Parent Connections Speaker Series
One third of all children will develop an anxiety disorder by age 18. For parents, it’s hard to know when to intervene and when to allow children to gain valuable coping strategies that they will need throughout their lives. Join Renee Dominguez, Executive Director of the Family Service Center, as she discusses child and adolescent anxiety and the role it can play in developing adaptive coping strategies. She will also offer opportunities for parents to consider what they bring to the table in the process. March 6th, 9:15 am @ the Highcrest Auditorium. This event is sponsored by District 39 & the HMS/WJHS PTO’s.
Book Fair
Did you know that reading 20 minutes a day with your child is the best investment your family can make in their future? Research shows that children who read just 20 minutes per day score in the 90th percentile on standardized tests. Come to the Highcrest Book Fair to stock up on the books your child will love reading and ignite your home reading habits.
Please mark your calendars to visit our Book Fair and discover your child’s next favorite book and maybe one for you!
Save the date!
Book Fair dates: March 4th-6th
Shopping hours: 8:30am- 5pm Monday and Tuesday, 8:30am- 2pm Wednesday (we will open before and after the PTO meeting.)
Special activities: As a special thank you for visiting the HMS Book Fair after school hours (3:45-5pm), your purchase will earn you a free raffle entry for prizes including our grand prize of a pair of Apple Air Pods!
If you are unable to attend the Fair in person, we invite you to visit our Online Fair. Our Online Fair is available from Feb 27 to March 12.
Finally we are offering a new service, the EWallet, a secure, cash-free way for your spending without borrowing a credit card. Visit our online fair for details to sign up. Attached is a flyer that explains the program (please link the flyer to you.)
Questions contact: bookfair@highcrestpto.org
Yearbook Deadline Order
YEARBOOK DEADLINE ORDER- FEBRUARY 28TH
Yearbooks are $29 each and can be purchased only thru the Jostens website. Click here to order. Not sure if you already ordered? Email LesleyShifrin@gmail.com (5th grade) or TerriBielinski@gmail.com (6th grade).

D39 Education Foundation’s Annual Family Bingo Night
B-I-N-G-O! Enjoy a night of family fun at D39 Education Foundation’s Annual Family Bingo Night on Friday, March 1st at the Hightcrest Middle School cafeteria! Multiple rounds, multiple winners, multiple prizes! Doors Open at 6PM and the event runs from 6:30-8PM. This is not a drop-off event. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Proceeds fund school district Gripp Grants. Space is limited so your tickets today. Event tickets, food and beverages for sale at d39foundation.org.

WJHS and HMS Combined Parent Party
Please come to our WJHS and HMS combined parent party night, Winter Wine and Chocolate Social, to be held on Thursday, February 21st from 7-9pm at the Wilmette Wine Cellar. Beverages will be available at a cash bar with a selection of outstanding wines (curated by WWC) along with unique craft beers available. Our PTO’s will provide artisanal chocolates and a cacao tasting guide, along with a selection of local cheeses and fresh fruits. All WJHS and HMS parents are welcome to visit anytime during the two hour social – no need to sign up ahead of time! For more information contact your HMS Parent Party Chair, Beth Kimmerle, or for event location details visit http://www.wilmettewine.com
Volunteers Needed in the Garden, Store, and Cafeteria
See your kids in action by volunteering in the cafeteria, garden, or school store! Bring your spring fever and energy to school and enjoy time with the kids. The kids appreciate your help!

Birthday Books online ordering now available
Commemorate your child’s birthday by purchasing a book for the Highcrest Library Media Center! Click here to order your child’s Birthday Book.