This March, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating HERstory by honoring the incredible women who learn, lead, serve, and inspire across our district. Today, we’re proud to recognize:
💜 Staff Spotlight: Claudia Marquez-Florez
Mrs. Marquez-Florez goes above and beyond to support colleagues and students, especially those working toward becoming educators. She has helped guide others step-by-step through opportunities like teacher preparation programs, licensure pathways, and financial aid, sharing information, checking in consistently, and advocating even when someone doesn’t yet realize what’s possible. Her steady encouragement, positive energy, and willingness to “jump in” to make situations better help create a supportive, predictable environment where people feel seen and motivated to grow.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Claudia Garcia
Ms. Claudia Garcia is recognized for the support and encouragement she provides to students every day. Students shared that Ms. Garcia takes the time to help them when they’re struggling—especially by explaining concepts in ways they can understand and working with them step-by-step, including in French. She consistently encourages students to speak up and participate, while also keeping the class focused and on track. Ms. Garcia leads by example and reflects what it means to live out the principles of being a Raptor—supportive, accountable, and committed to helping others succeed.
💜 Staff Spotlight: TaShawna Bennett
Mrs. Bennett is recognized for the way she leads her classroom with structure, care, and encouragement. Students shared that she keeps them focused, makes sure everyone understands the work, and supports them when they need another chance to learn, like allowing a redo or time to complete late work. Her presence helps students feel confident and capable, and her perseverance and strength continue to inspire those around her.
💜 Student Spotlight: Lyrik Smith
Lyrik is being recognized for her perseverance, courage, and compassion. She has remained in the IB program for four years, continuing beyond her original plan because she embraced encouragement and challenged herself to grow. Lyrik is also a nurturer, supporting peers with personal concerns, and she demonstrates leadership through her involvement in Student Agency and thoughtful decision-making, even when it’s not the popular choice. Lyrik is determined, justice-centered, empathetic, and an “overcomer” who continues to write her own story.
We are proud to honor these amazing women and thank them for the difference they make at Rich Township.
#richinstudentsuccess
Este marzo celebramos HERstory reconociendo a mujeres increíbles en el Distrito 227. Hoy destacamos a Claudia Marquez-Florez, Caludia Garcia, TaShawna Bennett y Lyrik Smith por su liderazgo, apoyo a los demás y perseverancia. #richinstudentsuccess
This March, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating HERstory by honoring the incredible women who learn, lead, serve, and inspire across our district. Today, we’re proud to recognize:
💜 Staff Spotlight: Mary Creer
Ms. Creer leads with open arms and an open-door spirit, always available to support students and staff, and always willing to make time. She builds partnerships that reward and uplift our students, serves on committees with a strong student-centered lens, and works tirelessly to support Night School, opening and closing the building, encouraging students to stay on track, and helping them reach graduation. Ms. Creer is the definition of a “labor of love”, ensuring students have what they need, having tough conversations when necessary, and believing in this generation every step of the way.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Fran Bryant
Mrs. Bryant has transformed the attendance office from a place of “check-ins” to a place of “check-ups.” She leads with empathy, dignity, and compassion, making students feel seen, missed, and supported. For staff, her unwavering joy and problem-solving mindset are a masterclass in professional grace. She’s the glue of the front office, anticipating needs, handling behind-the-scenes logistics, and keeping morale strong during high-stress seasons. While her title says “attendance,” her impact reaches far beyond, she’s a steady lighthouse for our campus community.
💜 Student Spotlight: Kristina Edwards
Kristina is being recognized for her grit, perseverance, and leadership in AP Environmental Science. She consistently takes initiative during labs, holds herself and others accountable, and brings a positive attitude to every challenge. From service learning projects to field labs—like winter invasive species removal, Kristina shows determination, humility, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone. Her dedication is an excellent example of women leading in fields where they are still underrepresented.
We are proud to honor these amazing women and thank them for the difference they make at Rich Township.
