August 5, 2026

Project Backpack & Back 2 the Books

Over the weekend, ROE staff attended Project Backpack at Elgin Community College and Back 2 the Books in West Aurora School District 129. These two events provided backpacks filled with school supplies to students across Kane County, helping them start the school year strong. Families were also able to connect with community partners offering resources and support for the year ahead. The ROE is honored to be a sponsor of both events!

ROE staff had a great time at the Kane County Sheriff's Office for National Night Out! This annual nationwide event brings families, neighbors, and local organizations together to build community and strengthen crime prevention through personal connections with local law enforcement.

It was a wonderful evening of connecting with the community, and we were grateful to be part of it!

Professional Learning in East Aurora and St. Charles

Our Professional Learning team has been busy leading workshops in our districts!

Instructional Coach Elsa Glover's workshop in East Aurora focused on how proactive classroom structures and in-the-moment teaching moves can support student behavior, thinking, and engagement.

Participants deepened their understanding of how trauma shapes student behavior and discovered actionable strategies to create safe, predictable environments, build strong relationships, and respond in ways that promote reflection and accountability.

In St. Charles, Assistant Regional Superintendent Katie Algrim led Administrator Academy 3670: Leading with Collective Efficacy: How to Empower Your Schools to Thrive

This workshop had administrators unpack the difference between personal and collective efficacy, analyze the enabling conditions that help staff thrive together, and work through school-based challenges from multiple perspectives.

Professional Learning Coordinator Jenny Clark led a powerful workshop in East Aurora on student well-being.

The session explored how structured circles and calming corners can transform classrooms—giving students safe spaces to manage stress, build resilience, and return to learning ready to succeed.

In East Aurora, Professional Learning Supervisor Jordan Eggleson's two-day workshop focused on restorative approaches grounded in the International Institute for Restorative Practices framework.

Participants learned to use affective statements and questions, facilitate restorative circles, and apply restorative conferences to address behavioral incidents.

The 2026 Kane County Student Photography Contest is starting soon!

Running from August 31 to November 2, this annual ten-week competition celebrates the creative talents of our high school students. Last year, we received over 2,700 submissions, and we can’t wait to see what participants capture this year!

Kane County high school art teachers from public, private, and homeschool settings are encouraged to sign up their class!

Visit our website for full details, including weekly themes and how to register.

Exciting news! Branching Out is starting back up on September 3!

In the meantime, browse our playlist filled with engaging instructional strategies that can be implemented in any classroom.

ON-DEMAND ACADEMY

ON-DEMAND COURSE

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