Kahok Families, 

The holiday season has arrived, and over the next six weeks everyone’s schedules will undoubtedly shift due to a multitude of events, family functions, work and more.  While this is an exciting time of year, it can also bring added stress for all of us, including our children.

Social/Emotional and Mental Health Resources to Help with the Holidays

Here are useful links with resources related to social/emotional and mental health for students and families:  

• Mental health articles and resources posted on our website: Including the Safe2HelpIL hotline, a link to community resources, and articles dealing with social media, peer pressure and grief. 

• Our district’s Virtual Calming Room: A place for students, families and staff to locate tools and strategies to positively manage emotions and feelings, and build resilience.  

Both of these directories, compiled by our counselors and social workers, are accessible year-round. I urge you to bookmark them so you have this information at your fingertips, not only during the holidays, but any time your student or family is looking for resources or support.  

In addition, our partner, Cartwheel, has compiled a “Holiday Bundle” of activities for families to navigate both the joy and potential challenges of the season.  The attached materials offer helpful Do’s and Don’ts, as well as ideas to encourage sharing, promote gratitude and inspire kindness.  Even if everything is currently going well in your life, they have included great activities for filling cold or rainy days at home.

Support Kahok Neighbors in Need

Year after year, our community steps up to support district families, and this year is no exception. Whether it’s through donations of clothing, food, toys, or other forms of assistance, your generosity is truly appreciated and needed as it benefits hundreds of students annually.  If you, your workplace, or someone you know would like to help a family during this holiday season, please email our Community Outreach Coordinator Lizeth Jimenez.  Your support makes a difference!

Take a Break from Technology and Devices

As we navigate the holiday season, I want to encourage families to set aside your technology and social media, and spend time talking with one another.  The connections built through real conversation mean so much more than a quick text, emoji or video.  With so much negativity in the news and on social media, taking a break from devices can benefit all of us, and the enjoyment of an old-fashioned authentic conversation is good for everyone.

Get Out and Attend a School Event

In addition, during the upcoming weeks as temperatures drop and sunshine is minimal, there are many opportunities to get everyone out of the house to attend a basketball game, concert or school activity.  It’s a fun change of pace and it gives you a chance to see our student’s many talents. 

Check out the Kahok Athletics and CMS Athletics websites, or visit the calendars on our school websites, to see the many events that are happening around the district. (Remember: All students can attend regular home athletic events for FREE.  See the district’s Spectator Guidelines posted on the Kahok Athletics website for information.)

Attendance Challenge:  Every Day Counts

Finally, from December 1st through December 19th, the district is holding another attendance challenge for grades K–4 and 5–12.  The building in each category with the highest student attendance percentage will receive a celebratory treat in recognition of their achievement. 

We held a similar challenge in October, with Summit Elementary and CMS leading the way. Who will win in December remains to be seen, but regardless of the friendly competition, consistent attendance is essential for both academic success and social-emotional development. 

For information about our district’s attendance policy and the importance of being at school every day, visit the Chronic Absenteeism section on kahoks.org.  

Thank you for your constant dedication to our students, don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride … and Happy Thanksgiving!  Enjoy the time with friends and family.  

Sincerely, 

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.

Superintendent