Family Engagement
Huntley 158 strives to meet the needs of all students always and values the diverse perspectives of the families we serve. There are a variety of ways for parents/guardians to learn more about and get involved in the district and schools and let all voices be heard! See below for information about these opportunities.
Multilingual Parent Advisory Committee (MPAC)
The Multilingual Parent Advisory Committee (MPAC) represents the interests of Huntley 158's multilingual students and families, including English Learners (ELs) and native speakers in languages other than English, such as Spanish, Polish, Ukrainian, etc., who are in transitional bilingual education (TBE) programs.
MPAC's mission is to create an inclusive environment where:
- The academic success and well-being of English Language Learners is prioritized.
- We advocate for multilingual students and families, ensuring their voices are heard, their needs are met, and they receive an equitable education.
- We work to enhance access to resources, boost family engagement, and strengthen community investment for English Learner Student (ELs) outcomes.
- We strive to ensure that multilingual students feel accepted, included and celebrated for their diversity by all community members in our District.
MPAC meeting dates are on the district calendar. For more information about MPAC and how you can get involved, visit this LINK for information in multiple languages.
Parent Teacher Advisory Committee (PTAC)
Huntley 158’s Parent-Teacher Advisory Committee (PTAC) is designed to enhance two-way communication among key stakeholders and is a required school board committee per school code. The committee is designed to provide an opportunity for staff and parents/guardians to review and discuss Board policies and provide feedback and perspective to district leadership and the Board of Education on important topics.
While the group’s input and participation factors into district recommendations to the Board of Education, PTAC is not a decision-making body. Quarterly reports from the committee are brought to the Board and school parent-teacher groups for review and consideration.
To help ensure equity in both opportunity and voice, an application process is used in seeking a diverse group of individuals from across the district each year to serve on the PTAC committee.
School Parent Advisory Meetings
In addition to district-level parent engagement opportunities, parents/guardians also have an opportunity to engage in two-way dialog with school leadership via parent advisory meetings. These meetings, known by different names at each school, are hosted by the principal who sets an agenda to guide open and productive discussions. Topics align with the district’s strategic plan and school improvement plan and have included such topics as student attendance, student behavior, and academic performance. Brief presentations may be offered and may include guest speakers. Meetings are open to all families.
School PTOs/PTAs/Boosters
All Huntley 158 schools are fortunate to have a dedicated group of parent and staff volunteers whose mission is to enhance home/school connections and the educational experience for all students through fundraising efforts, events, and more. There are three Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) for Huntley 158 elementary schools - one on each campus. Each middle school has a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). Check your school’s website under Students & Families to learn more and find out how you can get involved!
Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC)
The purpose of SEAC is to create a platform for families to come together, collaborate, learn, and build connections as a dedicated community focused on special education. If your child(ren) has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), or if you're simply interested in learning more about the special education services provided, you are encouraged to attend one of our quarterly meetings. SEAC meeting dates are on the district calendar.
Special Services "Thriving Future Talks"
Thriving Future Talks are monthly, in-person meetings for families whose children are receiving special education services to plan and prepare for their child’s educational journey and their future. Hosted by the district’s Special Services team, each “talk” features a guest speaker and different topic. Guest speakers are experts in their field and share valuable information, practical guidance and resources for families. Topics range from learning supports and disability benefits to independence and community connection.
Who: Huntley 158 families of students with an IEP (all ages). Students are welcome to attend.
Where: District Office (room 180), 650 Dr. John Burkey Drive in Algonquin
When: Check the district website calendar for dates and times
Contact: Ina Hall, Family Engagement Liaison, lhall@district158.org
Huntley 158 Family Learning Series
Guided by insights from the district's Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC), the Huntley 158 Family Learning Series offers families a welcoming space to connect, explore, and gain practical knowledge on a wide range of educational topics. These events are designed to empower families with children of all ages with resources, strategies, and information to support their children’s learning and growth.
Who: Huntley 158 families of students of all ages
Where: Virtual via Google Meet
When: Check the district website calendar for dates and times
Contact: Ina Hall, Family Engagement Liaison, lhall@district158.org
