Superintendent's Message

Superintendent's Message

Archive

Office of the Superintendent

January 31, 2025

Dear Rich Township Families,

As we welcome the start of February, we are filled with anticipation for the exciting opportunities and activities this month brings. This is a time to celebrate progress, foster connections, and continue working together to support our students’ success. Stay tuned for the many ways you can get involved and make an impact in the weeks ahead. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in making this a great school year!

Para obtener una copia traducida del mensaje semanal del Superintendente, visite nuestro sitio web y seleccione el idioma preferido de las opciones ubicadas arriba a la izquierda de la página.

Click here for the Weekly Update Video

Supporting Our Students and Families
This week, the district reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all students and families amid recent changes in federal immigration enforcement policies. We want to reassure our community that our schools remain safe spaces, and we are taking proactive steps to safeguard student rights. Educational records are protected under federal law, and ICE agents are not permitted on school property without a judicial warrant. Staff have been briefed on protocols to handle these situations with professionalism and care. We encourage families to update emergency contact information and reach out if they need support. Together, we will continue to prioritize the safety, security, and well-being of our students.

National School Counseling Week (#NSCW25)

Next week, February 3-7, 2025, we will celebrate National School Counseling Week (#NSCW25), honoring the vital role school counselors play in our students' success. This year’s theme, School Counseling: Helping Students Thrive, highlights the powerful impact our counselors have in supporting academic achievement, personal growth, and career planning. We are grateful for their dedication to ensuring every student has the tools and guidance needed to reach their full potential. Please join us in recognizing and celebrating their incredible contributions!

Investing in Our Future Scholarship Gala

Mark your calendars for the Investing in Our Future Scholarship Gala, hosted by the Superintendents’ Commission for the Study of Demographics and Diversity and UNCF, on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 6 PM to 11 PM at the Tinley Park Convention Center. This special event raises funds to provide scholarships for deserving students in our community. We encourage everyone to participate—whether by attending, donating, or spreading the word.

Visit investinginourfuture.myle.com for details and ticket purchases. Let’s come together to make a difference for our students!

Upcoming Parent-Teacher Conferences, Parent University, & Report Card Pick Up

Save the date! On Thursday, March 20th, we will host Parent University, Report Card Pick-Up, and Parent-Teacher Conferences. This is a great opportunity to connect with teachers, learn valuable tips to support your student’s success, and stay engaged in their academic journey. We look forward to seeing you there!

You may also follow us on social media:

● Facebook: @District227

● Twitter: @DrJohnnieThomas @richtownshiphs

● Instagram: @district227_

● Superintendent's Message on our district website: https://www.rich227.org/page/superintendents-message

Your continued support of Rich Township High School District 227 is appreciated and vital to ensure student success.

Respectfully,

Dr. Johnnie Thomas

Superintendent