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hello! bensenville a lifelong learning community | jan/feb 2026

BENSENVILLEWOOD DALE FOOD PANTRY

VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE

2024 COFFEE WITH THE VILLAGE PRESIDENT 2024 LOCATIONS

VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE WELCOMES DOUG ELTMAN TO VILLAGE BOARD

January and February are often lean months for food pantries, as support from donors traditionally surges in November and December. Visit bwdfp.org to learn how you can offer your support to the Bensenville-Wood Dale Food Pantry. Your gifts, big or small, will give hope to a neighbor in need. And if you need support, know that the Bensenville-Wood Dale Food Pantry is there to help. Distribution hours are 8 – 10 am on Saturdays, at 192 South Center Street in the basement of Faith Community United Church of Christ.

The Village of Bensenville Board of Trustees unanimously voted to appoint Doug Eltman to serve as Village Trustee at the November 18, 2025, Village Board Meeting. Trustee Eltman took the Oath of Office and will serve the remainder of the term of late Village Trustee Marie T. Frey who passed away October 2025. This term is set to expire in June of 2027.

HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE HELPS SERVE BENSENVILLE FAMILIES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

IN THIS ISSUE Village of Bensenville p 1-3 Bensenville Community Public Library p 4-6 Fenton Community High School p 7-9 Bensenville Park District p 10-11 Elementary School District 2 p 12-14 Community Events p 15-16

Thanks to you, the annual Village Toy Drive was a huge success! With support from the entire community, and in partnership with Bensenville School District 2, over 2,500 toys were provided to Bensenville families in need this holiday season. We sincerely thank all who donated, volunteered, and continue to support one of Bensenville’s oldest traditions. B ENS ENV I L LE

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The statements and opinions expressed in this newsletter do not reflect the views, opinions, thoughts or beliefs of each member organization. The member organizations are not responsible for opinions or statements made individually or by other organizations. For information, contact tgomez@bsd2.org. Deadline for Mar/Apr is January 26, 2026.

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HOLIDAY LIGHT RECYCLING PROGRAM Village of Bensenville 12 South Center Street Bensenville, Illinois 60106 bensenville.gov 630.766.8200 President Frank DeSimone Trustees Rosa Carmona Doug Eltman Ann Franz McLane Mac Lomax Nicholas Panicola Jr. Armando Perez

The Village has partnered with Elgin Recycling to offer holiday light recycling free of charge. Drop off any type of holiday lights at Village Hall or the Public Works Department during regular business hours until the end of February. All types of holiday string lights are accepted, working or not. Please see the Village website for more information.

CHRISTMAS TREE DISPOSAL INFORMATION Christmas tree collection through Republic Services will occur the same day as your regularly scheduled refuse pick-up throughout the month of January. If you do not want to send your Christmas tree to a landfill, trees can also be dropped off at the Bensenville Public Works Facility, 717 E Jefferson Street, to be chipped and used for local landscaping. Trees can be placed in the mulch bin by the Public Works salt dome through the end of January. All tinsel, ornaments, lights, stands, and bags used for transportation must be removed. Only live/natural trees without flocking will be accepted, no garland or wreaths.

SNOW, ICE AND COLD WEATHER REMINDERS

Village Clerk Nancy Quinn

With winter weather finally here, the Village reminds residents to take the following safety precautions this season:

Village Manager Daniel Schulze

No parking on the street: Permission for overnight parking on Village streets will not be granted after a snowfall of two inches (2”) or more. To ensure effective plowing and salting operations vehicles must not be parked on streets or in alleys. Alley parking is prohibited at any time. Vehicles in violation will be ticketed and towed. Snow plowing or dumping snow from sidewalks and driveways onto public streets or public alleyways is prohibited. Practice safe driving Slower speeds, slower acceleration, slower steering, and slower braking all are required in winter driving conditions. Drop it and drive. Put down the handheld devices – it, too, is the law in Illinois. Don't crowd the plow. Pack a winter storm kit in your vehicle: Did you know each winter there are approximately 810 traffic crashes occur per day in Illinois? We remind residents to prepare their vehicles for optimal operation and to pack a winter storm kit to use if stranded. Clear snow from around fire hydrants: In an emergency, every second counts! If there is a fire hydrant near your home, the Village encourages residents to do their part to keep it accessible during snowy months. Remove any snow or ice and clear a three-foot perimeter around the fire hydrant to allow firefighters enough space to work.

HERITAGE CENTER The Heritage Center is a welcoming space for members to enjoy daily programs, monthly senior luncheons, and special events tailored for our seasoned community members. Reach out to us at 630.350.3426.

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NEWS

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2026

bensenville.il.us HONOR FLIGHT CHICAGO LAW ENFORCEMENT HOCKEY

WARMING CENTERS

MARCH 21

With the cold weather season here, it is important that you take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of yourself and your family. These locations are open during normal business hours.

This year’s Honor Flight Chicago Law Enforcement Hockey Classic at the Edge Ice Arena is scheduled for March 21! This charity hockey game features players from the FBI squaring off against Chicago Police Officers. Funds raised by Honor Flight Chicago go directly towards the cost of flying veterans to visit their memorials in Washington D.C. For additional details and updates about this event, please visit: honorflightchicago.org

NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DAY JANUARY 9 Show your appreciation for the Bensenville Police Department on January 9! Here are a few things you can do to show your support to the Bensenville Police Department: • Tie a blue ribbon around your tree. • Thank police officers on your business’s marquee. • Put a blue light bulb in a light in the front of your home. • Wear blue on January 9. • Share a positive police story on social media. • If you see a police officer in person, thank them! • Write a letter to our police department thanking them for their service.

