Category: Huntley 158 Today
Huntley 158 Today: Inside a Day in the Life of an Elementary School Student
On this episode of Huntley 158 Today we go inside what a “typical” day in the life of elementary school student in Huntley 158 looks like. We discuss classes, social lives, personal development, and technology with Leggee Elementary School Principal Scott … read more
Huntley 158 Today: Helping Students Cope with Anxiety
Huntley 158 has devoted significant resources to helping students cope with anxiety. Across the country anxiety is affecting students, from temporary stress to ongoing and chronic disorders, at increasingly high rates. From informational resources to visits with therapy animals, Huntley … Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Inside Our Dual Language Program
Our Dual Language program, which is currently gearing up for its second year, offers an outstanding educational experience for both our bilingual students and our students interested in becoming bilingual. On this episode of Huntley 158 Today we’ll go inside … Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Inside the SNAP Program
In Huntley 158, we have a terrific, specialized program to best serve students and families identified with autism. Today, we’ll go inside our SNAP Program with two of our staff members helping serve these special families. Watch the video: Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Meet New Superintendent Scott Rowe
Dr. Scott Rowe will be taking on a new role as superintendent of schools for Huntley Community School District 158 effective July 1, 2018. Rowe has been with the District since 2011, first as principal of Marlowe Middle School, and … His vision for the future »
Huntley 158 Today: Terry Awrey Reflects on 33 Years with the District
Terry Awrey, associate superintendent for secondary education, announced his retirement at the end of the 2017-18 school year after a career spanning 33 years and multiple jobs with Huntley Community School District 158. Hired in 1985 as a teacher and … His favorite memories »
Huntley 158 Today: Marlowe Project Brings Clean Water to South Sudan
Today we speak with teachers and students from Marlowe Middle School who were among hundreds of individuals from the school who worked over the past few years to raise funds for a well to provide communities in South Sudan with … “100% student-led” »
Huntley 158 Today: HHS Student Artists Selected for Honors
On this episode of Huntley 158 Today we speak with four students from Huntley High School about the opportunities they have had to explore, create, and exhibit their art in professional galleries. Among other opportunities, numerous HHS students had artwork … read more
Huntley 158 Today: “The Voice” Earns National Honors, Life Experiences
Today we speak with students from Huntley High School’s nationally recognized student newsmagazine, The Voice. Staffers recently traveled to New York City to accept a Silver Crown Award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. Individual staffers also have received a … Life-changing experiences »
Huntley 158 Today: Theater Students in the Spotlight
From repeat appearances at state competition to outside events at Chicago Shakes and the national Shakespeare Competition, the Huntley High School Theater Department has garnered a number of accolades in recent years. On this episode of Huntley 158 Today, we speak with … “Metamorphoses” May 2-5 »
Video: Dual Language Coming to Huntley 158 for 2018-19
Beginning in fall 2018, Huntley 158 plans to add a kindergarten dual language classroom at each of its three kindergarten buildings, Chesak Elementary, Leggee Elementary, and Mackeben Elementary School, and two 1st-grade classrooms at Chesak Elementary. Watch this video to … Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Volunteering with the District
On this episode of “Huntley 158 Today” we chat with Eileen Delahanty, volunteer coordinator for the District. She will discuss her history and role within the District, some of the ways the District works with more than 2,000 volunteers annually, … How you can get involved »
Huntley 158 Today: Employment with the District
On this episode of “Huntley 158 Today,” we talk with Adam Zehr, assistant superintendent of human resources, about the hiring process for those joining the District, some of the common vacancies the District is looking to fill, and how individuals … Second-largest employer in the county »
Education Foundation Dueling Pianos, Dinner, and Raffle April 7
The Huntley 158 Education Foundation is excited to kick off another year of investing in educational excellence and invites you to enjoy an evening of entertainment while supporting a great cause – the students and teachers of Huntley Community School … Tickets & Sponsorships Available »
Huntley 158 Today: Girls in Engineering, Math, and Science
