What's New News Summary

Notice of March 17 Board Meeting

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 21:57:00 GMT

A regular meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, and 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in person in the Educational Service Center Board Room, 214 Washington Street. Closed Session will occur in Room 112. Note: This meeting is on the third Tuesday instead of the fourth Tuesday, due to Spring Break.

Spring Break Free Meal Distribution on March 20

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:26:00 GMT

Waukegan Public Schools will host a free meal distribution event for families ahead of Spring Break on Friday, March 20, at the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus, 2325 Brookside Avenue. Meals will be available from 5 to 7 p.m.

Waukegan High School Jazz Café Returns March 19

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 20:47:00 GMT

It is that time of year when the Waukegan High School cafeteria transforms into a jazz nightclub for the annual WHS Jazz Café Dinner. This year’s event will take place on Thursday, March 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the Waukegan High School Brookside Campus Cafeteria A/B. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., and guests can enter the building through Door 11.

Returning Student Registration for the 2026-2027 School Year Now Open

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:27:00 GMT

Registration is now open for all returning Waukegan Public Schools students in grades Kindergarten through 11. Parents must complete the online registration process through the Parent Portal. To access registration, log in to Parent Portal and click on "More" to find the Online Registration link. The registration deadline is April 24, 2026. Families are encouraged to complete the registration process before Spring Break to help avoid delays and ensure their information is up to date as we prepare for the 26-27 school year.

Join Us for a Live Update on the District Finances

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:17:00 GMT

You are invited to join us for a YouTube Live event on Wednesday, March 18, where district leaders will provide an overview of our financial outlook, discuss the budgeting process, and explain how we are planning for the year ahead while continuing to prioritize strong support for students and schools.

Notice of March 10 Board Meetings

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 21:05:00 GMT

On March 10, 2026, the Board of Education will meet for its regular monthly micro meeting. The meeting will be conducted in open and closed sessions beginning at 6 p.m. at the Educational Service Center, 214 Washington Street. The open session will be held in the Board Room. The closed session will be in Room 112. The Board’s monthly Student Achievement and Operations Services committee meetings will follow the micro meeting at approximately 7 p.m. in the Board Room.

Join Us Saturday for Our Final Family Listening Tour

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:12:00 GMT

We invite families and community members to join us this weekend for the final in-person listening tour, hosted in partnership with our wonderful community partners at Waukegan to College. You do not need to have a child currently enrolled in the Waukegan to College program to attend. All District 60 families are welcome. Saturday, March 7: 1 p.m. – English Session and Spanish Session

Academia 60 Parent Workshop: The Impact of Social Media on Today’s Youth

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:46:00 GMT

Waukegan Public Schools’ Bilingual and Multicultural Department, in partnership with the Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee (BPAC), invites families to attend the next session in its Academia 60 Parent Education Series. Families are encouraged to join us for “The Impact of Social Media on Today’s Youth / El Impacto de las Redes Sociales en los Jóvenes de Hoy,” presented by guest speaker Dr. Ferney Ramírez, a psychologist.

Clark Elementary Authorized as an International Baccalaureate World School

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:42:00 GMT

Waukegan Public Schools is proud to announce that Clark Elementary School has been officially authorized as an International Baccalaureate World School, offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP). Clark received its official authorization last month following a multi-year process that began in 2022. The designation recognizes the Clark community’s commitment to providing rigorous, inquiry-based instruction that encourages students to think critically, take ownership of their learning, and make meaningful connections to the world around them.

Virtual Family Listening Tours Begin Today

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:34:00 GMT

Our Family Listening Tour continues this week, with virtual sessions beginning today. These sessions are an opportunity for families to share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas as we continue working to strengthen our schools. While virtual sessions are organized by grade band, you are welcome to join whichever session best fits your schedule.

Family Listening Tour Begins This Week

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:51:00 GMT

Our Family Listening Tour begins this week. These sessions are an opportunity for families to share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas as we continue working to strengthen our schools. Families may attend either a virtual or in-person session. Virtual sessions are organized by grade band, but you are welcome to attend whichever session best fits your schedule.

