Senior Lock in at Hollywood Park. 80 seniors laughing beneath electric skies,
counting down the seconds to the edge of forever—
where endings and beginnings meet. Congratulations to the Class of 2026!
REMINDER!!
ATTENTION BUS RIDERS:
Please review the updated bus route times. This update is being shared as part of our ongoing transportation housekeeping to help ensure families have the most current route information on file.
https://www.rich227.org/page/general-transportation
We ask that all families take a moment to carefully review the routes and confirm that your student’s assigned stop is listed along with the correct pickup and drop-off times.
Reminders:
· Students should arrive at their bus stop 10 minutes before the scheduled stop time.
· Please review the full route information to ensure your student’s stop is included and that the listed times are noted.
· For transportation questions or assistance, please use the contact numbers below.
Safeway Transportation Contacts:
General Manager: Ms. Cris
· Main Number: 708-552-1026
· Dispatch: 224-537-7503
· Dispatch: 773-882-5870
School Contacts for Assistance:
· STEM Campus: 708-679-5803
· FAC: 708-679-3067
Special Education
· FAC Campus: 708-679-3066
· Transition Center: 708-679-3100
District Office Contact for Assistance:
Director of Business Services and Transportation - 708-679-5720
Thank you for your attention and cooperation as we work to keep transportation information accurate and up to date.
ATTENTION BUS RIDERS:
Please review the updated bus route times. This update is being shared as part of our ongoing transportation housekeeping to help ensure families have the most current route information on file.
https://www.rich227.org/page/general-transportation
We ask that all families take a moment to carefully review the routes and confirm that your student’s assigned stop is listed along with the correct pickup and drop-off times.
Reminders:
· Students should arrive at their bus stop 10 minutes before the scheduled stop time.
· Please review the full route information to ensure your student’s stop is included and that the listed times are noted.
· For transportation questions or assistance, please use the contact numbers below.
Safeway Transportation Contacts:
General Manager: Ms. Cris
· Main Number: 708-552-1026
· Dispatch: 224-537-7503
· Dispatch: 773-882-5870
School Contacts for Assistance:
· STEM Campus: 708-679-5803
· FAC: 708-679-3067
Special Education
· FAC Campus: 708-679-3066
· Transition Center: 708-679-3100
District Office Contact for Assistance:
Director of Business Services and Transportation - 708-679-5720
Thank you for your attention and cooperation as we work to keep transportation information accurate and up to date.
Click here to view the Raptor Rundown Weekly Update video: https://youtu.be/6fW4ebHJwdg
🎭 Spring Musical: Once On This Island
📅 April 24 & 25 | 🕡 6:30 PM | 📍 FAC Campus Auditorium
Tickets: Adults $10 | Students w/ID $3 | Seniors (65+) $3
🎟️ Ticket purchase link: https://omella.com/e6qje
Musical de primavera Once On This Island—24 y 25 de abril, 6:30 PM, Auditorio FAC. Boletos: Adultos $10, Estudiantes $3, Mayores (65+) $3. Enlace en el correo semanal.
✨ Prom 2026
📅 Saturday, May 2 | 🕡 6:30–10:30 PM
📍 Tuscany Falls Banquets, 9425 W. 201st St., Mokena
Please read all prom materials to ensure eligibility. https://www.rich227.org/page/prom-information
Prom 2026—Sáb. 2 de mayo, 6:30–10:30 PM, Tuscany Falls (Mokena). Lea toda la info. Enlace en el correo semanal.
📘 AP Testing begins May 4 — Students taking an AP exam should keep checking email for important updates.
Exámenes AP comienzan el 4 de mayo—estudiantes, revisen su correo para información importante.
🎓 Class of 2026: Last day is Fri., May 8. Graduation is Sat., May 16 at 3:30 PM. Keep checking email for details. https://www.rich227.org/page/class-of-2026
Clase de 2026—Último día: 8 de mayo. Graduación: 16 de mayo, 3:30 PM. Revise su correo.
#richinstudentsuccess
Seniors & Parents — Don’t Miss This!
FAFSA Workshops are happening today, April 16, 2026, from 5:30–7:30 PM at STEM in the Multipurpose Room.
This workshop is open to all seniors and parents who need help completing the FAFSA.
Reminder: FAFSA is a graduation requirement!
FAFSA must be submitted by April 25th to guarantee students receive an award letter.
