Back-to-School Welcome Message from Dr. Skertich

Kahok Families,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 School Year!

The start of a new school year is always an exciting time, filled with new opportunities, experiences and beginnings. We are excited to partner with our students and families as we embark upon another year of learning, growth and success.

Teachers return on August 13, and we look forward to welcoming students back to school on August 17. We cannot wait to see our hallways and classrooms filled with the energy and enthusiasm that only our students can bring.

Class Schedules & Teacher Assignments

To view your child's class schedule and teacher assignment, log in to your Skyward Family Access account using your username and password, then select the Schedule tab from the menu on the left.

Transportation Information

For transportation information, select Student Information, click View Bus Schedule to see your child's assigned bus number, and then select View Pickup/Dropoff Bus Stops for detailed bus stop information.

Back-to-School Information & Events

Please watch for communication from your child's principal regarding important back-to-school information, including Open House events, school procedures and first-day expectations.

ParentSquare Communications

We strongly encourage every family to activate their ParentSquare account and download the ParentSquare app if you have not already. Watch for an invitation email going to families who have not yet confirmed their account.  

ParentSquare is our district's primary communication platform, allowing schools and teachers to connect with families through messages, announcements and notifications in multiple languages, including English and Spanish. Instructions for setting-up your account are included with this message.

FirstView Bus Tracking App

Families are also encouraged to utilize the FirstView bus tracking app, provided by our transportation partner, First Student. FirstView offers real-time bus tracking along with customizable alerts and notifications to help you stay informed about your child's transportation. Additional information and a Quick Start Guide (available in English and Spanish) are available on the Transportation page of the district website.

Ready for the 26-27 School Year

Throughout the summer, our staff has been hard at work preparing for another successful school year. Building administrators and district leaders have interviewed and are welcoming outstanding new employees to the Kahok family, while our Building and Grounds Department completed numerous maintenance, safety, and improvement projects across the district.

We are especially excited for students and families to experience the continued improvements throughout our schools, including the nearly completed Collinsville Area Vocational Center expansion, facility enhancements across the district, and the many classroom improvements designed to support student learning.

As we begin this new school year, I want to thank our families for the trust you place in us each day. Student success is built upon a strong partnership between home and school and we are grateful to work alongside you in supporting your child's academic, social and emotional growth.

If you ever have questions, concerns, or celebrations to share, please do not hesitate to contact your child's teacher, principal or the district office. We value your partnership and look forward to another outstanding year together.

Have a wonderful 2026–2027 school year, and as always, don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride!

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D. 
Superintendent