Dear Lancer Parent/Guardian,
Thank you for joining us at Curiosity Day and Curriculum Night!
It has been a busy and productive start to the school year at Palombi. During our first week, we conducted ALICE safety drills, where teachers and students practiced lockdown procedures, discussed how to barricade classrooms, prepared for possible intrusions, and reviewed when it is safe to evacuate. We also completed our first fire, tornado, and bus drills, with both the police and fire departments present to support and review our safety practices.
This week, students are beginning MAP testing in their ELA classes, with math testing to follow next week. Makeup testing will take place the following week. These assessments help us establish a strong baseline as we set our Wildly Important Goals for the year. Both staff and students will use these goals to guide growth and achievement.
Sincerely,
Angela Sisi
Principal
Leader in Me
This month, our school is focusing on Habit 1: Be Proactive – taking responsibility for our actions, attitudes, and choices. Being proactive means we don't blame others or circumstances; instead, we take charge of how we respond.
At home: Try a simple activity together – create a "Circle of Control" chart. In one circle, write things your student can control (attitude, effort, words). In another, list things they can’t control (others’ behavior, weather, past mistakes). Talk about how focusing on what we can control leads to a more positive mindset.
Encourage your child to use proactive language like “I can,” “I choose,” and “I will.” Even small shifts in words can build big confidence!
Let’s work together to grow responsible, confident students – one habit at a time!
Leaders Who Brunch
At Palombi, we’re dedicated to building strong connections with our community and creating meaningful opportunities for our students. That’s why we’re excited to announce the return of Leaders Who Brunch! Leaders Who Brunch is an engaging opportunity for parents and local community members to meet with a small group of students to share insights about their career, professional journey, and goals.Our goal is to expose students to a variety of career paths and inspire them to start thinking about their own goals and aspirations. If you are interested in participating in this exciting experience, please use the sign up genius linked here. When you sign up for a date, please also fill out this volunteer form as it is required to attend.
From the Dean’s Desk
Starting the Year Off Strong – Be a Lancer Leader!
Welcome back, Lancers! As we kick off a brand new school year, there's no better time to set the tone for success. Whether you're stepping into middle school for the first time or returning as a seasoned student, remember that every day is a fresh opportunity to lead, grow, and thrive.
At the heart of our community are the Lancer Values—Leadership, Effort, Attitude and Determination. These aren’t just words on a wall; they’re the foundation of how we treat others, how we approach challenges, and how we carry ourselves throughout the school day.
Being a Lancer Leader means setting a positive example, both in and out of the classroom. It means speaking up with kindness, helping others without being asked, and making choices that reflect your best self—even when no one is watching.
Let’s work together to build a strong, supportive, and inspiring community from day one. This is your year—let’s make it count!
– Miss Koenig
Report a Concern
We are committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment. The Report a Concern form offers students and parents a confidential way to report any issues or concerns. Submissions are reviewed by the appropriate school staff, who will investigate and respond as needed.
This process helps ensure all reports are taken seriously, documented properly, and addressed promptly. It also allows the school to identify behavior patterns and take preventive action when necessary.
Mental Health Minute
September is Suicide Prevention Month 💙💚
This month is a time to raise awareness, spread hope, and share resources. Suicide is preventable, and recognizing the warning signs can save lives.
Warning signs may include:
Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless
Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
Extreme mood swings or changes in behavior
Giving away belongings or saying goodbye
Increased use of alcohol or drugs
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — support is available 24/7.
Family Challenge
The 10-Minute Walk
Life gets busy, but taking just 10 minutes together can make a big difference for your family’s mental health. Walking as a family isn’t just good for your body - it’s great for your brain too!
Why it works: A short walk helps lower stress, boost energy, and gives families a chance to connect without distractions.
Tardies
Every year we have a grace period for students, so they can get acclimated to the school before we begin to count tardies. This week we are beginning to hold students accountable for tardies, both to school as well as to individual classes.
Athletics
Boys and Girls Soccer, Softball, and Cross Country are in full swing. Our fall sports pictures are scheduled for Monday, September 15th. Here is the link to order pictures. http://edclarkschoolphoto.hhimagehost.com/PalombiPrepaySports20252026
Sports schedules are posted on our website. Tryouts for Girls Basketball and Cheer are Monday, October 20, and Tuesday, October 21, and tryouts for Boys Basketball and Poms are Wednesday, October 22, and Thursday, October 23. Tryouts are from 2:30 pm -4:30 pm. Students need to attend all tryout days AND have a current physical on file prior to tryouts. Tryout sign-up will be available mid-September.
Enrichment Clubs
Palombi Middle School offers a variety of enrichment clubs throughout the school year. Each is open to all interested Palombi students, unless otherwise specified. All enrichments meet from 2:20-4:00 p.m. for six weeks, unless otherwise specified. There is a $20 registration fee, and any enrichment that requires an additional fee is indicated in the description on the sign-up form. Late bus transportation is available for all enrichments for a fee of $5 per ride. All necessary payments must be made in order for a student to attend any enrichment!
