As part of our series of articles for this year’s National Recreation & Park Association theme “Where You Belong”, we had a delightful conversation with Rachel Howard about her family’s experience with park district programs.
Rachel Howard is one of our most favorite people to talk with about the Park District, and especially about how her daughter Mia loves ParkSchool. The other day we got the latest on all things Mia, and learned a little about her brother Sam as well.
Last year when we talked with Rachel, Mia had just finished the school year as a Sapling. Now, Mia is 5 and a proud graduate of the Mighty Oaks preschool program. How is she doing? “She’s great! She went 5 days a week in the mornings,” said Rachel. “The program is fantastic. Miss Ginny and Miss Samia are incredible with the kids. It’s such a well-structured program that really gets the kids ready for Kindergarten. I’ve been so impressed with Mia’s growth, her independence, and how proud she was of the work she came home with. That’s been the most exciting thing—to see the pride she takes in the activities and all of the projects.” Being proud of what you’ve done. We couldn’t ask for a better outcome from Mia’s ParkSchool experience. Rachel continued, “Mia’s teachers have prepared her so well for the transition to Kindergarten. They really set the kids up for success as they enter elementary school.”
Our Miss Ginny retired in June after an incredible 39 years of making little lives better. You can read more about her in this story. Ask any Mighty Oaks parent, and they’ll tell you that Miss Samia continues to be amazing!
We talked about Mia making new friends and new connections at Mighty Oaks. “Yes! There were old friends who she had been with the year before, and there were lots of new friends this year as well.” ParkSchool kids tend to stay in the program. The smaller class sizes, the structure, and the connections to other families make it a place where everyone truly feels they belong. “Mia wants all of the kids in her class and her teachers to be with her when she goes to Kindergarten, because there is this warmth and sense of belonging to a community.” Well, we hope her friends go with her, but her teachers… not so much!
Did Mia do other Park District programs? “Yes!” (You can hear the smile.) “She did a Sports class, a Cooking class, and a Ceramics class after school at West Ridge. It’s so nice because she can stay at school and there’s a ‘bridge’ program where she played for a bit after Mighty Oaks. Then the teachers transition the kids to their after school classes, so parents don’t have to go back and forth.” How did Mia like those classes? “The Sports class (KidoKinetics) was great fun because they did some unique sports like Lacrosse and Pickleball. She also did Gymnastics on the weekends (at Centennial), which she loved.” We think “Keeping up with Mia” would make a great podcast!
“She’s formed a very strong bond with her friends and her teachers.” Connections, many of them lifelong, are what get built at your Park District. It truly is a place where you belong.
What’s next for the family? “My son Sam is 2½ and is in the Tot Stop camp this summer. He’s also done Gymnastics,” (at that age mostly tumbling, running, falling down), “and we love the Music class! We’re also registered for ParkSchool in the fall, so Sam will be a Sprout!”
That’s how the traditions continue and the connections grow at your Park District. We would love for you and your family to join us and be a part of everything we do. We invite you to share your stories with us. Right now, you can find all of our summer programs, activities, and events 24/7 on our website.
Looking for exciting activities for your kids on no-school days? Our Fall Fun Days offer a variety of engaging programs to keep them entertained and active. Join us for a few days full of fun and adventure.
The STREAM Explorers School Day Off program offers a fun and educational day for children when school is out. Split between Heller Nature Center and West Ridge Center, this program features a variety of activities in Science, Technology, Recreation, Environment, Art, and more.
Children will start their day at West Ridge Center, where they will be bussed to Heller Nature Center to explore environmental science projects, interactive nature walks, and creative art activities. Later, they will be bussed back to West Ridge Center for hands-on technology projects, recreational games, and art experiences, where they will also be picked up.
The program provides a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor activities to keep children engaged and entertained throughout the day. It’s an ideal way for kids to spend a school day off, having fun and exploring new interests.
