School is back in session at EPCUSD 401

Classes are back underway at EPCUSD 401. Perfect weather welcomed students for their first day of the school year, seemingly signaling a great year is just beginning. Teachers and administration greeted students of all ages entering their buildings, some for the first time. Seniors like Michelle Sapeta began the year already thinking about the end.

“I’m ready to go but I’m just kind of scared for finals and AP exams,” said Sapeta. “But they’re a little far away.”

Students sit together in the Elmwood Park High School cafeteria

At Elmwood Elementary School, S.T.E.A.M. Teacher Melissa Windisch wanted her students to get their brains working right off the bat. On their first day, students used building materials like Legos and magnets to craft models capable of transporting someone across a body of water. The one stipulation is their creation could not be a boat.

“I was challenging them to use their imaginations and think outside the box and they came up with some really great ideas,” said Windisch.

Elmwood S.T.E.A.M. Teacher Melissa Windisch works with 5th grade students

The excitement for the new school year has staff buzzing at every building and it is no different in the district office. Administrators and district office staff are ready for a great year ahead.

“I am so excited,” said Executive Director for Human Resources Dr. Kimberly Ontiveros. “I have been to all the buildings today and the staff are beaming with excitement.”

EPCUSD 401 is thrilled staff and students are back in our schools. If you need any resources during the year, please navigate our website or contact the front office of your child’s school.