Superintendent's Message

Superintendent's Message

Archive

Office of the Superintendent

May 16, 2025

Dear Rich Township Families,

As we enter the third week of May and prepare to celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2025, the energy and momentum across the district remain high. Our students and staff continue to push boundaries, raise expectations, and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to growth and excellence. Their accomplishments are a testament to the strength of the vibrant, resilient community we’ve built together.

In these final weeks of the school year, we look forward to honoring milestones, recognizing achievements, and finishing the year strong.

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2025 Summer School Program

Rich Township’s 2025 Summer School program is now open for registration!

Registration Link

Offered in-person and free of charge at our STEM Campus, the program includes both recovery and enrichment courses across two sessions: June 2–23 and June 25–July 16. Students may also qualify for special junior and senior intensive programs based on counselor recommendation. Families are encouraged to register by the May 23 (Session 1) or June 23 (Session 2) deadlines.

Reminder: School Registration Now Open

School registration for the upcoming academic year is now live on our website.

We encourage all families to complete registration as soon as possible to ensure a smooth start to the school year. Students must be registered to participate in any summer programs, activities, or athletics.

To register, visit: https://www.rich227.org/page/registration

There you’ll find step-by-step instructions, important documents, and key deadlines.

If you are experiencing difficulty completing registration online, please contact our Technology Help Desk:

· FAC Campus: (708) 659-3316

· STEM Campus: (708) 679-5704

· Email: helpdesk@rich227.org

Families who have not yet registered will continue to receive communications via email as reminders.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this important process!

Class of 2025 Graduation Updates

The Commencement Ceremony will be held tomorrow, Saturday, May 17th at 3:30 PM at the Fine Arts & Communications campus stadium. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors.

Families are encouraged to visit the graduation webpage for all important updates, requirements, and upcoming events: www.rich227.org/page/class-of-2025.

Please make sure to follow the signage regarding parking, drop off, and entry protocols.

Please Note:

All individuals who require a seat—including children—must have a ticket to enter the graduation ceremony.
Ticketing information can be found on the website or by contacting Senior Class Sponsor Deb Wright at dwright@rich227.org.

We look forward to celebrating this exciting milestone with our graduates and their families!

Celebrating Academic Milestones at Rich Township High School
Join us as we honor our students' academic progress and celebrate their commitment to excellence during three special events this May!

Junior Pinning Ceremony

Wednesday, May 21, 2025
10:55 AM at STEM | 1:55 PM at FAC

Rich Township High School is proud to host the annual Junior Pinning Ceremony, recognizing 11th grade students who are on track academically and prepared to enter their senior year. This rite of passage symbolizes their growth, dedication, and transition into their final year of high school. We invite families and staff to be part of this meaningful celebration of achievement and aspiration.

Sophomore Half Cap Ceremony

Thursday, May 22, 2025
9:25 AM at STEM | 12:25 PM at FAC

We will recognize our on-track 10th grade students during the Sophomore Half Cap Ceremony. This celebration marks their successful journey halfway through high school and their progression into the upperclassmen ranks. Let’s come together as a school community to cheer on their accomplishments and motivate them to continue striving for excellence.

Academy Declaration Ceremony & Top Scholar Recognition

Thursday, May 22, 2025
6:00 PM at the Tinley Park Convention Center

Doors open at 5:15 PM

The Freshman Pathway Declaration is a milestone event where 9th grade students formally declare their academic and vocational pathways. This evening celebrates the foundation of their high school journey and the bright futures ahead. All freshmen students and up to two guests are invited to attend this inspiring occasion.

Save the dates and be part of these memorable events as we celebrate our students’ growth, success, and future potential!

Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) Program Now Available
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is offering the Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) program to help eligible families purchase food for school-aged children during the summer months. Families who meet certain income and program participation criteria will be automatically enrolled and receive a $120 benefit per eligible child. If you believe your child may qualify but is not automatically enrolled, you can apply online through August 13, 2025. For full eligibility details and application information, please visit the IDHS Summer EBT webpage.

You may also follow us on social media:

● Facebook: @District227

● Twitter: @DrJohnnieThomas @richtownshiphs

● Instagram: @district227_

● Superintendent's Message on our district website: https://www.rich227.org/page/superintendents-message

Your continued support of Rich Township High School District 227 is appreciated and vital to ensure student success.

Respectfully,

Dr. Johnnie Thomas

Superintendent