Do children really need a smartphone? Playing outdoors, spending time with friends, reading books and hanging out with family is happening a lot less to make room for hours of snap chatting, instagramming, and catching up on You Tube. We also see the impact at school and the more we learn, smartphones are distracting and potentially dangerous for children. Every major carrier has phones that simply call and text without a data plan, and the Wait Until 8th Pledge empowers parents to rally together to delay giving children a smartphone until at least 8th grade. By banding together, this will decrease the pressure felt by kids and parents alike over kids having a smartphone. Consider taking the pledge today!

Cass 63 is implementing a new academic grading system that goes into effect with the opening of the 2022-23 school year. We developed a unique system that maintains the strengths of standards-based grading, provides clarity about how our students are performing and facilitates a smoother transition to high school. This system will ensure consistent expectations within every subject from 2nd through 8th grade. Detailed information is available here and under each icon and performance category is a standards-based descriptor of your child’s progress. As always, we will support our students and parents at every step of the way with any questions as the new system is implemented.

Our school district has significant facility needs that must be addressed, particularly as it relates to the areas of safety, security and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This issue will be on the June 28 general primary election ballot and we encourage our community to review the Frequently Asked Questions on this important topic, as well as our community video presentation. This is factual information regarding the details, costs and plans. Also, feel free to contact any member of the Board of Education or Superintendent Cross at mcross@cassd63.org. Mr. Cross will also meet with any individual or group who has questions or would just like to learn more.