On this week’s episode of Huntley 158 Today we speak with Laura Jenkins and Amanda Henk about the upcoming Girls in Engineering, Math, and Science (GEMS) event being held at Huntley High School April 7, as well as the other opportunities Huntley … GEMS Event »
Huntley 158 Today: Getting to Know Interim Superintendent Brad Hawk
On this episode we sit down with Dr. Brad Hawk, who joined the District in February as interim superintendent for the remainder of the 2017-18 school year. We’ll discuss the lessons he’s learned from 42 years in education, including his … Experienced educator »
Huntley 158 Today: From Huntley to International Silver Medalist
During this Olympic season, people across the U.S. are taking pride in the accomplishments of their fellow Americans in international competition. Here in Huntley, we are very excited to recognize the success of one of our own students who has achieved … Olympic dreams »
Huntley 158 Today: Dr. Burkey Looks Back at 12 Years as Superintendent
Today we welcome a special guest co-host as we sit down with Dr. John Burkey to look back at his 12 years as superintendent of Huntley 158. Burkey’s last day as superintendent was January 31, 2018. In our discussion, Dr. … Special Guest Host »
Huntley 158 Today: HHS National Honor Society Students
On this special episode, Dr. Burkey’s last episode as co-host, we check in with leaders of the Huntley High School National Honor Society. This amazing group of students achieves not only in the classroom, but has led a number of … Dr. Burkey’s Last Episode »
Huntley 158 Today: Chatting with Grammy Winner Bill Harley
On this special episode of Huntley 158 Today, we talk with two-time Grammy-winning children’s singer-songwriter Bill Harley about his career, his work encouraging literacy, and the weeklong residency he held at Martin and Chesak Elementary Schools earlier this year. As … Creativity & Literacy »
Huntley 158 Today: HHS Vanguard Vision Competency-Based Learning Pilot
On this episode of Huntley 158 Today, we discuss Huntley High School’s Competency-Based Learning Pilot Program, which was featured earlier this week in the Chicago Tribune. The school’s Vanguard Vision pilot program is among 10 such programs being developed under the State of … Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Spotlight on CTE
Huntley High School has a strong tradition of offering vocational courses such as shop, woodworking, and other technical and courses. Today, these skills are brought together with business, family and consumer science, computer science, engineering, and other career and technology-focused … read more
Huntley 158 Today: Alumni Return to Teach at HHS
On this holiday episode of Huntley 158 Today we check in with four Huntley High School alumni who after completing college chose to return to teach at HHS. We’ll discuss their experiences as students, what made them want to come … How it’s changed »
Huntley 158 Today: Honoring Our Veterans (Part 2)
This episode is Part 2 of our conversation with three area veterans: Warren Higgins (WWII), Bob Allen (Korea), and Al Roberts (Vietnam). Please listen as these three remarkable veterans share stories about their service to our country. These three gentleman … Historic, heroic »
Huntley 158 Today: Diversity and Inclusion Working Group
On this episode we talk with four members of the Huntley 158 Diversity and Inclusion Working Group, a District-wide committee of staff members working to ensure that we live out our motto of All Students Always. Expanding on an action … Important ongoing work »
Huntley 158 Today: Raider Nation News
Huntley High School teacher Mrs. Gilleland and several students responsible for producing “Raider Nation News,” the school’s weekly news broadcast, stop by to tell us about how the program has grown from humble beginnings several years ago to an award-winning … Award-winning broadcast »
Huntley 158 Today: Honoring Our Veterans
In honor of Veterans Day, we are honored to share this special episode of Huntley 158 Today featuring three area veterans: Warren Higgins (WWII), Bob Allen (Korea), and Al Roberts (Vietnam). Please listen as these three remarkable share stories about … Part 1 »
Huntley 158 Today: Joining the League of Innovative Schools
In October, Huntley 158 was selected to join the League of Innovative Schools. The League is a national coalition of 93 forward-thinking school districts organized by Digital Promise, a nonprofit organization with the mission to accelerate innovation in education and … Among just 93 schools in U.S. »
Huntley 158 Today: The Leaders of Raider Nation
On this Halloween episode of Huntley 158 Today we speak with seven Huntley High School seniors who have taken on the responsibility of organizing Raider Nation, the school’s student cheering section. While the student section has for many years been filled for … Halloween episode »
