District 123 Prepares for 2026-27 School Year with Orientation and All-Staff Institute Days

Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 welcomed students and staff back to kick off the 2026–27 school year, marking the district's 125th year of operation. Before students stepped through the doors, new staff members completed a three-day orientation during the week of August 10, followed by Opening Institute Days for all D123 staff starting on August 17.

Orientation sessions provided role-specific professional learning while introducing new employees to district culture, the leadership team, and key digital platforms. In addition to instructional presentations, new staff toured the community on a district-wide bus ride and met with their mentors over breakfast. These foundational onboarding practices directly align with the district's strategic plan, fostering an inclusive, supported staff culture that fuels our "100% All-In" mindset from day one.

"New Staff Orientation is about more than welcoming new employees. It's about building connection, shared purpose, and a strong foundation for success. When our staff feel they belong and understand what we believe, they are better prepared to make a difference for every student." — Dr. Paul Enderle, District 123 Superintendent

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Before school officially started on Wednesday, August 19, the entire D123 staff gathered at Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School for Opening Institute Days, where we welcomed new staff members at each school, recognized staff member milestones, and celebrated the dedicated staff members retiring this year. Employees also met at the building level for collaborative planning and targeted professional development.

On Tuesday, August 18, keynote speaker Robyn Jackson energized the staff with a powerful address on driving student learning through our "100% All-In" commitment. Following the keynote, staff joined role-based breakout sessions to pinpoint specific classroom and operational practices that directly advance the goals outlined in the strategic plan.

"Opening Institute Day brings our entire school community together around a shared vision for the year ahead. It is a time to celebrate our people, strengthen our collective belief, and recommit to doing whatever it takes to help every student succeed." — Dr. Paul Enderle, District 123 Superintendent