|
Dear Rondout Families, Faculty and Friends,
As we end this week, our hearts are heavy with the news of the recent shootings that have taken place in our nation. We extend our deepest thoughts, sympathy, and support to all those impacted by these violent acts. These events remind us of the importance of fostering safe and nurturing environments for our children and of continuing to work together to create a community where kindness, respect, and care guide our daily lives. Please know that our staff remains committed to supporting our students’ emotional well-being while ensuring that Rondout continues to be a place of safety, comfort, and learning.
Beginning-of-Year Updates
We are nearing the finish line with our beginning-of-the-year assessments, including the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS). These assessments, along with classroom-based measures, help us understand each student’s unique strengths and learning needs as we begin the year. At the same time, classrooms are focusing on building community, learning routines, and developing friendships. Teachers are setting the stage for rich learning experiences, and students are engaging in new curriculum activities that will guide them throughout the year.
Taking Advantage of the Season
The start of fall has brought with it beautiful weather, and we are using it to our full advantage. Outdoor spaces across our campus have been filled with students working together on projects, engaging in physical activity, and simply enjoying the fresh air as part of their learning and play. These early weeks are always an important time to help students feel grounded, comfortable, and connected to one another—and what better way to do that than in the sunshine.
Upcoming Community Program – CyberSmarts
We are proud to partner with the Lake County Sheriff’s Department and our local Rondout Area Crisis Team to host an important community presentation:
CyberSmarts: Stay Safe, Stay Secure – Navigating the Digital World Safely
📅 Thursday, October 9, 2025
🕕 6:30–8:30 p.m.
📍 Magnolia Café, Lamb’s Farm
This program will provide families with practical tools and insights to help children, teens, and adults stay safe online. Topics will include understanding risks in the digital world, strategies for responsible technology use, and guidance for navigating social media and internet interactions.
While RSVPs are encouraged to help us plan for space and refreshments, they are not required. We welcome all members of our community to attend this free event. We encourage parents and caregivers to join us for this valuable session that promotes safe, secure, and responsible use of technology. Due tp the nature of the topic, this presentation is designed for an adult audience.
Family Fun Run
It’s time to start warming up and getting excited for our Family Fun Run, scheduled for Saturday morning, October 25th. This annual tradition is one of the highlights of our fall calendar, offering families a chance to celebrate fitness, fun, and community spirit. More details will be shared soon, but for now, please save the date and plan to join us for a morning of energy, encouragement, and joy. RSVP using the link in the flyer.
Cross Country Season Begins
We are thrilled to announce that our first Cross Country meet of the season will take place this Monday right here at Rondout. Our student-athletes have been training diligently, and we are proud of their hard work and determination. Hosting the first meet on our own grounds makes it an especially meaningful event, and we hope to see many of you on the sidelines cheering on our runners as they kick off what promises to be an exciting season.
Music in Motion
Our talented band members are enjoying a special opportunity tonight—they will be marching with Libertyville High School Band at this evening’s football game. This collaboration gives our students a chance to experience performing in a larger ensemble while showcasing the skills they have been building through practice and dedication. We celebrate their commitment to music and are excited to see them shine in front of a wider audience.
These first weeks of the school year have been filled with energy, optimism, and growth. We are grateful for the support of our families, the dedication of our staff, and the enthusiasm of our students as we all work together to make this school year a success. Thank you for being such an integral part of the Rondout community.
Take care...Until next time...
Dr. Jenny Wojcik
Superintendent
Ms. Elizabeth Davis
Principal
| 
