☀️ Summer is here, but it's never too early to start prepping for the new school year!
🛑 Illinois law requires physical exams and up-to-date immunizations for students entering:
✅ Kindergarten
✅ 6th Grade
✅ 9th Grade
These health forms must be submitted by the first day of school! We are happy to partner with Chestnut and Carle to help ensure your student is ready for school in August!
📅 Back-to-School Physical & Immunization Clinics
👉 Chestnut Wellness Fair
📍 Chestnut Family Health Center, 702 W. Chestnut St., Bloomington, IL
📆 July 21, 2026 | ⏰ 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
⚡ Walk-ins welcome but appointments recommended.
👉 McLean Mobile Health Services Events
📍 Western Avenue Community Center, 600 N Western Ave, Bloomington, IL
📆 August 7, 2026 | ⏰ 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📆 August 8, 2026 | ⏰ 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
⚡ Schedule appointments via mcleanmobilehealth@carle.com or 309-604-9688.
Appointments fill up; book your student's appointment today!
#BackToSchoolPhysicals #CommunityPartners #WeAreD87
💛🌈📚 Learning Through Experience
This week, we had some of our D87 teachers participate in the Autism Professional Learning & Universal Supports (A+) Project at Stevenson, gaining hands-on strategies to better support autistic students in our classrooms.
Today they hosted a Peer Day, where students from D87 and neighboring districts worked alongside autistic students in meaningful learning activities, giving educators the opportunity to observe, collaborate, and learn in a real classroom setting.
Hats off to our staff's commitment to creating supportive, inclusive learning environments where every student can learn and thrive.! 💛🌈📚
This week, we had some of our D87 teachers participate in the Autism Professional Learning & Universal Supports (A+) Project at Stevenson, gaining hands-on strategies to better support autistic students in our classrooms.
Today they hosted a Peer Day, where students from D87 and neighboring districts worked alongside autistic students in meaningful learning activities, giving educators the opportunity to observe, collaborate, and learn in a real classroom setting.
Hats off to our staff's commitment to creating supportive, inclusive learning environments where every student can learn and thrive.! 💛🌈📚
🎓✨This week, 10 District 87 educators attended the Corwin Annual Visible Learning Conference! 🌎
From Early Learning to High School, our D87 educators joined educators from around the world to explore the power of Visible Learning.
📚 What is Visible Learning?
It's all about making learning clear and intentional! It helps students understand:
➡️ What they're learning
➡️ Where they're going
➡️ What they need to do to grow
We’re excited for our teachers to bring back new ideas, strategies, and inspiration. Their experience will help fellow staff members and students alike succeed across D87! ❤️
#VisibleLearning #EducatorsInAction #ProfessionalGrowth #TeachingWithPurpose #WeAreD87
From Early Learning to High School, our D87 educators joined educators from around the world to explore the power of Visible Learning.
📚 What is Visible Learning?
It's all about making learning clear and intentional! It helps students understand:
➡️ What they're learning
➡️ Where they're going
➡️ What they need to do to grow
We’re excited for our teachers to bring back new ideas, strategies, and inspiration. Their experience will help fellow staff members and students alike succeed across D87! ❤️
#VisibleLearning #EducatorsInAction #ProfessionalGrowth #TeachingWithPurpose #WeAreD87
🏈🥎🏃Attention BJHS Knights! It's almost time for fall sports! Registration is now open, and practices begin soon.
📅 Practice Start Dates:
🥎 Softball: Monday, July 27 | 4:00–6:00 p.m.
📍 BJHS Softball Field
⚾ Baseball: Monday, August 3 | 6:00–8:00 p.m.
📍 Union Park (GE Road)
🏃 Cross Country: Monday, August 3 | 3:00–4:30 p.m.
