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Back To School

Dear School District 189 Families, Students, and Stakeholders,

School began Monday, August 11th, and we are thrilled to kick off the 2025–2026 school year! Our team is eager to welcome students and build strong, positive relationships that support learning, growth, and success.

To help ensure a smooth and confident start, please take a moment to review the important information outlined below. You can stay informed and connected throughout the school year by regularly visiting our district website at www.estl189.com.  

International Teachers – New this year!

We are proud to share that this year, we welcome 12 outstanding educators who have traveled from around the world — including Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Thailand — to join our district!

These experienced teachers offer deep knowledge and unique perspectives in their classrooms, where they will be teaching Special Education, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Music.

International teachers bring a wealth of benefits to our schools, including diverse perspectives, enriched curriculum, and enhanced cultural understanding for students. Please join us in warmly welcoming them to our East St. Louis community. They broaden students’ understanding of the world and foster a global mindset.

District-Wide Dress Code – New this year!

Uniforms are no longer required but may be worn to school. This year, all students must adhere to the Dress Code. We encourage families to review the full list of Dress Code expectations outlined in section 6.20 of the Student Handbook. Below are a few examples of what to know:

  • Clothing with holes, rips, tears, and clothing that is otherwise poorly fitting, showing undergarments and/or skin may not be worn at school. Ripped pants or jeans are only allowed if leggings are used underneath to cover skin.  No tank tops.

  • The length of shorts or skirts must be appropriate for the school environment.  Students’ skirt hems must come to the top of their knees.  A two inch hem allowance will be granted provided the student is wearing black (solid color) tights, jeggings, or leggings.  Skin-tight attire such as tube dresses, liquid pants, jeggings and leggings are not allowed to be worn alone.

  • Pants or jeans must be worn at the waist so that undergarments and midriff skin are not visible.  If a belt is needed to secure pants at the waist, it should be used.

Cell-Phone Free Environment

Our school district will continue to maintain a cell-phone free environment in order to help students stay focused and make the most of their school day. This enhances the educational setting, promotes safety, and improves the overall classroom experience.

We encourage families to have students leave cell phones at home whenever possible. If an elementary age student brings a cell phone to school, it will be put away and secured. At the secondary level, Yondr pouches are used to safely store student cell phones, smart watches and other communication accessories during the school day.

This approach helps reduce distractions, allowing students to remain engaged in instruction and fostering a more productive and supportive learning atmosphere. By minimizing interruptions, we are creating a safer and more effective educational experience for all.

Student Technology 

Our district provides Chromebooks to all students in Kindergarten through Grade 12 to support learning beyond the classroom. These devices are intended for educational use at home, giving students access to digital resources, assignments, and tools that enhance their academic success.

Parents may pick up their child’s Chromebook during Orientation and Open House events at the school the student attends.

After school begins on August 11, Chromebooks will be available for pickup at the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Center, located at 401 Katherine Dunham Place. For more information—including weekend and evening pickup times—please visit our district website or social media for details.

School Supply Lists

Students who choose to use backpacks must have a clear backpack. Alternatively, students may use binders. Clear backpacks are available for purchase from a number of retailers, including Personal Touch Boutique in East St. Louis, Walmart, Target, Amazon, and others. The backpack must be completely transparent, but the straps to carry them do not have to meet this requirement. Secondary students are allowed to carry a non-clear pouch or purse no larger than 5.5 inches by 8.5 inches to hold personal items, such as hygiene products. 

Bus Routes
Families of students who qualify for bus transportation will receive a letter with their child’s bus route details for the 2025–2026 school year by Monday, August 4, 2025.

Bus routes are created based on each student’s official home address as listed in our student information system. If your address has changed or needs to be updated, please visit your child’s school office with proof of residency as soon as possible to avoid transportation delays.

If you have any questions or concerns about bus transportation at any time during the school year, please contact: 618-646-3192.

Health and Immunizations 

School District 189 follows the mandates of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) with regard to required school immunizations for students. New students in the district, as well as students entering preschool, kindergarten, sixth and ninth grades, must present proof of the required state of Illinois physical examination and immunizations. All students must be in medical compliance by October 15th.  East Side Health District provides these services at the school-based health clinic located at East St. Louis Senior High School and at the Vivian Adams Early Childhood Center.

School Calendar and Wednesday Early Releases

The School Year 2025-2026 Calendar and bell schedule contains detailed information about when school is in session or on break. Please note that every Wednesday is an early release day by one hour. Daily attendance is a top priority. Please ensure students come to school all day, everyday so they are fully supported to achieve academic excellence. 

 

With Anchored in Excellence as our theme for the 2025–2026 school year, we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring every student is supported, challenged, and celebrated. This theme reflects our focus on strong foundations, steady progress, and shared success across every school in our district.

Our focus continues to center on collaborative efforts that promote academic achievement, emotional well-being, and social growth. School District 189 is dedicated to creating a learning environment where teamwork and mutual support lead to remarkable outcomes. Our district leaders, educators, and staff are united in their commitment to helping every student succeed in a space where they feel safe, valued, and empowered.

We know that families are essential partners in this journey. Your involvement and encouragement help anchor students in the support they need to grow and thrive. I encourage you to take part in upcoming parent engagement opportunities, including school-sponsored Open Houses, and to stay connected as we launch an inspiring and successful school year—together.

Sincerely,

Arthur R. Culver, Superintendent

East St. Louis School District 189