Principal's Message
Dear Disney II Families,
As you know the school received $150,000 to support the implementation of the Longer School Day. The faculty engaged in a process to identify immediate needs that can be fulfilled without requiring sustained funding in the future. I would like to share with you the allocations approved by the Disney II teachers.
1. Enhancement of the Technology Program.
- Purchasing five interactive projectors (new generation of SMART boards) for the special education classrooms (202 and 302), the music classroom (110), and the rooms which will house 6th grade classes next year (304 and 306, currently used by the afterschool program).
- Purchasing 20 laptop computers (now we will have a set of 25 laptops in our mobile computer lab to be used in the classrooms as needed).
- Purchasing a set of 30 point and shoot digital video cameras to be used in any of the classrooms as needed.
- Funding Math online intervention program.
2. Expanding the Arts Program.
- Purchasing materials and kiln, including building the necessary infrastructure for a ceramic program for all students.
- Framing student art to be displayed in the school.
- Securing funds for guest performers and musicians.
3. Hiring additional teacher assistant.
- Providing small group interventions and support for students in 1st and 2nd grade.
- Supporting lunch and recess supervision.
- Releasing teachers from recess duties to increase the arts and technology integration time in the classrooms.
- Releasing the KG assistant from additional classroom assignments to fully dedicate the support to KG students.
4. Philanthropic Project.
- Engage another Chicago Public School in an ongoing collaboration and professional development to share our best practices.
- Provide funds for supporting the literacy program at the selected school.
5. Supporting the Physical Education Program.
- Purchasing and installation of standard size soccer goals.
Our team is very excited about all the opportunities the students will have with these improvements. However, we continue to have high expectations about the academic programs and the environment of our school. The EXTREME GYM MAKEOVER initiative will provide the much needed funds to give our children a beautiful, more functional space to play sports, express their artistic talents, and host memorable events for our parent community.
It is a relief for Disney II families to discontinue the fundraising for the extended day. Last year the Fall Fund Drive raised over $45, 000 to support this priority. This year, we have an opportunity to fund the much needed renovation of our gym. I understand that we are getting close to the Holiday Season and many families are struggling due to the economic reality. Please show us your support by donating what is right for your family. Together, we can succeed in our quest to provide a world class education for the students at Disney II. As always, don’t hesitate to contact me at bgchkoumbova@cps.k12.il.us with any questions, concerns, or suggestions.
My Best,
Bogdana Chkoumbova
Principal