Thursday, June 11, 2026 (8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.)
Peoria Riverfront Museum & Planetarium (a.m.)
Caterpillar Museum (p.m.)
Day 3 -Join us for an interactive day in Peoria exploring science and engineering at the Riverfront Museum Planetarium and the Caterpillar Visitors Center, with a morning focus on immersive Earth and Space Science and an afternoon on real-world engineering design.
REGISTER @https://forms.fillout.com/t/eGfXMqJE19us?workshopid=reccBBD9vVqk90IIu
Peoria Riverfront Museum & Planetarium (a.m.)
Caterpillar Museum (p.m.)
Day 3 -Join us for an interactive day in Peoria exploring science and engineering at the Riverfront Museum Planetarium and the Caterpillar Visitors Center, with a morning focus on immersive Earth and Space Science and an afternoon on real-world engineering design.
REGISTER @https://forms.fillout.com/t/eGfXMqJE19us?workshopid=reccBBD9vVqk90IIu
The Sauk Valley STARS Early Childhood Coalition is a collaboration of Early Childhood Service Providers and supporters in Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside Counties. The STARS Coalition is the only early childhood coalition in the ROE's service area that focuses exclusively on early childhood.
Why STARS?
STARS stands for: Support To Achieve Readiness for School
The mission of the Coalition is to plan, provide, and promote a comprehensive and collaborative system that identifies, coordinates, and facilitates equitable access to early education and community services designed to help all children, prenatal through age five, and their families reach their full potential.
The STARS Coalition meets bi-monthly on the second Tuesday morning of the month in conjunction with the Region 47 Birth to Five Illinois Advisory Council. Current members include representatives from child care, home visiting, preschool programs, mental health providers, school districts, the child care resource and referral agency, higher education, faith-based representatives, social service providers, chamber of commerce staff, special education providers, early intervention providers, and family and community members. Participants are encouraged to sign on to the Coalition's Memorandum of Understanding, but it is not required. Anyone interested in advancing early childhood in our region is welcome to attend. If you can't attend regularly, you are welcome to attend when you are able.
Nominations for the Marigold Award close on tomorrow, Wednesday, April 8th !
Spring is coming and that means flowers will be in bloom. Now is the time to nominate educators for the 2026 Marigold Award. Each nominee will be recognized on social media and will receive a certificate, a marigold, and a special book. Our overall winner will also receive a $100 Amazon gift card to continue to build their classroom library.
Jen Banks was a beloved teacher and school improvement coach who passed away as the result of a tragic automobile accident in December 2015. Her love for learning and the students that she worked with was an inspiration to many. Jen’s positive, supportive, and energetic attitude nurtured those around her and helped them to grow. In celebration of Jen’s life and dedication to learning, ROE 47 has created an award in her honor. As Jen worked with many elementary and middle schools in the Sauk Valley area, this award is open to PK-8 Whiteside County teachers, para-educators & administrators.
Marigolds exist in our schools - encouraging, supporting and nurturing teachers. They are leaders in their community, classrooms, and families. They have a love of learning and sharing that learning with others. Help us to honor Jen and these exemplary leaders in your school communities. An informational flier and copy of the nomination questions are attached.
Please nominate your “marigold” today using the link below by Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Click here for the nomination form : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeyfJuf4raj8JPfh0a7HgA3-xhXTI0BgmN3MU4y4YjGwT_DBA/viewform
Spring is coming and that means flowers will be in bloom. Now is the time to nominate educators for the 2026 Marigold Award. Each nominee will be recognized on social media and will receive a certificate, a marigold, and a special book. Our overall winner will also receive a $100 Amazon gift card to continue to build their classroom library.
Jen Banks was a beloved teacher and school improvement coach who passed away as the result of a tragic automobile accident in December 2015. Her love for learning and the students that she worked with was an inspiration to many. Jen’s positive, supportive, and energetic attitude nurtured those around her and helped them to grow. In celebration of Jen’s life and dedication to learning, ROE 47 has created an award in her honor. As Jen worked with many elementary and middle schools in the Sauk Valley area, this award is open to PK-8 Whiteside County teachers, para-educators & administrators.
