

12/06/2020

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, December 8, 2020, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting.

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Notice of December 8 Board of Education Meeting

12/06/2020

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December 7 Remote Institute Day

12/05/2020

On Monday, December 7, our District will host another Remote Staff Institute Day. On this day staff will engage in professional development training, and students will not be expected to participate in learning activities. This is a non-attendance day for students.

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School Renaming Committees Seeking Members

12/04/2020

The Board of Education for Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 recently began the process to consider renaming of Thomas Jefferson Middle School and Daniel Webster Middle School. Board policy 1204, Naming of School Facilities, lays out a detailed process to be followed when the Board is asked to consider renaming a school.

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District to Host December Check-In Stream

12/02/2020

Join Superintendent Plascencia, and other District staff this Thursday for a December Check-in livestream Q&A on the District's YouTube Channel. English stream will begin at 5 p.m., and Spanish will follow at 5:30 p.m. They will discuss a number of topics related to school reopening plans, and resources for families. Join us here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm6QvVUTi-mbvhkGPkOYtGw

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Waukegan Equity Assessment Survey

12/01/2020

During the last several months we have wholeheartedly embraced the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion as a shared responsibility of every member of the community. As a school district, we understand the benefits of fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for learning. We seek to ensure that all aspects of school life — including curriculum, retention, hiring practices, and support for students, families, and employees — reflect our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and will be diligently assessed and actively supported.

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Student Board Member Application Deadline Dec. 6

11/30/2020

The deadline to apply for the open Student Board Member position is less than a week away. Qualified sophomores and juniors have until 11:59 p.m. on December 6 to apply to serve a 1-year term as a non-voting member on the Waukegan Public Schools Board of Education.

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Recap of the November 24 Board Meeting

11/25/2020

The Board of Education held a Public Hearing on the Proposed 2020 Tax Year Levy. Following the hearing the Board voted to adopt the proposed property tax levy for Tax Year 2020 with levies totaling $55,030,000, excluding the Bond and Interest Fund. The Truth in Taxation Act requires a taxing district to determine at least twenty (20) days prior to the adoption of the aggregate levy of the district amounts of taxes to be levied and where the levy exceeds the prior year extension by more than five (5) percent.

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Superintendent Thanksgiving Message 2020

11/24/2020

As we prepare to celebrate a Thanksgiving unlike any we have experienced before, I want to take a moment to let everyone know how much I appreciate what you’ve done for the children of Waukegan during the last 12 months. Your resilience, ingenuity, and patience amidst a global pandemic have been heartwarming, and I am grateful to be part of such a special community.

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Thanksgiving Week Food Distribution

11/23/2020

Waukegan Public Schools' free food distribution will be held only on Tuesday for the week of November 23, as a result of the Thanksgiving holiday. Meal distribution for Tuesday, November 24 will begin at its regularly-scheduled time of 8:30 a.m.

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Notice of November 24 Board Meeting

11/21/2020

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, November 24, 2020, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting.

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Schools Foundation Launches $60 for D60 Campaign

11/19/2020

The Waukegan Public Schools foundation this week launched its new $60 for D60 fundraising campaign to support the #WaukeganStrong scholarship. The $60 for 60 campaign encourages community members and local businesses to support Waukegan students by donating to the Schools Foundation.

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District to Host Virtual Contractor Workshops December 8 and 9

11/18/2020

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60, in conjunction with District architect Wold Architects and Engineers, will host two special virtual workshops aimed at educating local contractors on the process of working with school districts and other public agencies.

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Working Remotely to Keep Our Community Safe

11/17/2020

As a result of an alarming increase in COVID-19 cases and positivity rates, District 60 is taking steps to protect its employees by temporarily reducing the amount of staff working in our buildings. This is going to affect employees in all job classifications, and is being done to ensure we are taking the necessary steps to maintain the health and safety of our community. This change should not disrupt or change our ongoing Remote Learning schedules for students.

