By July, District 65 will have reduced nearly $20 million from the annual budget in two years, but more work remains. For several years, district leaders and board members have discussed in public meetings the potential need for school closures or consolidations. This is in response to an aging population within our community, declining student enrollment, underutilized buildings, and dated facilities. 

While this process will surely be difficult, it represents an opportunity to reimagine and reinvest for the future of public education in Evanston/Skokie. No decisions have been made regarding additional school closure/consolidations. The District is in the early stages of planning, including developing potential criteria. See more information

The goal is to engage parents, caregivers, staff, students, and community members in a transparent process with clear criteria. Decisions must be made with integrity and rooted in data and community voice.

As such, District 65 invites you to attend an upcoming community conversation:

• April 10, 6:30-8 p.m. at Chute Middle School (1400 Oakton St.)
• April 11, 9:30-11 a.m. at Fleetwood Jourdain Community Center (1655 Foster St.)
• April 15, 6:30-8 p.m. at Nichols Middle School (800 Greenleaf St.)

Spanish interpretation will be provided. Can’t attend in person? Share your thoughts virtually by 11:59 p.m. April 15, 2025.

The March Madness tournament extended beyond the NCAA this year as two Washington Elementary classes held their own bracket challenge!

In honor of Women’s History Month, second graders in Monica Gutierrez and Karolina Salaiza’s classes explored female change-makers throughout history with a “book bracket.” Students read biographies featuring women like Ruby Bridges, Jane Goodall, Ellen Ochoa, and more.

The classes voted separately, ultimately picking Malala Yousafzai and Frida Kahlo as this year’s champions.

“Through these inspiring stories, students are exploring character traits, making inferences, and providing evidence to support their ideas,” Ms. Gutierrez said. “It’s been an exciting way to strengthen our literacy skills while learning about remarkable women who have changed the world!"

Foundation 65’s annual “Honor a Teacher” campaign is back! District 65 educators consistently go the extra mile to support and encourage our students; thank you for helping our students thrive! Any size donation to Foundation 65 between now and May 2 allows you to send a personalized note to the educators who have positively impacted your life. Learn more: www.foundation65.org/honor-a-teacher

Before spring break, Amy Hudson-Meier’s students got a special presentation from their peers. Walker Elementary students Abeera, Aafiya, and Areeba shared their Ramadan experiences and explained what the month of fasting means to them.

“I reflect on my life and how I can become a better version of me," Abeera said.

District 65 provides support and flexibility for students and staff who observe Ramadan, including during lunch and physical education. Eid Mubarak to our families, staff, and community members who celebrate!

Please join us in congratulating Ann Riemenschneider, who was recently appointed the next principal of Chute Middle School! Ms. Riemenschneider has been a key part of the Chute community since she began teaching language arts and math at Chute in 1994.

Throughout her three decades at Chute, including the last 16 as Assistant Principal, and in the extensive interview process, it was clear that Ms. Riemenschneider is dedicated to uplifting students, staff, and families to create an inclusive and responsive learning environment for all.

Principal Jim McHolland is retiring at the end of this school year after 26 years of dedication to the Chute community. We wish him the best and are more than confident that the Chute community is in good hands with incoming Principal Riemenschneider!