On March 27, Elwood Middle School’s newest club took a field trip. The Future Administrators and Teachers of Elwood Club (FATE) explored an unfamiliar environment, met influential people and had a lot of fun. There was only one catch – they didn't leave the building!  

FATE is made up of EMS students exploring careers in education. Led by teachers Elle Chan and Christopher Vandernoth, these intrepid future educators have been researching and learning about the many different folks that keep the school running. As part of their learning, the students were able to take a tour of what they call the “Secret Hallway” – the district office where Elwood’s administrators are located. Guided by Assistant Superintendent for Special Education and Pupil Personnel Services Kelly Gorman, the FATE students visited the offices for business, curriculum human resources, special education and technology; met with assistant superintendents and directors; and also made stops in the superintendent’s office and even the district’s internet server room. They were able to ask lots of questions, explore previously unknown careers and learn about how decisions regarding their education are made.

“Everyone had a wonderful time, and the whole FATE club would like to thank all the district staff members for their time and the warm welcome into their offices,” Vandernoth said.

The Elwood School District was recognized by the NAMM Foundation as a Best Community for Music Education. The sought-after Best Communities designation, now in its 25th year recognizes outstanding efforts by teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders in making music education part of a well-rounded education. In 2024, only 975 districts across the nation earned this honor. The award is based on many factors including student access to music education, teacher-student ratio, student participation rates in music education, graduation requirements, music facilities and budget allocation to the district’s music program.

Date Added: 4/8/2024

Elwood Middle school celebrated World Language Week from March 18-22, hosted by the EMS International Club. Each day, students participated in different activities that celebrated a variety of cultures and languages. Students and staff listened to music in different languages, and learned fun facts and dances during lunch periods. On the last day of the week, students watched a video highlighting the different languages that the school’s staff and students speak at home.

“It was a great week and wonderful to see everyone participating,” said Italian teacher Alessia Franco, the International Club’s adviser.

Date Added: 3/26/2024

In a longstanding and fiercely competitive tradition, two teams of Elwood Middle School students faced off in the gymnasium on Feb. 15 for the annual Blue and White Challenge of various games and contests. The favored Blue team attempted to defend its winning streak; however, this year, the upstart White team emerged victorious and took home the championship belt.

Date Added: 3/5/2024