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District 60 Celebrates School Board Members Day

11/15/2020

Waukegan Community Unit School District No. 60 is joining school districts across Illinois in celebrating “School Board Members Day” this week. The annual event, which corresponds with National Education Week, celebrates and thanks the elected leaders who volunteer their time to serve the students, taxpayers and employees of the communities they serve. Board Members Day is celebrated annually on November 15.

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2020 Student Board Member Applications

11/14/2020

The Waukegan Community Unit District #60 Board of Education is looking for current WHS sophomores and juniors to apply for its soon-to-be open Student Board Member position for 2021.

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Notice of November 17 Board Committee Meetings

11/14/2020

The Board of Education will host its regularly-scheduled Student Achievement and Operation Services committee meetings on Tuesday, November 17, 2020, beginning at 6:00 p.m. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093.

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District Awarded COVID Grant from UWLC

11/13/2020

District 60 was recently announced as one of nine Lake County organizations to be awarded United Way of Lake County’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund grant.

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Recap of November 10 Board of Education Meeting

11/13/2020

Note: The November 10 meeting went into recess on 11/10/2020 and was completed on 11/12/2020. Special Presentations Representatives from the Waukegan Historical Society gave a presentation regarding the potential historical marker recognizing the desegregation at Whittier Elementary School.

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Remote Learning Extended Through Mid-January

11/12/2020

I am reaching out today with an important announcement about our transition plan. When schools closed in March, I don’t think many of us envisioned that this pandemic would continue to grip us, and alter our lives the way it has. These last several months haven’t been easy, and we all have faced challenges and struggles. As a District, we must continue to do what’s best for our community, which right now, is to ensure everyone remains safe. Therefore, a decision has been made to extend Stage 1 of our reopening plan until at least January 19, 2021. This means that there will be no in person instruction until at least then.

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Board of Education in Recess Until November 12

11/10/2020

During the Open Session portion of the November 10 Regular Board Meeting, a higher-than-expected number of individuals attempted to join the virtual meeting. As a result of more than 250 individuals joining, the meeting room reached its limit, and no Board business was conducted. The Board is officially in recess and will reconvene at 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 12. The November 12 meeting will be conducted remotely via GoToWebinar. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8302003693906067470

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Notice of November 10 Board Meeting

11/08/2020

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2020, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, 5 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. There is also an option to dial in using your phone by calling (571) 317-3129. When prompted, enter the access code: 423-225-093.

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District 60 Recognized for Financial Report

11/06/2020

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 was recently recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) with the prestigious “Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting” (CAFR), for its comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year ending in June 2019.

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2021 AP Exam Registration

10/30/2020

Advanced Placement (AP) courses offer students rigorous, college-level curriculum as well as an opportunity to earn college credit through AP exam performance*. Waukegan High School strongly encourages all students to complete the AP experience by taking their AP exams in May 2021. To further support our AP students, Waukegan Public Schools will continue to fund the $95 exam fee in full for students currently enrolled in AP course(s) and who have ordered exam(s).

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ISBE Recognizes 4 District 60 Employees

10/28/2020

Four Waukegan Public Schools employees were recently recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education during its annual “Those Who Excel” awards. The “Those Who Excel” awards recognize educators and volunteers from across Illinois who are doing exemplary work for students.

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Recap of October 27 Board Meeting

10/28/2020

The Board of Education voted to approve the purchase of 11,300 Dell Chromebooks/Carrying Cases/Plastic Clam Shells and licenses. This purchase is needed to upgrade outdated devices and these Chromebooks will be used to support the Remote Learning Strategy and 1:1 Chromebook initiative from PreK-12 grades. The cost for 11,300 Chromebooks is $4,442,238.

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Parent ESL Classes Begin Next Month

10/27/2020

Waukegan Public Schools’ Bilingual And Multicultural Department will begin its newest English as a Second Language For Parents (ESL) classes on Monday, November 2. These English classes are free for all Waukegan parents, and will be held virtually every Monday and Wednesday.

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Notice of October 27 Board Meeting

10/24/2020

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. There is also an option to dial in using your phone by calling (571) 317-3129. When prompted, enter the access code: 423-225-093.

