Education & Youth
Thornton drama students lead the way in "The Wiz"
Young performers put together their take on the Black cult classic. They were joined by an irreverent bunch: students from the Brooks Middle School theatre program.
Teachers were already pushed to the brim. Then came COVID-19.
The total number of full-time public school educators statewide has steadily increased since 2018, according to state data. But a pandemic-induced teacher shortage is creating an exodus, raising concerns about the pandemic's long-term impact on education.
Break a (virtual) leg: How Thornton's arts programs pivoted throughout the COVID-19 pandemic
“[IHSA] really was concerned about equity issues with internet availability, its strength, and how we should not be adjudicating with any personal or implicit bias,” Illinois State High School Association Executive Director Susie Knoblauch told the HWH about curating virtual arts programming during the pandemic.
“You take it from the kids” : Brooks kids most harmed by chicken wing theft, parents say
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School worker stole $1.5 million in chicken wings, causing an uproar among parents. The incident casts more doubt on a district marred by previous federal scrutiny in a community fighting for quality food options.
New Maya Angelou Elementary School facility brings hope for local economic growth
The $7 million project will include a new gymnasium, art and music classrooms, and a STEM lab where students can learn drone mechanics. This comes as neighbor UChicago Ingalls Memorial Hospital seeks to redevelop the area nearby and a major street rehabilitation gets underway.
Harvey schools continue to adapt to pandemic-driven bus driver shortage
A lack of bus drivers is creating new challenges for Harvey schools, like strains on academic support programs and accessible education. What are districts doing to resolve the problem?
For Brooks kids, a trip to the public library turned into a lesson on ruin and release
Brooks Middle School teacher Quentin Wright decided to use a field trip to the library to inspire his students to use art and freedom of expression to cope with social injustice.
Meeting recap: New camera system up for bid at District 152
At the September 12 meeting, district officials discussed bids for a new camera system and prepped for the second phase of the Maya Angelou School project.
Meeting recap: School district 205 officials approve final fiscal year 2023 budget
Federal grants have increased, bolstering the district's finances this fiscal year. However, the district is capturing less dollars from tax levies than in prior years.
Gas provider and nonprofit deliver 250 free coats at Holmes Elementary School
"The students were excited about receiving their coats and are ready for winter," said Holmes principal Gabriela Delgado.
Harvey teens take lead on tough dialogue with elected leaders to UPLIFT community
UPLIFT Harvey youth held a forum with south suburban political leadership at Thornton Township High School, Thursday, September 15, to discuss solutions to social issues like abandoned houses, communal spaces, and gun violence in the city.
Meeting recap: The Safe Schools Initiative returns to District 205—along with tightened security measures
At the August 10 meeting, district officials announced new safety measures, including appointment-only campus access, designated entrances and exits, and alarms—along with a renewed commitment to refer students to local law enforcement.
Last minute back-to-school shopping? Here's how to lower prices at checkout
Through August 14, retailers must lower the sales tax on school supplies for items with a retail selling price of $125 per item. The move is part of the state's gas, property tax, and grocery relief bill that passed in April.
Former Brooks band director Roosevelt Griffin now leading VanderCook College jazz and diversity efforts
"It is only appropriate that our students enter the profession with an in-depth appreciation, understanding, and commitment of Diversity and Inclusion. Especially considering they will be in front of our future leaders on a daily basis," Griffin said.
State awards $50,000 maintenance grants to two school districts that serve Harvey families
Harvey School District 152 and South Holland School District 151 were among 600 first round applicants.
No more 'growing up in a drive-thru' as Harvey's food sovereignty movement gets underway
Brian Cepeda is a Thornton social studies teacher. In 2015, he started Urban Farmers, empowering students to combat food insecurity by growing their own food and taking back their community.
Thornton drama students bring "Dreamgirls" respite to the Harvey World stage
The young thespians opened the school’s theatre doors to the community during a soulful and raucous two-night event.
School district 152 going mask optional, but 'highly recommends' masks for all staff, students, and visitors
Masks initially had been required for this year's return to in-person learning.
Are you a parent of a child who attends school in Harvey? Tell us how the return to in-person learning is going for your family.
We want to hear about your return to in-person learning experience with your children this school year.
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