Our administrative professionals are the backbone of this district. They are the first voices families hear when they call, the steady hands that keep our schools running, and the quiet problem-solvers who make everything work behind the scenes. Their dedication, professionalism, and care for our students and staff do not go unnoticed. You are valued, you are appreciated, and this community is better because of you. Thank you for everything you do — every single day.
The free event featured nearly 50 booths led by parents and staff celebrating cultures from around the world through food, art, music, clothing, performances, and interactive displays.
Students were at the center of the celebration, taking the stage to proudly share their cultural identities.
From drumming to traditional Ukrainian dance, each performance highlighted the diverse perspectives and talents that enrich District 202 schools every day.
The event brought together students, families, and staff in a shared celebration of community and connection.
“At the end of the day, our students are the heart of our district,” said Cindy Castanon, Director of Multilingual Education at District 202.
“Seeing them share their cultures and traditions so authentically reminds us why we do this work. They are the heartbeat of everything we strive to achieve in District 202.”
CAPE, which stands for the Coordination of Administration and Parent Groups for Educational Efficiency, has supported the district’s parent organizations for 50 years.
“I presented at the CAPE meeting because students have a voice in our district, and I wanted to help share that perspective with the parents and teachers of District 202,” Kolawole said.
As part of a new initiative, CAPE will now include one student representative at each meeting, with a different high school represented each time.
Kolawole’s participation marks an exciting new chapter for CAPE, bringing valuable student perspective directly into conversations that help shape the school community.
They joined peers from across the state to discuss topics such as AI in education, student engagement, and classroom rigor.
Students had the opportunity to collaborate, share their voices, and take part in meaningful conversations that are helping shape the future of education.
Pictured here with State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders, the day was both inspiring and empowering for all involved.
We are #202proud to recognize and thank our 93 social workers for the incredible support they provide to our school community. As National School Social Work Week closes, we appreciate the vital role they play in our schools with our students, parents, and staff.
Way to go!
Plainfield North High School held its third annual World Culture Fair on Friday, February 13, 2026, in the gymnasium during each class period.
Approximately 70 students participated, representing about 15 different countries.
Enjoy your holiday! See you Tuesday!
Due to predicted frigid temperatures tomorrow, we will have an E-Learning day, Monday, January 26, 2026. Students should NOT report to school.
After completing their research, students selected a representative work to recreate using oil paints.
This hands-on artistic process allowed students to connect language, culture, and creativity while demonstrating an appreciation for the techniques and themes used by the original artists.
The project highlights their ability to synthesize cultural knowledge, artistic expression, and academic research which are key components of the AP Spanish Language and Culture curriculum.
We will have an E-Learning Day tomorrow, Friday, January 23, 2026, due to predicted frigid temperatures, particularly during school arrival times. Students will need their laptops to log into Google Classroom from home tomorrow. All other activities at our schools on Friday are also canceled.
The visit was part of a student-designed project created through the school’s Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), a business-focused organization.
During the lesson, students participated in a hands-on activity centered on saving and spending money, helping them build practical financial literacy skills they can apply in the future.
District 202 HBCU Event at Plainfield North High School – Feb. 24
Plainfield North High School will host its annual District 202 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Event on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 6–8 p.m. in the Plainfield North High School Cafeteria.
This marks the eighth year of the District’s HBCU event and is open to all District 202 high school students interested in learning more about HBCUs, with programming geared toward students in grades 9–11.
The event will feature representatives from multiple colleges, along with community and social organizations dedicated to supporting students and families.
Please review the attached flyer for additional event details and registration information.
For questions, contact Elaina Kalantzis, College and Career Counselor at Plainfield North High School, at (815) 609-8506 ext. 7264 or ekalantz@psd202.org.
🗞Check it out! 🗞
District 202 was highlighted in the January Illinois State Board of Education ConneCTEd newsletter for our partnership with the Plainfield Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce. This collaboration gives District 202 students real-world learning experiences and career connections through the INCubator program preparing them for success beyond the classroom.
✨Want to know more about the INCubator program?✨
Visit, https://sites.google.com/psd202.org/incubator202/home
#202proud INCubatoredu by Uncharted Learning, NFP
✨☂ Practically perfect in every way 🎶✨
Ira Jones Middle School is bringing the magic of “Mary Poppins Jr.” to the stage this weekend, featuring talented student performers and crew members in a heartwarming story filled with unforgettable songs, lively choreography, and imagination.
Where: Plainfield North High School
Showtimes:
• Friday, January 9 at 7 p.m.
• Saturday, January 10 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Sunday, January 11 at 2 p.m.
🎟️ Tickets: $8 - available at the door or online at https://irajonesdrama.ludus.com/index.php?sections=events
Photo credit: Jennifer Heim Photography