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Parent-Teacher Conferences This Week

10/20/2020

A reminder that tomorrow, October 21, and Thursday, October 22, all WPS schools will host virtual Parent-Teacher Conferences for the 2020-21 school year. Conferences will be held from approximately 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. both evenings.

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In-Person Survey Deadline Approaching

10/20/2020

The survey will allow us to record whether a parent plans to send their child back to in-person instruction if Stages 2 or 3 begins during the first semester, or if parents prefer to keep their child remote through the end of the calendar year. Each child’s school will keep a record of this information, and it will help us as we prepare schools, classrooms and buses for the return of students.

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Notice of October 20 Board Committee Meeting

10/18/2020

The Board of Education will host its regularly-scheduled Student Achievement and Operation Services committee meetings on Tuesday, October 20, 2020, beginning at 6:00 p.m. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093.

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Extending Stage 1 Through November

10/16/2020

Several months ago we made a promise to our families that we would keep you updated on our reopening plans. After carefully reviewing local COVID-19 metrics, we have made a decision to again extend Stage 1 of our reopening plan. Our schools will remain in a remote learning structure until at least the end of November.

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October 27 SAT Registration

10/16/2020

With parent/guardian permission, Seniors will register using the link: Senior SAT Registration Form. Students must be logged in their WHS school account to access the registration form. SAT® registration will close by end-of-day October 19, 2020. This is the final registration for the SAT test in October - no registration extensions will be provided.

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Introducing 'Academia60 Para Padres'

10/15/2020

Welcome to a new and exciting school year for parent engagement! We spent several months summer reading over emails, feedback, and survey responses from our parents attending the BPAC meetings and events. As a result, we have worked hard to bring parents a meaningful parent program. In past years, the STEPS program brought ESL parents educational opportunities, and this year we will be significantly expanding our offerings.

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Health Requirements Update

10/14/2020

This week the Illinois State Board of Education announced that students who are not in compliance with the State’s mandatory child-health related requirements for school attendance may continue to participate in remote instruction.

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Portrait of a Graduate Survey

10/13/2020

Waukegan Public Schools is working to develop a College and Career Readiness Strategic Plan. As part of this plan we are creating a picture of the key skills and attributes that all Waukegan graduates need for success. This "Portrait of a Graduate" will be developed with input from all stakeholders, including students, parents, teachers/staff, and community members.

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Recap of October 13 Board Meeting

10/13/2020

Special Recognition and Presentation -The Board of Education recognized McCall Elementary School on its recent designation as a 2020 Blue Ribbon School. Staff from McCall gave a presentation about the designation and some of its programs.

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Notice of October 13 Board Meeting

10/10/2020

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, September 13, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. for Open Session, 5 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. There is also an option to dial in using your phone by calling (571) 317-3129. When prompted, enter the access code: 423-225-093.

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Return to In-Person Instruction Survey

10/07/2020

As we wind down our first quarter of Remote Learning, our District is continuing to ramp up its preparations for students’ gradual transition back into in-person instruction. As we stated last week, our District is committed to remaining in a 100 percent Remote Learning environment through at least the end of this month. We must continue to plan for the future, however.

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District 60 Recognized for Communication Efforts

10/07/2020

Waukegan Community Unit School District # 60 was recently recognized with eight communication awards in the Illinois Chapter of the National School Public Relations Association's annual communications contest.

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Parent-Teacher Conferences On October 21, 22

10/05/2020

Waukegan Public Schools’ Parent-Teacher Conferences will take place on October 21 and 22. Conferences will be held from approximately 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. each evening. This year’s conferences will be hosted virtually.

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Oct. 5 Remote Learning Informational Livestream

10/05/2020

District 60 staff will present information on important Remote Learning topics during an October 5 livestream. The English broadcast will begin at 4:30 p.m., and the Spanish broadcast will follow at 5 p.m. Topics covered will include the extension of Remote Learning, planning for in-person instruction, distribution of technology, and more. Parents can tune in on the District's Facebook or YouTube channels.