Locations: Children will start and end their day at West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Rd, as well as spend part of the day at Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Rd
The STREAM Explorers School Day Off program offers a fun and educational day for children when school is out. Split between Heller Nature Center and West Ridge Center, this program features a variety of activities in Science, Technology, Recreation, Environment, Art, and more.
Children will start their day at West Ridge Center, where they will be bussed to Heller Nature Center to explore environmental science projects, interactive nature walks, and creative art activities. Later, they will be bussed back to West Ridge Center for hands-on technology projects, recreational games, and art experiences, where they will also be picked up.
The program provides a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor activities to keep children engaged and entertained throughout the day. It’s an ideal way for kids to spend a school day off, having fun and exploring new interests.
Locations: Children will start and end their day at West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Rd, as well as spend part of the day at Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Rd
The STREAM Explorers School Day Off program offers a fun and educational day for children when school is out. Split between Heller Nature Center and West Ridge Center, this program features a variety of activities in Science, Technology, Recreation, Environment, Art, and more.
Children will start their day at West Ridge Center, where they will be bussed to Heller Nature Center to explore environmental science projects, interactive nature walks, and creative art activities. Later, they will be bussed back to West Ridge Center for hands-on technology projects, recreational games, and art experiences, where they will also be picked up.
The program provides a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor activities to keep children engaged and entertained throughout the day. It’s an ideal way for kids to spend a school day off, having fun and exploring new interests.
Locations: Children will start and end their day at West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Rd, as well as spend part of the day at Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Rd
The STREAM Explorers School Day Off program offers a fun and educational day for children when school is out. Split between Heller Nature Center and West Ridge Center, this program features a variety of activities in Science, Technology, Recreation, Environment, Art, and more.
Children will start their day at West Ridge Center, where they will be bussed to Heller Nature Center to explore environmental science projects, interactive nature walks, and creative art activities. Later, they will be bussed back to West Ridge Center for hands-on technology projects, recreational games, and art experiences, where they will also be picked up.
The program provides a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor activities to keep children engaged and entertained throughout the day. It’s an ideal way for kids to spend a school day off, having fun and exploring new interests.
Locations: Children will start and end their day at West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Rd, as well as spend part of the day at Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Rd
You write the story! Choose your own path in this adventure series as we explore role playing and rolling the dice to see which way our story will go. Use your imagination to write which direction our story will go and act it out.
This is a drop off program. Pre-registration required. Program is outdoors so please dress for the weather. Participants also attending Superheroes may bring a peanut-free sack lunch and stay at Rosewood between programs.
Location: Rosewood Beach, 883 Sheridan Rd
Soar through the air, use your mighty strength, and explore your own super powers! Superheroes are everywhere, see what wild animals also have super powers just like those in the comics. Then explore how you too have your own super human powers.
This is a drop off program. Pre-registration required. Program is outdoors so please dress for the weather. Participants also attending Once Upon A… may bring a peanut-free sack lunch and stay at Rosewood between programs.
Location: Rosewood Beach, 883 Sheridan Rd
To celebrate Parks and Recreation Month, we are featuring a series of personal stories that exemplify the value Parks and Recreation brings to our lives.
Jami Buss is well-known to many of you as a member of our Registration Team at the Recreation Center. Great smile, always welcoming, and a wealth of knowledge about all things Park District. Lots of you also know her husband, Michael Buss, who has been an Instructor at the Fitness Club for almost 9 years. His Group Fitness classes are very popular. The family connections to the District go even deeper: their three sons are all park district kids, just like Jami was as she grew up in Highland Park. Her memories are the perfect place to start her story. Here we go.
Talking to Jami reinforces why this Park District has been so important to residents for their entire lives. “One of my fondest memories, from when I was just 5 years old, is going to Safety Village,” said Jami. “In those days, it was in the parking lot at Centennial Ice Arena.” Safety Village is still going strong at West Ridge. “Our kids went, and they loved it!”