Bensenville Village Hall 12 S. Center St. 630-766-8200 The Edge II Ice Arena 735 E. Jefferson 630-766-8888 Bensenville Public Library 200 S. Church Rd. 630-766-4642 3 Bensenville Park District Leisure Center 1000 W. Wood Ave. 630-766-7015

VOB Event Calendar

LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION! The Bensenville Short Film Festival returns to the Center Theatre on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Come enjoy the unique and fascinating work of film makers from around the world as chosen by the Bensenville Arts Council. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door, if available. All filmmakers are invited to submit their work prior to the deadline of February 19. Details including advance ticket sales and film submissions can be found at bensenvillearts.com/filmfest.

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2026

Please join us for this celebration of film and the art of filmmaking!

Friday, January 9

SIGN-UP TO BE NOTIFIED

Monday, January 19

Thursday, January 1 VILLAGE OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED

Tuesday, January 6 CDC MEETING 6:30 PM @ VILLAGE HALL SENIOR LUNCHEON 11AM @ HERITAGE CENTER (VILLAGE HALL) VILLAGE OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED

Tuesday, January 27 VILLAGE BOARD MEETING 6:30 PM @ VILLAGE HALL

Subscribe to our new mass notification system to receive alerts from the Village of Bensenville. Choose to receive notifications by call, e-mail, text, and more. Get local news and alerts instantly for things like road closures and severe weather events in your language of choice.

Tuesday, February 3 CDC MEETING 6:30 PM @ VILLAGE HALL

Friday, February 6 SENIOR LUNCHEON 11AM @ HERITAGE CENTER (VILLAGE HALL)

Visit: Bensenville.gov/portal

Tuesday, February 24 VILLAGE BOARD MEETING 6:30 PM @ VILLAGE HALL A

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adult

Book Budies

Storytime!

Stories with a Stretch!

TUESDAYS | JANUARY 6 THRU FEBRUARY 24 10:30 – 11:15 AM | BABIES & TODDLERS Join Miss Diane for a themed storytime designed to help develop your child’s literacy skills while creating lasting memories together. We'll read charming picture books, recite some flannel board rhymes and even sing a song or two. Every session will end with a fun craft to take home.

All Together Now Storytime Get a LIBRARY CARD

To register, renew, or replace a Bensenville Library card, you must bring a valid governmentissued photo ID showing residence within the district, or a photo ID in combination with a recently issued document with a name and corresponding address within the district. For more information about registering for a card, visit benlib.org/get-a-card or give us a call and ask for the Circulation desk.

WEDNESDAYS | JANUARY 7 THRU FEBRUARY 25 10:30 –11 AM | AGES 0-5

Join Miss Callie and Roger the friendly bear for a halfhour of stories, rhymes, and songs! Early literacy is more fun when we rhyme and sing all together.

ATURDAY | JANUARY 24 | 10:30– 11 AM S AGES 0-11

Looking to try something new in 2026? Come give Yoga a try at Stories with a Stretch! We will be incorporating beginning yoga stretches with engaging stories and rhymes for you and your child.

Family Storytime with League of Enchantment

Polish Storytime

WEDNESDAY | FEBRUARY 11 | 6 – 6:30 PM ALL AGES

THURSDAYS | JANUARY 8 & 22 | FEBRUARY 5 & 19 10:30 – 11 AM | AGES 0-6

Join us for a special evening storytime with League of Enchantment! They’ll bring beloved superheroes, princesses, and characters to life, sharing their love of costumes and cosplay through fun tales.

Join Ms. Maggie for Polish stories and enjoy crafts and games that encourage creativity.

Cuentos en Español e Inglés THURSDAYS | JANUARY 8 & FEBRUARY 5 6 – 6:30 PM | AGES 0-6

Looking to promote early literacy in Spanish for your kids? Join us Thursdays as we read our favorite books and create a craft – in Spanish AND English.

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NEWS

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2026

“A library in the middle of a community is a cross between an emergency exit, a life-raft and a festival. They are cathedrals of the mind; hospitals of the soul; theme parks of the imagination. On a cold rainy island, they are the only sheltered public spaces where you are not a consumer, but a citizen instead.” ― CAITLIN MORAN

Mini Book Sale SATURDAY | JANUARY 10 | 11 AM – 3 PM SUNDAY | JANUARY 11 | 1 – 5 PM We have too many books. Literally. Help us make space and score some great reads at our Mini Book Sale. This sale won't be as large as our traditional summer event, but the titles and treasures you'll find are just as exciting. Don’t miss $5 Fill-a-Bag Sunday! Bring your own regular-sized tote bag and fill it for just $5.00. To stay green, we ask that you bring your own bag. One bag per person, please.

Coming to America: The Immigrant Experience THURSDAY | JANUARY 15 | 7– 8 PM | FOR TEENS AND ADULTS Explore the immigrant experience with Laura Street Chaplin as she shares historical perspectives and insights into what records were kept, where to find them, and how naturalization worked- particularly for women. The program also includes a look at major ports, destinations, and top tools for researching immigration records. Register for this virtual event at benlib.org/events.