Marigolds exist in our schools - encouraging, supporting and nurturing teachers. They are leaders in their community, classrooms, and families. They have a love of learning and sharing that learning with others. Help us to honor Jen and these exemplary leaders in your school communities. An informational flier and copy of the nomination questions are attached.
Please nominate your “marigold” today using the link below by Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Click here for the nomination form : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeyfJuf4raj8JPfh0a7HgA3-xhXTI0BgmN3MU4y4YjGwT_DBA/viewform
OSF Jump Simulation Center
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 (8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.)
Day 2 of the Illinois Science Summit immerses educators in hands-on STEM and STEAM experiences, including a microscope makerspace, healthcare simulation at Jump Trading, and interactive activities exploring anatomy, engineering, and AR integration. The day concludes with resource sharing, Q&A, and collaborative discussion to support implementation of innovative science strategies in classrooms across Illinois.
REGISTER @ https://forms.fillout.com/t/eGfXMqJE19us?workshopid=recYK21QB27jRlCKN
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 (8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.)
Day 2 of the Illinois Science Summit immerses educators in hands-on STEM and STEAM experiences, including a microscope makerspace, healthcare simulation at Jump Trading, and interactive activities exploring anatomy, engineering, and AR integration. The day concludes with resource sharing, Q&A, and collaborative discussion to support implementation of innovative science strategies in classrooms across Illinois.
REGISTER @ https://forms.fillout.com/t/eGfXMqJE19us?workshopid=recYK21QB27jRlCKN
SIGN-UP NOW...Future Founders Entrepreneur Camp
Explore Entrepreneurship , Creating & Leadership
Middle School, 6-8th grade
Wednesdays, 8:00 - 11:00 am , June 10 - July 1
Explore Entrepreneurship , Creating & Leadership
Middle School, 6-8th grade
Wednesdays, 8:00 - 11:00 am , June 10 - July 1
The 2026 Illinois Science Summit: Exploring the Science of Life, Innovation & the Universe is a FREE, hands-on, three-day experience designed to bring science out of the classroom and into the real world. From exploring ecosystems and biodiversity to diving into medical simulation, engineering, and space science, this summit uses the community as your classroom while building powerful career connections for students.
Each day includes breakfast, lunch, science materials, and classroom-ready resources to support your teaching. Registration is limited to 100 participants per day—so don’t wait! Attend one, two, or all three days and be part of an unforgettable experience that will inspire your teaching and your students.
Save your spot today!
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 (8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.)
@ Peoria Zoo & Luthy Botanical Center
REGISTER @ https://forms.fillout.com/t/eGfXMqJE19us?workshopid=rec7qGe3VHGuOGKPe
The 2026 Science Summit is brought to you by the Illinois State Board of Education, Regional Office of Education #47 & the Illinois Science Steering Committee!
Each day includes breakfast, lunch, science materials, and classroom-ready resources to support your teaching. Registration is limited to 100 participants per day—so don’t wait! Attend one, two, or all three days and be part of an unforgettable experience that will inspire your teaching and your students.
Save your spot today!
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 (8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.)
@ Peoria Zoo & Luthy Botanical Center
REGISTER @ https://forms.fillout.com/t/eGfXMqJE19us?workshopid=rec7qGe3VHGuOGKPe
The 2026 Science Summit is brought to you by the Illinois State Board of Education, Regional Office of Education #47 & the Illinois Science Steering Committee!
This week we are going to be talking about all things Preschool!
PFAE (Preschool for All)
The Regional Office of Education #47 opened 2 full day classrooms at Open Sesame in Dixon and 2 full day classrooms at the YMCA in Dixon!
What is PFAE? Preschool for ALL children! We want to make sure we are accommodating the needs in our area! At school they will be following a play based learning curriculum. This means they will be playing a majority of the time but with a learning structure! This will allow the children to grow their development through engaging playful activities, promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills.
