The District will seek funding to support high-quality before-school, after-school, summer, and extended learning opportunities at Dunbar Elementary School, Lincoln Middle School, Wyvetter Younge School of Excellence, and Annette Officer Elementary School.

The proposed 21st CCLC programs will provide students with academic enrichment, youth development, and family engagement opportunities designed to enhance student achievement and well-being beyond the regular school day. East St. Louis School District 189 remains committed to expanding access to meaningful learning experiences and values the continued partnership of our families and community as we pursue these opportunities for our students.

CELEBRATING OUR EXCELLENCE & PRIDE

As we begin a new year, we celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of our students, staff, and community:

Academic Milestones & Achievements

• Fully Accredited Schools and District meeting rigorous international standards for educational excellence 

• Achieved Full Recognition from the Illinois State Board of Education, reflecting excellence in meeting all state requirements for curriculum, safety, staffing, and district operations.

• 5 Commendable Schools recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)

• 2 Gold Circle of Quality Preschools - the highest designation from ExceleRate Illinois

• 100% Graduation Rate for Career & Technical Education (CTE) students

• 99.6% of our seniors (Class of 2026) met all graduation requirements 

• 87% 9th Grade On-Track Rate - surpassing state averages for Black and Low-Income students

• $20+ Million in scholarships earned by the Class of 2026

• Early College: Last school year, 75 high school students earned college credits at SWIC, with 13 attending full-time

• $17+ Million invested directly into our CTE facility upgrade at East St. Louis Sr. High

• 90.1% Teacher Retention Rate - higher than the state average

Champions & Leaders

• 2026 State Champions: Boys Basketball (IHSA Class 3A) and Unified Track & Field (IHSA Class B)

• 2025 State Runners-Up: Football (IHSA Class 6A 2nd Place)

• 2026 Battle of Bands Winner: East St. Louis Marching Band (Drums Along the River Battle)

• Coach of the Year: Boys Basketball Head Coach Mark Chambers (IBCA)

• Student Leadership:

  • Derion Millender selected for the ISBE Student Advisory Council (1 of 21 statewide).

  • Carl Hill appointed to the IL Education & Career Success Network Council.

• National Recognition: Mason/Clark Student Council earned the National Gold Council of Excellence recognition.

• Service: Dunbar Elementary Beta Club ranked #5 in Illinois with 1,784 service hours.

• Teaching Excellence: Meonshai Houston (Officer Elementary) named a prestigious Golden Apple Finalist

• National Recognition: Tyonna Woodhouse (Avant Elementary) selected as Illinois nominee for the national 2026 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award

• State Recognition: Four district staff honored as Those Who Excel by the Illinois State Board of Education

• America’s Healthiest Schools: Avant has been nationally recognized for the second year in a row as one of America’s Healthiest

• National Award: District earned the National Grand Prize Magna Award for Commitment to Indoor Air Quality in Schools

 

QUICK-START CHECKLIST FOR FAMILIES

Dress Code Essentials (Student Handbook Section 6.20)

• No Uniforms Required.

• Jeans/Pants: Must fit at the waist. Ripped/torn clothing exposing skin is not allowed unless worn over leggings.

• Tops & Skirts: Tank tops are not permitted. Skirt hems should reach the top of the knee.

Cell-Phone Free Environment

• Goal: Reduce distractions and build focus.

• Elementary: Phones brought to school are safely secured all day.

• Middle & High School: Yondr Pouches will continue to be used to store phones and smartwatches during campus hours.

Technology & Backpacks

• Chromebooks: Provided to all Grade 1–12 students.

  • Pick up during Orientation/Open House, or starting August 3 at the FACE Center (401 Katherine Dunham Place).

• Clear Backpacks Only: Students carrying backpacks must use clear backpacks. Personal pouches/purses must not exceed 5.5'' x 8.5''.

Transportation & Health

• Bus Routes: Shared by Monday, August 3. Need to update your address? Visit your school office with proof of residency immediately. (Bus inquiries: 618-646-3192).

• Health Requirements: Records/immunizations due by October 15 for Preschool, K, 6th, and 9th grade students. Mobile clinics are available through SIHF. To have your child seen at a school-based mobile clinic, a signed parent/guardian consent form is required.

REMINDER: Every Wednesday is an Early Release Day (dismissal is 1 hour earlier than usual). Regular, daily attendance is key to your student's success!

Made possible through a $17 million state grant secured through the leadership of Senator Chris Belt, the project represents a transformational investment in career pathways and the future of East St. Louis students.

“We are grateful to Senator Chris Belt for his leadership in securing this critical investment and for the confidence placed in our district and community,” said Superintendent Arthur R. Culver. “We take seriously our responsibility to be strong stewards of these resources and look forward to the lasting impact this project will have on our students and the future workforce of East St. Louis.”