#richinstudentsuccess
Este marzo celebramos HERstory reconociendo a mujeres increíbles en el Distrito 227. Hoy destacamos a Mary Creer, Fran Bryant y Kristina Edwards por su liderazgo, empatía, servicio y perseverancia. #richinstudentsuccess
If you were unable to attend the recent Senior Parent Meeting, we want to make sure you still have access to all of the important information that was shared. Please click the link https://www.rich227.org/page/class-of-2026 to view the materials.. These include important details about senior year expectations, key dates, graduation requirements, and upcoming events. We encourage you to take some time to review everything carefully. If you have any questions or need clarification, please feel free to reach out—we are here to support you and your students throughout this important year.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
This March, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating HERstory by honoring the incredible women who learn, lead, serve, and inspire across our district. Today, we’re proud to recognize:
💜 Staff Spotlight: Jodi Johnson
Jodi mentors’ teachers daily and is always available to support staff and students throughout the school day. As one of our IT professionals and a constant positive presence, she continues to make an enormous impact across the district. Jodi brings the best out of others, sharing tools and strategies freely, sponsoring the junior class, and staying connected with students even after graduation. She also looks out for students in meaningful ways, quietly connecting community support to meet student needs and helping them grow in confidence and belonging. Jodi gives 100% in service, and then some.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Kayla Sullers
Ms. Sullers pushes students to create work they may not have thought possible and doesn’t give up on them, even when motivation is low. She encourages students to take ownership of their films while always being there with guidance and support. By sharing her experiences in the industry as a Black woman cinematographer, she models resilience and advocates for inclusion, helping students see what’s possible. Students describe her as determined, kind, and funny, an educator who makes a lasting impact.
💜 Student Spotlight: Jayda Washington
Jayda is being recognized for her resilience, leadership, and commitment to uplifting others. She tackles academic challenges with determination and inspires peers to pursue excellence. Jayda also led a project focused on creating safe spaces and supportive programs where students can share experiences and build community. She leads with integrity, doing what’s right even when it’s difficult, and her positive presence helps others feel valued and motivated.
We are proud to honor these amazing women and thank them for the difference they make at Rich Township.
#richinstudentsuccess
Este marzo celebramos HERstory reconociendo a mujeres increíbles en el Distrito 227. Hoy destacamos a Jodi Johnson, Kayla Sullers y Jayda Washington por su liderazgo, apoyo a los demás y compromiso con nuestra comunidad escolar. #richinstudentsuccess
This March, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating HERstory by honoring the incredible women who learn, lead, serve, and inspire across our district. Today, we’re proud to recognize:
💜 Staff Spotlight: Danielle Raetz
Danielle is an influential educator who goes beyond the classroom to invest in both colleagues and students. As a teacher mentor, she models professionalism and helps new and developing instructors strengthen their craft. She has also shaped student leadership through coaching and now as a sponsor of the African American History Club, creating spaces where students feel seen, empowered, and inspired. As a homebound instructor, Danielle helps reduce learning gaps and keeps families connected, and her care shows in meaningful ways, including delivering “cheer-up” packages to students during COVID. She also advocates for inclusion and belonging, including within National Honor Society, helping ensure all students have opportunities to be recognized and supported.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Jamie Bomba
Mrs. Bomba is recognized for the care and support she shows students every day. She checks for understanding, adjusts instruction to help students learn, and creates a classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and connected, like a family. Students describe her as a teacher, mentor, and guide who helps them stay on the right path and celebrates their hard work with encouragement and positivity.
💜 Student Spotlight: Janiyah Lynch
Janiyah is being recognized for her academic courage and willingness to take healthy risks. She enrolled in the MYP program and is doing exceptionally well. As a freshman, she joined the Creative Writing Club and shared her gift with others. She also auditioned for and participated in the Black History Program, performing an original poem, something that often includes mostly seniors. Janiyah leads quietly with confidence, encouragement, and heart.
We are proud to honor these amazing women and thank them for the difference they make at Rich Township.
#richinstudentsuccess
Este marzo celebramos HERstory reconociendo a mujeres increíbles en el Distrito 227. Hoy destacamos a Danielle Raetz, Jamie Bomba y Janiyah Lynch por su liderazgo, apoyo a los demás y valentía académica. #richinstudentsuccess
Lady Raptors Basketball is hosting summer camps on Monday, June 9–11 at the Field House (Door W11), located at 5000 Sauk Trail in Richton Park. From 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, there will be a Skill Development Camp for $30.00.