Versiti Blood Drive: Save Lives with Us TUESDAY | JANUARY 20 | 12:30 – 5 PM | FOR ADULTS 16 & 17 WITH PARENTAL CONSENT Join us at the Library for a blood drive hosted by Versiti Blood Center of Illinois. Donating blood is a quick and impactful way to support your community. Walk-ins are welcome, but it's best to reserve an appointment. Remember to bring a photo ID, and expect your appointment to last 45-60 minutes. Reserve an appointment at bit.ly/JanBlood26.

INTRODUCING YOUR NEWEST E-READER, THE PALACE APP! Palace allows you to access more of your library’s ebooks

Needle Guild

and audiobooks in one place.

JANUARY 6 AND 20, FEBRUARY 3 AND 17 | 6 – 7 PM | FOR ADULTS Do you enjoy knitting, crocheting, or embroidery? Would you like to meet others who share your passion? Join us every other Tuesday to work on your projects and connect with fellow crafters. Don’t have a project yet? No worries: we can help you find ideas and provide some materials to get started!

Additionally, enjoy thousands of free titles on the Palace Bookshelf which are yours to

Enjoy free virtual talks featuring bestselling authors. Register online to receive the Zoom link and details. Registration closes one day before each event. These events are made possible by Illinois Libraries Present (ILP), a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events.

Bringing History to Life with Jonathan Eig

Still Afraid of the Dark: An Evening with R.L. Stine

TUESDAY | JANUARY 13 7– 8 PM | FOR ADULTS

TUESDAY | FEBRUARY 24 7– 8 PM | FOR ADULTS

Eig began his writing career at age 16, working for his hometown newspaper, The Rockland County Journal News (N.Y.). He studied journalism at Northwestern University, and went on to work as a reporter for The New Orleans Times-Picayune, The Dallas Morning News, Chicago Magazine, and The Wall Street Journal. Mark Bazer will join Jonathan in conversation. REGISTER: bit.ly/ILPJonathanEig

Best known for the Goosebumps and Fear Street series (and their respective TV and movie adaptations), R.L. Stine has sold over 400 million books worldwide in 35 languages. Becky Spratford, acclaimed horror maven and editor of Why I Love Horror: Essays on Horror Literature, will join R.L. Stine in conversation. REGISTER: bit.ly/ILPStine

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keep for as long as you’d like. Download the Palace app for Android or Apple iOS today by visiting thepalaceproject.org.

Drop-In Technology

Seed Library & Community Garden Kick-Off FOR ADULTS

Sunday, March 1 is a big day for gardeners! Our Seed Library reopens with free seeds, so come early for the widest selection. Applications for the community garden (by the Korthauer Log House) also open that day. Spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t miss your chance to grow your own garden this summer! Paper applications will be available at the Front desk, and the garden plot fee can be paid with cash or card. Have questions? Give us a call at 630.766.4642 or drop by the library.

WEDNESDAYS | JANUARY 7 THRU FEBRUARY 25 | 6 – 8 PM | ALL AGES Need a little extra help with your phone, tablet, or laptop? Stop by anytime between 6–8 pm on Wednesdays for one-on-one assistance. Whether it’s setting up an app, learning new features, or solving a tech issue, our staff will be here to guide you. No appointment needed— just bring your device and your questions!

Celebrating Lunar New Year with the Chinese Zodiac TUESDAY | JANUARY 27 | 7– 8 PM | FOR TEENS AND ADULTS On February 17, 2026 much of East Asia will welcome the Year of the Horse. The Chinese use the zodiac animals to inspire and encourage positive qualities in ourselves by learning from the natural world. The twelve zodiac signs are used to measure time and build social relationships. Your Chinese zodiac animal may have hidden qualities you previously were not aware of. Come join the “mane” event with presenter Yvonne Wolf and find out why the Year of the Horse has a “colt” following. Register at benlib.org/events to reserve a seat.

The Language of Flowers Workshop WEDNESDAY | FEBRUARY 11 | 7 – 8 PM | FOR ADULTS Step into the romantic world of Victorian floriography! Discover how flowers were used to send secret messages, decode the meanings of different blooms, and interpret displayed floral arrangements with presenter Marcia Lautanen-Raleigh. Using provided materials, you will also create your own symbolic tussie-mussie bouquet to take home. Register at benlib.org/events to reserve a seat.

Resume Workshop THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 5 | 7 – 8 PM | FOR TEENS AND ADULTS Need a little extra help with your phone, tablet, or laptop? Stop by anytime between 6–8 pm on Wednesdays for one-on-one assistance. Whether it’s setting up an app, learning new features, or solving a tech issue, our staff will be here to guide you. No appointment needed— just bring your device and your questions!

Non-traditional Seed Starting TUESDAY | FEBRUARY 17 | 7 – 8 PM | ALL AGES Join us for a hands-on seed-starting workshop that explores two beginner-friendly methods: winter sowing in recycled mini-greenhouses and hydroponic germination without soil Participants will assemble a take-home winter-sowing container and step-by-step instructions for starting seeds hydroponically.

