
District 301 News
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2026 Scholarship Central
Scholarship Opportunities and Resources During the spring semester, students ramp up their efforts to seek scholarship money for higher education. Our hope is to support Central 301 students in their quest after graduation. Here is a list of scholarship opportunities that might be of interest to our Central 301 students. This is an ongoing list.
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Registration Opening Date Set For 2026-2027
Registration for 2026–2027 School Year Opens April 6 Central Community Unit School District 301 will open student registration for the 2026–2027 school year on April 6 for all students, Early Childhood through Grade 12. This registration window applies to both returning families and families new to the district. Completing registration on time helps the district
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CT Early Childhood students make their own fun when stuck inside!
When winter says “stay inside”, EC says “let’s make it fun.”
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HBT Future Educators
HBT Welcomes Future Educators A CHS student with an interest in becoming a teacher has spent time in one of our kindergarten classrooms earning observation hours. During the visits she observed daily routines, instructional strategies, and the energy that makes kindergarten such a special place to learn. Today, she was able to help lead some
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Friday Focus – January 23, 2026
FRIDAY FOCUS Here’s a look at what’s happening across Central 301 this week: Cold Weather ClosureFollowing Friday’s weather related closure, families should note that June 3 is now the projected last day of school. Please update your calendars accordingly. HBT Never Been Absent CelebrationHBT celebrated students who have not missed a day of school during the 2nd quarter.
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HBT NBA Students
HBT Celebrates NBA (Never Been Absent) Students Students in Kindergarten through 5th grade were recognized on Friday with a certificate and a picture with SPOT the Attendance Dog for making it the entire 2nd quarter without being absent from school! Kindergarten & 1st Grade Groups 2nd & 3rd Grade Groups 4th & 5th Grade Groups
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Friday Focus – January 16, 2026
FRIDAY FOCUS Here’s a look at the happenings across Central 301 this week: Best in the BusinessWednesday morning’s sudden snow squall and Friday’s early snow burst reminded us just how incredible our bus drivers and building and grounds teams are. Navigating challenging conditions with care and professionalism, they kept our schools running safely. Thank you
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CT Cougars participate in the Winter Olympics
Congratulations to the Red House for earning 1st place and the Gold Medal at the 2025-2026 Winter Olympics! The House Colors showed their best sportsmanship while cheering on their teams and celebrating all of the winners. Our PTO Raffle winner co-MC did an amazing job keeping the crowd pumped up!
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6th Grade Winter Dance
On Friday, January 16th, Prairie Knolls Student Council will be hosting the 6th Grade “Winter in Hawaii Dance”. The dance will begin after school and take place from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Ticket Pre-Sale Food Drive Bonus!
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Parent University #3: Soaring Through Civics: Constitution Unit and Test Prep
Our next Parent University is quickly approaching! We are excited to invite families to an informational evening focused on the 7th Grade Constitution Unit and Test, which students will take on March 27. The evening will begin at 5:30 PM and we will have you out the door by 6:45 PM. Date: Wednesday, January 14Time: 5:30 PM
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Puerto Rican Culture Comes to Life at CMS
Students learn through stories, history, and family connections Central Middle School Spanish students recently experienced a meaningful cultural learning opportunity through a special guest presentation connected to their Puerto Rico cultural project. Bryan Alemán, a Dual Biology Teacher at Elgin High School, visited CMS to share insights on Puerto Rican history, traditions, and family values.