Mission Statement: The ROE 47 Early Learning Academy partners with families and the community to nurture young minds and foster a love of learning through high-quality early childhood education, empowering children to become confident, curious, and capable
PFAE (Preschool for All)
The Regional Office of Education #47 opened 2 full day classrooms at Open Sesame in Dixon and 2 full day classrooms at the YMCA in Dixon!
What is PFAE? Preschool for ALL children! We want to make sure we are accommodating the needs in our area! At school they will be following a play based learning curriculum. This means they will be playing a majority of the time but with a learning structure! This will allow the children to grow their development through engaging playful activities, promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills.
Mission Statement: The ROE 47 Early Learning Academy partners with families and the community to nurture young minds and foster a love of learning through high-quality early childhood education, empowering children to become confident, curious, and capable
JOIN OUR TEAM ! ROE 47 IS HIRING !
Licensure Specialist - The Licensure Specialist is responsible for administering educator licensure services within the Regional Office of Education in accordance with the requirements of the Illinois State Board of
Education (ISBE) and applicable provisions of the Illinois School Code. The position provides guidance and technical assistance to educators, school districts, and the public regarding educator licensure requirements, applications, and compliance with state regulations.
Qualifications
● Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
â—Ź Experience in education administration, human resources, or licensing processes
preferred.
â—Ź Strong knowledge of computer systems and ability to learn the Educator Licensure
Information System (ELIS).
â—Ź Excellent organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
â—Ź Ability to interpret state regulations and apply them accurately.
Skills and Abilities
â—Ź Attention to detail and accuracy.
â—Ź Ability to manage confidential information.
â—Ź Strong problem-solving and customer service skills.
â—Ź Ability to work independently and collaboratively with educators and school district staff.
For more information, contact Regional Superintendent of Schools ,Chris Tennyson @ ctennyson@roe47.org.
Licensure Specialist - The Licensure Specialist is responsible for administering educator licensure services within the Regional Office of Education in accordance with the requirements of the Illinois State Board of
Education (ISBE) and applicable provisions of the Illinois School Code. The position provides guidance and technical assistance to educators, school districts, and the public regarding educator licensure requirements, applications, and compliance with state regulations.
Qualifications
● Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
â—Ź Experience in education administration, human resources, or licensing processes
preferred.
â—Ź Strong knowledge of computer systems and ability to learn the Educator Licensure
Information System (ELIS).
â—Ź Excellent organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
â—Ź Ability to interpret state regulations and apply them accurately.
Skills and Abilities
â—Ź Attention to detail and accuracy.
â—Ź Ability to manage confidential information.
â—Ź Strong problem-solving and customer service skills.
â—Ź Ability to work independently and collaboratively with educators and school district staff.
For more information, contact Regional Superintendent of Schools ,Chris Tennyson @ ctennyson@roe47.org.
ROE 47 would like to wish all Lee, Ogle and Whiteside county schools a Happy Spring! Some schools are starting Spring Break while others have just finished. Enjoy this time to relax and rejuvenate before the final push of the school year.
Spring is coming and that means flowers will be in bloom. Now is the time to nominate educators for the 2026 Marigold Award. Each nominee will be recognized on social media and will receive a certificate, a marigold, and a special book. Our overall winner will also receive a $100 Amazon gift card to continue to build their classroom library.
Jen Banks was a beloved teacher and school improvement coach who passed away as the result of a tragic automobile accident in December 2015. Her love for learning and the students that she worked with was an inspiration to many. Jen’s positive, supportive, and energetic attitude nurtured those around her and helped them to grow. In celebration of Jen’s life and dedication to learning, ROE 47 has created an award in her honor. As Jen worked with many elementary and middle schools in the Sauk Valley area, this award is open to PK-8 Whiteside County teachers, para-educators & administrators.
Marigolds exist in our schools - encouraging, supporting and nurturing teachers. They are leaders in their community, classrooms, and families. They have a love of learning and sharing that learning with others. Help us to honor Jen and these exemplary leaders in your school communities. An informational flier and copy of the nomination questions are attached.
