Students Welcomed Back To Northbrook/Glenview District 30 Schools

NORTHBROOK, IL — Students at all three schools in Northbook/Glenview School District 30 returned to class this week for the start of the 2018-2019 school year. One school is focusing on kindness, another gets ready to move into a new space, while the third celebrates its golden anniversary.

School started for most students at Maple, Wescott and Willowbrook schools Monday. Kindergartners and preschoolers at Willowbrook started Tuesday, and district staff provided images and accounts from opening ceremonies at all three campuses.

Wescott School

Principal Chris Brown welcomed 414 students to the new school year at Wescott, where the theme this year is "Choose Kind". Brown said the focus would be on kindness in curriculum and activities.

"We continue in our Wescott way to be safe, caring and to be here and ready in the classrooms and throughout the building, reminding students of the expectations for all," Brown said.

The assembly was opened and closed by new music teacher Quentin Coaxum. Coaxum has succeeded Bill Vannanen, who retired this year after 37 years with the district.

Maple School

With construction underway on a new school building, Maple School greeted back students and staff to parts of campus for the final time Monday.

During an opening assembly, Maple School Principal Nate Carter and Assistant Principal Betty Holzkopf addressed more than 400 students and staff to Maple School's gym for the last first day of school. Next year, all assemblies are expected to be held at the "cafetorium" of the new Maple School, according to the district.

In a message to teachers, the principals emphasized the school motto: "Nurturing and maintaining a 'happy herd of Maple Mustangs' is an important aspect of our work as educators. Positive relationships evolve and grow as interactions occur among and between teachers and students. Take time to really get to know one another and your students –and keep our 'herd' healthy and happy."

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Willowbrook School

The first day of school at Willowbrook featured the first of many birthday celebrations dedicated to the Glenview school's 50th anniversary, which the school-wide theme of the school year.

During Monday's opening ceremonies, a large paper "cake" in the school's green and white colors was rolled into gym before a staffer dressed as school mascot Wildcat Willy jumped out to the surprise of 386 students.

The district set up a Facebook page for Willow students and staff past and present to connect and plans a 50th anniversary celebration is planned for February 2019.

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