📍 BJHS Bus Parking Lot
✅ Before attending the first practice, all student-athletes must:
• Complete the online athletic registration
• Have a current sports physical on file with the school
Register today: https://manage.snap.app/register
We can't wait to see our Knights back in action this fall! 💜🤍 #GoKnights #BJHSAthletics #WeAreD87
📅 Practice Start Dates:
🥎 Softball: Monday, July 27 | 4:00–6:00 p.m.
📍 BJHS Softball Field
⚾ Baseball: Monday, August 3 | 6:00–8:00 p.m.
📍 Union Park (GE Road)
🏃 Cross Country: Monday, August 3 | 3:00–4:30 p.m.
📍 BJHS Bus Parking Lot
✅ Before attending the first practice, all student-athletes must:
• Complete the online athletic registration
• Have a current sports physical on file with the school
Register today: https://manage.snap.app/register
We can't wait to see our Knights back in action this fall! 💜🤍 #GoKnights #BJHSAthletics #WeAreD87
🚔✨SRO ( School Resource Officer) Camp is off to a great start! 🎉
Sponsored by the City of Bloomington and the Bloomington Police Department (BPD), junior high students in both D87 and Unit 5 are having an amazing time at this fun, week-long camp hosted by D87 and Unit 5 SROs.
Fun daily activities have been keeping students learning, exploring, and most importantly—having fun! 🎉
🌟 Today’s Highlights:
✅ Hands-on learning about investigations 🔍
✅ A special demo of BPD drones 🚁
✅ A visit to a local fire department 🚒
✅ And the best part on a hot day like today? Getting to cool off with the fire hose! 💦🔥
What a blast! Thank you to our amazing SROs, the Bloomington Police Department, and the Bloomington Fire Department for providing our students with this unforgettable experience! ❤️
#SROCamp2026 #CommunityConnections #WeAreD87
Sponsored by the City of Bloomington and the Bloomington Police Department (BPD), junior high students in both D87 and Unit 5 are having an amazing time at this fun, week-long camp hosted by D87 and Unit 5 SROs.
Fun daily activities have been keeping students learning, exploring, and most importantly—having fun! 🎉
🌟 Today’s Highlights:
✅ Hands-on learning about investigations 🔍
✅ A special demo of BPD drones 🚁
✅ A visit to a local fire department 🚒
✅ And the best part on a hot day like today? Getting to cool off with the fire hose! 💦🔥
What a blast! Thank you to our amazing SROs, the Bloomington Police Department, and the Bloomington Fire Department for providing our students with this unforgettable experience! ❤️
#SROCamp2026 #CommunityConnections #WeAreD87
🎉 Today, we are excited to welcome Cody Russell!
Cody is returning to the halls of BHS as a teacher, after graduating from BHS himself (#OnceARaiderAlwaysARaider)! With a deep passion for math and the belief that a simple conversation or moment of encouragement can change a student’s life, Cody is excited to make a positive impact in the same place that shaped him.
This year, Cody is looking forward to creating a classroom of his own, building strong relationships with his students, and watching them grow and excel.
🎉Fun Facts: Before becoming a teacher, Cody worked in finance for several years. In his spare time, he loves running and spending quality time with his dog, Apollo.
Welcome back to BHS and the D87 family, Cody! We’re excited to have you inspire the next generation of Raiders! 💜
#WelcomeBackToD87 #OnceARaiderAlwaysARaider #WeAreD87
Cody is returning to the halls of BHS as a teacher, after graduating from BHS himself (#OnceARaiderAlwaysARaider)! With a deep passion for math and the belief that a simple conversation or moment of encouragement can change a student’s life, Cody is excited to make a positive impact in the same place that shaped him.
This year, Cody is looking forward to creating a classroom of his own, building strong relationships with his students, and watching them grow and excel.
🎉Fun Facts: Before becoming a teacher, Cody worked in finance for several years. In his spare time, he loves running and spending quality time with his dog, Apollo.