Please nominate your “marigold” today using the link below by Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Click on https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeyfJuf4raj8JPfh0a7HgA3-xhXTI0BgmN3MU4y4YjGwT_DBA/viewformfor Google Nomination Form
Jen Banks was a beloved teacher and school improvement coach who passed away as the result of a tragic automobile accident in December 2015. Her love for learning and the students that she worked with was an inspiration to many. Jen’s positive, supportive, and energetic attitude nurtured those around her and helped them to grow. In celebration of Jen’s life and dedication to learning, ROE 47 has created an award in her honor. As Jen worked with many elementary and middle schools in the Sauk Valley area, this award is open to PK-8 Whiteside County teachers, para-educators & administrators.
Marigolds exist in our schools - encouraging, supporting and nurturing teachers. They are leaders in their community, classrooms, and families. They have a love of learning and sharing that learning with others. Help us to honor Jen and these exemplary leaders in your school communities. An informational flier and copy of the nomination questions are attached.
Please nominate your “marigold” today using the link below by Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Click on https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeyfJuf4raj8JPfh0a7HgA3-xhXTI0BgmN3MU4y4YjGwT_DBA/viewformfor Google Nomination Form
ROE 47 is HIRING
Student Mentor; non-certified, 10.5-11 months, 8 hr day M-F
Ability to work effectively with students, parents, staff, colleagues, school districts and community
Excellent communication, organization, and case management skills
Advocacy skills, including the ability to negotiate, compromise, and confront conflict, including crisis intervention
Willingness to persist with students, despite their behavior and decision-making.
Experience in creating safe and welcoming social emotional learning environments
Passion for serving at-risk and underserved youth
Experience fostering strength based educational programming
Reports To: Regional Superintendent/Assistant Regional Superintendent
Education Requirements:
Bachelor Degree in a human service field preferred. Experience working in education, or with youth preferred.
Job Goal: To provide students with a positive pattern of engagement at school, fuel motivation, and foster development of the life skills needed for graduation and post high school learning and careers.
For more information contact Assistant Regional Superintendent, Josh Knuth @ jknuth@roe47.org.
Student Mentor; non-certified, 10.5-11 months, 8 hr day M-F
Ability to work effectively with students, parents, staff, colleagues, school districts and community
Excellent communication, organization, and case management skills
Advocacy skills, including the ability to negotiate, compromise, and confront conflict, including crisis intervention
Willingness to persist with students, despite their behavior and decision-making.
Experience in creating safe and welcoming social emotional learning environments
Passion for serving at-risk and underserved youth
Experience fostering strength based educational programming
Reports To: Regional Superintendent/Assistant Regional Superintendent
Education Requirements:
Bachelor Degree in a human service field preferred. Experience working in education, or with youth preferred.
Job Goal: To provide students with a positive pattern of engagement at school, fuel motivation, and foster development of the life skills needed for graduation and post high school learning and careers.
For more information contact Assistant Regional Superintendent, Josh Knuth @ jknuth@roe47.org.
The Thrive Summit was a day focused on elevating well-being and empowering learning, bringing together educators and community partners in meaningful collaboration. We were honored to have Heather Baker as our keynote speaker, setting the tone for an inspiring and impactful day. Participants engaged in breakout sessions, shared ideas, built new relationships, and concluded the afternoon with a powerful poverty simulation experience.
Early Childhood education is an important part of a child's future. Early Childhood programs help lay a foundation for success. These programs impact the child's cognitive, social, and emotional development.
This week we are going to talk about Preschool Screenings!
Preschool Screenings
The Regional Office of Education #47 is teaming up with other Early Childhood agencies and hosting a county wide screening day and resource fair.
What are preschool screenings? A screening is a perfect way for educators to evaluate the level each individual child is at, that way they can be better prepared for the classroom! We screen areas of motor skills, language skills and cognitive skills!
When: Friday, March 27th | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Dixon Park District Facility
Who should register? Children ages 2.5–5 (who won’t turn 6 before August 31, 2026).
