May 2025

Prairie View Students Earn Top Honors at SWIC Declamation Championship
The Board of Education recognized four Prairie View Declamation team members for their impressive showings at the Southwest Interscholastic Conference (SWIC) Competition. 

Congratulations to: 

• 1st Place, Humorous Duet – Kevin F. (7th Grade) and Liam G. (8th Grade)
• 2nd Place, Humorous Interpretation – Allison B. (7th Grade)
• 3rd Place, Dramatic Interpretation – Jayden H. (8th Grade)

Coached by Mr. Mauer and Mr. Oganovich, Declamation is a highly competitive speech event that gives students the opportunity to express themselves through persuasive, comedic, or dramatic performances. The competition features six categories: Humorous Duet, Verse Interpretation, Prose Interpretation, Dramatic Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, and Oratorical Declamation. Performances range from three to seven minutes and are judged on vocal variety, eye contact, gestures, and articulation.

KSD 140 Students Excel at 2025 South Cook Math Bowl
Seven outstanding D140 mathematicians were celebrated for their first-place and MVP performances at the South Cook Math Bowl. This annual event features the best math students from elementary and middle schools in the south and southwest suburbs competing in individual and team events.

Congratulations to Jonathan A. (Millennium), Chris B. (Keller), Victoria C. (Bannes), Tommy F. (Prairie View), Landon H. (Millennium), Ethan M. (Millennium), and Emmett W. (Grissom).

Band Students Celebrated for Leadership and Performance Contributions
The Board of Education recognized several middle school musicians for their leadership and performance contributions to D140's band program. These students were celebrated for their exemplary performances at the IGSMA Solo & Ensemble Contest and their outstanding contributions to the IGSMA State Contest, where the District’s band program received Superior rankings.

Congratulations to:
6th Grade: 
Alexandria B. (GMS), Kendall C. (GMS), Ariana C. (PV), Heidi M. (GMS), Rorric O. (GMS), Evan P. (PV), Marianna P. (PV), Maddie P. (GMS), Max P. (GMS), Talia S. (PV), William V. (PV), and Madelynne W. (PV)

7th Grade:
Alex A. (GMS), Lukas B. (GMS), Charlotte B. (PV), Ella G. (PV), Liam L. (GMS), Allen M. (PV), Adam M. (PV), Andrew R. (PV), Judah S. (PV), Kristupas S. (GMS), Lucas S. (GMS), and Emmett W. (GMS)

8th Grade:
Benjamin B. (PV), William B. (GMS), Colin B. (PV), Olivia C. (GMS), Elizabeth C. (GMS), Daniel K. (GMS), Roxanne M. (GMS), June M. (PV), Katherine O. (PV), Damien R. (PV), Joshua W. (GMS), and Ella Mae W. (PV)

KSD140’s Mike Szczasny Honored as Outstanding Music Educator
Band Director Mike Szczasny was celebrated for receiving the Chicagoland Outstanding Music Educator Award from Quinlan and Fabish Music Company.

This prestigious award, given since 1989, celebrates exceptional music educators across the Chicagoland and Michiana regions. Recipients are nominated by peers and selected by past honorees for their lasting impact on music education.

Congratulations and Thank You to D140 Retirees
The Board of Education also recognized several retiring staff members. Their contributions have enriched D140’s school communities, and the district is deeply grateful for their years of service and dedication to its students and families.

• Julie Bekta - 22 years
• Kathleen Dunigan- 11 years
• Natalie Jones - 2 years
• Marilyn Jordan - 28 years
• Lisa Otto - 33 years
• Carolyn Mikos - 21 years
• Kathleen Skupien- 18 years
• Annette Szczasny - 27 years
• Therese Welser - 4 years

April 2025

Grissom Student Council Earns Prestigious Honor Council AwardGrissom’s Student Council was recognized by the Board of Education for earning the Honor Council Award from the Illinois Association of Junior High Student Councils (IAJHSC) - a distinction given only to councils that excel in school spirit, community service, and school involvement. This achievement reflects the council’s dedication to creating a positive, engaged school environment and making a meaningful impact both inside and outside the classroom.

They also proudly represented Grissom at the 66th IAJHSC State Convention, a two-day leadership event held April 11–12 in Springfield, Illinois. The annual convention brings together student leaders from across the state for a weekend filled with inspiration, collaboration, and growth.