Welcome back to BHS and the D87 family, Cody! We’re excited to have you inspire the next generation of Raiders! 💜
#WelcomeBackToD87 #OnceARaiderAlwaysARaider #WeAreD87
🎉 A big welcome to Morgan Hansen, joining BJHS as a paraprofessional!
Last year, Morgan was studying Spanish in Malaga, Spain, and now she’s bringing her talents and enthusiasm to the D87 family. This year, she’s excited to gain experience in education and build connections with coworkers and students!
🎉Fun facts about Morgan: She has a sweet fur baby named Archie, a three-year-old ragdoll cat 😻 who’s her absolute world. In her free time, Morgan loves reading, playing games like The Sims, and experimenting with homemade coffee recipes, combining creativity with savings!
Welcome to D87 and BJHS, Morgan! We can’t wait to see the great things you’ll do this year! 💜
#WelcomeToD87 #WeAreD87
Last year, Morgan was studying Spanish in Malaga, Spain, and now she’s bringing her talents and enthusiasm to the D87 family. This year, she’s excited to gain experience in education and build connections with coworkers and students!
🎉Fun facts about Morgan: She has a sweet fur baby named Archie, a three-year-old ragdoll cat 😻 who’s her absolute world. In her free time, Morgan loves reading, playing games like The Sims, and experimenting with homemade coffee recipes, combining creativity with savings!
Welcome to D87 and BJHS, Morgan! We can’t wait to see the great things you’ll do this year! 💜
#WelcomeToD87 #WeAreD87
🎉🌲 Camp Limberlost Fun! 🌲🎉
Last week, 58 students nominated from D87 and Unit 5 schools had the time of their lives at Camp Limberlost! 🏕️ From swimming and zip-lining to goat hiking, big swings, arts and crafts, and so much more, the memories made are sure to last a lifetime! 🐐🎨🌊
Huge thanks to Camp Limberlost for giving our students this incredible opportunity to explore, grow, and have fun! 💜💛
#CampMemories #CampLimberlost #UnforgettableSummer #WeAreD87
Last week, 58 students nominated from D87 and Unit 5 schools had the time of their lives at Camp Limberlost! 🏕️ From swimming and zip-lining to goat hiking, big swings, arts and crafts, and so much more, the memories made are sure to last a lifetime! 🐐🎨🌊
Huge thanks to Camp Limberlost for giving our students this incredible opportunity to explore, grow, and have fun! 💜💛
#CampMemories #CampLimberlost #UnforgettableSummer #WeAreD87
🎉🍎 A Wrap-Up for the Books: D87's "The Feast"! 🍎🎉
This week, D87 staff came together for learning, growth, and a whole lot of fun at The Feast! 🙌 The week-long professional development sessions ended on a high note, with staff presentations showcasing the incredible tips, tricks, and strategies they gained.
Now, they will be heading back to their classrooms armed with fresh ideas and inspiration! 🚀
Way to go, D87 team! 💜💛
#D87TheFeast #ProfessionalDevelopment #BackToSchoolReady #WeAreD87
This week, D87 staff came together for learning, growth, and a whole lot of fun at The Feast! 🙌 The week-long professional development sessions ended on a high note, with staff presentations showcasing the incredible tips, tricks, and strategies they gained.
Now, they will be heading back to their classrooms armed with fresh ideas and inspiration! 🚀
Way to go, D87 team! 💜💛
#D87TheFeast #ProfessionalDevelopment #BackToSchoolReady #WeAreD87
📅 Save the Date: Back 2 School Alliance Event
This event is for eligible Unit 5 and District 87 students entering grades PK-8 who qualify for free/reduced lunch AND have completed all registration requirements for school.
📍Event Details:
Date: Thursday, August 13th
Time: 10 AM - 6 PM
Location: State Farm Corporate South: 3 State Farm Plaza, Bloomington - EAST parking deck
👧👦 Important Info:
Students must attend with an adult or guardian to receive supplies.
Eligible students will receive an email with a form in early August to confirm attendance at the event.