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Expanding Opportunities for Students

The expansion will add approximately 32,500 square feet of modern learning space designed to support high-demand career pathways, including:

• Architecture and Construction, featuring Electrical and HVAC/Refrigeration programs
• Manufacturing and Pre-Engineering, including Machine Shop and Machine Tool Technology
• Welding, with a dedicated classroom and 20-station lab
• Audio/Visual Production, with studio, podcast, music, and control rooms
• Automotive Technology, including a six-bay automotive repair facility
• Administrative and support spaces

“This expansion builds on our existing, well-aligned CTE programming, strengthening connections to workforce needs and broadening meaningful career opportunities for our students,” said CTE Director Dekiethrich Lockett.

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A Celebration of Community and Student Voice

The groundbreaking ceremony, held March 23, 2026, brought together students, alumni, community leaders, higher education partners, and employers to celebrate this important investment.

Student and alumni speakers highlighted the powerful impact of CTE programs, sharing how hands-on learning experiences have shaped their educational journeys and future goals.

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Proven Results, Strong Foundation

The district’s commitment to Career and Technical Education is already delivering measurable success. For the Class of 2025, students enrolled in CTE programs achieved a 100 percent four-year graduation rate.

“Workforce development starts in our schools, and East St. Louis is already doing the work through strong Career and Technical Education programs,” said Senator Chris Belt. “This investment expands opportunities for students to gain the skills and resources needed for success in today’s economy.”

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More Than a Facility

The celebration also showcased the talent and pride of East St. Louis students, with performances by the Flyer Cheer Team and the East St. Louis Senior High School drumline. Guests also enjoyed refreshments prepared and served by CTE Culinary students.

“This expansion is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Superintendent Culver. “Our students thrive in Career and Technical Education, and they deserve facilities and resources that prepare them for real success. By providing hands-on learning and meaningful career pathways, we’re giving every student the opportunity to see a future for themselves — and achieve it.”

Board of Education President Timothy Lockett added, “Through the expansion and modernization of our CTE facilities, School District 189 is equipping students with the credentials, experiences, and pathways they need for success — through industry certifications, college credit, internships, and apprenticeships. At the same time, this work also plays a vital role in advancing long-term economic growth across East St. Louis.”

 

To qualify, students must meet rigorous GPA requirements and earn qualifying placement scores, demonstrating both academic preparation and the determination to succeed at the collegiate level.

This summer, eight sophomores and one junior will begin their college journey at SWIC. They will join four current juniors already enrolled in the program, bringing the total number of expected East St. Louis Senior High School students next year to be our highest in five years.

Enrollment by Class:

• Class of 2026: 3 students currently enrolled

• Class of 2027: 5 total students enrolled for next year (3 current and 2 new)

• Class of 2028: 8 newly qualified students

And the momentum continues — four additional students tested on March 16, with the potential to grow these numbers even further.

Removing Barriers. Expanding Opportunity.

Students say they are motivated by the academic challenge and the opportunity to push themselves beyond traditional high school coursework. But another powerful factor sets this program apart: School District 189 covers every cost.

Tuition. Fees. Books. Transportation. Meals.

All expenses are paid in full.

This means students can earn both their high school diploma and a full associate degree — completely free to their families. By the time their peers are beginning college, these students will already be halfway to a bachelor’s degree. After earning their associate degree, they can transfer to a four-year institution and complete their bachelor’s degree in as little as two additional years.

This is more than dual enrollment. It is transformation.

At East St. Louis Senior High School, students are not just preparing for the future — they are stepping into it early.

Each year, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) recognizes outstanding educators and school professionals from across the state whose work has made a lasting impact on their school communities. I am proud to share that four members of the East St. Louis School District 189 family will be honored at the 2026 Those Who Excel Awards Banquet in Bloomington this April.

While we are fortunate to have many exceptional professionals across our district, we are especially grateful that ISBE has recognized the outstanding contributions of the following staff members:

Award of Excellence

The Award of Excellence honors educators who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to equity and the success of all students. Recipients foster positive school cultures, collaborate meaningfully with families and colleagues, and inspire others within and beyond their schools.

Lashaunda Ross, Counselor – Annette Officer Elementary School

Award of Meritorious Service

The Award of Meritorious Service recognizes professionals who embrace leadership opportunities and strengthen the culture of learning within their schools and districts through their dedication and impact.

Kurt Warner, Director of Technology – East St. Louis School District 189

Award of Special Recognition

The Award of Special Recognition celebrates educators who are valued for the skills, passion, and dedication they bring to their school communities each day.

Meonshai Houston, Teacher – Annette Officer Elementary School
Myisha Ross, Special Education Teacher – Recognized as an Early Career Educator (fewer than five years of teaching experience), Dr. Katie Harper Wright Elementary School

The ISBE Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards honor individuals making a significant difference in Illinois schools across multiple categories, including teachers, administrators, student support personnel, educational service personnel, and community volunteers.

We salute our honorees and thank them for representing School District 189 with excellence. They truly embody what it means to be Anchored in Excellence, consistently going above and beyond to make a meaningful difference for our students and families.