“I grew up near Centennial, and we enjoyed ice skating and the shows. That area was such a great place to explore. We did lots of hiking and fishing, and of course, sledding in the winter. When I was in Middle School, sometimes we would just hang out at the Ice Arena. It was always great fun, and looking back, I realize how important it was to all of us kids.” That’s what we do at your Park District—provide safe, fun places where kids and families connect and make their own memories.
Flash forward. About 12 years ago, Jami joined the Fitness Club and continued a lifetime journey of healthy activities. Belonging to a club, connecting with Highland Park residents, and making new friends is one of the most important ways to stay physically and mentally fit. It’s a big part of what we offer every day. “My kids would come with me when they were 2 and 4, and play in the babysitting room while I worked out,” Jami related. Those two kids were Leo, now 15, and Henry, 13. “When Leo was 2 and 3 years old, he also went to Mommy’s Morning Away at West Ridge,” Jami said. “The teachers were wonderful!”
Samson, who is 8, rounds out the family. All three boys enjoy many of our year-round and seasonal programs: Baseball and Football, Sports Camps and Summer Camps, and especially Into the Wild Lakeshore, where campers explore nature, go swimming and dig into beachcombing as part of their summer adventures. “During Covid, living near Sunset Woods Park, the outdoor resources became extra important to our family,” said Jami, “and as things opened up, we all realized what amazing programs and opportunities the Park District offers the community. It’s one of the reasons I came to work here a year ago, and now helping other people get connected to the Park District is one of the true joys of my job.”
We can tell you that it’s a joy just to be around Jami, and we’re grateful to have her as part of our family.
We would love to hear your personal and family stories. Send us a wonderful memory or two that we can share. Until then… See you around the parks!
Connecting with nature is important at any age! Heller Nature Center’s programs are designed to inspire a lifelong appreciation for nature, foster environmental stewardship, and promote a healthier, more connected community. Whether you are an avid nature enthusiast or simply looking to explore new outdoor activities, Heller Nature Center offers something for everyone.
Check out our upcoming Adult/Adult-Friendly Programs:
Eat the forest! Join The Wild Dryad on a foraging tour of Heller’s woods; learn how to spot wild edibles and how best to cook them. Sample some of the plants we find on our hike.
Join us for an evening of nature-themed trivia. Enter in teams of up to 6, or join a team of new friends on arrival. Then, compete with fellow residents to see who knows more about the ecology in our local area and beyond.
This is a BYOB event. Light snacks will be provided.
Ages 21+
Our honey bees have been working all summer making our famous Heller Honey. Come and experience how to harvest our honey with one of our naturalists and take home a small jar you harvested from the hives.
From natural areas restoration to beekeeping, outdoor volunteer opportunities are aplenty!
The periodic cicadas have arrived! On this episode of Wild Insights, Mark describes the difference between periodic and annual cicadas, their molting process, and where you can see them in Highland Park!
Architects Holabird and Root presented three (3) schematic designs for the New Recreation Facility and Site Improvements at West Ridge Park. Staff received consensus from the Committee to use Building Option F to submit an application for design and review.
The Park Board of Commissioners adopted the Beach and Boating Safety Week Proclamation declaring May 18 – 24 as Highland Park Beach and Boating Safety Week.
The Park Board of Commissioners approved the WJE Evaluation of Footings Change Order #1 and authorized the Executive Director to increase the professional services contract from $24,900 to $32,477.
Staff provided construction project updates for the Lot 3 Paddle Facility, construction at the Recreation Center of Highland Park, locker room improvements at Deer Creek Racquet Club, improvements at Jeff Fox Baseball Field, improvements at Lincoln Park, renovation to the Playground at Upper Rosewood, renovation to the 2-5-Year-Old Playground at Larry Fink Park, and improvements at Sunset Woods Park.
There was Action from Closed Session. The Park Board of Commissioners approved a settlement agreement with a former employee.
Architects Holabird and Root reviewed the design and review application for the New Recreation Facility and Site Improvements at West Ridge Park. The Facility and Recreation Committee were pleased with the rendering and schematic design which will be submitted in the application.