Join Superintendent Plascencia for Upcoming Family Listening Sessions

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:44:00 GMT

Over the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity to meet with staff and students across our district as part of our Winter Listening Tour. I am now excited to invite families to join me as we continue this important work together. These listening sessions are designed to provide an opportunity to share what is working well in our schools, where we can continue to grow, and how we can strengthen the climate and safety of our learning environments. Your voice matters, and I look forward to learning from your experiences and perspectives.

Notice of February 23 and 24 Board Meetings

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 22:22:00 GMT

A Special Meeting with Closed and Open Session of the Board of Education will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Room 112 at the Educational Service Center. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) (1), the discussion will be held in Closed Session. A regular meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, and 6 p.m. for Closed Session.

Just a Few Weeks Remain to Complete the Illinois 5Essentials Survey

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:48:00 GMT

District 60 families, staff, and students still have time to share their feedback through the 2025–2026 statewide Illinois 5Essentials Survey, but the survey window will close on March 13. Teachers, students, and parents are encouraged to complete the research-based survey, which takes approximately 25 minutes.

School Calendars for the Next Three Years

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:27:00 GMT

The Board of Education approved school calendars for the next three academic years during its meeting last night. Sharing multiple years in advance helps families and staff plan ahead, and we appreciate everyone who contributed feedback throughout this process. The calendars include a few adjustments, such as slightly later start dates. As in recent years, Waukegan High School will continue to hold first-semester final exams prior to Winter Break. Linked below are the calendars for the 2026-2027, 2027-2028, and 2028-2029 school years.

Juarez Principal Recognized by ISBE with ‘Those Who Excel’ Award

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:53:00 GMT

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has honored Miguel Juarez Middle School Principal Mr. Nelson Campos with a Those Who Excel Award of Meritorious Service in the School Administrator category for the 2025–2026 school year. Mr. Campos was one of more than 450 educators across Illinois recognized this year through the Those Who Excel program, which annually celebrates educators who have made significant contributions to their school communities and demonstrated excellence in their profession.

Update Regarding Lifetouch School Photography

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 20:16:00 GMT

We are aware of recent social media discussions and news coverage regarding Lifetouch, the photography company that provides school photography services for our district. We understand that some families may have questions, and we want to assure you that we are taking this matter seriously. At this time, we are reviewing the situation and gathering information to ensure that any decisions we make reflect the best interests of our students and families. While this review is ongoing, we are postponing upcoming Lifetouch photography sessions and events across the district.

Notice of February 18 Special Board Meeting

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 20:55:00 GMT

A Special Meeting with Closed and Open Session of the Board of Education will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in Room 112 at the Educational Service Center. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(16), the discussion will be held in Closed Session. The subject will be practices and procedures, or professional ethics, and the meeting will be conducted by a representative of the IASB. The closed session will also briefly cover personnel matters, pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1), and collective bargaining matters, pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(2).

Update on Budget Prioritization and Administrative Staffing Review

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 15:10:00 GMT

Like many school districts, we are navigating a changing financial landscape, including the expiration of federal ESSER funds, enrollment shifts, and rising operational costs. Fortunately, the district’s strong budgeting practices and responsible fiscal management, guided by the Board of Education and supported by the dedicated work of our finance team, have positioned us well to address these challenges. At the same time, we must continue to be thoughtful and proactive to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

Applications Now Open for Prospective Lyon Students

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:56:00 GMT

Lyon Magnet Elementary School is now accepting applications from parents seeking to enroll their children for the fall of 2026. The online application can be accessed here. The deadline to complete the application is April 24, 2026. Lyon currently has openings for students entering kindergarten, with limited openings for students entering grades 1-5. Students should already be registered with Waukegan Public Schools before completing an application for Lyon.