Life Lessons from the Happiest People on Earth THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 19 | 7 – 8 PM | TEENS AND ADULTS Why do Scandinavian countries top the World Happiness Report year after year? Explore cozy, balanced, and optimistic lifestyle habits from Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Iceland. Learn how cultural concepts like hygge, lagom, sisu, and more can inspire a happier, more balanced life. Register for this virtual event at benlib.org/events.

Make Your Own Stained Glass THURSDAYS | FEBRUARY 19 & FEBRUARY 26 | 6 – 7 PM | ALL AGES Stained glass is beautiful art found in magnificent buildings around the world. You’ll create your own unique piece to take home. The process is simple and enjoyable, and you’ll be amazed at the beautiful artwork you create. All materials and step-by-step instructions will be provided. Register at benlib.org/events. Note: Please register only if you are able to attend both evenings in order to complete your stained-glass project. 6

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FENTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL Dear Fenton School Community, FENTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL | District 100 1000 West Green Street Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 766 2500 fenton100.org Mission Statement Cultivate successful, passionate, empowered learners through rigor, relevance and relationships. Board of Education Cary Lewis | President Leonel Figueroa | Vice President John Radzinski | Secretary Reid Goodrich Rachel Matug Dr. Chris McCullough Michael Miller Administration Dr. Sam Bentsen | Superintendent Kate Ward Associate Superintendent/Principal Dr. Douglas J. Wildes Chief School Business Official Jose Jaramillo | Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Operations Rick Kambic | Director of Communications and Community Engagement Stephanie Jackson Director of Learning/Division Leader Michelle Papanicolaou | Director of Postsecondary Pathways/Division Leader Pedro Rodriguez Director of Athletics/Division Leader Dr. Eric Koranda Assistant Principal/Division Leader Julia Bray | Assistant Principal/Division Leader Lorenzo Rubio Director of Equity/Division Leader Carmen Abraham | Dean of Students Marvin Vargas | Dean of Students Brittany Ruttenberg | Technology Supervisor

@FentonHS

On January 6 we begin the second half of the school year. For a select few, the journey has already concluded. Congratulations to our Early Grads who took extra classes and finished high school in December – a semester early. We even have two students graduating a full year early!

Working ahead takes a lot of commitment and is something to be proud of! And new for a few other updates... State Report Card Illinois State Report Cards were released October 30 and Fenton was issued a designation of COMMENDABLE, which is the second highest designation and the same designation we received last year. Part of this designation includes progress on two important educational goals: • Graduation Rate: Fenton’s graduation rate of 89.2% surpasses the state average. • 9 th Grade on Track to Graduate: We saw a significant rise this year to 93.9%, higher than last year’s 92.4% and the state average of 89.3%. While we celebrate these gains, we remain committed to ongoing improvement. This year’s progress shows the continued impact of our Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). We have also placed a special emphasis on improving our school-wide attendance rate this year. We are already seeing our students Level Up their attendance and we are eager to see those increases reflected on next year’s report card. Thank you to all our students, teachers, staff, and families for all your hard work. Future Freshmen Night All 8th grade families at Blackhawk Middle School and Wood Dale Junior High, as well as any home school families, should mark your calendar for Thursday, January 15 and plan to attend our Future Freshmen Welcome Night. This is a great opportunity to learn about your upcoming transition and all the classes, clubs, and athletic teams Fenton has to offer. IASB Director-at-Large Member at Large Leo Figueroa serves as Vice President of Fenton’s Board of Education, and on October 29 he was elected to the Illinois Association of School Boards main assembly as a Director-at-Large representing all school board members in DuPage County. IASB provides our volunteer leaders with training, custom resources, and a voice in advocating for public education topics on the state and national level. Being elected to the IASB Board of Directors is a true honor for Mr. Figueroa and a great opportunity for our community. Congratulations, Mr. Figueroa! Let’s Go BISON! SAM BENTSEN, ED.D. | Superintendent

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COLLEGE BOARD

National Recognition FENTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL | District 100 1000 West Green Street Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 766 2500 fenton100.org Mission Statement Cultivate successful, passionate, empowered learners through rigor, relevance and relationships.

well done! Fenton is excited to

celebrate 22 seniors who earned National Recognition from the College Board for outstanding academic achievements. The award requires students to have a B+ GPA at the time they take the PSAT/NMSQT mid-junior year, and their score must fall within a certain range. Students can also be selected if they had a B+ GPA mid-junior year and earned a 3 or higher on at least 2 AP exams. Students could simultaneously receive the First Generation Award by meeting the same academic criteria but also being the first in their immediate family to complete a college degree. Eleven (11), or half of Fenton’s recipients, doubled up with both awards.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

FOLLOWING NATIONAL RECOGNITION RECIPIENTS: • Mawedda Abu-Shukhaidem • Leslie Anzueto Palomeque • Alec Brixius • Casey Brock • Giselle Castillo • Marina Di Tullio • Angel Garcia Roberto • Kimberly Hernandez Vazquez • Arturo Hurtado Jr. • Oliwia Idziak • Isaac Kashif

NEWS

• Maja Makowska • Isabella Medina • Jan Olmos • Sean Saltenberger • Matthew Sarad • Piotr Szostek • Olivia Vallone • Josslyn Wade • Emilia Wierzbicki • Michael Wrona • Emir Yabukoglu

