Thanks to all who could come out on a 10ºF night for the first official Foster School family gathering on February 19. We had just enough tables, chairs, pizza, tamales, cookies, and smiles for our 120 guests — though we will make sure to bring twice as much lemonade next time!

Future students and parents/caregivers had the opportunity to cast their votes for the design of the Phoenix mascot and school colors! Votes were tallied and the maroon and gold phoenix was the choice for the school mascot and the colors.

We are now moving into the hiring process for the future Foster School principal, who is expected to start on July 1st of this year.

In addition to District leadership and educators, six community parents/caregivers and three staff members will be selected from those who completed the survey to participate in the formal process. Thanks to everyone who took the time to complete the survey to let us know what is important to look for in selecting the new principal.

On March 11, large trucks will be delivering precast wall panels to the Foster School construction site. Residents can expect minor parking adjustments as a few spaces on Ashland between Foster and Simpson will be closed. This change, previously approved, will primarily affect residents on the east side of Ashland street.

A steady flow of construction deliveries is expected through May, which may impact local traffic. Trucking routes will follow City of Evanston approved plans and IDOT guidelines. Residents are encouraged to avoid driving on Ashland between Foster and Simpson when possible to prevent delays.

If you need to address an issue related to the ongoing construction of the school building at or near the site, access the City of Evanston's 311 center for the most immediate response.

Crews are prepping the basin for the storm trap that will be under the school playfield.

A special concrete foundation is created for the future elevator shaft.

Underground piping is being installed through the foundation of the school before the flooring and walls are added.

The first official walls constructed for the school provide the base for the future stage in the school's cafetorium.

• Be on the look-out for future invites to attend update meetings on the progress of the Foster School Transition Committee, the principal selection, and our next future family gathering.
• Follow construction updates as they are presented to the District 65 Board of Education on the Foster School webpage.

Evanston/Skokie School District 65 is thrilled to return a neighborhood school to the Fifth Ward community. Our new school, with the capacity to serve 600 students in kindergarten through fifth grade, is scheduled to open in fall 2026.

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