Hi, I’m Lisa Small, Superintendent of High School District 211. 

First semester is in full swing, and we’re already near the six-week mark of school. 

It’s great to have everyone back! 

As you heard me mention before school started, we are putting a renewed focus on attendance this year. 

Our goal is for students to miss seven or fewer days during the entire year.

Being in class is important, and absences can add up quickly. Research shows a connection between good attendance and better academic performance. Being in class also strengthens social bonds, creates opportunities to interact directly with your teacher, and allows for participation in activities and athletics. 

Today, I’m standing in Conant’s High School health care classroom. Here, our students learn hands-on skills and take advanced coursework to accelerate their healthcare career journey. Through a partnership with Harper College, students can earn a Certified Nursing Assistant certification before they graduate from high school. 

Last year, we had more than 120 students in District 211 earn the College and Career Pathway Endorsement in the Health Sciences & Technology recognized by the State of Illinois.

Across District 211, you’ll find many learning spaces, like this one, that empower our students to reach their full potential in areas like manufacturing, culinary arts, welding, business, automotive technology, law and so much more. 

Students are able to work with career advisors, participate in onsite career visits across our communities, complete workplace learning experiences, and earn early college credit and career credentials specifically aligned with a college major or career. 

Some of our students will go directly into the workforce because of these opportunities. Others will pursue a two- or four-year degree. Our District 211 programs provide students an opportunity to learn in high school what they may want to do the rest of their life.

To support college and career exploration, students and families now can access MaiaLearning, a comprehensive college and career readiness system to assist students as they develop their plans after high school. You’ve already received emails about this outstanding resource with information on creating your parent account.

On Thursday, September 28, representatives from more than 180 colleges and universities across the country will join us at Palatine High School for our College Night. This is an opportunity for students in all grades and their families to talk with different colleges and get more insight into postsecondary education. In addition, District 211 offers the Directions College and Career Fair for students with special needs pursuing opportunities after high school; the First Generation College Workshop for students whose parents have not attended college in the United States; and the D211 Job Fair, for students entering the workforce to connect directly with  more than 75 businesses who have immediate openings for entry-level positions to jumpstart careers.

We are committed to providing experiences for all students to succeed. Please contact your student’s school counselor or the school’s career advisor with questions about post-secondary resources. 

We look forward to the accomplishments and excitement this year will bring as our students continue to prepare for their futures.