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Fenton’s Josslyn Wade, 3-Time All-State Runner, BRINGS THE WADE BRIGADE TO STATE WITH HER Congratulations to senior Josslyn Wade, who qualified for the November 8 IHSA Cross Country State Finals and finished 9th out of 236 runners in the Class 2A meet. The top 25 runners are considered “All-State Runners.” Josslyn finished 16th in state last year and 16th in 2023. No other Fenton girls cross country runner has earned the All-State Runner designation more than once, yet Josslyn Wade has now earned it three times. Josslyn is Fenton’s most accomplished cross country runner in school history, and might even be our most accomplished female athlete overall. This year, however, was a little different. Josslyn didn’t go to Peoria alone. The entire Fenton girls cross country team qualified to state after tying for 1st place at Regionals and then placing 4th at Sectionals.

I am so grateful that I got to be a part of it. I will never forget the experiences I've had this season, and I can't help but feel bittersweet since it's my last year.

Only one other Fenton girls cross country team has ever qualified for State, and that was in 2012. Josslyn thanked her family and coaches for their support and motivation this season and beyond.

“ Sill, I feel confident in passing the torch to this team

She continued by saying:

because they truly are incredible. Cross country is not an easy sport, but these girls have shown heart, resilience and most importantly spirit. I can’t wait to hear of their future successes, and no matter what I will always be their biggest supporter.

“ I also want to thank my team for putting in the

work – especially when it got tough, for always coming to practice with a good attitude, and for simply being themselves.

MASTERS OF THE

GREEN

Congratulations to Fenton’s golf team for an outstanding 2025 season. Several strong performances since August were driving forces behind exciting postseason opportunities.

“ T his program and this team are special, and

Seniors Peter Anagnos and Logan Krajecki were top 20 finishers in the Fran Noyes Invite at GenoaKingston High School in September. Peter Anagnos later placed 2nd in the Upstate Eight Conference boys tournament. In post-season play, Junior Alita Thach became Fenton’s first girls golf sectional qualifier since 2011 and Logan Krajecki became Fenton’s first boys golf sectional qualifier since 2022.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR TEE-RIFIC GOLFERS! A

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A special guest made an appearance along the way. Class of 1982 Fenton Alum Pete Jordan visited practice in September and shared some of his experiences playing in the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA). He also provided tips and feedback to the Fenton students as they prepared for their upcoming matches. Mr. Jordan competed in nearly 300 events in the PGA and was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame at Texas Christian University (TCU). He previously hosted fundraisers and clinics in Bensenville in the early 2000s when he was still on the PGA tour.

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Some of Mr. Jordan’s Professional Highlights Include: • 2nd place in the 1996 B.C. Open after being tied for the lead and forcing a one-on-one playoff with Fred Funk • 3rd Place in the 1995 Deposit Guarantee Golf Classic • 3th Place in the 2001 John Deere Classic • 4th Place in the 1994 Master Card Colonial (now known as the Charles Schwab Challenge) • 4th Place in the 1999 John Deere Classic • 4th Place in the 2000 Fed Ex St. Jude Classic • 5th Place in the 1999 Greater Hartford Open Thank you Mr. Jordan for sharing

your wisdom with our students!

BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT

bvilleparks.org

Happy New Year! Deer Grove Leisure Center Administrative Office 1000 West Wood Street Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 766 7015 BvilleParks.org @BvilleParks

Winter-spring program registration opens January 6-7, providing the perfect opportunity to explore and participate in all the district has to offer. The park district looks forward to a year filled with connection, discovery and unforgettable memories.

White Pines Golf Club 500 West Jefferson Street Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 766 0304 WhitePinesGolf.com @GolfWhitePines

NEW YEAR! NEW YOU!

Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad 1100 West Wood Street Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 766 SWIM (7946) BvilleParks.org/Waterpark @BvilleWaterPark

HITMIX BINGO AT WHITE PINES

JAN 13 | FEB 10 | MARCH 10 | APRIL 14 | 6 - 8 PM | 37 BAR & GRILL | WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB Hitmix is a new and exciting musical spin on the traditional game of Bingo. Instead of listening for a number, players are listening to their favorite music. Come out to White Pines to join the fun and win great prizes!

Fischer Farm 16W680 Old Grand Avenue Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 834 3152 BvilleParks.org/FischerFarm @BvilleFischerFarm

JAN 18 VS. NETS | FEB 21 VS. PISTONS | MARCH 19 VS. CAVS | APRIL 10 VS. MAGIC Ready to SEE RED? Join the Bensenville Park District for legendary outings with the Chicago Bulls! Share the excitement of Bulls basketball and the NBA’s leading entertainment experience and save 10 percent on tickets when purchasing at BvilleParks.org/Bulls. A portion of proceeds from each ticket purchased will be donated to Friends of Bensenville Parks, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization. Choose from four games!

Wood Street Fitness Center 1000 West Wood Street Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 766 7015 WoodStFitness.com @ WoodStFitness Board of Commissioners Rich Johnson | President Val Karg | Vice President Jay Snyder | Treasurer Nancy Gibbs | Secretary Christopher Hernandez | Commissioner Executive Director Joseph C. Vallez

The Bensenville Park District extends its warmest wishes for a happy new year to the community. The new year brings an exciting array of new activities, events and programs designed to bring people together and inspire fun for all ages. From new, expanded recreational opportunities to special events and classes, there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the new year.