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Remote Learning Extended Through End of October

10/02/2020

As the calendar changes into October, and with the end of our first grading quarter approaching, we would like to provide an important update regarding our reopening plans. Last month, we announced our decision to remain in Stage 1 with a 100 percent Remote Learning structure, through at least October 16. As that date approaches, we have made the decision to extend Stage 1 through the end of this month.

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Deadline to Register for Oct. SAT Dates Extended

10/01/2020

All State assessments, including the SAT®, were suspended last spring due to COVID 19. Waukegan Public Schools is providing Seniors with the opportunity to fulfill their graduation requirement by taking the State-sponsored SAT® on October 14 or October 27, 2020. The SAT® registration deadline has been extended to October 4, 2020. Students will be excused from their regularly scheduled remote learning classes on test dates to take advantage of this important opportunity.

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Hispanic Heritage Month Virtual Celebration

09/30/2020

As part our District's monthlong celebration of Hispanic culture, we will be hosting a Hispanic Heritage Month Virtual Celebration on Thursday, October 15 at 6 p.m.

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Recap of September 28 Special Board Meeting

09/29/2020

The Board of Education voted to approve the use of the emergency purchasing authority exception to the competitive bidding requirements [105 ILCS 5/10-20.21(a)(xiv)] in connection with Cristo Rey’s proposed use of ESSER grant funds under the CARES Act. Private schools are entitled to a proportionate share of funds provided to local educational authorities (LEAs) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Act (ESSER). Cristo Rey, 3106 Belvidere Road, is entitled to such funds, which are managed by Waukegan Public Schools, as the LEA. In turn, ISBE requires that the local LEA use public purchasing procedures to secure the supplies identified by the private school grant recipient. The District's Purchasing, Grant and Construction Managers will continue to work with Cristo Rey representatives to support the project utilizing the purchasing methodology authorized by the Board.

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Show Us How You Celebrate Hispanic Culture

09/29/2020

Join in on this year's celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month by showing us how you and your family celebrate. From now until October 7, our District is asking families to submit photos and videos of any traditional celebrations, food, attire and more to be included in this year's Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration tribute video. Submissions can be sent to cfabian@wps60.org along with the family and/or student name, school, and the country you are representing. Video submissions must be 30 seconds or less.

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October 3 Drive-thru Book Giveaway

09/28/2020

Waukegan Public Schools will host a drive-thru book giveaway for elementary and middle school students on Saturday, October 3. The event will take place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Lincoln Center, 1201 N. Sheridan Road.

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Board of Education in Recess Until Sept. 29

09/28/2020

During the closed session portion of the September 28 Special Board Meeting, a power outage caused some members of the Board to disconnect. Due to technical difficulties, the Board is in recess and will reconvene at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29. No formal action will be taken during the meeting. The Board will complete its Closed Session discussion regarding the Superintendent's Goals on September 29.

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Notice of September 28 Special Board Meeting

09/26/2020

A Special Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Monday, September 28, 2020, at 5:45 p.m. for Open and Closed sessions. The Board will begin with an Open session at 5:45 p.m., before going into the Closed session at 6 p.m. to discuss the Superintendent's goals for the upcoming year. No action will be taken in the closed session.

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McCall Named 2020 National Blue Ribbon School

09/24/2020

Waukegan’s H.R. McCall Elementary School was named today as a 2020 recipient of the National Blue Ribbon Schools award. McCall is one of just 367 schools across the United States to be awarded the prestigious award from the U.S. Department of Education.

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Fall SAT Information for WHS Seniors

09/23/2020

As a result of all regular State assessments, including the SAT, being suspended last spring due to COVID 19, Waukegan Public Schools will provide Seniors the opportunity to fulfill their graduation requirement by taking the State-sponsored SAT® on October 14 or October 27. Students will be excused from their regularly scheduled remote learning classes on test dates to take advantage of this important opportunity.

