Kindergarten
In kindergarten, the focus is on the whole child through a balanced, developmentally appropriate approach. Teachers foster a caring community where students feel safe, valued, and ready to learn. The cornerstones of early education include social learning through Purposeful Play, early foundational learning through literacy and math, and hands-on learning and social skills development. Daily lessons build early reading, writing, and math skills to set a strong academic foundation and give kindergarteners the tools they need to grow as early readers, thinkers, and problem-solvers.
Screen time is kept to a minimum in kindergarten, using devices only when it supports learning goals. Click the link to learn more about technology changes for kindergarten in Huntley 158 starting with the 2025-26 school year. Go back to the Elementary page to learn about math, literacy and more in kindergarten and in all elementary grade levels.
2026 Kindergarten Sneak Peek
Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Times: 5pm to 6pm (last names A-M); 6pm -7pm (last names N-Z)
Locations: Leggee, Chesak and Mackeben Elementary Schools
Incoming kindergarteners and their families are encouraged to attend the Kindergarten Sneak Peek in April. The Sneak Peek will provide an opportunity to meet the principal and staff, as well as other incoming students and families. There will also be a brief kindergarten readiness screening to help schools learn about their incoming kindergarten students before the school year begins!
The Sneak Peek will also feature:
- A brief presentation from building administration
- School tours
- An opportunity to “meet the bus”
- An overview of kindergarten expectations and a “day in the life of a kindergartener”
- Kindergarten readiness tips for parents
- Information about the PTA
Kindergarten Dual Language Meeting Dates
Parents interested in learning about the district’s kindergarten Dual Language program must attend an informational meeting on one of the following dates:
- Monday, April 6, 2026 @ 5:30pm @ Chesak Elementary School
- Tuesday, April 7, 2026 @ 11:30am via Google Meet
For language interpretation services contact Diana Marvin, administrative assistant, at dmarvin@district158.org or 847-659-6122. For accommodations, contact Kelly LaTour, special services administrative assistant, at klatour@district158.org or 847-659-6174.