Huntley 158 Today: The Shift Toward Personalized Learning
Today we speak with principals Scott Rowe of Huntley High School and Anna Hoyou of Mackeben Elementary School about the District’s recently announced plan to move toward truly personalized learning for all students over the next five years. The shift … Elementary and high school perspectives »
Huntley 158 Today: Dual Language Program
On this episode of Huntley 158 Today we had an exciting discussion with two individuals from our Center for Learning & Innovation about plans for expanding Dual Language in Huntley 158! Dr. Rocio Del Castillo, director of curriculum, and Dr. Erika Schlichter, … Benefits of biliteracy »
Huntley 158 Today: How We Serve 700,000 Meals a Year
Today we speak with Kevin Harris, director of food services, and Lynn Mandarino and Hope Quillin, food service team leaders at Heineman and Marlowe Middle Schools, about what it takes to feed 700,000 meals a year to Huntley 158 students. … Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Athletics and Extracurricular Activities
On this episode of Huntley 158 Today we speak with Glen Wilson, athletic director at Huntley High School, and Rita Castans, athletic director and assistant principal at Marlowe Middle School, about the numerous opportunities students have to get involved with … Tips on getting involved »
Huntley 158 Today: Technology Behind the Scenes
Today we speak with Dr. Chris Budzynski, director of information technology, and Joe Follman, a mobile tech at Huntley High School, about the behind-the-scenes structure that supports Huntley 158’s technology-driven initiatives. From boosting wi-fi capacity to supporting more than 11,000 … Biggest challenges »
Huntley 158 Today: School Funding and the FY18 Budget
On this episode of “Huntley 158 Today” we speak with Mark Altmayer, Chief Financial Officer, and Debbie Salm, Director of Fiscal Services, about the recent change to the state school funding formula, the FY18 budget, and how Huntley 158 remains … Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: The Transition to 6th Grade
As we settle into the new school year, we check in with new 6th-grade students from Heineman Middle School about their transition from elementary to middle school. In addition, Heineman Principal Jake Litchfield and teacher Mrs. Johnson share their insights … Tips from the experts »
Huntley 158 Today: D158 Early Childhood Center
Today we speak with Sheryl Pauwels, principal of the Early Childhood Center, as well as current and former ECC families about the school and the positive impact it has had on their lives. The ECC is a school within a … Hear from families »
Huntley 158 Today: Meet the Board of Education President
Today we speak with Don Drzal, president of the Huntley Community School District 158 Board of Education. On this episode Mr. Drzal explains what the Board’s purpose is, what compelled he and his fellow members to run for election, and what … Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Welcome to the 2017-18 School Year!
On this season-premier episode of “Huntley 158 Today,” we sit down with a principal and a teacher to get some back-to-school tips. We’ll also discuss some of the beginning-of-the-year events our schools hold to help get students and families back … Back-to-School Tips »
Huntley 158 Today: Members of the HHS Class of 2017
Four Class of 2017 graduates: Heather Baldacci, Hailey Hill, Claudia Kosiak, and Jacob Wat have all excelled in academics, with GPAs in the top 10 among the class’s more than 700 graduates. But equally as important, each has forged a distinctive path through high school, including finding the right balance among academics, extracurriculars, and social life. Their advice and future plans »
Huntley 158 Today: Preparing For Kindergarten
Today we talk with Scott Iddings, principal of Leggee Elementary School; Carrie Hernandez, Leggee kindergarten teacher; and Carter, a kindergarten veteran, about what to expect at kindergarten registration and in the classroom. At kindergarten registration events, families have the opportunity to tour the school, meet staff, and get to know their school. Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Medical Residency Students Reflect on Year One
Today we speak with five students from the inaugural class of Huntley High School’s pioneering Youth Residency Program about their experiences. They’ll share their favorite memories from their one-of-a-kind experience as well as how the program has helped them develop their plans for the future. See behind the scenes »
Huntley 158 Today: Students Enlisting in the Military
On this special two-part episode, we speak with six Huntley High School who shortly after graduation will be shipping out for service in the military. As we near graduation season, we are so proud and honored to speak with these students about the choices they have made to enter the military.
