Elm Elementary celebrates full-day kindergarten launch with ribbon cutting
Community Consolidated School District 181 has held ribbon-cutting ceremonies to mark the start of its full-day kindergarten program at six elementary schools. The events celebrated the opening of new facilities designed for early childhood education.
Dr. Hector Garcia, Superintendent of CCSD 181, spoke about the importance of the program, stating, "The expansion to a full-day kindergarten program is a momentous step forward for our students, families, and community. These ceremonies are an opportunity to celebrate this investment in our youngest learners and showcase the new learning environments that await them."
The ceremonies included community members, district administrators, and Board of Education members who recognized the collaborative work behind the initiative. At Elm School’s event, Principal Sara Olson welcomed guests and noted the broad support for creating the new space.
Dr. Garcia acknowledged current Board members Bill Cotter (President), Grace Shin, Meg Cooper, Sinead Duffy, Asim Aleem, Adam East, and Margie Kleber for their leadership in completing Full-Day Kindergarten on schedule. He also thanked former Board member Michael Martin and several district departments—including Buildings & Grounds, Business and Operations, Technology—and the D181 Facilities Committee for their role in preparing the facilities. Special thanks were given to Elm School staff led by Principal Olson.
Board President Bill Cotter said he appreciated serving during planning and construction: "He highlighted the community's support for education and the youngest learners, emphasizing that the new building is a testament to what can be achieved when working together for the benefit of students."
Hinsdale Community Consolidated School District 181 serves DuPage and Cook counties with several schools including Elm Elementary School where one ceremony was held (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). According to state data, there are 282 teachers in District 181 earning an average salary of $94,227; most are women (90 percent) and none have more than ten absences per year (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). The student population is nearly 70 percent White with Asian students making up over 15 percent; Black students account for just over one percent (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). In 2020, District 181 spent $31,308 per student with total expenditures exceeding $117 million (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).