Last night, our Board of Education was honored to recognize three outstanding groups who represent the very best of Rich Township High School District 227.
We celebrated Joseph Simental, Raymond Zanin, and Corporal Kenneth Bloom for their heroic actions in helping a student in crisis, recognized the Colin Powell Middle School 7th and 8th grade boys basketball teams for winning the IESA Class 4A State Championships, and honored the senior members of the Superintendent’s Student Agency Group for their leadership and service.
Thank you all for making a difference in our school community. #richinstudentsuccess
Sports physicals. 10th-12th grade. June 5, 2026. $25 cash. Call the athletic office to schedule an appointment: (708) 679-3030. Physical form must be completed before the student arrives for their appointment. 9:30am - 4:30pm. Rich township- FAC Campus,
5000 Sauk Trail, Richton park. Enter door E17
Now enrolling for the Little Raptors Early Learning Center at Rich Township District 227.
Our preschool program is open to all communities and serves children ages 3–5 from August through May, Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM, for $70 per week. Preschoolers must be fully potty trained.
For more information, contact (708) 659-3570 or Veakins@rich227.org.
¡Inscripciones abiertas para el Centro de Aprendizaje Little Raptors de Rich Township District 227!
Nuestro programa preescolar está abierto a todas las comunidades y atiende a niños de 3 a 5 años de agosto a mayo, lunes a viernes, de 7:00 AM a 6:00 PM, por $70 por semana. Los niños deben estar completamente entrenados para ir al baño.
Para más información, comuníquese al (708) 659-3570 o Veakins@rich227.org.
#richinstudentsuccess
Last week, April 6–10, was Associate/Assistant Principal Appreciation Week, and although we were on Spring Break, we did not want the moment to pass without recognizing these outstanding leaders.
We are thankful for the commitment our Associate and Assistant Principals show to our staff and students each day. Their leadership, care, and dedication make a lasting difference across our schools.
Please join us in celebrating and thanking our Associate and Assistant Principals for all they do!
#APWeek #AssistantPrincipalAppreciationWeek #richinstudentsuccess
Change to April Rich Township PTSO Meeting Date/ Cambio de fecha para la reunión de abril del PTSO de Rich Township
Dear Rich Township Families,
This is a reminder that the next Rich Township PTSO meeting has been rescheduled. Please note that the meeting will now take place on Monday, April 13, 2026, instead of Thursday, April 16, 2026.
In Person
Date: Monday, April 13, 2026
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: 20550 S. Cicero Ave, Matteson, IL
Virtual via Zoom
Date: Monday, April 13, 2026
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9630893234?pwd=NvnhYODObosQjxcuArqbCFBGP8DPsx.1
Meeting ID: 963 089 3234
Passcode: 703835
Thank you, and we hope you are able to join us.
Estimadas familias de Rich Township:
Este es un recordatorio de que la próxima reunión del PTSO de Rich Township ha sido reprogramada. Por favor, tome nota de que la reunión ahora se llevará a cabo el lunes 13 de abril de 2026, en lugar del jueves 16 de abril de 2026.
La agenda de la reunión está adjunta para su revisión.
En persona
Fecha: Lunes, 13 de abril de 2026
Hora: 6:30 p. m.
Lugar: 20550 S. Cicero Ave, Matteson, IL
Virtual por Zoom
Fecha: 13 de abril de 2026
Hora: 6:30 p. m.
Enlace de Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9630893234?pwd=NvnhYODObosQjxcuArqbCFBGP8DPsx.1
ID de reunión: 963 089 3234
Código de acceso: 703835
Gracias, y esperamos que pueda acompañarnos.