Black Parent Network Meeting - February 17

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 20:22:00 GMT

Our February Black Parent Network meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 17, beginning at 6 p.m. This meeting will be hybrid, so families can participate in person in the Waukegan High School-Brookside Campus Library or virtually via Zoom. This month’s meeting will include updates from the African American Male Achievement Initiative (AAMI), a discussion on the creation of the BPN Scholarship, and the selection of the first topic for the BPN Leadership Parent University.

27 Waukegan High School Students Named Illinois State Scholars

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:43:00 GMT

Twenty-seven Waukegan High School students were honored this week after being named 2026-20227 Illinois State Scholars by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). Students were recognized during a special ceremony celebrating their outstanding academic achievement. The Illinois State Scholar designation is awarded annually to high-performing students across the state.

WHS Presents "Mamma Mia!" February 19-21

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:01:00 GMT

Waukegan High School’s Fine Arts Department will debut its production of "Mamma Mia!" musical February 19-21 in the Trapp Auditorium of the Waukegan High School-Brookside Campus. Performances will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, Friday, February 20, and Saturday, February 21.

Message to Families and Staff Regarding School Operations

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 23:10:00 GMT

We are writing to follow up regarding the student-led activity that occurred on Friday at Waukegan High School, as well as related activity at at least one of our middle schools. We want to re-emphasize that the events on Friday were student-led. We understand that students chose to express themselves, and that day has now passed. At this time, we want to be very clear that any additional protests, walkouts, or similar activities that students may be discussing or planning are not sanctioned, approved, or supported by any school or by the district. Our expectation moving forward is that the school day remains focused on learning, safety, and normal operations.

Notice of February 10 Board Meetings

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 20:49:00 GMT

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the Board of Education will meet for its regular monthly micro meeting. The meeting will be conducted in open and closed sessions beginning at 6 p.m. at the Educational Service Center, 214 Washington Street. The open session will be held in the Board Room. The closed session will be in Room 112. The Board’s monthly Student Achievement and Operations Services committee meetings will follow the micro meeting at approximately 7 p.m. in the Board Room.

The 2025–2026 Illinois 5Essentials Survey Is Now Open

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:23:00 GMT

District 60 families, staff, and students have the opportunity to share feedback by participating in the 2025–26 statewide Illinois 5Essentials Survey, which focuses on school climate and learning conditions. Teachers, students, and parents are encouraged to complete the research-based survey, which takes approximately 25 minutes, at any time before the survey window closes on March 13.

Kindergarten Registration Information for Fall 2026

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:11:00 GMT

Waukegan Public Schools has begun to register incoming kindergarten students for the 2026-2027 school year. Parents of children who will turn 5 years old prior to September 1 can begin registering for the fall, depending on their current enrollments. See below for information on various timelines.

Black History Month Celebration This Week

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:39:00 GMT

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 invites families and community members to join us for our annual Black History Month Celebration this Thursday, February 5, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Genesee Theatre in downtown Waukegan. This year’s theme, A Century of Black History Month Commemorations, honors 100 years of Black History Month through student-created displays, cultural presentations, and special recognition of distinguished alumni.

JROTC’s Valentine’s for Veterans Returns February 7

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:31:00 GMT

Waukegan High School’s JROTC program will host its annual Valentine’s for Veterans event this Saturday to support and honor local veterans. Families are invited to attend this free craft event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, at the WHS–Washington Campus. Participants will have the opportunity to create handmade Valentine’s Day cards for veterans, with all supplies provided.

Celebrating Black History Month in District 60

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:21:00 GMT

Throughout February, District 60 will honor Black History Month by recognizing the history, achievements, and lasting contributions of African Americans to our nation and to our community. Schools across the district will explore African American history, culture, and leaders through classroom lessons, student projects, performances, and special events. Families are encouraged to follow their school’s website and social media channels for updates on activities taking place throughout the month.