Mark your calendars and keep an eye on your email inbox for the confirmation form in August!
#Back2SchoolAlliance #SchoolSupplies #WeAreD87
🧮✨ District 87 Representing at the 4th Annual Building Thinking Classrooms Conference!
BJHS Instructional Math Coach Kayla Smock and BHS Math Teacher Beth Warden traveled to Connecticut to present at this year’s Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) Conference! 🎉
Their session, titled Building Collaborative Learning Communities Across Grades and Content, focused on their approach to creating a district-wide learning community dedicated to implementing BTC practices. They shared both the successes and challenges of this journey, while participants in their session worked to develop practical strategies in their own districts.
Kayla and Beth loved showcasing the incredible work being done in D87 and are excited to bring their knowledge back to host their very own BTC Summer Workshop on July 20-21st! 💜
#BuildingThinkingClassrooms #D87Proud #TeachingWithPurpose #WeAreD87
BJHS Instructional Math Coach Kayla Smock and BHS Math Teacher Beth Warden traveled to Connecticut to present at this year’s Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) Conference! 🎉
Their session, titled Building Collaborative Learning Communities Across Grades and Content, focused on their approach to creating a district-wide learning community dedicated to implementing BTC practices. They shared both the successes and challenges of this journey, while participants in their session worked to develop practical strategies in their own districts.
Kayla and Beth loved showcasing the incredible work being done in D87 and are excited to bring their knowledge back to host their very own BTC Summer Workshop on July 20-21st! 💜
#BuildingThinkingClassrooms #D87Proud #TeachingWithPurpose #WeAreD87
☀️🌿 Another unforgettable day for our Raiders 101 as they enjoyed plenty of laughs, outdoor fun, and meaningful community service at Roots Ranch Farm! 🚜✨
From teamwork and meeting farm animals 🐐🐓 to giving back to the community, the day was all about learning, connection, and making Raider memories. 💜💛
#Raiders101 #RootsRanchFarm #WeAreD87
From teamwork and meeting farm animals 🐐🐓 to giving back to the community, the day was all about learning, connection, and making Raider memories. 💜💛
#Raiders101 #RootsRanchFarm #WeAreD87
🎉 Help us welcome Karen Head to her new role as an LBS1 Special Education teacher at Washington!
While Karen is already a familiar face in D87—having worked as a substitute teacher and paraprofessional—this year, she steps into a new role after completing her LBS1 endorsement and working toward her Master’s in Special Education at ISU.
Karen's journey: She earned her Elementary Education degree from ISU 20 years ago and spent time subbing before taking time off to focus on her family. Two years ago, she returned to education as a sub and paraprofessional. Inspired by her own kids with disabilities and their positive experiences in D87 schools, Karen decided to pursue her teaching dream in Special Education to give back to a community that has meant so much to her family.💜💚
This year, Karen looks forward to supporting her students’ learning and growth while continuing to grow in her own teaching journey.
Some fun facts about Karen: She and her husband of 18 years have six children and two sweet cockapoo pups. In her free time, she loves traveling, organizing, gardening, walking, spending time outside, and relaxing by the pool.
Welcome to Washington and D87 in your new position, Karen! 💚 💜
#WelcomeToD87 #WeAreD87
While Karen is already a familiar face in D87—having worked as a substitute teacher and paraprofessional—this year, she steps into a new role after completing her LBS1 endorsement and working toward her Master’s in Special Education at ISU.
Karen's journey: She earned her Elementary Education degree from ISU 20 years ago and spent time subbing before taking time off to focus on her family. Two years ago, she returned to education as a sub and paraprofessional. Inspired by her own kids with disabilities and their positive experiences in D87 schools, Karen decided to pursue her teaching dream in Special Education to give back to a community that has meant so much to her family.💜💚
This year, Karen looks forward to supporting her students’ learning and growth while continuing to grow in her own teaching journey.
