September 2026

Dear Lake County Community,

As we settle into a new school year, there is already a great deal of energy across Lake County. Classrooms are busy, students are getting into routines, and educators and school staff are working each day to create meaningful opportunities for learning and growth.

The beginning of a school year brings new goals, new challenges, and plenty of opportunities to make a difference. It is also a reminder of the importance of working together. Strong schools are built through collaboration - with educators, families, community partners, and organizations all playing an important role in helping students succeed.

At the Lake County Regional Office of Education, we are excited about the year ahead and the many opportunities to connect our schools and communities. One event we are especially looking forward to is Navig8 Lake, which will bring together students, educators, and community partners to help young people explore career possibilities and begin thinking about their futures. Events like Navig8 are a great example of what can happen when our schools and communities come together to invest in our students.

As we move into the fall, I encourage you to take a moment to celebrate the progress already being made and the many possibilities still ahead. Thank you for the work you do each day to support our schools and the students we serve. I look forward to all we will accomplish together this school year.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael Karner

Regional Superintendent of Schools

Lake County, Illinois

In Case You Missed It…

Our Mid-Year Magazine is packed with stories celebrating the people, programs, and partnerships making a difference in Lake County education. Take a look—you may find something you missed!

Help Shape the Future Workforce! 

Businesses Wanted for Career Navig8 Lake County

What if you could give a student a glimpse of their future career in just a few minutes?

On October 20, 2026, Career Navig8 Lake County will bring 8th graders and select high school students from across Lake County to the Lake County Fairgrounds for an immersive, hands-on career exploration experience.

We’re looking for businesses and community partners to showcase their industries through interactive activities that let students see it, try it, and imagine themselves doing it.



Your business could be the spark that inspires a student’s future. Join us and help the next generation discover what’s possible right here in Lake County!

Register your business to participate in Career Navig8 2026.

Enrollment in the Scripps National Spelling Bee program for the 2026-2027 school year is now open.

Enroll your elementary or middle school for $199 until November 30 and receive everything to start your students on a spelling bee journey!

enroll today

RSSP Starts the School Year Strong!

The Regional Safe School Program (RSSP), led by Principal Andrew Carlson, is off to a great start for the 2026–27 school year! Students are back, focused on their goals, and making progress toward graduation and their next steps. The RSSP team is also excited to welcome two new staff members: Nolan Pemstein, our new social studies teacher, and Felicia Dalton, our new Social Worker leading Social Emotional Learning. The BASE (Behavioral, Academic, Social and Emotional) Learning Program is also up and running, offering students additional support and a positive path forward. The team is looking forward to a successful year of helping students build confidence, reach their goals, and thrive!

IVSA Starts the 2026–27 School Year with New Opportunities

Illinois Virtual Schools & Academy (IVSA) is kicking off the 2026–27 school year with its theme, “Mindset Matters,” encouraging students to stay curious, keep growing, and believe in what’s possible. IVSA has welcomed 12 new partner schools and now offers more than 400 courses, including core subjects, electives, world languages, CTE, AP, honors, and credit recovery options. The new school year also brings the launch of Next Chapter, a new credit recovery program, expanded teacher-shortage solutions, and a growing network of schools using virtual learning blocks to expand course opportunities for students. Registration is currently open for upcoming cohorts and the September Full-Time Academy.

IVSA Course Catalog

IVSA offers over 400 courses in our Fall Program. Do you need Consumer Economics, Health, PE, World Languages or an Elective? What about taking Photography, Geometry, Digital Media, Forensics, or get credit for working this fall with our Workplace Experience course.

IVSA COURSE CATALOG

IVSA Gives Back



IVSA students partnered with Renew Communities to help build two new homes in North Chicago - giving back to a neighborhood many of our students call home.

Looking for a rewarding career in education? Explore current job opportunities across Lake County schools and districts. From teaching and support staff positions to administrative roles, there are many ways to make a difference in the lives of students. View available openings and learn more through the Lake County education job board.



Scholarships Available at Loyola University Chicago for Lake County Residents

MSW Scholarship Program: Students residing in Lake County are eligible for needs-based scholarships of $3,500-$10,000 based on the program. These are available to students admitted into any Loyola MSW program, including advanced standing programs, online programs (full and part-time), and the online bilingual program. Students commit to working in Northern Lake County following graduation. Loyola is unique in offering a needs-based scholarship program for the MSW, and our online bilingual program is also unique. LINK

Administrator Academy

AA #1448 Teacher Evaluator Competency Skill Building for Pre-Qualified Teacher Evaluators

October 5, 2026

Via Zoom Link

AA#4114 Using Student Growth Data from Diverse Populations in Teacher Performance Evaluation

October 19, 2026

Via Zoom Link

Professional Development

Coaches Network 2026/2027

Lake County ROE - Lake Forest Office

Meeting Dates: September 8, 2026; November 10, 2026; January 12, 2027; March 9, 2027 {Register}

Registration Is Open

Registration for the 2026 Raising Student Achievement Conference (RSAC) is officially open! Join hundreds of Illinois educators at the Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center on December 7–8 for two full days of professional learning.

Use code EARLYBIRD! for $50 off.

Register: https://rsac2026.sched.com/

2026 RENEWAL CLOSED AUGUST 31st

If you failed to renew your license by August 31, you are not eligible to work in the Illinois public schools until you bring your license up to date. Contact licensure department for assistance to reinstate.  licensure@lake.12.il.us 

Do you know an educator making a difference in their school community?

Nominations are now open for Classroom Legends powered by CDW, recognizing exceptional Chicagoland educators who go above and beyond for their students, schools and communities.

Selected educators receive a $1,000 grant to support their classroom or school, Bears prizes and recognition at a Bears home game. 🐻💙

“Educators do so much work behind the scenes without expecting recognition. I would strongly encourage people to nominate educators who are making meaningful contributions to their schools and communities.” — Harold Arnold, 2025 Classroom Legends recipient and teacher at Sherman School of Excellence in Chicago.

Nominate an exceptional educator you know here: LINK