From 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, an Incoming Freshman Camp will be held.
This March, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating HERstory by honoring the incredible women who learn, lead, serve, and inspire across our district. Today, we’re proud to recognize:
💜 Staff Spotlight: Brenna Dyke
Ms. Dyke is a quiet, behind-the-scenes leader who has worked tirelessly to strengthen our MYP program, especially in building the foundation for freshmen writing and guiding sophomores through the Personal Project. She creates engaging, hands-on learning environments and advocates for equity and justice, even when it isn’t popular. Ms. Dyke has also shown remarkable strength and perseverance through personal health challenges, continuing to show up for students with the same diligence, care, and commitment every day.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Christine Drabick
Ms. Drabick is a champion for students, staff, and families, an invaluable member of our counseling team and district. She is a tireless advocate for underrepresented groups, known for being deeply informed and always providing students with clear options and sound guidance. Ms. Drabick helped lead the work that earned our counseling curriculum national recognition as a RAMP school, and she continues to spearhead the Early College Initiative with Prairie State College. Her calm presence, commitment to justice, and consistent follow-through make a lasting impact across District 227.
💜 Student Spotlight: Danique Robinson
Danique is recognized for her perseverance, leadership, and positive presence. She continues to push through challenges, supports NJROTC by helping 7th and 8th graders learn what the program is about, and isn’t afraid to speak up with observations that help improve the experience for others. Danique also brings joy to the classroom, lifting up peers and even making teachers smile.
We are proud to honor these amazing women and thank them for the difference they make at Rich Township.
#richinstudentsuccess
Este marzo celebramos HERstory reconociendo a mujeres increíbles en el Distrito 227. Hoy destacamos a Brenna Dyke, Christine Drabick y Danique Robinson por su liderazgo, apoyo a los demás y compromiso con la equidad. #richinstudentsuccess
Click here to view the Raptor Rundown Weekly Update video: https://youtu.be/9QiI2xGd2HY
Families: Join us for Parent University / Prairie State College Senior Night—PSC Disability Services Presentation on Tues., March 24 at 5:30 PM in the Multi-purpose Room. Enter Door 5.
Familias: Presentación de Servicios para Discapacidad (PSC) mar. 24 a las 5:30 PM (Salón Multiusos). Entre por la Puerta 5.
School Day ACT is Thurs., March 26. Only 11th graders attend school that day (no school for grades 9, 10, 12). Juniors arrive by 7:30 AM and bring a fully charged school-issued device. Students dismiss after testing.
El ACT es jue. 26. Solo asisten estudiantes de 11.º (no hay clases para 9.º, 10.º, 12.º). Llegar 7:30 AM y traer dispositivo cargado.
Pre-ACT 9 & Pre-ACT is Tues., March 31 for 9th & 10th grade students (no school for grades 11, 12). Arrive 7:30 AM, bring a charged device, and students will dismiss at 3:20 PM after afternoon rotations.
Pre-ACT es mar. 31 para 9.º y 10.º (no hay clases para 11.º y 12.º). Llegar 7:30 AM, dispositivo cargado, salida 3:20 PM.
Reminder: Good Friday (Fri., April 3) begins Spring Break (April 3–10). Students return Mon., April 13.
Recordatorio: Viernes Santo (3 de abril) inicia vacaciones de primavera (3–10 de abril). Regresamos lun. 13 de abril.
This March, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating HERstory by honoring the incredible women who learn, lead, serve, and inspire across our district. Today, we’re proud to recognize:
💜 Staff Spotlight: Angela Kus
Ms. Kus goes above and beyond to strengthen the IB pathway through academic support and powerful student-centered initiatives. She’s launched and coordinated efforts like IB Peer Mentoring, the IB Student Leadership Council, curriculum-based field trips (including volunteer/chaperone coordination), the IB Newsletter, and an upcoming IB Wellness Summit. Known as the “glue” of the IB department, Ms. Kus brings top-tier organization and the courage to speak up for practices that best support students, while also building leadership capacity in others.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Angie Tapley
Ms. Tapley brings learning to life through hands-on chemistry experiences and consistent support for students. She’s a steady leader in our department as the Chemistry Marzano team lead, helping guide the creation of clear scales through ongoing PD and collaboration. Beyond the classroom, she is the kind of educator students can count on, listening, encouraging, and stepping in with support when they need it most. Her passion, positivity, and reliability make a lasting impact.
