I would like to thank our staff, administration, and you the parents, for a successful start to the 2013-14 school year. Turnout at the Back to School Family Picnic last month and at each of the school's Curriculum Nights earlier this month, was very strong. It is a testament to the dedication of parents in our school district.

It is important to help your child maintain good study and nutrition habits, both at home and at school. A nutritious breakfast filled with protein, vitamins, and omega-3 is a good way to maximize your child's learning potential and boost brain development. Research indicates that children who skip breakfast have trouble concentrating, and become inattentive and restless by late morning. A balanced breakfast will keep your child energized until lunch and can be quick and easy to make. Some ideas include:

• toasted bagel with cheese
• fruit-filled breakfast bar and yogurt
• toasted waffle topped with fruit and yogurt
• fruit smoothie (fresh or frozen fruit and milk mixed in a blender)
• peanut butter on whole-wheat toast

Students will need to keep their energy up for all of the upcoming fall extracurricular activities. Softball and cross country seasons are in progress, with basketball and volleyball set to begin next month. More upcoming autumn fun is set to take place with the Music Program's Harvest Fest at Palos South on October 18 featuring entertainment by the Palos East, West, and South bands and choirs. Watch for details in upcoming ecouriers. The PFA's first Cardinal Chase 5K Run/Walk is quickly approaching on October 6. More information is below, including the Recess Run Club. A special thank you is extended to the Palos 118 Educational Foundation for a successful Laps for Literature event on September 13. Your dedication to education is truly appreciated, and so are all of your volunteer efforts that make our schools successful.

Sincerely,

Joseph M. Dubec, Ed.D., J.D.

Superintendent of Schools