Start 2026 off right! Try Wood St. Fitness Center, with access to top-of-the-line fitness equipment and new classes to help you be the best version of yourself. Wood Street Fitness professionals provide support and guidance needed to find the perfect fitness program for short- and long-term fitness goals. Visit WoodStFitness.com for info, including hours and class schedule.

BENSENVILLE DAYS WITH THE CHICAGO BULLS

LITTLE LINKS WINTER SESSION

FEBRUARY 7-28 | 11 AM – NOON | WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB Children ages 4-8 of all backgrounds, abilities and disabilities are welcome to participate in this program which teaches golf in a fun, engaging and exciting way. Fees are $110 ($100 for in-district patrons). Sign up at the White Pines Pro Shop or call 630.766.0304.

SWEETHEART BALL

SATURDAY | FEBRUARY 7 | 5 – 7 PM | WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB Families are invited to make some sweet memories at the annual candy-themed Sweetheart Ball, set for 5-7 p.m. Saturday, February 8, at White Pines Golf Club. The family-friendly evening will feature a delicious dinner, music from a DJ, dancing, games and a lavish sweets table. Registration is available at the Deer Grove Leisure Center through January 30. Fees are $30 per person or $25 for in-district residents.

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BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT JOB FAIR THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 12 | 5-7 PM | DGLC OAK ROOM

Looking for a fun summer job? Update that resume and bring it to the Bensenville Park District between 5 and 7 pm on Thursday, February 12, when the district hosts its job fair in the Oak Room of the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, in Bensenville. The event is free and open to the public. The district is hiring for full-time, part-time and seasonal positions at the Bensenville Water Park and Splash Pad, Deer Grove Leisure Center, Fischer Farm, White Pines Golf Club and Wood Street Fitness. Full- and part-time positions are being filled, including seasonal maintenance positions. Apply online at BvilleParks.org/JoinOurTeam.

WHITE PINES’ FISH FRY FRIDAYS BEGIN IN FEBRUARY FRIDAYS | FEBRUARY 20 – APRIL 3 | 5 – 8 PM | 37 BAR & GRILL | WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB White Pines will host a weekly fish fry each Friday from February 20 through April 3 in the 37 Bar & Grill. The restaurant will serve tender, battered fish with French fries and coleslaw, and the special menu will feature shrimp and children’s items. Guests may enjoy their meal with views of the golf course or choose takeout to bring it home. Kids' menu options available. Dine in and enjoy the cozy atmosphere and golf course views, or take the meals to go!

PRINCESS TEA PARTY

SATURDAY | FEBRUARY 28 | 3 – 5 PM | WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB Families are invited to step into a fairytale world during the Princess Tea Party at White Pines Golf Club on Saturday, February 28. Designed for children ages 3-10 and their parents, this enchanting afternoon features tea, finger sandwiches and the chance to meet and take photos with beloved Disney princess characters. Young royalty and their grown-ups can dress in their finest attire and enjoy a magical experience fit for a storybook. Parents must accompany their children throughout the event. Space is limited, and advance registration is required by Friday, February 20.

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION OPENS IN JANUARY Park District summer camps have something for everyone, including adventure camp, farm camp, sports camp and teen leadership camp—each emphasizing safe play, well-being, community activity, and learning and promoting development, teamwork and fun! Check out new Early Bird Camp, All Stars Camp and more! Under the Sun Camps are just $25 down per session, per child, to reserve a camp spot. Save $10 each session when registering by Friday, May 8, so sign up today!

PUPPY YOGA COMING MARCH 7

SATURDAY | MARCH 7 | 10:30 – 11:30 AM | DGLC EXERCISE ROOM Ages 10 and older (with adult) are invited to join Puppy Yoga, a 45-minute class during which puppies roam between yoga mats, cuddling with participants and playing together as participants move, flow and breathe. The session is followed by 15 minutes of cuddle time and offers the same benefits as traditional yoga. Class fees benefit Fetching Tails Foundation, a no-kill nonprofit organization. Participants are encouraged to donate additional items such as dog food, laundry soap, Clorox, paper towels and martingale collars. Registration is required and closes February 21.

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SCHOOL DISTRICT 2

learning & growing together!

From the Superintendent Dear BSD2 Community, BENSENVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 210 South Church Road Bensenville | Illinois 60106 bsd2.org | 630 766 5940 Board of Education James Stoltman | President Anita Miller | Vice President Victoria Gonzalez | Secretary Jacqueline Dye Bob Laudadio Milton Mercado Jr. Maria Cristina Reyes Administration Dr. Katie McCluskey Superintendent of Schools Timothy Keeley | Chief School Business Official Lydia Ryan | Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning Dustin Berman | Assistant Superintendent for Student Services Tammy Hoeflinger Director of Human Resources Tania Gomez | Community Relations Coordinator Lara Schwarz | Community Liaison and CARE Coordinator DIRECTORY OF SCHOOLS Blackhawk Middle School 630 766 2601 Diana Vergara | Principal Kim Shaffer | Interim Assistant Principal Jacquelyn LeMon-Williamson Assistant Principal of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment Tioga School | 630 766 2602 Jeffrey Kersten | Principal Monica Loveshe | Assistant Principal W.A. Johnson School | 630 766 2605 Carlos Patiño | Principal Saul Mendez | Assistant Principal Bensenville Early Learning Center Christy Poli | Early Childhood Principal

