Dear Palombi Families,
🍂 Fall has arrived at Palombi! 🍂
The season brings cooler weather, colorful leaves, and many exciting opportunities for our students. We’re looking forward to Red Ribbon Week, our upcoming school dance, and an NJHS fundraiser and grade-level competition to support Blood Cancer United. It’s a wonderful time to be part of the Palombi community, and we can’t wait to see our students enjoy everything this season has to offer!
In the coming weeks, you will receive an Individual Student Progress Report for each of your Palombi students based on the NWEA MAP assessment. This report provides a snapshot of your child’s academic performance from the most recent MAP Growth test. These assessments help teachers measure both achievement and growth so they can tailor instruction and set meaningful goals for every learner.
I’m thrilled to share that our students scored above the national norms at every grade level in both math and reading. This accomplishment reflects the hard work and dedication of our students and staff. We are so proud of their efforts and look forward to continued growth throughout the year.
MAP Growth is a unique, adaptive test. When your child answers a question correctly, the next one becomes more challenging; if they answer incorrectly, the next one is slightly easier. This adaptive design helps provide a more accurate picture of what your child knows and what they are ready to learn—whether that’s on, above, or below their grade level.
Because MAP Growth offers timely, precise information, teachers can group students with similar skills and adjust instruction to best support their needs. Your child’s results are reported as RIT scores (Rasch Unit), which reflect their overall performance in a subject. These scores will be explained in the Family Report your child’s teacher shares with you.
We hope these reports give you valuable insight into your child’s progress. For more information, you can explore NWEA’s Family Toolkit.
Finally, thank you to all the parents who completed the Family and Community Engagement survey. We truly value your feedback and are reviewing your responses to find new ways to strengthen communication and our partnership with families.
Warmly,
Angela Sisi
ACADEMIC TALENT DEVELOPMENT
Palombi’s new Academic Talent Development course is officially up and running! In this exciting class, our talented students are hard at work writing original children’s books that will soon be shared with kindergarten and first-grade students in the district. This creative project not only gives Palombi students the opportunity to use higher-order thinking skills and showcase their writing talents, but also allows them to see their work make an authentic impact on younger readers. By combining creativity, critical thinking, and real-world application, this class offers a truly unique and inspiring learning experience that students will carry with them well beyond the classroom.
From the Deans Desk
As we move into an exciting season of school activities and upcoming dances, I want to take a moment to remind students and families about the importance of appropriate behavior in school. Our dances and special events are a privilege and a celebration of our school community—and we want every student to be able to attend and enjoy them.
Consistently following school expectations—both in and out of the classroom—not only creates a safe and respectful environment for everyone, but also ensures that students remain eligible to participate in these fun and memorable events. If a student receives five lunch and/or after school detentions, they will not be able to attend the Fall dance. Additionally, if a student receives a suspension this trimester, they will not be able to attend. Miss Koenig will notify home if a student is close to and or not able to attend.
Let’s continue to support each other in making positive choices every day so we can all enjoy the great moments ahead.
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
💚World Mental Health Day💚
Date to remember: October 10 is World Mental Health Day, a day set aside to raise awareness about mental health and how we can support each other.
Quick idea to do in school or at home:
On October 10, take a few minutes to do a “Mood Check-In Circle.” Each person shares one word that describes how they’re feeling.
Then, share one thing that helps you feel better when you’re upset. (Could be music, walking, talking to a friend, drawing, etc.)
This helps build connection and reminds us we’re not alone.
Reminder: If you ever feel worried, overwhelmed, sad, or lonely, talking to someone you trust—friend, teacher, parent—can really help. You deserve to be heard and supported. 😊
Leader in Me - Habit of the Month
This month, we’re focusing on Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind – teaching students to set goals and make a plan to achieve them. It’s all about thinking ahead and having a clear vision of what they want to accomplish, both in school and in life.
At home: Talk with your child about a personal goal they have – it could be academic, athletic, or even something fun like learning a new skill. Write the goal down and help them break it into small, manageable steps. Post it somewhere visible as a reminder!
You can also create a simple family mission statement together – a few words that describe what your family values and how you support each other. It’s a great way to show how planning and purpose start at home!
Together, let’s help our students take charge of their future by learning to begin with the end in mind!
ATHLETICS
Late Fall Sports will be starting in October!
Good morning, Palombi families!
Basketball, Poms and Cheer 2025-2026
We are getting ready for Basketball, Cheer, and Poms at Palombi.
If your student is interested in Girls' Basketball or Cheer please fill out:
Girls' Basketball and Cheer Try Outs
If your student is interested in Boys' Basketball or Poms please fill out:
Boys' Basketball and poms Try Outs
The deadline for signing up for Girls Basketball and Cheer tryouts is October 17, at 2:30 p.m. A current physical must also be on file with the Health coordinator by that time.
The deadline for signing up for Boys Basketball and Poms Tryouts is October 21, at 2:30 p.m. A current physical must also be on file with the Health coordinator by that time.
Please get in touch with Steve Johnson, the athletic director, with questions.
Tryouts for Girls Basketball and Cheer are 10/20 and 10/21
Tryouts for Boys Basketball and Poms are 10/22 and 10/23
Tryouts end at 4:30 pm. You must attend both days of tryouts.
Students can be picked up at the Activity Entrance at 4:30. Our late bus leaves at 4:00 pm.
Please contact the Athletic Director, Steve Johnson if you have any questions sjohnson@district41.org
ACTIVITIES
School Dance
Get ready to light up the night—our Glow Dance is coming up on Friday, October 24th from 5:30 - 7:00 in the gym! Wear your brightest neon, pile on the glowsticks, and get ready to shine on the dance floor. Tickets will be sold during lunches on October 22nd and 23rd for $5. Tickets will be sold at the door of the dance on Friday for $7. If you have any questions, reach out to Ms. Kobeski or Ms. Broz.
