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Joliet Township High School District Superintendent has issued an update for families and students, highlighting important reminders as the new school year progresses. The message notes that there will be no school on Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day.
The superintendent emphasized the use of student planners, which have been distributed to all students at Joliet Township High Schools (JTHS). These planners are intended to help students organize assignments and track their academic progress. Families are encouraged to review their student's planner each week. "Regular use of the planner not only keeps students organized but also builds strong study habits that lead to academic achievement. Please take a moment each week to review your student’s planner and celebrate their efforts in staying on top of their responsibilities."
School Safety Awareness Week concluded with reminders about campus policies. JTHS maintains a closed campus policy; students may not leave during the day without permission. Early dismissal requests should be made at least two days in advance to ensure timely processing.
For security reasons, items such as lunch or homework cannot be dropped off at the security booth during school hours. If a student forgets lunch, they can seek assistance from cafeteria staff. Students who forget physical education uniforms may rent one free of charge by scanning their ID.
Parking guidelines were reiterated: students and families should avoid parking or waiting in lots belonging to neighboring businesses, as these are private properties and unauthorized vehicles may be towed.
The district continues its focus on health and safety by addressing vaping among students. "We care deeply about student health. Vaping is strictly prohibited on school grounds and at school events. Students caught vaping or in possession of a vape will face disciplinary action per school policy." The message references information from the CDC regarding potential health risks associated with vaping.
A list of prohibited items was shared, including mace, pepper spray, box cutters, pocketknives, and lookalike weapons such as airsoft guns or BB guns. Bringing any such item onto school property can result in expulsion recommendations and involvement by local police.
Students must adhere to dress code policies that prohibit hats, hoods, or head coverings unless medically or religiously exempted.
Families were reminded that October 15 is the deadline for required health documentation under Illinois law for continued attendance. Freshmen and transfer students must submit completed physical forms with all sections filled out; seniors must provide proof of meningitis vaccination after age 16.
Several upcoming events were announced:
- The JTHS Athletic Boosters’ 19th Annual Golf Outing will take place September 7 at Inwood Golf Course.
- An employer informational breakfast for CED Summer Internship hosts is scheduled for September 9.
- A School Improvement Day with early release is set for September 11.
- The Joliet West Choirs Opera Scenes performance will be held on September 11 at 7 p.m., open to families and community members.
- Community organizations are invited to the Joliet Region Education Community Connectors Meeting on September 12.
- A support group meeting for grandparents raising children is planned for September 16.
- The next Board of Education meeting will occur on September 16 at the Administrative Center.
- Joliet West High School will host a public workshop for the City of Joliet’s Comprehensive Plan on September 17.
- Those interested in preserving JTHS history can attend the Central Archives Committee Meeting on September 18.
- JT Boosters will meet on September 25; volunteers are welcome.
- An IEP Family Information Night is set for September 25 at Joliet West High School.
- The first Alianza de Familias Comprometidas a la Educación meeting takes place September 25 at Joliet Central High School.
Joliet West High School serves grades nine through twelve with an enrollment of over three thousand students during the most recent reported year https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. Demographic data shows that grade nine had the largest proportion of enrolled students https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/, while approximately one quarter each were enrolled in grades ten through twelve https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. The school's population includes roughly thirty-five percent white students, twenty-one percent black students, thirty-nine percent Hispanic students, and nearly two percent Asian students https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/.
The superintendent’s communication underscores ongoing efforts around organization skills development, safety protocols, healthy habits promotion, compliance with state requirements, and opportunities for family engagement throughout the fall semester.