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Recap of September 22 Board Meeting

09/23/2020

Special Recognitions and Presentations -The Board of Education read a resolution of honor in recognition of the life and service of Mr. Wayne Machnich. Mr. Machnich -Representatives from Bravo Waukegan detailed some of the organization’s recent projects including a new online music library.

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School Resource Officer Survey Results

09/23/2020

Following public discussions about the future of School Resource Officers in Waukegan Public Schools, a survey was created to gather feedback from Waukegan High School parents, students and staff. Surveys were conducted between August 31 and September 14, and more than 1,300 individuals responded to the surveys. You can find survey results in English and Spanish here.

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Election Packets for 2021 BOE Candidates

09/22/2020

Nominating petition packets for the April 6, 2021, consolidated election for the Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 Board of Education are available through the Office of the County Clerk.

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District Awarded Digital Equity Formula Grant

09/21/2020

Waukegan Public Schools is one of several hundred school districts across the state to be awarded additional funds to help close the digital divide among students through the State's Digital Equity Formula Grant.

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Notice of 9/21 Special Meeting & 9/22 Board Meeting

09/19/2020

The Board of Education will host a Special Meeting to discuss the Superintendent's goals for the upcoming year on Monday, September 21, at 6:00 p.m. primarily in Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. No action will be taken during open session. A regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session.

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Professional Learning Days Schedule 2020/2021

09/14/2020

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Notice of 9/14 Meeting & 9/15 Committee Meetings

09/12/2020

The Board of Education will host a Special Meeting to discuss the Superintendent's goals for the upcoming year on Monday, September 14, 2020, at 6:00 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. No action will be taken during open session.

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New Fresh Fruit & Veggies Meal Distribution

09/10/2020

Students across the District will have an opportunity to experience new fruit and vegetable options, thanks to the Illinois State Board of Education’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP).

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Recap of September 8 Board Meeting

09/09/2020

The Board of Education held a public hearing concerning the 2020/21 budget. Following the hearing, the Board voted to approve the $278,335,193 Budget.

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Notice for Sept. 8 and Sept. 9 Board Meetings

09/06/2020

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session.

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Extending Remote Learning Through Oct. 16

09/04/2020

As we wrap up our third week of Remote Learning, and prepare to head into the Labor Day weekend, we would like to provide the community with an update on our reopening plan in hopes that it will provide some clarity for the upcoming weeks.

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Birth-to-Three's Baby Talk Screenings

09/02/2020

Our District’s Birth-to-Three program is currently accepting children under 3-years-old to participate in its Baby Talk Virtual Home Visits.

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District 60 Adds Afternoon Food Distribution Times

08/31/2020

In an effort to maximize accessibility for families, Waukegan Public School is altering its free food distribution schedule. Beginning September 3, Thursday meal distribution will now take place between 3:30 p.m. and 5:40 p.m. Tuesday distribution will continue to be hosted in the morning between 8:30 a.m. and 10:40 a.m.

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Student Tech Support Hours Expanded

08/28/2020

Our IT department has added additional technical support sessions to assist students with their District issued Chromebooks. For the next two weeks, the Washington Campus Tech Depot is now scheduling tech support appointments for students on Saturdays, as well as expanding its hours on Mondays and Wednesdays. Tech support hours may shift again at the conclusion of the two weeks, depending on the needs of our students.

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Recap of August 25 Board Meeting

08/26/2020

Action Items -The Board of Education voted to approve the amendments to Board Policy 1204, Naming of School Facilities.

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Material Pick-Up Events Planned for Aug. 27, 28

08/25/2020

As we continue through our second week of our new Remote Learning structure, we have important information for families regarding physical learning materials. This week Waukegan Schools will host learning material pick up events for PreK-8 students on Thursday, August 27 and Friday, August 28.

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Notice of Aug. 26 Board SRO Workshop

08/24/2020

A special SRO Workshop with the Board of Education will be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2020, at 6:00 p.m. in Open Session. The Workshop is an opportunity for the Board and the Waukegan Police Department to have a facilitated discussion about the function of School Resource Officers.

