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School District 81 is proud to announce that its Board of Education has been recognized for exceptional governance practices by the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB). SD81 was one of 53 Illinois school districts to earn the School Board Governance Recognition honor in 2026 for their effective governance behaviors and commitment toward obtaining the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead the district.

The IASB School Board Governance Recognition program acknowledges local school boards that practice good governance behaviors as outlined by IASB’s Foundational Principles of Effective Governance. The focus of Governance Recognition is on full board development and participation. Boards that meet the necessary requirements are recognized for the two-year honorary distinction.

“I am incredibly proud to see our SD81 Board of Education honored with this prestigious recognition,” said Superintendent Dr. Melissa Kartsimas. “The Board’s commitment to our students is evident in everything they do. They genuinely care about each child in our district and understand that creating exceptional schools also means supporting and retaining our talented teachers and staff members. Their work permeates every part of our school district and has helped build a culture where high expectations, collaboration, and student-centered decision making are part of who we are. Their decisions remain focused on what is best for students while being thoughtful and responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. I am grateful for their leadership, their partnership, and the heart they bring to serving our students and families every day.”

The School Board Governance Recognition program aims to showcase how good governance creates a positive impact for students, staff, and the entire learning community. It provides an opportunity for school districts to tell their story about programs and projects that are improving outcomes in their local school districts and offers board members a chance to highlight how continuous learning, both by individual board members and the full board team, results in improved governance for the board of education and a positive impact on the school district.

Click here for the August 19th, 2026 Board Highlights

SD81 Parents - Activate Your Accounts

If you have a student enrolled in District 81, you already have a ParentSquare account.

Your account is automatically created using the email address and phone number you have on file with the district (in PowerSchools).

If you haven't activated your ParentSquare account yet, please follow these instructions:

1. Check your email or text message for an invitation from ParentSquare
2. Click the activation link and create your password
3. Download the free ParentSquare app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or sign in anytime at ParentSquare.com
4. Review your notification preferences to choose how and when you'd like to receive messages.
5. Choose your preferred language.

We are excited to use ParentSquare as another way to strengthen communication and partnership with our families and communities! Thank you for staying connected and engaged with us!