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Field Weekly Principal Message 2/27/26

Field Weekly Principal Message 2/27/26

February 27, 2026

Good afternoon Field Families!

It’s hard to believe we are already in March! Before we know it, Spring Break will be here. This time of year always seems to move quickly, and we encourage students to stay focused and finish the third quarter strong.

This week, we encourage families to check in with their child about upcoming assignments, organization of materials, and balancing school responsibilities with activities outside of school. Establishing consistent routines at home — including homework time, device expectations, and healthy sleep habits — makes a meaningful difference in student success.

Please read below for more news, including information on Little Mermaid Jr. Musical, the Field Open House/Student Showcase, the 6th-grade author visit, added after-school club opportunities, and eating disorders. 

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. Have a wonderful weekend,

Nino Alvarez, Principal
Keith Dunn, Assistant Principal

Upcoming Dates:

  • Thursday, March 5

    • 6th Grade Author Visit

  • Saturday, March 7

    • ED Foundation Winter Benefit

  • Wednesday, March 11
    • Battle of the Books
  • Friday, March 13

    • Field Musical

  • Saturday, March 14

    • Field Musical

  • Tuesday, March 17

    • No School for students

  • Wednesday, March 18

    • End of Quarter 3

    • Field Open House/Student Showcase
  • Thursday, March 19

    • Start of Quarter 4

  • Friday, March 20

    • No School in observance of Eid Al Fitr

  • Monday, March 23 to March 27

    • No School - Spring Break

Field Information and Updates:

  • Field Spring Musical - Mark your calendars for the Field production of the Little Mermaid Jr.  Performances are scheduled for March 13 and 14. The musical is co-directed by Mr. Case Carvell, Ms. Molly Principi, and Mr. James Kieliszewski. The Stage-Art co-directors are Ms. Weisz and Ms. Fagin. Lights and sound directors are Ms. Heather Stodola and Mr. Jon Damon. 
     
  • SAVE THE DATE: Field Open House/Student Showcase  On Wednesday, March 18, from 6:30-8:00, please join us for the Field Open House\Student Showcase! Field families will have the opportunity to visit classrooms and view the wonderful work of our Tigers.
  • A Note About Fidgets in the Classroom
    Fidgets are small tools designed to help students focus and manage sensory needs—they are not toys. Unlike toys, fidgets are meant to be used quietly and subtly to support attention during learning. Lately, we’ve noticed an increase in fidget misuse in classrooms, which can be distracting to the student and disrupt instruction.

    Students should use fidgets appropriately: keeping them in hand or pocket, using them quietly, and focusing on learning. If a student is unable to use a fidget properly, it will be taken away until it can be used responsibly.

    Thank you for helping us support your child’s focus and learning!

  • 6th Grade Author Visit next week. The library is excited to share that we are having an author visit for 6th grade students. On March 5th, 6th grade students will be attending a presentation given by Newbery Honor winning author, Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. Bradley is the author of over 20 books written for middle schoolers.  Copies of her new release as well as her #1 New York Times Bestseller, The War that Saved My Life are available for purchase. All books purchased can be signed and personalized by the author on the day of the event. Purchasing books is optional. Extra copies of the order form are available in the library and one is attached to this message. Students can bring their order forms with cash or check (made out to District 31) to the library anytime before March 5th.   For more information on the author or how to order a book please click here.
     
  • More After-School Club Opportunities
    • CHESS CLUB -It's finally that time of the year to get your knights developed and come to Chess Club! From beginner to grandmaster, all are welcome. It will meet in Mr. Roche's room (16) after school on Wednesdays until 4:40 PM. Please plan on having a ride home or taking the activity bus at that time. 
    • MONGOLIAN CLUB -
      • Students at Field who are interested in joining Mongolian Club with strong spoken Mongolian skills, we will be reading in Mongolian and practicing neat cursive handwriting a loooot.
      • For students who are proficient in Mongolian, we will divide them into small groups based on their language levels. These kids will be taught basic skills such as introducing themselves in Mongolian, learning the Mongolian alphabet, colors, shapes, days of the week, months, weather vocabulary, and common daily-use words. The focus will be on building vocabulary, memorization, and gradually developing early reading skills using short words/simple sentences.
      • Will meet in room 23A on Thursdays, starting March 12. Please plan on having a ride home or taking the activity bus at that time. 

 

Worth Repeating: 

  • Our district truly values your feedback! The Panorama Survey opens today and will remain open through March 10. We invite you to take a few minutes to share your experiences with Field Middle School and Winkelman Elementary School.   If you have a student at Winkelman AND Field, you can take the survey twice -- once for each school.

    Take the Survey

     

    This shorter survey replaces the traditional Illinois 5Essentials parent survey and focuses on school climate, supportive learning environments, and school–family communication. It also offers expanded translation options so every family’s voice can be heard. All responses are confidential.

    Your input helps guide our continuous improvement efforts and supports high-quality learning for every student. Thank you for your partnership and thoughtful feedback.

  • Student Climate and Culture Survey - Students in grades 6–8 will also participate in a similar survey about their school experience, including whether they feel connected and included, and whether they feel supported and challenged in their learning. Student responses are anonymous. If you prefer that your child not participate, please contact Nino Alvarez, Principal (nalvarez@district31.net)

For Families:
National Eating Disorders Awareness Week
February 23–March 1

This week is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, a time dedicated to increasing understanding, reducing stigma, and supporting individuals and families impacted by eating disorders for families. Eating disorders are serious—but treatable—mental and physical health conditions that can affect people of all genders, ages, body sizes, and backgrounds. Early awareness and open, supportive conversations can make a meaningful difference.

Families play a vital role in fostering healthy relationships with food, body image, and self-esteem. Encouraging balanced meals, modeling positive self-talk, and creating space for open conversations about emotions can help children and adolescents develop lifelong healthy habits. If you ever have concerns about your child’s eating patterns, mood, or body image, we encourage you to reach out to your pediatrician or a qualified mental health professional for guidance and support.

For more information about eating disorders or signs and symptoms: National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

Together, we can foster a community that prioritizes wellness, compassion, and understanding.

West Northfield School District 31 has partnered with Care Solace to provide quick and confidential mental health support for students, staff, and family members. If you would like to use Care Solace to help you find a provider:

  • Call 888-515-0595 available 24/7/365 in any language
  • Visit www.caresolace.com/district31 and either search on your own OR Click "Book Appointment" for assistance by video chat, email, or phone
  • No insurance needed