Meet the Team Transforming Girls Athletics at Your Park District

Sports teaches you character. It teaches you to play by the rules. It teaches you what it feels like to win and lose. It teaches you about life.

If you’re the parent of a young athlete, you know the benefits of playing youth sports: physical and mental fitness, personal discipline, good sportsmanship, learning to work as a team, and acquiring confidence—whether it’s from a win or a loss. These experiences help kids stay active and healthy.Yet nationwide, girls make up just 35% of youth sports participants. One of the causes might be that only 25% of coaches are women. Today, at your Park District, our story is changing dramatically because we’ve added dedicated, passionate staff to address that need. Meet Taelor Schmitz.

Taelor is the newest member of the team, and her focus as an Athletic Supervisor is to grow all of the female athletic programs that are currently successful, and create new ones to provide more opportunities for girls to participate in healthy, sports-based activities. She started working here part-time in March 2025 and joined us full-time in May.

“When I started working in park districts, I saw how closely they work with the community, especially with youth sports. They get their input and understand what they truly want,” Taelor told us. That’s something we’ve always been particularly proud of in this District: How we interact with our residents, get their advice and guidance, and build the programs that the community wants. Taelor added, “When you get to college level, if you weren’t introduced to sports when you were young, then it’s really hard to develop the tools that you learn when you’re part of a Park District program. Being able to work collaboratively with this community is really exciting for me.”

Of course, the District has always offered programs that featured or included girls, but Taelor has initiated some changes that have increased participation exponentially. One example is T-Ball, where boys and girls have always been in the same class. “T-Ball is typically the first program kids do with the park district,” she said, “and we would get 40 boys and just 4 girls.” What was Taelor’s plan? “We opened up a girls-only section for T-Ball, which is now so popular it’s waitlisted!” Good things happen when the athletic staff is open to new ideas and has the freedom to make decisions. That’s also what great leadership looks like.

We asked Taelor about some of the other ways she has been promoting female sports. Get ready. “We knew that there was a gap in the female programming, so we surveyed as many parents as we could,” she said. “Last year, as we were planning for the spring session, we had decided to concentrate on running flag football and softball programs, but 90% of the community surveys came back asking for volleyball. And, because we can be flexible, within a month we had put together a new volleyball league.”

This past fall, Taelor and the athletic team got the ball rolling with a special kickoff event: a unique co-op between flag football and softball enthusiasts. “It was a free event that drew 50 people, where players and parents made great connections. That led to the start of our fall programming, which was flag football and softball as Taelor had planned, plus the new volleyball league. “Because people were passionate about now having volleyball, they registered and filled up the programs. We ran two in the fall with 64 girls!”  That’s what a passionate athletic supervisor can do to build girls’ sports in this community.

In addition to a Softball Skills Clinic, in the fall Taelor ran three sections of Flag Football: for first and second grades, third through fifth grades, and sixth through eighth. She told us, “Personally, I wasn’t expecting to love flag football, but these girls are the most competitive athletes out there. They’re awesome!”

Another important addition that Taelor has brought to the District is the other component that the national research showed was lacking: a knowledgeable part-time staff of three female coaches: Megan, May, and Kelly. “These dedicated adults have experience in multiple sports,: said Taelor, “and now they’ve built connections with the softball players, who are buying into them for flag football, and then are buying into them for volleyball, because they are working with the same 60 kids over and over again.” We know, and parents know, that young athletes look to a great coach for much more than sports advice. Mike Divincenzo, Athletic Manager for the District, said that Taelor is too humble to say it, but that “since she has been in charge of female sports full-time, the registration numbers have doubled.”

We ask for and receive a wealth of feedback from our community about what you want from your Park District’s programs and events. Asking those questions every day, every season, about what we do here sets us apart and helps us develop more of everything you want. You’re passionate, and we appreciate that!

Until next time…See you around the parks.

The City of Highland Park (City) and the Park District of Highland Park (Park District) announce plans for community events on Independence Day. Independence Day festivities begin on July 3 with the Park District’s Independence Fest, followed by the return of the City’s fireworks display that evening. The City’s America 250-themed parade will bring a celebration of our nation’s history to Downtown Highland Park when it steps off at 10:30 AM on July 4.

“We are so excited to join communities across the country in celebrating the semiquincentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting our community’s deeply-held welcoming and affirming values as a key part of our nation’s story,” said Mayor Nancy Rotering. “We’re also looking forward to the return of our spectacular fireworks display, and are grateful to everyone who shared their feedback last year as we considered the best approach for an evening display.”

The two-day celebration is the product of close collaboration between the City and the Park District and reflects each organization’s commitment to working together to develop new traditions for the Independence Day holiday that will be sustainable for years to come.