Some fun facts about Karen: She and her husband of 18 years have six children and two sweet cockapoo pups. In her free time, she loves traveling, organizing, gardening, walking, spending time outside, and relaxing by the pool.
Welcome to Washington and D87 in your new position, Karen! 💚 💜
#WelcomeToD87 #WeAreD87
🍎 "The Feast" kicked off yesterday, a tech-focused professional development conference made for and by D87 teachers! It’s a week dedicated to learning new tech tools and strategies teachers can bring to their classrooms.
This will be a week packed with valuable takeaways for our teachers. Here's to innovation and improvement in the year ahead!🌟📚 It’s not just about learning; it's about enjoying the journey and sharing ideas!🙌
#TheFeastD87 #TechPD #D87Teachers #InnovationInEducation #WeAreD87
This will be a week packed with valuable takeaways for our teachers. Here's to innovation and improvement in the year ahead!🌟📚 It’s not just about learning; it's about enjoying the journey and sharing ideas!🙌
#TheFeastD87 #TechPD #D87Teachers #InnovationInEducation #WeAreD87
🌟 Raiders 101 is officially underway! 🌟
Today, BHS incoming 9th-graders kicked off their high school journeys in this weeklong program designed to give them a head start as BHS's newest Raiders! 💜💛💜💛
Principal Moore opened Raiders 101 with some helpful advice for high school success, and then students were introduced to BHS's newest assistant principals (welcome aboard, Hannah Boston and Eduardo Pimentel)!
From enjoying refreshing drinks from the visiting drink cart to potting plants, Day 1 was packed with fun and exciting activities! 🪴🥤
Stay tuned for more updates as these future Raiders dive into the rest of the week!
#Raiders101 #BHSFamily #OnceARaiderAlwaysARaider #WeAreD87
Today, BHS incoming 9th-graders kicked off their high school journeys in this weeklong program designed to give them a head start as BHS's newest Raiders! 💜💛💜💛
Principal Moore opened Raiders 101 with some helpful advice for high school success, and then students were introduced to BHS's newest assistant principals (welcome aboard, Hannah Boston and Eduardo Pimentel)!
From enjoying refreshing drinks from the visiting drink cart to potting plants, Day 1 was packed with fun and exciting activities! 🪴🥤
Stay tuned for more updates as these future Raiders dive into the rest of the week!
#Raiders101 #BHSFamily #OnceARaiderAlwaysARaider #WeAreD87
🎉Today, we want to give a warm welcome to Abigail Tyler, who will be teaching Industrial Technology at BHS!
Abigail completed her degree in Technology and Engineering Education at Illinois State University. She chose a career in teaching because she loves helping students develop problem-solving skills through design, drafting, and building experiences.
Abigail was drawn to D87 because of its strong support for teachers and its commitment to providing students with meaningful, future-ready learning experiences. This year, she’s especially excited to see her students develop their skills and bring their ideas to life through creative, hands-on projects.
Fun facts about Abigail: she enjoys woodworking, crafting, hiking, and spending time outdoors. She loves staying active and working on projects that let her design and build things.
Welcome to D87 and BHS, Abigail! We’re so excited to see the impact you’ll make with your students in the classroom and beyond! 💜
#WelcomeToD87 #WeAreD87
Abigail completed her degree in Technology and Engineering Education at Illinois State University. She chose a career in teaching because she loves helping students develop problem-solving skills through design, drafting, and building experiences.
Abigail was drawn to D87 because of its strong support for teachers and its commitment to providing students with meaningful, future-ready learning experiences. This year, she’s especially excited to see her students develop their skills and bring their ideas to life through creative, hands-on projects.
Fun facts about Abigail: she enjoys woodworking, crafting, hiking, and spending time outdoors. She loves staying active and working on projects that let her design and build things.