Academia 60 Parent Workshop: Parenting with Love and Logic

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 19:32:00 GMT

Waukegan Public Schools’ Bilingual and Multicultural Department, in partnership with the Bilingual Parents Advisory Committee (BPAC), invites families to attend the next session in our Academia 60 parent workshop series. Families are encouraged to join us for “Parenting with Love and Logic / Crianza con Amor y Lógica,” presented by guest speaker Psychotherapist, Dr. Sandra Gómez. The workshop will take place on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

EPIC Preschool Walk-in Registration Events in February

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:59:00 GMT

District 60 continues to accept Pre-K enrollment for the current school year and will host three EPIC Preschool walk-in registration events in February. These events will support families who would like help completing the enrollment process. The walk-in events will take place on Tuesdays from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. on February 10, 17, and 24 at the Lincoln Center, 1201 N. Sheridan Road.

Nelson Campos Earns Statewide IPA Honor

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 21:06:00 GMT

Miguel Juarez Middle School Principal Nelson Campos has been named the Illinois Middle School Principal of the Year, a prestigious honor recognizing outstanding school leaders across the state. The news was shared with Mr. Campos in a surprise ceremony on January 27, when representatives from the Illinois Principals Association (IPA) visited Juarez to inform him of the recognition.

Kindergarten Registration Now Open for Eligible EPIC Students

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 18:07:00 GMT

Waukegan Public Schools is now accepting early kindergarten registration for the 2026-2027 school year for current District 60 preschool students who will be five years old by September 1. This will be the only opportunity for students currently enrolled in District 60 preschool programs to pre-register. Pre-registration will remain open through February 27.

Waukegan Schools Open on Monday, January 26

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 20:59:00 GMT

All schools will be open tomorrow, Monday, January 26, and operating on their normal Monday schedules. While snow is expected to continue today and cold temperatures are forecast for tomorrow morning, our maintenance teams will be out early to ensure school buildings, walkways, and entrances are safe and ready for students and staff. We ask families to help ensure

Notice of January 27 Board Meeting

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 18:59:00 GMT

A regular meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 7 p.m. for Open Session, and 6 p.m. for Closed Session. The meeting will be conducted in person in the Educational Service Center Board Room, 214 Washington Street. Closed Session will occur in Room 112.

Friday, January 23, is an E-Learning Day

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:57:00 GMT

Due to extreme cold weather, Waukegan Public Schools will observe an e-learning day on Friday, January 23. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning, with wind chills expected to reach as low as -35. For the safety of our students and staff, all in-person classes will be canceled. During the e-learning day, students will receive instruction virtually and should log in to Google Classroom at their regularly scheduled times to access lessons, assignments, and schedules

Reminder: Academia 60 Parent Workshop on Jan. 22

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:24:00 GMT

Waukegan Public Schools’ Bilingual and Multicultural Department, along with the Bilingual Parents Advisory Committee, will host an Academia 60 parent workshop focused on helping children succeed in school and in life. Families are invited to attend “Cómo criar a sus hijos para que tengan éxito en la escuela y en la vida / How to Raise Your Children to Succeed in School and in Life,” featuring guest speaker Sergio Negri, who will share practical strategies, encouragement, and insights to support students’ academic and personal growth.

Notice of January 21 Board Workshop Meeting

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:19:00 GMT

A special workshop meeting of the Board of Education will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 6 p.m. for Open Session. The meeting will be conducted in the Educational Service Center Board Room, 214 Washington Street. The subject will be a review of employee separation procedures.

Applications for Prospective 2026 Cooke Students Available

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:50:00 GMT

Cooke Magnet School is now accepting applications from families interested in enrolling their children for the 2026-2027 school year. The online application is available here, and the deadline to apply is March 1, 2026. Cooke is a fine arts–focused elementary school that offers an engaging curriculum centered on art, music, and science. Openings are currently available for students entering kindergarten, with limited availability for students entering grades 1–5. Enrollment is open to any kindergarten through fifth-grade student who resides within Waukegan Public Schools’ boundaries.