Traditionally District 117 high schools, Antioch and Lakes, have hosted a Freshmen and New Student Orientation leading up to the start of freshmen year. This year, building leaders modified programming for freshmen and new students in an effort to ensure the safety of students and staff. Greetings by staff and informational components were moved to a video format and shared with students and families. Staff undertook the challenge of preparing materials for pick-up by not just freshmen, but all 1325 students. This included textbooks, yearbooks, Chromebooks and other miscellaneous supplies needed for particular classes.
Open Doors hours were created to allow students to still find their way around the building and locate classrooms before the first day of attendance. Students and staff have shown amazing flexibility and responsiveness to step-up and find new and creative ways to ensure that freshmen and students new to District 117 still receive a warm welcome while preparing for a remote learning start to the new school year.
