Hi PO Families,

It’s time for clubs again, and we’re excited to offer some new clubs and opportunities for students this year!

Please pay close attention to the start and end times, as they may be different depending on the club.

This year, some clubs will look a little different. Certain clubs include an academic tutoring session at the beginning, which means they will run a little longer.

For these clubs:

-Tutoring only will begin next week.
-Tutoring plus the full club session will begin the following week.

These are great opportunities for students, but some programs will end later in the day, so please be sure to check the times carefully when registering. When registering, please make sure your child is able to commit to attending regularly. Club spots are limited and highly sought after, so we appreciate families signing up only if they are able to participate consistently.

Use this link to get started: https://app.grouptrail.com/signin/22415

Important: To register, you must use the same email address that was used to register your student in Skyward.

Affy Tapple orders are due Friday (9/25)

Click here to place your order!

Click here for the latest PO Newsletter.

https://app.smore.com/n/1pt8s

Click here for the latest PO Newsletter.

https://app.smore.com/n/1pt8s

PO's PTO Fall Fundraiser

The Committee meets 4 times a year. The first meeting is set for Wednesday, September 23rd at 5:30pm; more details to follow.
Sign up HERE

Join us for the August Board of Education Meeting! Whether you prefer to participate in person or from the comfort of your home, we welcome you to engage with us.

Location: Lincoln Middle School

Monday August 17th, 2026 6:30 PM

Can’t make it in person? Stream the meeting via Vimeo at the link below:

Link: https://vimeo.com/event/6112795

Password: August2026

A Message from the Superintendent

Dear Berwyn North Families,

We are writing to provide an important update regarding our district's policy on wireless communication devices in schools. Recently, Illinois lawmakers approved Senate Bill 2427, which requires all Illinois school districts to implement a policy prohibiting students from using wireless communication devices during the school day.

This legislation defines wireless communication devices to include cell phones, tablets, laptop computers, gaming devices, and wearable devices such as smartwatches or smart glasses.

Why are wireless communication devices prohibited?
The primary goal of this new law is to protect our students from the distractions of social media and the rising rates of cyberbullying, ensuring they can focus fully on learning. By removing these physical distractions, we aim to cultivate a healthier and more productive learning environment for every child.

Research on the Impact of Digital Devices in the Classroom
Restricting wireless devices is backed by research linking phone-free instruction to improved academic performance, especially for vulnerable students. Beyond academics, excessive screen time contributes to issues like digital eye strain, poor sleep, and increased anxiety. By limiting devices, we aim to curb cyberbullying and digital peer pressure, prioritizing human-led instruction and social-emotional development.

Exceptions
Exceptions will be granted for the following reasons:

Medical Necessity: A physician determines a device is necessary for student health.

IEP/504 Accommodations: Devices required by an IEP or 504 plan will be provided by the school.

English Learner Support: The school will provide devices required for curriculum access.

We recognize this is a significant change. If students need to make a call, they may use the telephones in classrooms or the Main School Office.

Students are not to have a wireless communications device on their person during school hours or while at school sponsored activities. If a student is found to be in possession of one, the device will be confiscated and will only be returned to a parent/guardian.

We appreciate your partnership in helping us foster a focused and supportive educational environment. If you have any questions regarding how these changes may impact your student, please contact a member of your school’s administration.


Sincerely,

Dr. Michelle Smith

Dr. Michelle Smith, Superintendent
Berwyn North School District 98