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Fall Sports Spectator Update

08/24/2020

Fall sports' competitions begin this week, and will unfortunately look a little different than previous years. To help ensure the safety of our student athletes and their supporters, the decision has been made to not allow spectators to attend District athletic events until further notice. We realize this news is disappointing for our families and athletes, and thank everyone for their understanding during this time.

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Notice of August 25 Board Meeting

08/23/2020

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. for Open Session, 5:30 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. There is also an option to dial in using your phone by calling (571) 317-3129. When prompted, enter the access code: 423-225-093.

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Student Registration Help

08/20/2020

Registration for new students to attend Waukegan Public Schools can be done remotely on the district's Student Registration page.

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WPS School Drive-up WiFi Service Information

08/18/2020

With the first week of school no underway, we'd like to remind everyone of our drive-up WiFi service available at several of our school parking lots. We understand many individuals may lack reliable high speed internet at home, and this service will allow all students and staff to visit any of the schools listed below to connect to the WiFi from your vehicles.

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Working Together for Remote Learning

08/17/2020

As we wind down our first day of instruction for the 2020-2021 school year, I want to thank all of our parents and staff for your commitment to educating yourselves on this new Remote Learning structure, as well as ensuring your children and students are prepared to participate in online lessons.

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Notice of August 18 BOE Committee Meetings

08/15/2020

The Board of Education will host its regularly-scheduled Student Achievement and Operation Services committee meetings on Tuesday, August 18, 2020, beginning at 6:00 p.m. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. There is also an option to dial in using your phone by calling (571) 317-3129. When prompted, enter the access code: 423-225-093.

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Preparing for the First Day of Instruction

08/14/2020

In three days we will officially begin the 2020-2021 school year. It seems like it was just yesterday that we were wrapping up an unprecedented academic year, and now we’re preparing to begin what is sure to be another extraordinary year of teaching and learning.

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Details on Remote Learning Plan for Fall 2020

08/12/2020

With classes beginning on August 17, we are excited to present additional details about our Remote Learning plan for Fall 2020. Below are links to the English and Spanish versions of our Remote Learning handbook.

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Recap of August 11 Board Meeting

08/12/2020

Action Items -The Board of Education voted to approve the purchase of two new Duplo Printer machines, Stands, Document Feeders and supplies for the Brookside Printshop. The estimated cost including shipping is $36,504.

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WPS Distributes its Millionth Meal

08/11/2020

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 today surpassed one million meals distributed to students since the initial closing of schools in March. As of Tuesday, August 11, 1,011,627 meals have been distributed to students during these twice-a-week food giveaways.

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Schedules and Teacher Assignment Information

08/10/2020

Students and parents should be receiving information about schedules and teacher assignments for the 2020-2021 school year. Below is information on how parents can access information for their children. Kindergarten- 5th Grade Letters were sent home last week to families with their child’s teacher name/info. Class rosters are being finalized early this week. Parents with questions are asked to contact their child’s school. Grades 6-12 Student schedules are viewable in Infinite Campus through the Parent or Student Portal under the “Documents” section. Counselors can make adjustments if students or parents request changes.

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Notice of August 11 Board Meeting

08/09/2020

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. for Open Session, 6 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. There is also an option to dial in using your phone by calling (571) 317-3129. When prompted, enter the access code: 423-225-093.

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Returning Student Registration Information

08/07/2020

Returning students registration for the 2020-2021 school year is again open for students who did not pre-register in the Spring. For most students, the registration process entails only confirming or updating contact information. Parents can do so by calling or emailing their child’s school using the contacts below.

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Recap of August 4 Special Meeting

08/05/2020

The Board of Education voted to approve the purchase of 500 Hotspots from T-Mobile with a one-year agreement. These hotspots will be assigned to those students that do not have access to a WiFi internet connection. The cost for 500 hotspots is $120,000.00 for one year of service.