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: Lynn Duda
Mrs. Duda is a steady, behind-the-scenes leader who helps keep Rich Township running smoothly. Staff shared that they can always count on her for support—whether it’s answering “big or small” questions with clarity, helping someone understand pay cycles and processes, or stepping in to coordinate coverage and logistics so staff can be where they need to be. Mrs. Duda makes people feel seen and supported, and her responsiveness, fairness, and multitasking make a real difference every day.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Vikkeda Bass
Ms. Bass is being recognized for her leadership in transition planning and her dedication to expanding job and career opportunities for students. She has created and aligned community partnerships that open doors for students to gain meaningful work experiences on and off campus. Ms. Bass consistently puts students first, supporting Special Education students in reaching their postsecondary goals and working closely with families to ensure they understand how to support their student’s journey at Rich and beyond. Organized, supportive, and a true cheerleader, Ms. Bass continues to impact students long after graduation.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Dr. Joy Bacino
Dr. Joy Bacino is being recognized for her steady leadership and deep commitment to supporting every student’s success. As our Director of Student Support Services, Dr. Bacino helps ensure students and families have access to the resources, guidance, and systems they need to thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally. She leads with compassion and professionalism, partnering with staff to solve problems, remove barriers, and strengthen supports for students across our district. Dr. Bacino’s work reflects a clear belief that every student matters, and her dedication continues to make our school community stronger.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Sherri Southall
Sherri Southall is an incredibly caring, compassionate, and devoted member of the Transition Center team. She approaches students with empathy and insight, creating a supportive, nurturing environment where every student feels seen, valued, and encouraged. Sherri’s steady commitment and dedicated heart make her an uplifting force for learning and growth within our community, and we are grateful for the difference she makes each day.
💜 Student Spotlight: Savannah Ann Orlich
Savannah is being recognized for her leadership, maturity, and empathy in the classroom. In Introduction to College Composition, she supports peers with complex writing tasks, helps brainstorm ideas, and encourages others to stay motivated. She also contributed to a meaningful service-learning project where seniors wrote and illustrated children’s short stories. Savannah consistently produces high-quality work, meets deadlines, and often takes the lead in group settings—lifting up those around her through encouragement and thoughtful collaboration.
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 Lynn Duda, Vikkeda Bass, Joy Bacino, Sherri Southall y Savannah Ann Orlich por su liderazgo, apoyo a los demás y compromiso con el éxito estudiantil. #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: Stacye Hopkins
Ms. Hopkins is being recognized for her unwavering advocacy and care as a freshman counselor. She creates a culture of support and accountability for students early in their high school journey, making sure they feel seen, connected to resources, and encouraged to persist. Families shared how her honest guidance, belief in students, and consistent encouragement can change a student’s trajectory, helping students stay motivated through challenges and ultimately succeed.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Phyllis Williams
Mrs. Williams is a light in our school community. Her kindness, contagious smile, and positive spirit brighten the day for students and staff alike. She’s known for making people feel welcomed and cared for through small moments that matter, going above and beyond to support others without making them feel embarrassed or overlooked. Her warmth and encouragement make our community stronger.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Jackie Sonsiadek
Jackie Sonsiadek is being recognized for the consistent support and steady problem-solving she provides for our students and staff. Her work in the Technology Department helps keep classrooms running smoothly, reduces frustration when issues come up, and ensures our learning environment stays connected and productive. Jackie’s reliability, patience, and service-minded approach make a real difference across our district.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Kelley Safo
Kelley Safo is being recognized for her commitment to helping others succeed through technology. Whether troubleshooting, guiding staff through tools and systems, or stepping in quickly when support is needed, Kelley helps remove barriers so teaching and learning can continue without interruption. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and willingness to help strengthen our school community every day.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Measie Hodges
Measie Hodges is being recognized for the positive impact she makes through her work in the Technology Department. She supports staff and students by helping solve tech challenges, providing clear assistance, and contributing to a smooth day-to-day experience in our buildings. Measie’s dedication, helpful spirit, and behind-the-scenes work help our district stay ready and connected.
💜 Student Spotlight: Amy Sepulveda
Amy is an exceptional student leader, worker, and motivator. She advocates for her peers, leads with courage and strong character, and encourages classmates to grow both academically and personally. Amy’s care and compassion for causes in school and throughout the community reflect the very best of Rich Township.
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 Stacye Hopkins, Phyllis Williams, Jackie Sonsiadek, Kelley Safo, Measie Hodges y Amy Sepulveda por su liderazgo, amabilidad y dedicación a 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: Katie Thomas
Ms. Thomas creates a welcoming space where students feel supported, capable, and included. Students shared that she helps them grow, even when they feel like they “can’t do it”, by breaking down skills, making learning more accessible, and ensuring everyone understands what they’re doing. She also intentionally builds belonging in her classroom, making sure no one is left out, whether that means creating groups so every student has a partner or helping students feel loved and accepted. Ms. Thomas is known as sweet, caring, and someone students can talk to without judgment, while still holding them accountable and helping them improve.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Sheila McCray
Ms. McCray is recognized for being raw, genuine, and real with students. She doesn’t sugarcoat hard topics, she talks about real-world issues and how they affect students, and she treats students with respect by speaking to them like young adults. Students describe her as a strong teacher and a powerful example of a Black woman who leads with honesty and authenticity.