💜 Student Spotlight: BreiYelle “Bri” Ford
Bri is being recognized for her resilience, maturity, and determination. After being severely credit deficient, she worked her way out of night school and continues to push forward, bringing her GPA up and earning strong grades, including a B in an honors course. Bri leads through her actions: balancing school and employment, staying accountable, and motivating others with her positive attitude. She’s a role model for perseverance and goal setting.
We are proud to honor these amazing women and thank them for the difference they make at Rich Township.
#richinstudentsuccess
Este marzo celebramos HERstory reconociendo a mujeres increíbles en el Distrito 227. Hoy destacamos a Angela Kus, Angie Tapley y BreiYelle “Bri” Ford por su liderazgo, dedicación y perseverancia. #richinstudentsuccess
Calling all Rich Township alumni from Rich Central, Rich East, Rich South, and recent graduates of Rich Township High School — we want to stay connected! As our district has evolved over the years, our alumni community remains an important part of our story. Beginning in late March, PCI (Publishing Concepts, Inc.) will contact alumni by postcard, email, and phone to help us verify and update contact information for a new alumni directory planned for Spring 2027. There is no obligation to purchase anything — we simply appreciate your help in keeping our records current and our alumni network strong.
This March, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating HERstory by honoring the incredible women who learn, lead, serve, and inspire across our district. Today, we’re proud to recognize:
💜 Staff Spotlight: Alex Wilks
Alex is an amazing mentor whose authentic self shows up in every space she occupies. She spends countless hours representing and advocating for students and staff through her work in Family & Consumer Science and CTE, her service through Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and her leadership on IEA/RTHSEA committees. Alex continues to serve at the district, regional, and state levels, supporting policies, procedures, and advocacy for the education profession. She also serves as the Sophomore Class Sponsor and Assistant Sponsor for Girls Mentoring. Alex speaks up, fights for fairness, and gives generously of her time, talent, and resources, she’s the “real deal,” and her tireless efforts are unmatched.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Alexis Garrett
Ms. Garrett embodies the spirit of Women’s History Month through her leadership, advocacy, and consistent commitment to uplifting others. She mentors and sponsors colleagues, especially women, by offering honest guidance, sharing opportunities, and supporting growth, even behind the scenes. She speaks up for fair and inclusive practices, advocates for underrepresented voices, and helps create safer, more equitable outcomes for students and staff. Personally and professionally, Alexis keeps people connected and supported by anticipating needs, fostering collaboration, and stepping in wherever help is needed, building trust, stability, and belonging across our community.
💜 Student Spotlight: Opeyemi Badejo
Opeyemi is recognized for her perseverance and excellence as a four-year IB student and for the way she leads across our school community. She serves as VP of the Senior Class, President of Key Club, VP of Student Council, a member of the IB Leadership Council, and a Circle Group Peace Leader. Opeyemi supports peers by noticing who may feel withdrawn and helping them feel seen and included. She also leads through action, stepping in to support staff and peers when it mattered most. Opeyemi consistently leads with maturity, confidence, and character.
We are proud to honor these amazing women and thank them for the difference they make at Rich Township.
#richinstudentsuccess
Este marzo celebramos HERstory reconociendo a mujeres increíbles en el Distrito 227. Hoy destacamos a Alex Wilks, Alexis Garrett y Amy Sepulveda por su liderazgo, mentoría, apoyo a los demás y compromiso con la equidad. #richinstudentsuccess
Click here for the Weekly Update video: https://youtu.be/7cptp88V-D4
This week’s HER-Story Highlights celebrate students and staff who lead and inspire at Rich Township:
• Kydelin “Marv” Duncan — made history qualifying for IHSA Speech State and leads with kindness.