This year, our theme of being ALL IN has shined brightly across our schools, and I am truly thankful for the dedication, partnership, and spirit our families, staff, and students have shown each day. The commitment to being ALL IN has made a meaningful difference in our classrooms and our community. This collective effort has fueled our students’ growth and helped make this a year of progress and renewed purpose. Thank you for the many ways you support our mission and one another. I hope your holidays were filled with peace, joy, and time with loved ones. We are excited to welcome our students back on Monday, January 5th, as we continue learning and growing together. Warm wishes for a wonderful new year! DR. KATIE MCCLUSKEY | Superintendent of Schools BENSENVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT 2

Toy Drive BSD2 & Village of Bensenville Partner to Support More Families Than Ever This year, BSD2 proudly collaborated with the Village of Bensenville to expand our impact and better serve our community during the holiday season. Working together allowed us to reach nearly twice as many families as we typically can on our own, ensuring more children experienced the joy and excitement of receiving gifts this year. Here’s a look at the incredible results of our joint efforts: 144 families attended the distribution event 466 children ages 0–14 received toys 40 families who could not attend on Distribution Day still received toys Distribution Day was truly magical. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community, each family was able to select three toys and up to five stocking stuffers, making the day joyful, memorable, and full of holiday spirit. Thank you to everyone who contributed, volunteered, or supported this effort. Together, we helped bring happiness and hope to hundreds of children and families in Bensenville.

All In Blackhawk Middle School Honors 350+ Students for Strong Attendance At BSD2, we believe that regular attendance is a key part of student success, and we are committed to being ALL IN when it comes to making every school day count. Blackhawk Middle School has taken this commitment to an impressive new level! During the first trimester, more than 350 students were recognized for achieving over 96% attendance, a testament to their dedication and consistency. Attendance tracking will continue throughout the year to celebrate and support students in maintaining this positive momentum. To keep the excitement going, Blackhawk has introduced a friendly competition between grade levels. The grade level that ends the second trimester with the highest attendance will earn a special hot chocolate and music period, giving students an extra incentive to show up and engage in their learning. This initiative not only encourages responsibility but also helps foster school spirit and a sense of community. We want to remind all families that consistent attendance is essential to student success, both academically and socially. Being present each day allows students to fully participate in lessons, build strong relationships with teachers and peers, and stay on track toward their goals. If your student needs support to improve attendance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your school administration offices. We are here to work together with families to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive and succeed!

Going Digital BSD2 Report Cards & Progress Reports Made Easier We want to share some important information about our upcoming report card cycle for the 2025-26 school year, especially a change in how progress reports will be delivered. Our goal is to help you stay up to date on how your child is doing throughout the year and to improve our communication with families.

and Report Cards online via the portal. We hope this makes accessing your child’s information more timely, convenient, and environmentally friendly. For Help Accessing Your Parent Portal If you need assistance with the PowerSchool Parent Portal, please visit the PowerSchool Parent Student Resource Center at https://tinyurl.com/ yrtr73h6. There you will find guides, FAQs, and support to help you:

What’s New • This year, all elementary progress reports will be uploaded to the PowerSchool Parent Portal. Middle School parents should continue to check the gradebook for the latest academic updates.

• Create or log into your parent portal account • Reset passwords or recover usernames

• We are preparing to move away from paperbased progress reports and report cards. This means you will be able to see Progress Reports

• Link your child/children to your account • Navigate and use all features (attendance, grades, reporting)

WANT MORE BSD2 NEWS? Follow us on Facebook at Bensenville School District 2 Follow us on Twitter @BensenvilleD2. Visit bsd2.org | About Us | News, Notifications & Social Media.

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Developmental Screenings District 2 is Offering Free Development Screenings BSD2 offers free developmental screenings for children who are between 3-5 years old. The process takes about an hour and is available by appointment. During your child’s visit, trained professionals will assess key areas including gross and fine motor skills, pre-academic readiness, speech and language, as well as vision and hearing. These evaluations not only help determine eligibility for the District’s free preschool program, but also identify any areas where your child might benefit from extra support before kindergarten. If your child is already enrolled in the District’s preschool, this screening has already been taken care of. Early developmental screenings are widely recommended by pediatric and educational experts because they allow for timely identification of potential delays. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the CDC, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) all stress the importance of these screenings to facilitate early intervention and improve long‑term outcomes. Research shows that early intervention not only supports cognitive, social, and physical development—but also yields significant benefits in school readiness and overall success later in life. Why These Screenings Matter • They help determine if your child qualifies for the District's free preschool program. • Even if your child doesn’t qualify, the screening may reveal areas where they could benefit from additional support services before kindergarten. • Note: If your child is already enrolled in the District’s preschool program, they have already received this screening at no cost. 2026 Screening Dates • February 19, 2026 • May 29, 2026 For more information, or to make an appointment, call Tioga Elementary School at 630.766.2602 ext. 4175.