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EPIC Preschool Now Enrolling

08/03/2020

Waukegan Community Unit #60 is currently enrolling three- to five-year-old children in its EPIC preschool program. Funded in part by the Illinois Board of Education Preschool For All Early Childhood Block Grant, enrollment into preschool classes are free for all Waukegan families meeting the program’s qualifications. Eligible children must live within District 60 boundaries, be three years old at the time of screening, and turn five after September 1

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Notice of Aug. 4 Special Meeting & Budget Workshop

08/01/2020

A Special Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, August 4, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. for Open Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the community, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted remotely via GoToMeeting.

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Fall Plan Q&A Information Videos

07/28/2020

On July 27 Waukegan Public Schools hosted two video information sessions to answer stakeholder questions about its Fall 2020 Plan. During the broadcasts staff gave overviews of the plan, and took questions from viewers. Links to the videos can be found here:

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Waukegan Public Schools Fall 2020 Plan

07/24/2020

Beginning next month we will be instituting a Four Stage plan which gradually resumes in-person instruction based upon health metrics and sensibility. Stage 1 begins on August 17, with all students in grades PreK-12 enrolled in remote instruction.

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Recap of Special July 23 Board Meeting

07/24/2020

Special Presentations Staff gave an overview presentation of the District’s Fall 2020 plan. Additional details can be found here.

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Notice of July 23 Special Board Meeting

07/21/2020

A Special Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. for Open Session, 5:30 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted remotely via GoToWebinar. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5387807495607969291

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WHS Summer Sports Camps Begin Next Week

07/16/2020

Waukegan High School’s 2020 athletic summer camps will begin next week. Student athletes are asked to report to the first day of camp to sign up.

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New Student Registration Available Online

07/14/2020

New student registration for grades K-12 is open for the 2020-2021 school year. The registration is for any families new to Waukegan Public Schools. As a result of the ongoing COVID pandemic, parents are asked to register their children online. Registration forms can be found here.

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Kindergarten Readiness Material Distribution

07/14/2020

The United Way of Lake County will distribute materials for its Kindergarten Readiness program beginning this week. The free materials are available for Waukegan children who will be entering kindergarten this fall. Distribution information is below:

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Waukegan Schools Foundation’s Backpack Fundraiser

07/07/2020

The Waukegan Public Schools Foundation is currently accepting donations for its annual Backpack Fundraiser to help purchase school supplies for District 60 students.

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What Do We Need to Consider for Fall 2020?

07/01/2020

As we continue to plan and prepare for the fall, feedback from our stakeholders is very important to us. Last month we received a fantastic response to our surveys about the reopening of schools, and that information has aided us as we formulate a plan.

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Summer School Material Distribution July 1 & 2

06/30/2020

Summer school learning material distribution events for students in grades PreK-8 are planned for Wednesday, July 1 and Thursday, July 2, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Miguel Juarez Middle School, 201 N Butrick Street.

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Fall Planning Video Broadcasts Begin This Week

06/29/2020

Waukegan Public Schools will begin a series of live broadcasts this week to discuss the fall planning process. During the broadcasts staff will share information from surveys and focus groups, and will discuss the next steps in our planning process. Participants will also have an opportunity to ask questions.

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Notice of Special Board Meeting and Workshop

06/27/2020

A Special Meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2020, at 5:45 p.m. for Open Session, 5:00 p.m. for Closed Session. As a result of persistent public health concerns in the 60085 zip code area, and on the advice of medical personnel, the meeting will be conducted entirely remotely via GoToMeeting. Members of the public can join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone by visiting https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/423225093. There is also an option to dial in using your phone by calling (571) 317-3129. When prompted, enter the access code: 423-225-093.

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Final Summer School Material Distribution Event

06/25/2020

The final summer school learning material distribution event for students in grades PreK-8 will be held on Friday, June 26, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Miguel Juarez Middle School, 201 N Butrick Street. Families that can not make the event and need to pick up Summer School materials are asked to fill out a Delivery Request Form and items will be delivered next week.

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Fall Planning Update

06/24/2020

In recent weeks, our staff has been hard at work making plans for the 2020-2021 school year. With the scheduled start of the year less than two months away, we want to provide an update on our planning, as well as how the school year will be impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic.

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