Cougar Updates

March 2026

Happy Women’s History Month! This March, Charles Reed Elementary is proud to join the nationwide celebration of the women who have shaped our world, our community, and our classrooms.

From pioneering scientists and courageous civil rights leaders to the everyday heroes in our own neighborhoods, this month is about recognizing the "herstory" that has paved the way for our students today.

To the mothers, grandmothers, and female guardians of Charles Reed: Thank you. You are the first role models our students see. Your dedication, resilience, and leadership provide the foundation upon which our children build their dreams.

CAPE Awards:

CAPE Award nominations are now open. Please consider taking a moment to nominate someone who has made a difference or impact in your child’s education. There are three categories: Educator (includes teachers, related services providers, specials’ teachers and specialists), Support Staff (includes paraprofessionals, office staff, lunch and recess supervisors, substitutes, and custodians), and Volunteers (anyone who has stepped up to volunteer their time servicing Charles Reed). Nominations are due March 6th!

Here is the link : https://forms.gle/rd4w9fLWYcbNVjGG8

5Essentials Survey:

Developed by UChicago Impact at the University of Chicago, this survey is a research-based school improvement tool. It’s designed to measure the organizational "DNA" of a school—essentially the internal conditions that are proven to drive student success.

The core philosophy is that schools with high scores in these five areas are significantly more likely to improve student learning and attendance than those with low scores.

There are three surveys for each school. The staff survey, the student survey (taken by 4th and 5th graders at school), and the parent survey. It is the goal of each school to reach a 20% participation rate. 

Please take 5 minutes to complete the 5Essential survey. A text reminder will be sent each day at 5:00pm to remind parents and guardians until we reach our 20% goal. The survey will ask about the county for the school. Despite living in Kendall County the school district is considered in Will County. Please select Will County. 

Here is a link to the survey and Thank you in advance for your responses!

2026 Illinois Supplemental Parent Survey

Link to survey: http://survey.5-essentials.org/illinois/survey/parent/

Opens Feb. 3, 2026 and closes March 13, 2026.

Arrival Reminders:

We are seeing an increase in tardies. When the weather and traffic impact arrival we will hold attendance, allowing all students to get to class. When there are no weather or traffic implications the rear gate will close at 9:03am. It is not possible to pull up to the building and your child make it to their seat by 9:05am. When arriving late a parent must sign the student in. Again, the student should be in their seat ready for instruction at 9:05am. 

TESTING:

  • ISA, Illinois Science Assessment (5th grade) and IAR, Illinois Assessment of Readiness (3rd-5th grades) will begin right before and after spring break. 

Celebrations: 

Ramadan (February 17th - March 19th)

Ramadan is a holy month observed by many Muslims around the world. It is a time focused on reflection, kindness, generosity, and gratitude. During Ramadan, many adults and older students fast from dawn to sunset, spend time in prayer, and make an intentional effort to help others and strengthen their character.

Lent (February 18th - April 5th)

Lent is a season observed by many Christians and begins in early spring, leading up to Easter. It is a time focused on reflection, gratitude, self-discipline, and helping others. Many people choose to give something up or take on acts of kindness and service during Lent as a way to grow personally and spiritually.

Upcoming dates:

Mark your calendar for two exciting Charles Reed Events on March 26th!

Multicultural Night: 5:30pm - 7:30pm at Charles Reed  

Blue House Math Bowl: 5:00pm - 8:00pm at Drauden Point Middle School

March

6th: End of Quarter 3

11th: PTA Meeting 6:00PM

17th: Institute Day- No student attendance

17th: St. Patrick’s Day

23rd - 27th: Spring Book Fair 

24th: Kindergarten Registration Night

26th: Multicultural Night 5:30-7:30pm at Charles Reed  

26th: Blue House Math Bowl 5:00-8:00pm at Drauden Point Middle School

27th: Spring Party

27: Popcorn Friday

30th-April 5th: Spring Break