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NEWS

J ANUARY/FEBR UARY

2026

monday

tuesday

wednesday

thursday

Village Offices Will Be Closed FHS No School – MLK Day BSD2 No School – MLK Day

Bensenville Days with the Chicago Bulls Bulls vs. Nets

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NEWS

BCPL Polish Storytime, 10:30am

FHS Tri-District Choral Festival, 12pm

VOB Senior Luncheon, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall)

FHS Winter Break (No School) BSD2 Winter Break (No School)

friday

2026

BCPL Coming to America: The Immigrant Experience, 7pm FHS Future Freshmen Welcome Night, 6pm FHS Padres Unidos Parent Meeting, 6:45pm BSD2 End of 2nd Trimester

BCPL Polish Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Cuentos en Español e Inglés, 6pm Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12pm, Bensenville Community Public Library

Village Offices Will Be Closed FHS Winter Break (No School) BSD2 Winter Break (No School)

JANUARY/FEBR U A RY

28 BCPL All Together Now Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Drop-In Tech Assistance, 6-8pm FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm

BCPL All Together Now Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Drop-In Tech Assistance, 6-8pm BSD2 Board of Education Meeting, 6:30pm BPD Park Board Meeting 5:30pm

BCPL All Together Now Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Drop-In Tech Assistance, 6-8pm

BCPL Book Buddies, 10:30am BCPL Celebrating Lunar New Year, 7pm VOB Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

BCPL Book Buddies, 10:30am BCPL Versiti Blood Drive, 12:30-5pm BCPL Needle Guild, 6pm

BCPL Book Buddies, 10:30am BCPL Bringing History to Life with Jonathan Eig, 7pm Hitmix Bingo, 6-8pm, 37 Bar & Grill White Pines Golf Club

FHS No School; Teachers Institute Day

6 BCPL Book Buddies, 10:30am BCPL Needle Guild, 6pm VOB CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall FHS First Day of Semester 2

BCPL Mini Book Sale, 1-5pm Don’t miss $5 Fill-a-Bag Sunday!

Park District summer camp registration opens in January and there’s something for everyone! Check out new early bird camp, all stars camp and more! Under the sun camps are just $25 down per session, per child, to reserve a camp spot. Save $10 each session when registering by Friday, May 8, so sign up today! Details on page 11!

sunday

hello!bensenville january 2026

BCPL Stories with a Stretch!, 10:30am

BCPL Mini Book Sale, 11am-3pm

saturday

22 BCPL All Together Now Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Drop-In Tech Assistance, 6-8pm FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm FHS Winter Choir Concert, 7pm

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at the library!

NEWS

J ANUARY/FEBR UARY

SEE PAGE 4 FOR DETAILS!

FHS Talent Show, 6:30pm

BCPL Polish Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Life Lessons from Happiest People on Earth, 7pm BSD2 February Band Concert, 6:30pm, BMS Auditorium

FHS Padres Unidos Parent Meeting, 6:45pm BPD Job Fair, 5-7pm, DGLC Oak Room Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12pm, Bensenville Community Public Library

BCPL Polish Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Cuentos en Español e Inglés, 6pm BCPL Resume Workshop, 7pm

thursday

Book Buddies All Together Now Storytime Polish Storytime Cuentos en Español e Inglés Stories with a Stretch! Family Storytime

BCPL All Together Now Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Drop-In Tech Assistance, 6-8pm BSD2 Board of Education Meeting, 6:30pm BPD Park Board Meeting 5:30pm

BCPL All Together Now Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Family Storytime with League of Enchantment, 6pm BCPL Drop-In Tech Assistance, 6-8pm BCPL Language of Flowers Workshop, 7pm

BCPL Book Buddies, 10:30am BCPL Still Afraid of the Dark: Evening with R.L. Stine, 7pm VOB Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

BCPL Book Buddies, 10:30am BCPL Needle Guild, 6:00pm BCPL Non-traditional Seed Starting, 7pm

BCPL Book Buddies, 10:30am Hitmix Bingo, 6-8pm, 37 Bar & Grill White Pines Golf Club

BCPL All Together Now Storytime, 10:30am BCPL Drop-In Tech Assistance, 6-8pm BSD2 Board of Education Regular Workshop Meeting, 6:30pm

wednesday

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FHS No School Teachers Institute Day BSD2 No School Teachers Institute Day White Pines’ Fish Fry Fridays, 5-8pm, 37 Bar & Grill, White Pines Golf Club

BSD2 Parent Teacher Conferences (No School) White Pines’ Fish Fry Fridays, 5-8pm, 37 Bar & Grill, White Pines Golf Club

VOB Senior Luncheon, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall)

friday

Princess Tea Party, 3-5pm, White Pines Golf Club

Bensenville Days with the Chicago Bulls Bulls vs. Pistons

Little Links Winter Session through February 28, 11am-Noon, White Pines Sweetheart Ball, 5-7pm, White Pines Golf Club

saturday

210 South Church Road | Bensenville | Illinois 60106

Storytime

FHS No School – President’s Day BSD2 No School – President’s Day

3 BCPL Book Buddies, 10:30am BCPL Needle Guild, 6pm VOB CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall

FHS NHS Winter Community Service Deadline BCPL Trivia Night at 37 Bar & Grill, 6:30pm

tuesday

monday

sunday

hello!bensenville february 2026 BENSENVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 Presort Standard US Postage PAID Permit No. 122 Bensenville, IL

Carrier Route Presort Postal Customer Bensenville | Illinois 60106