Sikich, LLP presented a draft of the Park District’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.
Staff reviewed the bid results for the 2024 Recreation Center Pool Ceiling Painting project, 2024 Cunniff Park 2-5 Playground Resurfacing-Fence Improvements project, 2024 Roof Improvements projects, and the 2024 Deer Creek Racquet Club Parking Lot Improvements project.
Staff reviewed a services proposal with L6 Technology It Support.
Staff shared a fundraising update for the Jeff Fox Baseball Field Campaign.
The City of Highland Park is currently renovating the Highland Park Senior Center. The Park District and City of Highland Park planned to renovate the shared parking lot in 2025. The Park District received an estimated cost from the City of Highland Park for the shared project, and the estimate was significantly higher than anticipated.
Commissioner Bernstein was elected for President of the Park Board and Commissioner Freeman was elected for Vice President.
Executive Director Romes was appointed as Secretary to the Park Board, Coordinator Hejnowski was appointed as Assistant Secretary acting under the general supervisor of the Secretary, Director Peters was appointed as Treasurer, Director Hall was appointed as the District’s IMRF authorized agent, Executive Director Romes, Director Hall, and Coordinator Hejnowski were appointed as Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officers, Executive Director Romes and Coordinator Hejnowski were appointed as Open Meetings Act (OMA) Officers, Executive Director Romes was appointed as the American With Disabilities Act Coordinator (ADA), Sikich, LLP was appointed as the District’s auditor, and Ancel Glink was appointed as the District’s attorney.
The Park Board of Commissioners approved Ordinance 2024-06 providing for the issue of not to exceed $6,445,000 General Obligation Limited Tax Park Bonds, Series 2024, of the Park District of Highland Park, Lake County, Illinois, for the payment of land for parks, for the building, maintaining, improving and protecting of the same and the existing land and facilities of said Park District and for the payment of the expenses incident thereto, providing for the levy of a direct annual tax to pay the principal and interest on said bonds, and authorizing the sale of said bonds to the purchaser thereof, the 2024 Recreation Center Pool Ceiling Painting Bid, the 2024 Roof Improvements Project Bid, the 2024 Deer Creek Racquet Club Parking Lot Improvements Bid, the 2024 Cunniff Park 2-5 Playground Resurfacing-Fence Improvements Project Bid, and the L6 Technology IT Support Services Proposal.
Staff presented a 5-year athletic trends analysis, comparing female and male participation figures.
In our third and final installment of Parks in Mind, a video series in collaboration with Endeavor Health that explores mental health and recreation, Dr. Fazio and Kyle answer the following questions:
Lindsay T. Fazio, PhD is the System Director of Wellbeing & Vitality for Endeavor Health. Her role is to develop and drive the strategic plan to bring wellbeing to each and every team member no matter their role or responsibility within the organization.
She received her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Indiana State University. She completed her residency in medical psychology at St. James Hospital and Health Centers. Dr. Fazio’s passion is promoting wellness began 20 years ago teaching physicians and physicians-in-training. She works with departments and health systems nationally to monitor burnout provide a programatic series of strengths-based interventions to promote resiliency and engagement across all members of the healthcare team.
Kyle Kovski, LCSW is dedicated to supporting the emotional wellbeing of individuals within Endeavor Health. His dual role as the Wellbeing Support Advisor and System R.I.S.E. Clinical Coordinator showcases his commitment to fostering resilience and creating a supportive culture within the organization.
With his educational background in Social Work, Kyle brings a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental health to his role. His clinical experience across different age groups and symptomatology provides him with a nuanced perspective on addressing the diverse needs of individuals. Kyle’s focus on supporting medical professionals is especially impactful, given his firsthand experience in Family Medicine Residency programs support Behavioral Health Education. He recognizes the unique challenges individuals are faced with daily and advocates for the importance of stress management and resilience techniques in mitigating the impact of trauma.