Tiny Tots (Under 2.5): No registration needed! Walk-ins are welcome for our Birth to Three screenings.
Don't miss this opportunity to support your child's growth and get your questions answered.
Register at https://forms.fillout.com/t/xjqqHHe4xJus?EventID=recp7E9zUGUtsYyx3or reach out to Ashley, ateel@roe47.org, with any questions.
See you at The Facility!
This week we are going to talk about Preschool Screenings!
Preschool Screenings
The Regional Office of Education #47 is teaming up with other Early Childhood agencies and hosting a county wide screening day and resource fair.
What are preschool screenings? A screening is a perfect way for educators to evaluate the level each individual child is at, that way they can be better prepared for the classroom! We screen areas of motor skills, language skills and cognitive skills!
When: Friday, March 27th | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Dixon Park District Facility
Who should register? Children ages 2.5–5 (who won’t turn 6 before August 31, 2026).
Tiny Tots (Under 2.5): No registration needed! Walk-ins are welcome for our Birth to Three screenings.
Don't miss this opportunity to support your child's growth and get your questions answered.
Register at https://forms.fillout.com/t/xjqqHHe4xJus?EventID=recp7E9zUGUtsYyx3or reach out to Ashley, ateel@roe47.org, with any questions.
See you at The Facility!
🎒 Big Steps for Little Learners! Community Wide Screenings
Is your little one ready to start their educational journey? We’re bringing the community together for your child’s success! Join the Regional Office of Education, area preschools, and local home visiting groups for the Community Birth to 3 and Preschool Screenings.
This is more than just a screening—it’s a chance for families to explore local resources, chat with developmental experts, learn about all the different birth to 3 and preschool opportunities in our area and ensure your child has the best start possible.
📅 When: Friday, March 27th | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
đź“Ť Where: Dixon Park District Facility
Who should register? Children ages 2.5–5 (who won’t turn 6 before August 31, 2026).
Tiny Tots (Under 2.5): No registration needed! Walk-ins are welcome for our Birth to Three screenings.
Don't miss this opportunity to support your child's growth and get your questions answered.
Register @ https://forms.fillout.com/t/xjqqHHe4xJus?EventID=recp7E9zUGUtsYyx3 or reach out to Ashley, ateel@roe47.org, with any questions.
See you at The Facility! 🍎
Spring is coming and that means flowers will be in bloom. Now is the time to nominate educators for the 2026 Marigold Award. Each nominee will be recognized on social media and will receive a certificate, a marigold, and a special book. Our overall winner will also receive a $100 Amazon gift card to continue to build their classroom library.
Jen Banks was a beloved teacher and school improvement coach who passed away as the result of a tragic automobile accident in December 2015. Her love for learning and the students that she worked with was an inspiration to many. Jen’s positive, supportive, and energetic attitude nurtured those around her and helped them to grow. In celebration of Jen’s life and dedication to learning, ROE 47 has created an award in her honor. As Jen worked with many elementary and middle schools in the Sauk Valley area, this award is open to PK-8 Whiteside County teachers, para-educators & administrators.
Marigolds exist in our schools - encouraging, supporting and nurturing teachers. They are leaders in their community, classrooms, and families. They have a love of learning and sharing that learning with others. Help us to honor Jen and these exemplary leaders in your school communities. An informational flier and copy of the nomination questions are attached.
Please nominate your “marigold” today using the link below by Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Click on https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeyfJuf4raj8JPfh0a7HgA3-xhXTI0BgmN3MU4y4YjGwT_DBA/viewform
for Google Nomination Form
Jen Banks was a beloved teacher and school improvement coach who passed away as the result of a tragic automobile accident in December 2015. Her love for learning and the students that she worked with was an inspiration to many. Jen’s positive, supportive, and energetic attitude nurtured those around her and helped them to grow. In celebration of Jen’s life and dedication to learning, ROE 47 has created an award in her honor. As Jen worked with many elementary and middle schools in the Sauk Valley area, this award is open to PK-8 Whiteside County teachers, para-educators & administrators.