“Last July 3rd, the Park District launched Independence Fest as a new holiday kick-off celebration, which was a fabulous success. Hundreds of families and neighbors came together at The Preserve of Highland Park to enjoy entertainment, food, activities, and a strong sense of community,” said Park District of Highland Park Board President Terry Grossberg. “We are thrilled to bring Independence Fest back this year with the addition of the City’s fireworks display, making the festivities even more memorable as we celebrate our country’s 250th birthday.”

The slate of Independence Day events includes:  

Independence Fest (July 3, 5:30 – 9:30 PM, The Preserve of Highland Park)

The Park District of Highland Park’s Independence Fest will kick off festivities on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 5:30–9:30 PM, at The Preserve of Highland Park (1207 Park Ave. W).

This year’s celebration proudly aligns with America250 to commemorate 250 years of American independence. Independence Fest launches a weekend of inclusive, patriotic-themed activities across Highland Park that reflect both national history and local community pride.

Independence Fest offers a relaxed and festive evening for the community to gather with family and friends to enjoy dinner, music, games, and a variety of attractions. Dancing Queen, an ABBA tribute band, will perform live, followed by a DJ performance timed to the City of Highland Park’s fireworks display. Food will be available for purchase at the event from a selection of food trucks.

Additional event details will be shared closer to the event date.

Fireworks Display (July 3, 9:30 PM), The Preserve of Highland Park)

Community members will enjoy a spectacular fireworks display set to a patriotic soundtrack in celebration of America250.

Independence Day Parade (July 4, 10:30 AM, Downtown Highland Park)

Highland Parkers will spotlight their American stories in this year’s Independence Day parade with floats that celebrate our history and illustrates what America means to them! Whether through characters like Uncle Sam or Rosie the Riveter, floats that showcase the history of HP businesses or organizations, or entries that celebrate a special decade or time in our history, the sky’s the limit! Participants are encouraged to create visually exciting entries with patriotic or historical decor that brings the America250 theme to life.

Applications for the Independence Day parade are available now at cityhpil.com/independenceday.

Star-Spangled Pool Party (July 4, post-parade, Hidden Creek AquaPark)

Community members will keep the fun going with a special pool party at Hidden Creek AquaPark. The party will feature a DJ and patriotic poolside games.  Food specials will be available for purchase from the concessions stand. Parade participants (individuals and groups appearing in the parade) will enjoy free admission to the water park.

Information regarding the 2026 Independence Celebration weekend activities will be shared by both the City and Park District as planning continues.

In consideration of feedback from victims and best practice recommendations from the Department of Justice Office of Victims of Crime, a public remembrance is not planned this year. The City’s temporary memorial, located at the Rose Garden adjacent to City Hall (1707 St. Johns Ave.), is accessible at any time for personal reflection and remembrance. The City continues to provide support to community members impacted by the Highland Park shooting in 2022 through the Resiliency Division. For information about Resiliency Division services, visit resilienthpil.org.

At Park Fitness, wellness goes beyond equipment and exercise classes. It’s about creating a space where people feel welcome, supported, and connected. That vision comes to life every Friday from 4-5pm at Community Yoga, a FREE class designed for everyone in the community.

Whether you’re new to yoga or returning to your mat, Community Yoga is your chance to slow down, connect, and head into the weekend feeling lighter, calmer, and more grounded. The class takes place in the Mind/Body Studio overlooking The Preserve of Highland Park, offering peaceful, scenic views that elevate the entire experience.

Community Yoga is made possible through the generous support of Highland Park Hospital – Endeavor Health. Their sponsorship enables Park Fitness to remove barriers and offer this high-quality wellness experience at no cost to the community.

Jodi DiTomassso, Manager of Fitness, tells us how that program reflects a larger mission.

“My focus is creating a space where everyone feels welcome, supported, and inspired to take care of their health,” Jodi shares. Alongside a dedicated team of fitness professionals, she helps foster an environment where people of all backgrounds and experience levels can feel at home.

The class is intentionally designed to be accessible. There is no membership required, no residency restrictions, and no limit to how often you can attend. It’s a simple invitation: come as you are.

Each session focuses on gentle movement, stretching, and breathwork in a calm, easy-to-follow format. Community Yoga is led by a team of 13 dedicated instructors who rotate through the schedule as part of their commitment to give back. This allows participants to experience a variety of teaching styles while always feeling supported in an all-level, beginner-friendly environment.

“You will always feel comfortable and leave feeling better than when you walked in,” Jodi says.

We’re excited to share that a brand‑new SWALCO (Solid Waste Agency of Lake County) Clothing & Textile Collection Bin is now available for the community! The bin is located in the northeastern corner of the shared Senior Center, Park Fitness and The Preserve of Highland Park parking lot.