On Part I we speak with seniors Noah Drzal, Hal Hardy, and Gunnar Vogt, and junior Myranda Anderson about their motivations for joining the military and their future plans. On Part II, we speak with seniors Taylor Velez and Zack Flick about their personal histories with the military and their future plans. Two special episodes »
Huntley 158 Today: Huntley Community Radio
Today we speak with Bill Geheren and Kate Curtin, aka the Dudes and Duchess of Huntley Community Radio. The station also broadcasts HHS football games, garnering thousands of listeners from throughout the country. Broadcasting at 101.5 FM locally and online at huntleyradio.com, HCR has become an integral part of the community. Broadcasting live from HHS »
Huntley 158 Today: Community Partnership with Culver’s
Today we speak with Richard Myers, manager of Culver’s in Huntley, which over the years has partnered in numerous ways with Huntley 158. In addition, we talk with HHS senior Trevor Sass, who says he will take his experiences working at Culver’s through the school’s Co-op Program with him to the United States Marine Corps. Familiar faces at schools »
Huntley 158 Today: Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce
Today we speak with Sunday Graham, of the Huntley Area Chamber of Commerce. In addition to hosting the ribbon cutting event for Huntley High School’s new addition in 2016, the Chamber partners with the District in many ways. According to Graham, strong local schools have a large positive effect on home values and business growth. Mutually beneficial partnerships »
Huntley 158 Today: Serving Gifted Students and Families
Today we speak with Jacki Carrasco, director of the Huntley 158 gifted program, as well as Deena Reeves and Bruce Augustine, two gifted parents who have both served as chair of the Community Organization for Gifted Children (COGC), an organization that provides networking and resources for parents of gifted children. Parent leadership »
Huntley 158 Today: HHS Principal Discusses Blended Learning
Today HHS Principal Scott Rowe discusses the school’s pioneering ALPHA Courses Blended Learning program. Through it, the school offers some 40 classes combining face-to-face and online work, from math to PE. Its successes have been documented by CNN.com, Parenting Magazine, and many other national and trade publications. Nationally recognized »
Huntley 158 Today: Ballet Helps HHS Band Reach Top Honors
Today we speak with Phil Carter, Huntley High School band director, and three students from the school’s award-winning bands. In 2016, the Marching Red Raiders took top visual honors at statewide competition. In addition, concert bands and ensembles have performed at a number of competitions, and students have received a host of top honors. Unorthodox training »
Huntley 158 Today: Village Manager and Mayor Discuss Partnerships
Today we speak with Dave Johnson, village manager of Huntley, and Mayor Charles Sass about how rapid changes and growth in the community over the past two decades have strengthened the community and the school district. We’ll also learn about their backgrounds and how the Village and District continue to partner. Growing the community »
Huntley 158 Today: Engineering Academy Students on Robots, Classes
On this episode of Huntley 158 Today we speak with Amanda Henk, a teacher who both was instrumental in the formation of the HHS Engineering Academy and is coach of the HHS Robotics Team. We also chat with three students and robotics team members about their experiences so far in the Academy. Upcoming competitions »
Huntley 158 Today: What is the Co-Op Program?
Today we speak with three students and teacher Page Schwaschwary from the HHS Co-Op Program. The class pairs in-school study of skills such as communication, interviewing, and college and career prep with early release for students to work real jobs in the community. The program works with more than 100 businesses in McHenry County. Deep ties to community »
Huntley 158 Today: Connecting Students with College and Careers
Today we speak with HHS counselor Julie Atchley and several students who have benefited from the school’s adoption of Naviance, a leading online service that pairs students with college and career choices. Atchley says it is just one tool the Counseling Department uses to help students plot their post-secondary paths. Personalized profiles »
Huntley 158 Today: The LIGHT Program’s Shining Successes
Today we speak with four students from the Huntley 158 LIGHT Program, which serves special education students ages 18-21 who have completed graduation requirements but delayed acceptance of their diploma. About 75% of students in the program are competitively employed through partnerships with about 40 local employers. Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Transition from ACT to SAT
Huntley High School has been working with staff, students, and families to prepare for the SAT Exam, which Illinois selected to replace the ACT as the statewide college readiness assessment. Associate Principal Shelly Kish joins us to answer your questions about the shift and share where people can go for more information. Your FAQs answered »
Medical Academy Students Discuss One-of-a-Kind Residency
Twenty-four students from the HHS Medical Academy are pioneering a medical residency program in partnership with Centegra Health System. Believed to be the first of its kind, the program gives students the opportunity to shadow healthcare professionals for several hours each week in departments throughout Centegra facilities. Real-world experiences »
Huntley 158 Today: What Drives Mrs. Robinson?
