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Joliet Township High School District is preparing for the start of a new academic year, with students returning to classes on Tuesday, August 19. Superintendent Dr. Karla Guseman addressed families and students in advance of the first day, emphasizing the district’s ongoing commitment to creating a positive and successful school environment.
Dr. Guseman highlighted the importance of family and community engagement at JTHS, encouraging participation in events, committees, and outreach activities designed to support student achievement. The superintendent noted that all members of the community are welcome to get involved.
The district also reminded families about its student media permissions policy. Student accomplishments are often shared through various publications, and parents who do not wish their child’s information to be included are asked to complete an opt-out form.
Safety remains a priority at JTHS. The district urges anyone who observes safety or security concerns to report them immediately by contacting staff members, using anonymous tip lines such as the School Violence Tip Line (1-800-477-0024), submitting reports through online forms, or reaching out via national crisis hotlines like the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988) or Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741). Safe2Help Illinois is also available by phone or text.
A list of items prohibited on school property was reiterated, including mace, pepper spray, box cutters, pocket knives, lookalike weapons, airsoft guns, gel guns, BB guns, brass knuckles, tasers, and others. Students found with these items may face expulsion recommendations and involvement from law enforcement.
Regarding substance use policies at JTHS, possession or use of controlled substances—including vapes, e-cigarettes, alcohol, edibles, and marijuana—will result in disciplinary action and behavioral health intervention. Students may be subject to safety checks if found with any prohibited substances.
Students are required to wear current ID cards during the school day and at extracurricular events. If a student forgets their permanent ID card, a temporary one will be issued for the day; repeated incidents may result in a $10 replacement fee.
To monitor attendance and tardiness more efficiently while enhancing security measures, JTHS uses an ID scanner system. Students scan their IDs upon arrival in class for attendance tracking through Infinite Campus. Electronic hall passes are also used throughout the building.
Regular attendance is described as essential for academic success. Parents must call the appropriate attendance office if their child is absent or late. To further support punctuality starting August 25th, a Student Support Table will be available near the main entrance for late arrivals; staff will review attendance records with students and connect them with additional resources if needed.
The policy regarding leaving campus during school hours requires prior permission from parents or guardians via advance calls to the attendance office; requests made less than 30 minutes before dismissal may not be accommodated due to staffing limitations.
Security protocols require that all students and visitors enter through designated main entrances only; propping doors open or allowing entry elsewhere is considered unauthorized presence and subject to disciplinary action under board policy.
Student attire guidelines were restated: head coverings are allowed only for religious or medical reasons; clothing must cover key body areas; clothing advertising drugs or violence is not permitted; visible piercings must be removable if they pose risks during certain activities; specific uniform requirements apply for JROTC participants per School Board Policy 7:160.
Families were informed about possible transportation delays due to a shortage of bus drivers—a problem facing many districts nationwide—and encouraged those able to provide alternative transportation options for their children. Late arrivals caused by district transportation issues will not count as tardy marks against students’ records. The district continues efforts to recruit new transportation staff and posts updated bus routes online.
Dr. Guseman concluded her message by stating: “I’m excited for a fantastic school year ahead, collaborating closely with our students, families, staff, and community.”
Joliet West High School serves grades 9 through 12 in Joliet within Will County. In the 2019-2020 academic year there were 3,310 enrolled students according to data from Illinois Report Card. Of these students: 27.3 percent were freshmen—the largest group—while seniors comprised 26.1 percent (source). The remaining student body consisted of 25.1 percent juniors and 24.7 percent sophomores (source). Demographically that year Joliet West High School was composed of approximately 34.9 percent white students; 21.2 percent black students; 39 percent Hispanic students; and 1.7 percent Asian students (source).
