Friday Focus – May 29, 2026
FRIDAY FOCUS
Here’s a look at the happenings across Central 301 this week:
Graduation Day is Here
The Central High School Class of 2026 will officially cross the stage tonight at the NIU Convocation Center. Families attending commencement can find ceremony details for parking information, livestream links, and more on our website.
A Full Circle Moment
Earlier this month, graduating seniors returned to Country Trails and Lily Lake in their caps and gowns. Thursday, their Legacy Walk reconnected with the hallways, teachers, and memories where their journeys first began. From smiles and hugs to high fives from younger students, it was a special reminder of just how quickly the years go by.
CMS & PKMS Track Shines at State
It was a memorable weekend in East Peoria as CMS and PKMS track and field athletes brought home state medals, school records, and a Top 10 team finish at the IESA State Finals. Congratulations to all of our student-athletes on an incredible season and representing Central 301 on the state stage!
Lily Lake Celebrates Young Authors
Nearly 100 Lily Lake students were recently recognized during a special Writers Celebration honoring the completion of original books created as a home assignment. Families gathered to browse student work, celebrate creativity, and recognize the hard work that went into becoming a published author!
End of School Year Reminder
As a reminder, the final day of attendance for non graduating students for the 2025–2026 school year will push back a day. Grades K-12 on June 3, Early Childhood on June 2. This calendar adjustment was made following the district’s emergency closure on January 23 due to extreme cold weather.
HBT Twister-a-Thon Success
Howard B. Thomas students recently laced up their running shoes for the annual Twister-a-thon, raising an impressive $10,800 in partnership with the PTO! Students spent the day running laps around the varsity soccer field, showing plenty of energy, school spirit, and determination along the way.
Stay Connected with Central 301
Want to stay in the loop on everything happening across Central 301? Join our communications list to get updates delivered right to you. (You only have to fill it out once.)
Alumni Spotlight
Our alumni have incredible stories to tell. Nominate yourself or someone you know to be featured in an upcoming alumni spotlight.
Throwback Thursday
Have a great memory from your time in Central 301? Send it our way and we may feature it in an upcoming Throwback Thursday.
Thanks for staying connected to all the great things happening in Central 301. Have a fantastic weekend!
#WeAreCentral