Led by sponsors Mrs. Stiglic and Ms. Kujawa, Student Council members include Celia Aviles, Sarah Babjak, Nabiha Balogun, Alexandria (Alex) Brousil, Emilee Brower, Vivian Brown, Zachary Chirillo, Julie Danca, Meghan DiTuri, Marguerite (Maggie) Dybas, Gabby Garritano, Jacenia Govea, James (Jimmy) Hajewski, Nia  Jackson,  Addison McCabe, Ryan McEnery, Chinue Melocoton, Summer Naji, and Josh Windle.
Congratulations to Grissom’s Student Council for this well-earned honor and for their continued commitment to leadership and service!

Board of Education Honors PTO Leaders for Their Commitment to Schools and Community
At the April Board of Education meeting, District 140 Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) presidents were recognized for their contributions to the district and their school communities. Their dedication, leadership, and countless volunteer hours have played a vital role in enhancing the educational experience of students, families, and staff.
From organizing fundraisers to coordinating social events, D140 PTO presidents, board members, and volunteers have helped foster welcoming school environments while supporting valuable programs, resources, and facility improvements.

D140 extends a heartfelt thank you to these incredible PTO presidents:

• Tracy Cruikshank (Bannes)
• Kaprii Grady (Millennium)
• Janelle Lamont (Grissom) 
• Amanda Lill & Julie Vassiliou (Keller)
• Jean Sakanis (McAuliffe)
• Deanna Tuman (Prairie View)
• Kelli Walsh (Fernway)

Honoring Bus Driver Terry Hemmerich’s Dedication to D140 StudentsBus driver Terry Hemmerich was recognized by the Board of Education for his unwavering commitment to student safety and the caring connection he brings to the D140 school community. District leaders thanked Mr. Hemmerich for being a steady, positive presence and a true everyday hero. The kindness, patience, and professionalism he shows each and every day are deeply appreciated by students, families, and staff.

March 2025

Prairie View 6/7 Grade Girls’ Volleyball Celebrate Championship Season
The Board of Education recognized members of the Prairie View 6/7th grade girls' volleyball team for their outstanding season. The team showcased outstanding skill, sportsmanship, and teamwork, finishing with a 15-4 record and capturing both the SWIC South Division and Tournament Championship. 

Coached by William Cornfield, the Prairie View Eagles roster includes: Tessa B., Mackenzie G., Brooke S., Sadie L., Liliana S., Grace M., Julianna W., Sydney B., Noelle L., Journei T., Gianna M., and Audrey D.

Mackenzie G. and Audrey D. made the SWIC All-Conference Team, and Mackenzie G. was awarded the tournament MVP.

Way to go, Eagles!

D140 Polar Plunge Team Raises Over $51,000 for Special Olympics Illinois
The Board also recognized the D140 Polar Plunge team. Led by educators Kristy Peacock, Chrisie DeCarlo, Ashley Krizik, and committee members Angela Zakes, Megan Dignan, Cassidy Campbell, and Joanna Boblak, D140’s eighty-three participants raised more than $51,000 for Special Olympics Illinois. 
The team earned top honors for individual and team contributions and was celebrated for surpassing $250,000 in Polar Plunge fundraising over the history of the district’s participation in the event.

Quick-Thinking Staff Members Aid Student in Need
The Board of Education proudly recognized bus driver Chuck Mangialardi and paraeducator Mary Jean Gramont for their swift and compassionate response to a student experiencing a medical issue. Following district protocols, they acted immediately, ensuring the student received prompt attention while waiting for paramedics to arrive. Their quick thinking and dedication exemplify the care and commitment we value in our school community. Thank you for putting student safety first!

February 2025

Mohammad J. Receives 2025 Outstanding Student Technology Award

At its February 20 meeting, the D140 school board honored Grissom seventh-grader Mohammad J. for receiving the 2025 Outstanding Student Technology Award from the Infinitec Southwest Assistive Technology Coalition. Mohammad's exceptional progress and skills in utilizing assistive technology have set him apart, and we are thrilled to celebrate his achievements. He will be formally recognized at an awards ceremony on March 6 at Chicago Gaelic Park in Oak Forest.

Grissom Boys’ Volleyball
Members of the 6/7th grade Grissom Boys’ Volleyball team were recognized for their outstanding achievements. The team finished the season with an overall record of 13-1 to become the Southwest Interscholastic Conference (SWIC) regular season and tournament champions.

Coached by Mr. George Chicvara, the Grissom Patriots roster includes Gavin B., Vinny B., Luke B., Brennan C., Josh G., Micha G., Logan I., Marty K., Eddie L., Finn M., Moe M., Broden R., Liam R., and Tyler S.

Gavin B., Finn M., and Liam R. were awarded All-Conference honors. The tournament MVP was Gavin B. 

Way to go, Patriots!