The Park District is partnering with the City of Highland Park and SWALCO to bring a convenient way to reuse and recycle clothing & textiles, keeping them out of the landfill. 

The SWALCO program accepts both new/gently used clothing and textiles and worn or stained items, including:

Clothing Items

• Blouses & Shirts
• Coats
• Costumes (Including Halloween)
• Dresses
• Jackets
• Jeans & Pants
• Pet Clothing
• Shorts
• Skirts
• Sleepwear (Including Pajamas, Robes, & Other Loungewear) 
• Socks (Single or in Pairs)
• Suits & Tuxedos
• Sweaters & Sweatshirts
• Sweatpants, Shirts & Sweatsuits
• Swimsuits
• Undergarments
• Vests
• Yoga/Exercise/Workout Clothes

Other

• All Plush Dolls & Toys
• Stuffed Animals (Soft)

Clothing Accessories

• Backpacks (Soft)
• Belts
• Hats, Scarves, Mittens & Gloves
• Purses & Handbags
• Ties
• Tote & Duffel Bags (Soft)

Household Textiles

• Bedspreads
• Blankets
• Comforters
• Curtains
• Drapes
• Duvets
• Sheets
• Sofa & Furniture Covers (Fabric)
• Tablecloths, Runners, Doilies, & Other Household Linens
• Towels & Washcloths
• Quilts

Keep your kids busy and active during spring break and participate in one of our programs during the week of March 23-27!

Mon. March 23 – Fri, March 27 • 9am-3pm

Junior Spring Break Tennis Camp

Register for one day or all 5!

Get out of the house and hit the courts this spring break.
Drill and play with our pros and also play some games.

Ages 7-14

Register for $47/day or $200/week

Mon, March 23 & Wed, March 25 • 10am-Noon or 12:30-2:30pm

Spring Discovery Days at Heller Nature Center

Nature Impossible: Tuesday, 10am-Noon or 12:30-2:30pm
Become a nature secret agent! Spend the morning, master skills like map making and compass navigation. In the afternoon, put your skills to the test with animal observation and scavenger hunts to solve nature mysteries.

Builder Bats: Thursday, 10am-Noon or 12:30-2:30pm
Learn all about Bats, the amazing nocturnal creatures hiding in our woods! Use hammers and nails to put together a Bat house and hang it here at Heller Nature Center.

Ages: 6-10

Program is outdoors so please dress for the weather. Participants attending morning and afternoon sessions may bring a peanut-free sack lunch to eat between programs.

Register for $34

Tue, March 24 & Thu, March 26 • 10am-Noon or 12:30-2:30pm

Spring Discovery Days at Rosewood

Young explorers come discover what amazing things we have in store for your Spring Break!

Grossology: Monday, 10am-Noon or 12:30-2:30pm
Get ready for a day of gross nature fun! The morning will explore animal clues, like scat and what they tell us about wildlife, while the afternoon takes a closer look at birds and their barf with hands-on activities throughout the entire day.

Up in the Air: Wednesday, 10am-Noon or 12:30-2:30pm
What flies up in those skies? Build rockets, kites, and planes and see where they go at Rosewood Beach!

Ages: 6-10

Program is outdoors so please dress for the weather. Participants attending morning and afternoon sessions may bring a peanut-free sack lunch to eat between programs.

Register for $34

Mon. March 23 – Fri, March 27 • 9am-3pm

STREAM Explorers Spring Break Camp

The STREAM Explorers Spring Break Camp offers a fun experience for children during spring break. Held at West Ridge Center, this camp features a variety of activities in Science, Technology, Recreation, Environment, Art, and More. Participants will engage in hands-on technology projects, creative art activities, exciting recreational games, and environmental explorations. The camp provides an ideal way for kids to spend their spring break, making new friends and exploring new interests in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Ages 5-10

Register for $500/550 (r/nr)

Program is waitlisted

Beginning Monday, March 2, the entire south parking lot and the south end of the circle drive at the main entrance at West Ridge Center will be closed to accommodate construction of the parking lot for the new West Ridge Community Center opening in May.

During construction, we kindly ask patrons to park in the north parking lot in the designated areas and use the sidewalk to access the main entrance. Signage will be in place to help guide you safely.  Parking spaces at the front circle drive will be for ADA access only.

We appreciate your patience as we complete this important project and look forward to welcoming you to the new West Ridge Community Center soon.

If you missed the GreenPrint Master Plan Open House on February 7, you still have an opportunity to review the project’s progress and provide feedback.  

You can view the introductory video and the complete presentation and provide your comments on our GreenPrint website. The presentation and video provide an overview of the planning process and community engagement to date, explore ideas for future capital projects and system priorities, provide an understanding of what these projects might cost, and explain what is currently budgeted versus what will require creative funding mechanisms to become a reality.  

