School Newsletters

Importance of School Attendance

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We hope this message finds you and your family well. Hickory Point School is committed to providing every student with the knowledge and skills necessary for success. A critical component of that success is regular school attendance.

Research shows that consistent attendance is directly linked to academic achievement. When students miss school, they miss valuable learning opportunities, discussions, and interactions that are difficult to replicate outside the classroom. Over time, occasional absences can lead to learning gaps, lower grades, and diminished confidence.

We understand that some absences are unavoidable due to illness or emergencies. However, we encourage you to prioritize attendance whenever possible. Here are some key reasons why regular attendance matters:

1. Academic Success: Students who attend school regularly are likelier to stay on track with their peers and achieve higher grades.
2. Social Development: Regular attendance allows students to build relationships with their peers and teachers, fostering a sense of community and support.
3. State Requirements: Consistent attendance is essential for meeting educational requirements and avoiding the risk of falling behind in credit hours or grade progression.

To help ensure your child’s success, we kindly ask for your support in the following ways:

• Set a Routine: Establish a consistent bedtime and morning schedule to help your child be prepared and on time for school.
• Communicate: Let us know if your child faces challenges affecting attendance. We’re here to help with resources and support.
• Emphasize the Importance: Encourage your child to understand the value of attending school and engaging fully in their education.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s attendance, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 847-498-3830. We are here to partner with you in your child’s educational journey.

Thank you for your cooperation and dedication to your child’s success. Together, we can ensure that every student at Hickory Point achieves their full potential.

Cell Phones and Smartwatches

We ask for your cooperation in maintaining the learning environment. Children using cellular phones and smartwatches during the school day disrupt the learning environment. These devices are prohibited from being used during school hours. Cell phones should remain off during the school day. If children need to reach a parent during the day, they must consult with a teacher or go to the school office. If your child has a personal device, please help us to help them use it appropriately at school. Parents should not text or call a child during the school day. If you need to get a message to your child, call the office, and we can deliver a message to your child at an appropriate time during the school day. Thank you for your partnership in this effort!

AIMS Screenings  are on January 7, 8, and 10

All students will be participating in Literacy Benchmark Screenings. This screening is completed three times during August, January, and May. These screenings take 3-5 minutes for each student. Our intervention team will be screening all students from January 7 to 10.

Second grade STAR testing

Dear Second grade parents, 

STAR assessments are administered three times during the year in August, January, and May. Reading and math assessments will take place on the following dates:

• Reading will be administered on January 9, 2025 
• Math will be administered on January 10, 2025

For additional information on the STAR assessment, please consult the District 27 website.

Important Dates

Friday, December 13

• HP Spirit Day

Wednesday/Thursday, December 18, 19

• Penguin Patch

Friday, December 20

• Spirit Day
• Holiday Parties 2 pm
• School Closes at Dismissal

Monday, January 6

• School Resumes 

For your children,

Dr. Maureen Deely and Mrs. Lauren Weingarten

Principal Assistant Principal