By drawing from his expertise in trauma and emphasizing the importance of holistic wellbeing, Kyle empowers individuals to navigate challenges effectively. His efforts not only benefit the individuals he directly supports but also contribute to creating a culture of support and resilience within Endeavor Health.
Summer is a season of boundless possibilities, and what better way to embrace its warmth and vibrancy than by indulging in the myriad of free events and experiences offered by your Park District?
Below is a listing of our FREE summer events. Additional low-cost events are located on our calendar on the homepage of this website and on our social media channels. Once you have identified events that pique your interest, mark them by clicking on the “Add to Calendar” links on each event’s page. Or, better yet, download the Park District app that allows you to build your own favorite events calendar.
Diversify Your Experience: The beauty of Park District events lies in our diversity. From nature programs and concerts in the parks to fitness classes and drop-in events, there’s something for everyone. Mix and match your activities to keep your summer vibrant and engaging.
Embrace Nature: Summer is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Take advantage of the Park District’s green spaces, trails, and recreational facilities. Whether you’re picnicking in the park, kayaking on the lake, or simply relaxing on the beach, let nature be your sanctuary.
Engage with the Community: Park District events are not just about recreation; they’re also about fostering community bonds. Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, participate in group activities, and embrace the spirit of camaraderie that these events inspire.
Try Something New: Summer is a season of exploration and self-discovery. Use Park District events as an opportunity to try new things. Whether it’s learning a new dance style, mastering a new sport, or delving into a new hobby, let your curiosity be your guide.
Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe: As you bask in the summer sun, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Carry a reusable water bottle, apply sunscreen liberally, and seek shade during peak sun hours to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Capture Memories: Don’t forget to capture the magic of summer with photos and videos. Document your adventures, from laughter-filled picnics to awe-inspiring sunsets, and cherish these memories for years to come.
Give Back: Consider giving back to your community by volunteering at Park District events or making a donation to our Parks Foundation, your contribution can make a meaningful difference.
Spread the Word: Finally, share your enthusiasm for Park District events with friends, family, and neighbors. By spreading the word, you not only encourage others to join in the fun but also contribute to the collective joy and vibrancy of your community.
With these tips in mind, you’re all set to embark on a summer filled with adventure, connection, and endless possibilities—all at your local Park District. So go ahead, soak up the sunshine, embrace the warmth of the season, and make this summer one to remember!
In our second installment of Parks in Mind, a video series in collaboration with Endeavor Health that explores mental health and recreation, Dr. Fazio and Kyle answer the following questions:
Lindsay T. Fazio, PhD is the System Director of Wellbeing & Vitality for Endeavor Health. Her role is to develop and drive the strategic plan to bring wellbeing to each and every team member no matter their role or responsibility within the organization.
She received her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Indiana State University. She completed her residency in medical psychology at St. James Hospital and Health Centers. Dr. Fazio’s passion is promoting wellness began 20 years ago teaching physicians and physicians-in-training. She works with departments and health systems nationally to monitor burnout provide a programatic series of strengths-based interventions to promote resiliency and engagement across all members of the healthcare team.
Kyle Kovski, LCSW is dedicated to supporting the emotional wellbeing of individuals within Endeavor Health. His dual role as the Wellbeing Support Advisor and System R.I.S.E. Clinical Coordinator showcases his commitment to fostering resilience and creating a supportive culture within the organization.
With his educational background in Social Work, Kyle brings a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental health to his role. His clinical experience across different age groups and symptomatology provides him with a nuanced perspective on addressing the diverse needs of individuals. Kyle’s focus on supporting medical professionals is especially impactful, given his firsthand experience in Family Medicine Residency programs support Behavioral Health Education. He recognizes the unique challenges individuals are faced with daily and advocates for the importance of stress management and resilience techniques in mitigating the impact of trauma.
By drawing from his expertise in trauma and emphasizing the importance of holistic wellbeing, Kyle empowers individuals to navigate challenges effectively. His efforts not only benefit the individuals he directly supports but also contribute to creating a culture of support and resilience within Endeavor Health.