About GreenPrint

Ten years ago, the Park District of Highland Park introduced GreenPrint, a transformative parks and recreation master plan that shaped the future of open spaces, facilities, and programs in Highland Park. With community input, collaboration, and strategic investment, the initiatives outlined in the plan were implemented over the last ten years, enhancing parks, recreation facilities, and open spaces throughout the district. This accomplishment reflects a strong commitment to delivering on long-term priorities and setting a solid foundation for future planning efforts. 

Now, a decade later, it’s time to reassess, refine, and reimagine what comes next.

The New GreenPrint Master Plan will build upon the success of the original plan while incorporating new insights, priorities, and emerging needs. 

This process has involved robust community engagement, a fresh analysis of parks, facilities, and programs, and a clear roadmap for future investments—ensuring that Highland Park’s facilities, parks, and programs continue to serve residents for years to come.

 We invite you to be a part of it!

Cast your vote today! Our very own Rosewood Beach is in the running for American Shore & Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA) 100th Anniversary Best of the Best Restored Beach Award.

In 2016, following the opening of the newly restored Rosewood Beach, the American Shore & Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA) named Rosewood Beach a winner of its annual Best Restored Beach Award. Fast forward to today, in celebration of its 100^th anniversary, the ASBPA is looking for America to vote on the Best of the Best Restored Beaches. Rosewood Beach is once again a contender. 

We’re so proud to see our beach be recognized as one of the nation’s top restored beaches. Voting is open now through October. Let’s show some love for Rosewood Beach!

Roses are red, violets are blue,
We planned the fun…all that’s missing is you!

Fri, Feb 13 ♥︎ 10-11:15am

Petals & Pastries

Location: West Ridge Center (636 Ridge Road)

Whisk the morning away with us in this delicious Valentine’s Day-inspired class — come in clothes that can get messy, and be prepared to have a fun-filled morning with your little one!

Registration is per child, and all children must be accompanied by a non-registered adult.

Ages 3-5 with an Adult

Price: $15/18 (Resident/Non-Resident)

Register

Fri, Feb 13 ♥︎ 11am-1pm & 3:50-4:50pm

Public Skate

Location: Centennial Ice Arena (3100 Trail Way)

Grab your love or your bestie and go on a skate date! Whether you’re an experienced skater or a beginner, our rink is the perfect place to glide, twirl, and create unforgettable memories.

Price: $7 | With skates: $11

Learn More

Fri, Feb 13 ♥︎ 4-5pm

FREE! Community Yoga at Park Fitness

Location: Park Fitness (1207 Park Avenue West)

Join your friends and neighbors in a FREE yoga class overlooking the natural beauty of The Preserve of Highland Park! Open to all levels. Class is led by rotating instructors who bring their own unique style. Instructor schedules will be updated weekly on our website.

This is a drop-in class. No registration required! We encourage you to arrive a few minutes early to check in. Late arrivals will not be admitted once class begins

*Participants under 18 must have their parent sign a waiver.

Ages: 13+

FREE

Learn More

Fri, Feb 13 ♥︎ 6-9pm

Valentine’s Mixed Doubles Pickleball Tournament

Location: Club Pickle & Padel (2205 Skokie Valley Road)

Celebrate Valentine’s season on the courts! Join us for a fun evening of a mixed doubles pickleball tournament. Must sign up with a partner (all pairings must be one man and one woman). Enjoy great matches, a festive atmosphere,  and plenty of laughs to kick off the holiday of love pickleball style.

Level: 3.5+

Price: $25/player ($50/team)

Learn More

Fri, Feb 13 ♥︎ 6-9pm

Romantic Bonfire Date Night

Location: Heller Nature Center (2821 Ridge Road)

Join us at Heller Nature Center for a romantic bonfire and candle-lit walk on our beautiful winter trails. Each participant will receive a gourmet s’mores kit. We’ll have two cozy fires to warm your hearts and your marshmallows! Walk our wintry trails, illuminated by glowing luminaries, find conversation hearts, and get to know your partner all over again!

Pre-registration required. All participants must register for the program. This is an adults-only event. Program is outdoors so please dress for the weather.

Ages 18+

Price: $14

Register

Program is full!

Sat, Feb 14 ♥︎ 6-8pm

Kids’ Night Out: Snow Glow | PROGRAM FULL

Location: Rosewood Beach (883 Sheridan Road)

Drop the kids off at Rosewood Beach Interpretive Center to explore science and nature with our naturalists, while you enjoy a nice dinner or anything else you might have planned for Valentine’s Day. We’ll create glowing experiments and crafts, to have our very own glow party. We’ll even feed them pizza!

Pre-registration required. This is a drop-off program, so parents are not required to register or attend.

Ages 5-12

Price: $28