Session 1 Enrichment Options:
- Mondays: Gaming Club, Garden Club, Mural Painting Club (only available to Advanced Art students)
- Tuesdays: CPR Club, GSA (Gender & Sexuality Alliance) (every 1st and 3rd Tuesday)
- Wednesdays: Art Club, Dance Club, Guitar and Piano Club, The Swiftie Society
- Thursdays: Improv Club
Session 1 enrichments will start the week of September 8th and end the week of October 13th. Monday's enrichments will end on October 20th since there is no school on October 13th. Please see this flyer for more information.
How to Sign Up: To sign your student up for an enrichment, please complete this Google Form and pay online at MySchoolBucks.com by Friday, September 5th! A separate form is required for each student.
Please contact Mrs. Emily Rochford, the Enrichment Activity Coordinator, at emily.kaplan@district41.org if you need to pay with cash or check, or with any other questions.
Student Lighthouse
Applications for Student Lighthouse will be available via Google Form soon. Please email cecily.sarcinelli@district41.org or lauren.hollander@district41.org for more information.
NJHS
Applications for National Junior Honor Society will be emailed to all eligible 7th and 8th graders in November. Students must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.8 or above, at least 3 hours of verifiable community service and at least 3 leadership roles within the school or community during their time at Palombi to be invited to apply. Please contact Mrs. Rochford at emily.kaplan@district41.org or Mrs. Kilmer at jennifer.klimer@district41.org with any questions.
Palombi Players
Palombi Players will have our informational meeting September 3rd! Auditions for “The Mystery Club Ep. 3 & 4” will be on Tuesday, September 9th and Wednesday, September 10th until 4:30 pm. Please reach out to Ms. Dahowski (emily.dahowski@district41.org) or Mrs. Neziri (gretchen.stellwagen@district41.org) with any questions.
Washington D.C
8th grade students! There is still time to sign up for this year’s Washington, D.C trip! If you are interested in attending the Washington D.C trip over spring break please reach out to Miss Koenig! kaitlin.koenig@district41.org
OWLS Field Trip
Attention 8th grade parents and students! Our annual OWLS (Outdoor Wisconsin Leadership School) field trip still has spots available on either trip (Friday, September 26th and Friday, October 3rd). Information packets will be distributed to students by Friday August 29th. Also, this year the information packets will be distributed to all 8th grade students in their Lunch Advisory Google Classroom. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Eifert at john.eifert@district41.org. OWLS is a great way for 8th grade students to get to know other students in the grade level, build leadership and problem-solving skills, and have FUN!
Health Office
6th grade parents- please ensure that you have turned in all documentation required by the State of Illinois to the health office by Wednesday, October 15th. Your student will be excluded from school if these requirements are not completed. If your student is planning on signing up for sports/activities they must have a current physical on file before tryouts begin in order to participate. If you have any questions, please email Ms. Taylor francesca.taylor@district41.org
Attendance
We prefer that you report any absences using our online absence form.
Parents/guardians must report their child’s absence using the online form by 9:00 AM
on the day of the absence. The form will require the following information:
● Student’s Name
● Grade
● Date(s) of Absence
● Reason for Absence
● Parent/Guardian Contact Information
You can also call the school to report the student’s absence. (847) 356-2118 option 1. Please make sure to spell the student’s last name. Email Mrs. Harder with any questions jennifer.harder@district41.org
Yearbook Pictures
School picture day is Monday, October 6. More information to come.
Yearbook
The 2025-2026 Yearbook is on sale for $35. Through 9/12, when you order your yearbook you get free icons added if you request personalization! After that date, icons become a paid addition to your yearbook order. Buy your yearbook now! Reserve your copy online at jostensyearbooks.com. Don't delay, order today! If you have any questions, please reach out to Hailey Kobeski (hailey.kobeski@district41.org) for more information.
Palombi Alumni Wall
Palombi proudly recognizes alumni who have gone on to demonstrate leadership in their careers and beyond. Our “Leaders of Today and Tomorrow” Wall celebrates these individuals who have made a positive impact in various fields, showcasing their achievements as an inspiration to current students.
We are always looking to grow this recognition and would love your help! If you know a former Palombi student who has shown exceptional leadership—whether in their profession, community, or personal endeavors—please take a moment to share with us by submitting a nomination with this form.
Help us honor the incredible contributions of our alumni and inspire the next generation of leaders!
Teacher Shout-Out
A Teacher Shout-Out is an unsolicited special recognition that acknowledges a Palombi staff member who has really helped you or your student or has been highly effective and motivating. Our staff takes great pride in helping students achieve their potential. Take a few minutes and let a staff member know how much you appreciate their work by clicking this link.
IMPORTANT DATES
Sept. 8 Afterschool Enrichment Clubs Begin
Sept. 8 BOE Meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Sept. 9/10 Palombi Players Fall Play Auditions
Sept. 10 First LEAD Activity
Sept. 22 BOE Meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Sept. 26 OWLS 8th GradeField Trip #1
Oct. 3 OWLS 8th GradeField Trip #2
Oct. 6 Fall Picture Day
Oct. 6 BOE Meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Oct. 10 Institute Day - No School
Oct. 13 Columbus Day - No School
Oct. 15 All immunizations and physicals due
Oct. 20 /21 Girls Basketball and Cheer Tryouts Start
Oct. 22 /23 Boys Basketball and Poms Tryouts Start
Oct. 27 BOE Meeting at 7:00 p.m.