Welcome to D87 and BHS, Abigail! We’re so excited to see the impact you’ll make with your students in the classroom and beyond! 💜
#WelcomeToD87 #WeAreD87
🎉 Congratulations, BHS Speech & Debate Team! 🎉
The Raiders competed at the National Speech & Debate Association National Tournament in Richmond, Virginia, this past June for the 10th consecutive year! 💪
Special shoutouts:
🏆 Gean Carter advanced to the semifinals in Original Spoken Word!
🌟 Issaria Jacobs and Jack Eddleman made their debut appearances at Nationals!
We’re so proud of our Raiders for representing BHS at Nationals! 👏 #BHSSpeechAndDebate #WeAreD87
The Raiders competed at the National Speech & Debate Association National Tournament in Richmond, Virginia, this past June for the 10th consecutive year! 💪
Special shoutouts:
🏆 Gean Carter advanced to the semifinals in Original Spoken Word!
🌟 Issaria Jacobs and Jack Eddleman made their debut appearances at Nationals!
We’re so proud of our Raiders for representing BHS at Nationals! 👏 #BHSSpeechAndDebate #WeAreD87
🇺🇸🎆 Happy 4th of July from District 87! 🎆🇺🇸
Wishing all of our D87 community a safe and joyful Independence Day! May your day be filled with celebration, connection, and plenty of red, white, and blue! ❤️🤍💙
#Happy4thOfJuly #WeAreD87
Wishing all of our D87 community a safe and joyful Independence Day! May your day be filled with celebration, connection, and plenty of red, white, and blue! ❤️🤍💙
#Happy4thOfJuly #WeAreD87
The D87 office is closed today, Friday, July 3rd.
We'll be back next week to assist with registration needs! 📝
Don't forget to check out one of our mobile stops next week — see attached flyers for details.
Thank you, and have a safe and happy 4th of July weekend! 🌟
We'll be back next week to assist with registration needs! 📝
Don't forget to check out one of our mobile stops next week — see attached flyers for details.
Thank you, and have a safe and happy 4th of July weekend! 🌟
🎉 Let’s give a warm welcome to Jessica Estes, joining the D87 family!
Jessica will be teaching freshman and junior English at BHS! 📚✏️ Her journey to teaching started in 9th grade, but she took a unique path—earning a master’s degree from Illinois State University and spending five years working in higher education before reigniting her love for teaching. After earning her teaching license, Jessica is now entering her fourth year as a teacher, excited to focus fully on her students and the BHS community.
Jessica fell in love with Bloomington-Normal during her time at ISU and is excited to join the D87 community! She’s looking forward to building relationships with students and colleagues and supporting athletic and afterschool activities throughout the year.
Outside of work, Jessica enjoys creating art, listening to Taylor Swift 🎶, watching Cubs games ⚾, exploring trails, and grabbing a smoothie bowl from Nautical Bowls. She recently moved to Bloomington with her boyfriend, Brady, and her two cats, Beatrice and Meredith.
Welcome to BHS, Jessica! We’re so happy to have you as part of the D87 and Raider family! 💜
#WelcomeToD87 #WeAreD87
Jessica will be teaching freshman and junior English at BHS! 📚✏️ Her journey to teaching started in 9th grade, but she took a unique path—earning a master’s degree from Illinois State University and spending five years working in higher education before reigniting her love for teaching. After earning her teaching license, Jessica is now entering her fourth year as a teacher, excited to focus fully on her students and the BHS community.
Jessica fell in love with Bloomington-Normal during her time at ISU and is excited to join the D87 community! She’s looking forward to building relationships with students and colleagues and supporting athletic and afterschool activities throughout the year.
Outside of work, Jessica enjoys creating art, listening to Taylor Swift 🎶, watching Cubs games ⚾, exploring trails, and grabbing a smoothie bowl from Nautical Bowls. She recently moved to Bloomington with her boyfriend, Brady, and her two cats, Beatrice and Meredith.
Welcome to BHS, Jessica! We’re so happy to have you as part of the D87 and Raider family! 💜
#WelcomeToD87 #WeAreD87