• Abrielle Richardson — balances work, athletics, and honor roll while serving in Student Council.
• Ms. Jillian Lorde — advocates daily for students and supports the whole student.
• Mrs. Tiffany Albers-Lopez — builds Speech Team confidence and helped make the State trip possible.
Esta semana destacamos a Marv Duncan, Abrielle Richardson, Ms. Jillian Lorde y Mrs. Tiffany Albers-Lopez por su liderazgo e impacto. #richinstudentsuccess
Reminder: The Illinois 5Essentials Parent Survey closes today. The survey link is provided in this week’s weekly update email. Thank you for sharing your voice!
Recordatorio: La encuesta 5Essentials cierra hoy. El enlace está en el correo de actualización semanal.
Parent-Teacher Conferences are Thurs., March 19: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM and 4:00 PM–7:00 PM at STEM Campus & Transition Center.
Note: FAC & STEM student conferences will be held at STEM (3600 203rd St.). Staff break: 3:00–4:00 PM (no conferences).
Virtual sign-up links are provided in this week’s weekly update email.
Conferencias 19 de marzo (11–3 y 4–7). FAC/STEM en STEM (3600 203rd St.). Enlaces virtuales en el correo de actualización semanal.
Senior Parent Meeting is March 19 in the STEM Media Center (during conferences):
11:30–12:15 • 2:00–2:45 • 6:00–6:45
Reunión para padres de seniors: 19 de marzo en STEM Media Center (3 horarios).
March 20: No students in session (Staff Institute Day).
March 24 (5:30 PM): Parent University / Prairie State College Senior Night – PSC Disability Services Presentation (Multi-purpose Room, enter Door 5).
20 de marzo: No hay clases. 24 de marzo (5:30 PM): Presentación PSC Disability Services (Puerta 5).
We invite you to join us for our upcoming Parent-Teacher Conferences on Thursday March 19, 2026. Conferences for all Rich Township students will be held from 11:00 AM- 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM–7:00 PM at the STEM Campus and the Transition Center. Please note that conferences for any student that attends either the FAC Campus or the STEM Campus will be held at the STEM Campus at 3600 203rd Street, Olympia Fields, IL 60461.
There will be a staff break from 3:00–4:00 PM. There will be no conferences occurring during this scheduled staff break.
This spring, parents have an option to attend either in-person or virtual conferences. Parents are not required to sign up for in-person conferences, however if you are interested in virtual options, please see below.
CLICK HERE for a list of teachers and their sign up links for virtual conference options.
We look forward to partnering with you to support your student’s success!
If you have any questions, please contact the Associate Principal of Educational Services.
Ms. Linnea Garrett, FAC Campus and Transition Center
Ms. Paulette Grissett, STEM Campus
Le invitamos a acompañarnos en nuestras próximas Conferencias de Padres y Maestros el jueves 19 de marzo de 2026. Las conferencias para todos los estudiantes de Rich Township se llevarán a cabo de 11:00 a. m. a 3:00 p. m. y de 4:00 p. m. a 7:00 p. m. en el Campus STEM y en el Centro de Transición.
Tenga en cuenta que las conferencias para cualquier estudiante que asista al Campus FAC o al Campus STEM se realizarán en el Campus STEM, ubicado en 3600 203rd Street, Olympia Fields, IL 60461.
Habrá un receso para el personal de 3:00 p. m. a 4:00 p. m. Durante este tiempo no se llevarán a cabo conferencias.
Esta primavera, los padres tendrán la opción de asistir a las conferencias de manera presencial o virtual. No es necesario registrarse para las conferencias presenciales; sin embargo, si está interesado en las opciones virtuales, consulte la información a continuación.
HAGA CLIC AQUÍ para ver la lista de maestros y los enlaces para registrarse en las conferencias virtuales.
¡Esperamos colaborar con usted para apoyar el éxito de su estudiante!
Si tiene alguna pregunta, comuníquese con la Subdirectora Asociada de Servicios Educativos:
Sra. Linnea Garrett – Campus FAC y Centro de Transición
lgarrett@rich227.org
Sra. Paulette Grissett – Campus STEM
pgrissett@rich227.org
