Maercker D60 Community, 

I want to begin by saying thank you. Thank you for your continued trust in our schools, our staff, and our system. That trust is something we never take for granted - especially when the work feels complex or demanding.

Our mission is to foster a safe, inclusive community that empowers and inspires life-long curiosity for learning. That mission guides our decisions and anchors us when challenges arise. The partnership between home and school continues to be one of our greatest strengths, and our students benefit when we remain aligned and focused on what matters most.

Like every school year, 2025-26 has brought both celebrations and pressures. Public education today is not without stress - particularly on the financial front - and we have felt that at times this year. What I continue to appreciate about our community, however, is the way we stay focused on students even when the path is not perfectly smooth. We do not ignore challenges. We address them, learn from them, and keep moving forward.

Twice each month in these newsletters, you see the visible results of that work. Our students continue to shine - on the stage, on the court, on the chessboard, and in classrooms across the district. Our staff members are being recognized beyond D60 at the state level and even in remarks on the floor of the United States House of Representatives. These accomplishments are not accidental. They are the result of dedicated professionals and supportive families working together on behalf of children.

With one trimester of learning remaining, our focus is clear. We will carefully review 2nd trimester data to sharpen instruction and ensure every Wildcat continues to grow. We will emphasize strong attendance, because presence matters. We will cheer on our students in competitions and performances. And we will celebrate our eighth graders as they prepare for their next chapter.

Most importantly, we will continue working together - students, staff, families, and community - to support one another and keep students at the center of every decision.

Thank you for being part of the D60 community and for partnering with us in this important work.

Regards,

Dr. Sean Nugent
Superintendent

The process for identifying students for Accelerated Math placement for the 2026–2027 school year is currently underway with emails having been sent to families of students who have been identified for further assessment. 

To better understand the identification criteria, please visit the Accelerated Placement page, where the full eligibility guidelines and selection process are outlined. We encourage you to review this information carefully to see how placement decisions are determined.

If your child does not meet the established criteria, please know that parents and guardians have the right to appeal the decision. Information regarding the appeal process is also available on the Accelerated Placement page. 

Middle of the year assessments are taking place and parent notification of placement will be sent in late March. 

Don't forget that Friday is a non-attendance day for students as we hold a staff institute day. Get other updates below:

Join us for some free family fun as we play Bilingual Bingo! Traditional Bingo with numbers called in both English and Spanish. There are two seating groups available: Early and Late - choose the ticket type that fits your schedule best. Seats are limited. Please reserve tickets for everyone in your party (adults and children) Each group will have 45 minutes of Bingo in the gym and 30 minutes for a sweet treat in the cafeteria (which is optional) 

Join us on Wednesday, March 4 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Holmes Primary School

Volunteer Your Time: Sign up to volunteer

Spaces Are Limited so RSVP Today!

We are so proud to share that Laura Koschnitzke, the phenomenal kindergarten dual language teacher at Holmes Primary School, has been recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education as a recipient of the 2026 Those Who Excel Award of Special Recognition!

The Those Who Excel program honors educators across Illinois who make an extraordinary impact in their school communities.

Recipients of this award are valued professionals who have been acknowledged by their colleagues, students, families, and administrators for the skills, passion, and talent they bring to their schools.

"Although Laura is being honored statewide, this news comes as no surprise to those of us in D60, " said Doctor Nugent. "Every day, we see the dedication, care, and expertise that she brings to her students, families, and colleagues at Holmes. She is an exceptional educator whose commitment to her students and passion for teaching are evident in all she does."

Maercker Band Director Peggy Sue Casey was awarded the Mary Hoffman Award of Excellence in the presence of over 2,000 music educators at the Illinois Music Education Conference in Peoria, Illinois.

This award nomination was supported by many, including Westview Hills band teacher Karen Moffett who shared that Peggy Sue's "dedication, patience, and skill in starting students on their musical journey is nothing short of extraordinary. She lays a strong foundation that not only teaches music fundamentals, but also builds confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning."

Over the past 39 years, Mrs. Casey has taught instrumental music in Evergreen Park District 124, Maercker District 60, and Downers Grove Community District 99.

The Illinois 5Essentials Parent Survey is now open! Please take a few minutes to complete the survey to share your input. 

The 5Essentials Survey is part of the work of the Illinois State Board of Education that identifies five indicators that lead to improved outcomes for all students, including improved attendance and larger test score gains.

The five indicators that positively affect school success are:

1. Effective Leaders

2. Collaborative Teachers

3. Involved Families

4. Supportive Environments

5. Ambitious Instruction

District and building leaders were out in classrooms this week to surprise Gold Standard Bearers who were recognized by colleagues and families as going above and beyond and embodying the values and mission of the district. 

Two staff members at each school were highlighted out of the 107 staff members who have received 1,840 Gold Standard recognitions so far this year. 

Watch the district's social media accounts for a closer look at these amazing educators coming soon.

For now, a huge congratulations to:

Has a member of the D60 team done something amazing? Tell us about it!

We make it easy for members of our community to recognize and celebrate the incredible teachers and support staff that make Maercker D60 a safe, inclusive community that empowers and inspires life-long curiosity for learning.

The Gold Standard is a way to show your appreciation and pride in members of our staff. Anyone in our community can submit a recognition for staff members which sends an instant message of appreciation to the staff member.

The Westview Hills Chess Team capped off another excellent season on Saturday, Feb. 21 by dominating the SDEAA Conference Chess Tournament!

The team won 36 of their 40 total matches, finishing in first place and repeating as champions. All ten Westview competitors won at least three of their four matches.

In addition, six Wildcats earned medals by winning all four of their matches. Congratulations to DJin C., Jeremy C., Andrei G. Yathin C., DJun C., and Suthan R. on earning Board Champion.

Congratulations to the team for having back-to-back undefeated seasons!

The State Chess Tournament will take place in Peoria this Friday and Saturday, where 15 Westview students will be participating.

Best of luck at State, Wildcats!

Maercker District 60 is beginning to plan ahead for the 2026-27 school year with positions available to join our team at the elementary and middle school level!

If you or someone you know is looking for a great place to start a career as an educator, look no further! We’re hiring Spanish dual language teachers, a Middle School FACS teacher, K-8 special education teachers and K-5 general education teachers.

When you teach at D60 you’ll join a community that champions diversity, continuous improvement, and high expectations with a strong mentorship program in a supportive community. 

It’s that time of year again! “Give Kids a Smile Day” is Friday, Feb. 27. Early childhood, elementary, middle and high school students can receive free dental exams at the Wheaton Dental Clinic location by appointment only. There are 60 appointment slots on Feb. 27. To make an appointment, call 630-221-7776.

Don't forget to download the mobile app for Maercker D60!

With the app, you can access documents, events, news updates, and even emergency notifications.

• Download for Android

• Download for iPhone