Meritorious Budget Award
The Board also recognized D140's Business Department for winning the Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) for the twentieth consecutive year. The entire team - Michael Andreshak, Jenna Khalil, Tiffany Mullarkey, and Nancy Rittenbacher - was honored for their contributions.

The MBA promotes and recognizes excellence in school budget presentation and enhances school business officials’ skills in developing, analyzing, and presenting a school system budget. After a rigorous review by professional auditors, the award is bestowed only on school districts meeting or exceeding the program’s stringent criteria. Less than one percent of schools nationwide received this honor last year.

January 2025

At the January 17 board meeting, the District 140 school board celebrated the accomplishments of Spelling Bee champion, Jillian C., along with finalists Layla S. and Gabriella G. Jillian, a fifth-grader from McAuliffe Elementary School, claimed the top spot by spelling "respiratory" correctly. Layla, also a fifth-grader at McAuliffe Elementary, earned second place, while third-place honors went to Grissom Middle School's eighth-grader Gabriella G.
 

November 2024

Four District 140 students were recognized at the November Board of Education meeting for their winning submissions in the Tinley Park Fire Prevention Poster Contest. This year's theme was "Smoke alarms: Make them work!"  

Congratulations to Connor H. (McAuliffe), Yusra M. (Keller), Bella J. (Bannes), and Emmalee D. (McAuliffe).

October 2024

The Kirby School District 140 Board of Education recognized several outstanding student and staff achievements at its October 17 meeting. Grissom and Prairie View middle schools were honored for their innovation, leadership, and educational excellence in integrating technology into the classroom. 

Additionally, the Board recognized the Grissom girls’ cross-country team for winning the Southwest Interscholastic Conference (SWIC) Championship, showcasing their dedication and teamwork in both the championship and open races. The Grissom girls' softball team was also celebrated for clinching a SWIC Championship title, marking an impressive 14-0 perfect season of outstanding athletic performance. Both teams displayed extraordinary teamwork and sportsmanship throughout their seasons.

The Grissom Middle School girls’ cross-country team is coached by Katie Ryan and Dianne Raslavicz and includes Vivan B., Brooklyn D., Payton D., Brianna D., Megan D., Aaliyah E., Emma F., Magda G., Grace G., Rowan G., Ellen H., Vera H., Riegan K., Kate K., Layla K., Rowan M., Rosie M., Kassandra M., Adeline M., Camryn P., Eleanor R., Emily R., London R., Samantha R., Heidi S., Sydney S., Alie S., Olivia S., Lanie S., Mackenzie T., and Madelyn V. 

Coached by Jan O’Neil, the school team roster includes Sadeel A., Kim B., Cece C., Elizabeth C., Peyton G., Olivia H., Maddie H., Avery H., Emily L., Mackenzie L., Becca M., Lily M., Mackenzie P., Anna S., Vivian S., Reagan W. and team managers Sawyer R. and Carlie M.

August 2024

We want to extend a heartfelt welcome to our newest team members, including Katelyn Antonopoulos, Riham Assad, Jade Addison, Hailey Balzer, Julie Berry,  Melissa Brousil, Anne Chobot, Vivian Cui, Kathy Eckert, Beth Farr, Carrie, Fazekas, Corrie Feltman, Brianna Fitts, Nicholas Forlenza, Katherine Fricano, Mary Kate Green, Allie Harris, Leana Hasan, Rima Hatamleh, Cassie Hosman, Cameron Kavanaugh, Laura Karczewski, Laura Koehler, Sabrina LaFlame, Anne Lasecki, Gianna Lemus, Amanda Lindenberg, Katherine Luebke, Ashley Mefford, Margaret Mesch, Dana Messina, Madeline Monahan, Lisa O’Donovan, Karla Otte, Katelynn, Schouten, and Amanda Welch.

Welcome to our school family! May your year be filled with meaningful connections, exciting challenges, and countless opportunities to make a difference in the lives of our students.

July 2024

D140’s Special Olympics State team was recognized at the July Board of Education meeting for their outstanding performance at the Summer State Games held June 7 - 8 at Illinois State University.

Ten student-athletes competed in the standing long jump, shot put, softball throw, 50-meter run, and 100-meter run. The team brought home one gold medal, three silver medals, three bronze medals, a fifth-place ribbon, a sixth-place ribbon, and three participation ribbons. 

Congratulations to Jeremiah A., Samir A., Caitlin C., Benjamin C., Erin D., Dylan F., Gabe J., Timmy O., Rickson R-D., and Jake Y. 

A big THANKS goes out to Special Olympic Coordinator Ashley Krizik and everyone who came out to support the team!