💜 Staff Spotlight: Marvenna Martin
Marvenna Martin is being recognized for the exceptional organization and professionalism she brings to the STEM Campus each day. Substitute teachers have shared that when they arrive at STEM, everything is thoughtfully prepared and ready to go—work binders are fully equipped with key materials like class schedules, key cards, and supplies, and even timesheets are partially completed to help the day start smoothly and on time.
💜 Student Spotlight: Morgan Payton
Morgan is being recognized for leadership and positive impact in theatre. Whether building sets, participating in stage crew, or bringing a fun, supportive presence to the team, Morgan helps make the environment better. Peers describe Morgan as helpful, kind, and inspiring, someone who improves the space through both work ethic and personality.
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 Katie Thomas, Sheila McCray, Marvenna Martin, y Morgan Payton por su liderazgo, autenticidad y el ambiente positivo que crean para los demás. #richinstudentsuccess
Click here to view the Raptor Rundown Weekly Update video: https://youtu.be/gyVwZQowEB4
Raptors, here are a few important upcoming reminders:
📘 Pre-ACT 9 & Pre-ACT
All 9th and 10th grade students will test on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Students should arrive by 7:30 AM, remain for afternoon rotation sessions, and bring their fully charged school-issued device.
There will be no school for grades 11 and 12 that day.
🌸 Spring Break Reminder
Friday, April 3 is Good Friday and the start of Spring Break, which continues through April 10. Students return on Monday, April 13. This will be our last weekly update until we return from break.
✨ Prom 2026
Juniors and seniors, Prom will be held on May 2 at Tuscany Falls in Mokena from 6:30 PM–10:30 PM. Tickets are on sale now and close April 17. Be sure you are Raptor Ready to purchase.
🎓 Class of 2026
The last day of school for seniors is Friday, May 8, and Graduation is scheduled for Saturday, May 16 at 3:30 PM. Seniors and families should continue checking email for important updates.
#richinstudentsuccess
Raptors, aquí hay algunos recordatorios importantes:
📘 Pre-ACT 9 y Pre-ACT
Todos los estudiantes de 9.º y 10.º grado tomarán el examen el martes 31 de marzo de 2026. Deben llegar a las 7:30 AM, permanecer para las sesiones de rotación por la tarde y traer su dispositivo escolar completamente cargado.
No habrá clases para 11.º y 12.º grado ese día.
🌸 Recordatorio de vacaciones de primavera
El viernes 3 de abril es Viernes Santo y el inicio de las vacaciones de primavera, que continúan hasta el 10 de abril. Los estudiantes regresan el lunes 13 de abril.
✨ Prom 2026
Estudiantes de 11.º y 12.º grado, el Prom será el 2 de mayo en Tuscany Falls en Mokena de 6:30 PM a 10:30 PM. Los boletos ya están a la venta y cierran el 17 de abril. Asegúrense de estar Raptor Ready para comprar.
🎓 Clase de 2026
El último día de clases para los seniors es el viernes 8 de mayo, y la graduación será el sábado 16 de mayo a las 3:30 PM. Los estudiantes y las familias deben seguir revisando su correo electrónico para obtener actualizaciones importantes.
#richinstudentsuccess
UPDATE: Robert has returned home. Thank you to everyone in the community for your concern and spreading the message.
Community Alert: The Homewood Police Department is attempting to locate Robert Jones, age 15, who was last seen at his Homewood residence on 3/24/2026. Robert is approximately 5’9” and 160 lbs.
Police shared that he currently has a bit more hair than pictured.
If you have any information about his whereabouts, please contact the Homewood Police Department at (708) 206-3420.
Alerta comunitaria: El Departamento de Policía de Homewood está intentando localizar a Robert Jones, de 15 años, quien fue visto por última vez en su residencia en Homewood el 24/3/2026. Robert mide aproximadamente 5’9” y pesa 160 libras.
La policía indicó que actualmente tiene un poco más de cabello de lo que aparece en la foto.
Si tiene información sobre su paradero, comuníquese con el Departamento de Policía de Homewood al (708) 206-3420.
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