Marigolds exist in our schools - encouraging, supporting and nurturing teachers. They are leaders in their community, classrooms, and families. They have a love of learning and sharing that learning with others. Help us to honor Jen and these exemplary leaders in your school communities. An informational flier and copy of the nomination questions are attached.
Please nominate your “marigold” today using the link below by Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Click on https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeyfJuf4raj8JPfh0a7HgA3-xhXTI0BgmN3MU4y4YjGwT_DBA/viewform
for Google Nomination Form
Happy St. Patrick's Day from your friends at ROE 47!
@RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47
@RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47
Check out the CEO WACC Trade Show - April 29th & 30th @ Northland Mall!
Come support your local students !
@RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47
Come support your local students !
@RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47
Several ROE 47 staff members recently attended the ICEARY Conference, that brought together educators, youth advocates, and partners from across Illinois to share ideas that change lives.
They learned about opportunities to grow, collaborate, and contribute to the coalition that supports at-risk youth statewide. @RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47
They learned about opportunities to grow, collaborate, and contribute to the coalition that supports at-risk youth statewide. @RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47
🎒 Big Steps for Little Learners! Community Wide Screenings
Is your little one ready to start their educational journey? We’re bringing the community together for your child’s success! Join the Regional Office of Education, area preschools, and local home visiting groups for the Community Birth to 3 and Preschool Screenings.
This is more than just a screening—it’s a chance for families to explore local resources, chat with developmental experts, learn about all the different birth to 3 and preschool opportunities in our area and ensure your child has the best start possible.
📅 When: Friday, March 27th | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
đź“Ť Where: Dixon Park District Facility
Who should register? Children ages 2.5–5 (who won’t turn 6 before August 31, 2026).
Tiny Tots (Under 2.5): No registration needed! Walk-ins are welcome for our Birth to Three screenings.
Don't miss this opportunity to support your child's growth and get your questions answered.
Register @ https://forms.fillout.com/t/xjqqHHe4xJus?EventID=recp7E9zUGUtsYyx3 or reach out to Ashley, ateel@roe47.org, with any questions.
See you at The Facility! 🍎
🎒 Big Steps for Little Learners! Community Wide Screenings
Is your little one ready to start their educational journey? We’re bringing the community together for your child’s success! Join the Regional Office of Education, area preschools, and local home visiting groups for the Community Birth to 3 and Preschool Screenings.
This is more than just a screening—it’s a chance for families to explore local resources, chat with developmental experts, learn about all the different birth to 3 and preschool opportunities in our area and ensure your child has the best start possible.
📅 When: Friday, March 27th | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
đź“Ť Where: Dixon Park District Facility
Who should register? Children ages 2.5–5 (who won’t turn 6 before August 31, 2026).
Tiny Tots (Under 2.5): No registration needed! Walk-ins are welcome for our Birth to Three screenings.
Don't miss this opportunity to support your child's growth and get your questions answered.
Register @https://forms.fillout.com/t/xjqqHHe4xJus?EventID=recp7E9zUGUtsYyx3 or reach out to Ashley, ateel@roe47.org, with any questions.
See you at The Facility! 🍎
Is your little one ready to start their educational journey? We’re bringing the community together for your child’s success! Join the Regional Office of Education, area preschools, and local home visiting groups for the Community Birth to 3 and Preschool Screenings.
This is more than just a screening—it’s a chance for families to explore local resources, chat with developmental experts, learn about all the different birth to 3 and preschool opportunities in our area and ensure your child has the best start possible.
📅 When: Friday, March 27th | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
đź“Ť Where: Dixon Park District Facility
Who should register? Children ages 2.5–5 (who won’t turn 6 before August 31, 2026).
Tiny Tots (Under 2.5): No registration needed! Walk-ins are welcome for our Birth to Three screenings.
Don't miss this opportunity to support your child's growth and get your questions answered.
Register @https://forms.fillout.com/t/xjqqHHe4xJus?EventID=recp7E9zUGUtsYyx3 or reach out to Ashley, ateel@roe47.org, with any questions.
See you at The Facility! 🍎