On our holiday episode of Huntley 158 Today, we talk with Patricia Robinson, one of our amazing bus drivers! In addition to winning over the hearts of thousands of students during her career with the District, Mrs. Robinson, better known to many of her riders as “Mama Bear,” also recently received a statewide “Those Who Excel” honor. What makes her smile everyday »
Huntley 158 Today: Special Services Spotlight
Did you know about 10% of students in Huntley Community School District 158 receive some level of support from the Special Services Department? In this episode of Huntley 158 Today, Special Services Director Kevin Wolf discusses the breadth of services the department offers and areas of focus to better serve students and their families. How many students receive supports? »
Huntley 158 Today: Answering Your Snow Day FAQ
Superintendent John Burkey answers your frequently asked questions about snow days and severe weather. What are the factors we consider when making a decision whether to open? When is the decision made? Do we ever dismiss early for bad weather? How do we let families know? Do we have to make up snow days? Watch for answers »
Student, Author Receives “Fifty for the Future” Tech Award
Huntley senior Kyle Ockerlund has written two books on computer programming, and he gained national attention for research he completed on the effect of school bell tone on student concentration. He was among 10 Illinois high school students who recently received the “Fifty for the Future” Award from the Illinois Technology Foundation. His future plans »
Huntley 158 Today: Teaching Abroad with Brooke Atlas
Marlowe Middle School band teacher Brooke Atlas tells us about her experiences teaching abroad in Israel, which she has done for several summers since graduating college. She tells us: “…if you’re going to love students and show that you’re there for them, they’re going to always show love back to you.” A life-changing experience »
Huntley 158 Today: Macbeth at Huntley High School
On this “Halloween” episode, we speak with two students and the director from Huntley High School’s production of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” We’ll talk to them about the challenges of doing Shakespeare at the high school level as well as the fun of performing their swashbuckling take on the classic drama. Why students love Shakespeare »
Huntley 158 Today: Orchestra Takes Center Stage
Huntley 158 introduced Orchestra to our middle schools in 2015-16. The program has drawn significant interest and will continue to expand in coming years into HHS. Today we check in with three Marlowe Middle School orchestra students and their teacher, Mr. Meza. Watch as they discuss their experiences in orchestra and treat us to a performance! Watch them perform »
Huntley 158 Today: The Always Initiative at Huntley High School
In Fall 2016, all juniors and seniors at received Chromebooks, marking the final step in the implementation of Huntley 158’s Always Initiative, the largest K-12 1:1 implementation in Illinois. Today we speak with Rikki Holton, one of four HHS instructional coaches working with fellow teachers to effectively integrate technology in instruction. A Chromebook for every student »
Huntley 158 Today: Students Earn Perfect ACT Scores
Huntley High School students Caitlin Murray and Savannah Fiedler were among just 1,598 out of 1.92 million nationwide to earn a perfect score of 36 on the ACT. Less than one-tenth of 1 percent of all test-takers receive a perfect composite score. We ask them about the moment they found out, and what prepared them for their success. Their reactions to the news »
182 HHS Students Named to AP Scholar List
On this episode of Huntley 158 Today, we talk with three 2016 AP Scholars about their experiences at Huntley High School. In 2016, 182 HHS students and graduates earned the designation of AP Scholar from the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program (AP) exams. See them on Huntley 158 Today »
Huntley 158 Today: Performing Arts Center
This week we check in with Lorie Woods and Nathan Knapke, who have helped transform the Performing Arts Center into a premier destination for theater and other performances. Their expertise has guided both a number of physical and technological improvements to the theater, as well as the audience experience. Professional-quality productions »
Huntley 158 Today: Communicating with our Community
The world of communications has changed drastically in the past 10-20 years, and we’re always looking for ways to best engage with our community. Today we speak with Dan Armstrong, director of communications and public engagement, about how we’ve evolved in both getting information to and receiving feedback from our community. Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Chief Security Officer Adam Dean
Huntley 158 hired Adam Dean as its first Chief Security Officer in 2015. On this episode of Huntley 158 Today, he discusses both the law enforcement background he brings to the new position as well as some of the many changes in safety and security, including physical upgrades and new procedures, made in our schools during that time. Watch the video »
Huntley 158 Today: Summer Facilities Projects
The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Department was busy at work over the summer of 2016, overseeing new construction at HHS and a number of projects at other Huntley 158 locations. We speak with Doug Renkosik, director of O&M, about the challenges and successes in ensuring facilities that enable 21st-Century learning. Watch the video »
Introducing Huntley 158 Today Video Series
The District is excited to introduce Huntley 158 Today, a recurring video series featuring administrators and guests from throughout the District discussing current topics in our schools. The premiere episode features Superintendent John Burkey and Associate Superintendent Jessica Lombard discussing the kickoff to the 2016-17 school year. Watch the video »