Please join me in congratulating these outstanding professionals on this well-deserved recognition.

With pride,

Arthur R. Culver, Superintendent

School District 189 Educator Among 2026 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching Finalists

 

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill., March 2 2026 — The Golden Apple Foundation, a leading nonprofit committed to preparing, honoring, and mentoring educators who advance educational opportunities for students, has announced the 2026 finalists for the prestigious Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching. 

Following a highly competitive selection process, 30 teacher finalists were chosen from nearly 600 nominations across Illinois. Among this distinguished group is Meonshai Houston, a fourth-grade teacher at Annette Officer Elementary, one of several District 189 schools to earn Commendable School recognition from the Illinois State Board of Education.

Complete list of 2026 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching finalists

Mrs. Houston, a fourth-grade teacher, exemplifies exceptional instructional leadership and an unwavering commitment to student success. During the 2024–2025 school year, a strong majority of her students achieved proficiency in ELA — an outstanding accomplishment in a high-needs district that reflects her skill, dedication, and consistently high expectations. Notably, none of her students performed below proficient; every student achieved at least an approaching proficient level or higher.

“Mrs. Houston sets a powerful example of what high expectations and deep care for students can accomplish,” said Superintendent Arthur R. Culver. Darla Wall, Principal of Annette Officer Elementary, added, “She is an instructional leader within our building, actively collaborating with her Professional Learning Team, leading targeted interventions, and ensuring that every student receives the support they need to succeed.” She continued, “Mrs. Houston’s impact extends beyond her classroom and strengthens our entire school community.”

In addition to being named one of 30 finalists for the 2026 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, Mrs. Houston will also be honored by the Illinois State Board of Education in 2026 in the Special Recognition category of the Those Who Excel awards. The Award of Special Recognition celebrates educators who are deeply valued for the skills, passion, and dedication they bring to their school communities each day.

“Exceptional teachers remind us every day what is possible for students,” said Alan Mather, President of Golden Apple. “They create classrooms where curiosity and challenge are encouraged, confidence is built, and learning feels meaningful. These finalists exemplify the dedication, care, and skill that define teaching at its finest. We are proud to recognize the lasting impact they have on their students and school community.”

The Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching honor outstanding teachers for having lasting, positive effects on students’ lives and school communities. Teacher finalists demonstrate, through their teaching and results, a significant positive impact on their students’ growth and learning.

“The educators recognized this year demonstrate a consistent commitment to student achievement and measurable growth,” said Alicia Winckler, CEO of Golden Apple. “By modeling excellence in the classroom, they help students build the persistence and critical thinking required for long-term academic success.”

The selected 2026 Golden Apple Award recipients will be surprised in the spring. Northwestern University generously provides a spring sabbatical to award recipients at no cost. Each recipient receives a $5,000 cash award. Award recipients become Fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators, a community of educators who play an important role in preparing the next generation of teachers in the Golden Apple Scholars and Accelerators programs — initiatives dedicated to addressing the teacher shortage in Illinois.

About Golden Apple

Golden Apple's mission is to inspire, develop, and support teacher and school leader excellence, especially in schools-of-need. Our leading-edge preparation delivers exceptional teachers who make an impact. We help students thrive in the classroom and in life. Since our beginning, we have recognized master educators annually, and these master educators help prepare the next generation of teachers. Our vision is one in which every classroom has a great teacher, and to realize this, we are committed to making a material difference in resolving the teacher shortage. Visit http://www.goldenapple.org for more information.

Media contacts:

Avery Resendiz

779-225-2222

averyr@theharbingergroup.com

 

Sydney Stigge-Kaufman

314-610-7420

Sydney.stigge-kaufman@estl189.com

 

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East St. Louis School District 189 is focused on providing rigorous, high quality education and exceptional educational experiences to the nearly 4,600 students within the community. Our vision is for students to be supported physically, socially, and emotionally in a safe and nurturing environment to achieve academic success that prepares them for college, the workforce, and citizenship in the 21st century. For more information, visit www.estl189.com. Follow more great stories @estl189 on Facebook and Twitter.

Vivian Adams Early Childhood Center and Dr. Katie Harper Wright Preschool early learning programs have once again earned the Gold Circle of Quality – the highest distinction awarded by ExceleRate Illinois, the state’s quality recognition and improvement system for early learning and development.

This recognition is not new to our schools; both Vivian Adams and Dr. Katie Harper Wright have maintained the Gold Circle of Quality designation across multiple years, demonstrating an enduring commitment to excellence in early learning.  Achieving this honor requires meeting rigorous statewide standards and successfully completing a comprehensive review and monitoring process.

To be recognized at this level reflects the high quality of teaching, supportive learning environments, strong family and community partnerships, staff expertise, and program leadership that define our early childhood programs.

Let's celebrate the outstanding staff and leaders of Vivian Adams and Dr. Katie Harper Wright, who continue to set the standard for early childhood education in our region.  Their work embodies our district’s theme: Anchored in Excellence.