In a lively meeting held on June 26, 2025, members of the Proviso Township High Schools District 209 Board of Education gathered to discuss community engagement and upcoming events aimed at fostering connections between the schools and local families. The atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm as board members shared ideas on how to enhance participation and support for students and their families.

One of the key topics was the importance of community involvement in school activities. Board members emphasized the need for parents to feel welcomed and engaged, suggesting that meetings should not only serve administrative purposes but also address the real challenges families face. "We want to share information that we couldn't just put in newsletters," one member remarked, highlighting the desire for open communication.

The discussion turned to the upcoming community festival, where board members expressed excitement about their participation. They envisioned it as a prime opportunity to connect with families, distribute calendars of school events, and promote various programs. "We need to create that calendar and pass it out at the beginning of the year," one member urged, underscoring the importance of keeping families informed.

In addition to the festival, the board reflected on a recent movie night held at the high school, which, despite not attracting many current students, successfully brought together past graduates and their children. This event was seen as a stepping stone to rekindle interest in the school community. "It doesn't necessarily matter if there aren't current students," one member noted, emphasizing the long-term benefits of engaging younger families.

The conversation also touched on the need for flexibility in meeting formats. Recognizing that many parents juggle multiple jobs, board members advocated for offering virtual attendance options. "I still want to give people the option for Zoom," one member stated, ensuring that all voices could be heard, regardless of circumstances.

To further enhance engagement, suggestions included utilizing technology for surveys during events and offering incentives for participation, such as small giveaways. "People like free stuff," one member quipped, highlighting the importance of making participation enjoyable.

As the meeting progressed, the board shifted focus to a task force dedicated to addressing cell phone policies in schools. The task force, which had met several times, was praised for its thorough approach. However, questions arose regarding the implementation of previously approved cell phone pockets for classrooms, indicating ongoing challenges in policy execution.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the future of community engagement in Proviso Township High Schools. With plans for events and a commitment to open communication, board members left with a renewed focus on fostering a supportive environment for students and their families. As they look ahead, the hope is that these efforts will not only strengthen ties within the community but also enhance the educational experience for all students.