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
After School Enrichments
The sign-up form for session 2 enrichments will open Monday, October 20th and close Friday, October 31st. The Google Form to sign up will be emailed to families and posted on the Palombi website. Session 2 enrichments will run from the week of November 3rd until the week of December 15th.
NJHS
About NJHS: The purpose of the Lancer Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society at Palombi is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, to develop character, and to encourage citizenship. This student-led organization is run by elected officers and overseen by faculty advisors. Meetings are typically held twice a month from 2:20-3:30 PM. Members are required to complete community service hours, maintain excellent grades, and be a positive role model at Palombi.
How to Become a Member: 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 since the start of sixth grade, and at least 3 leadership roles within the school or community since the start of sixth grade 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.
Upcoming Fundraiser: NJHS will be fundraising for Blood Cancer United by selling bracelets for $2 each during all lunch periods from Monday, October 27th through Thursday, October 30th. Each bracelet will come with a free mini duck with a witch’s hat! Blood Cancer United’s mission is to “cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families. Blood Cancer United funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.”
Palombi Players
Palombi Players rehearsals are off to a great start! The rehearsal schedule is posted on Google Classroom, please consult that for any information about times. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Ms. Dahowski emily.dahowski@district41.org or Ms. Stellwagen gretchen.stellwagen@district41.org with any questions.
Choir
The Lancer Choir has had a great start to the school year! We are looking forward to our District 41 Choir Festival on November 12th at 6:30 pm! Please do not hesitate to reach out to Ms. Dahowski emily.dahowski@district41.org with any questions.
Band
The Lancer Bands are playing better each and every day! 8th Grade students have high school band nights coming up at Grant (10/3), Lakes (10/7) and Grayslake North (10/15) to get a taste of the marching band experience. Our first all grade level band concert will be November 6! Mrs. Brown can be reached at rbrown@district41.org with any questions.
After School Jazz Band (A.S.J.B.)
The first session of After School Jazz Band starts on Thursday, 9/25. A.S.J.B. is open to ALL PALOMBI STUDENTS who can read music. Reach out to Mrs. Brown at rbrown@district41.org with any questions or for the sign up link. Our first session performance is on Tuesday 12/16.
Vendor Fair
Palombi’s Student Lighthouse Team is hosting their third annual fall vendor fair on November 8th from 10-3 in the Palombi Gym. We will have over 30 local crafters, bakers, vendors, and concessions. Admission to this event is $2 and each entrant will receive a free raffle ticket for the opportunity to win a prize from our raffle table! Additional raffle tickets will be available inside the event for purchase. Please reach out to Ms. Sarcinelli cecily.sarcinelli@district41.org or Mrs. Hollander lauren.hollander@district41.org if you have any questions.
OTHER
Front Office
For the safety and security of all students and staff, all school doors are locked. You are only allowed access to the building from the front doors. There are two doorbells: one for the Palombi Office and one for the District Office. Please ring the appropriate doorbell and wait patiently for the office staff to respond and determine the nature of your visit. You will then be buzzed into the foyer. Please do not let other visitors in while you are entering or exiting the building. This is to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
Whenever you will be staying in the building as a visitor, volunteer, or taking a student home, state identification is required. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our schools safe.
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
Health Office
Immunizations and IDPH physicals are due by October 15th, 2025, for all sixth graders and new students. Multiple letters were mailed home starting September 1st with your child’s specific requirements. All students not up to date by October 15th are required by Illinois state law to be sent home, and will not be allowed to return to school until complete records have been received in the Health Office, or proof of a scheduled appointment is provided. Please contact Nurse Taylor francesca.taylor@district41.org if you need further assistance.
Vision and Screening Information
In November Palombi will conduct its hearing and vision screenings. Please review this letter for more information.
Yearbook
The 2025-2026 Yearbook is on sale for $35. 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.
IMPORTANT DATES:
Oct. 3 Grant HS 8th Grade Band Night
Oct. 6 Fall Picture Day
Oct. 6 Lake Villa School District 41 BOE Meeting - 7:00 p.m.
Oct. 7 Lakes HS 8th Grade Band Night
Oct. 8 LEAD Day
Oct. 10 Teacher Institute Day - No School
Oct. 13 Columbus Day - No School
Oct. 15 All Immunizations and Physicals Due
Oct. 15 Choir Festival @ Grayslake High School
Oct. 15 Grayslake North 8th Grade Band Night
Oct 17 Registration & Physical due for Girls Basketball and Cheer tryouts
Oct. 20/21 Girls Basketball and Cheer Tryouts
Oct 21 Registration & Physical due for Boys Basketball and Poms tryouts
Oct 22 LEAD Day
Oct. 22/23 Boys Basketball and Poms Tryouts
Oct. 24 Fall School Dance 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Oct. 23-31 Red Ribbon Week
Oct. 27 Lake Villa School District 41 BOE Meeting - 7:00 p.m.
Nov. 1 ILMEA District 7 Band/Choir Festival @ Schaumburg High School
Nov. 5 LEAD Day
Nov. 6 Fall Picture Retake Day
Nov. 6 Fall Band Concert
Nov. 7 First Trimester Ends
Nov. 8 Student Lighthouse Vendor Fair
Nov. 12 Fall Choir Concert
Nov. 17 Lake Villa School District 41 BOE Meeting - 7:00 p.m.
Nov. 19 LEAD Day
Nov. 24 Parent Teacher Conferences - details to follow
Nov. 25 Virtual Parent Teacher Conferences
Nov. 26-28 Thanksgiving Break