Mrs. Chaparro and Mr. Partida's Spanish language arts class put communication and teamwork into action! 🕸️🤝
Students started by sharing their favorite foods with one another, then worked together to create a giant human spider web. The challenge? Untangle yourselves without letting go! 🕷️
It took communication, patience, problem-solving, and plenty of teamwork to make it happen. What a fun way to build connections and strengthen our classroom community! 💛🖤🐝
#HarvardRising #Teamwork
Students started by sharing their favorite foods with one another, then worked together to create a giant human spider web. The challenge? Untangle yourselves without letting go! 🕷️
It took communication, patience, problem-solving, and plenty of teamwork to make it happen. What a fun way to build connections and strengthen our classroom community! 💛🖤🐝
#HarvardRising #Teamwork
🐝 Hornet Happenings! 🐝
Every Friday, our Hornets come together for Hornet Happenings—a school-wide video chat designed to keep us connected and build our school community! 💛🖤
During Hornet Happenings, we:
📣 Share important announcements
📅 Talk about upcoming school events
🥗 Learn about healthy habits
⭐ Spotlight amazing students and staff
🧠 Test our knowledge with fun trivia
😂 And, of course, have a little fun together!
Hornet Happenings is more than just announcements—it’s a chance for our entire school to connect, celebrate one another, and strengthen the sense of community that makes HJH special.
#Harvard Rising #HornetHappenings #HornetPride
Every Friday, our Hornets come together for Hornet Happenings—a school-wide video chat designed to keep us connected and build our school community! 💛🖤
During Hornet Happenings, we:
📣 Share important announcements
📅 Talk about upcoming school events
🥗 Learn about healthy habits
⭐ Spotlight amazing students and staff
🧠 Test our knowledge with fun trivia
😂 And, of course, have a little fun together!
Hornet Happenings is more than just announcements—it’s a chance for our entire school to connect, celebrate one another, and strengthen the sense of community that makes HJH special.
#Harvard Rising #HornetHappenings #HornetPride
Announcement
Please be advised that Harvard Junior High School does not have any events scheduled at the High School this afternoon.
We apologize for any confusion or misunderstanding this may have caused.
Thank you for your understanding!
Please be advised that Harvard Junior High School does not have any events scheduled at the High School this afternoon.
We apologize for any confusion or misunderstanding this may have caused.
Thank you for your understanding!
🐝 Welcome Back, Hornets! 🐝
The halls of Harvard Junior High School are buzzing once again! 💛🖤
Today we welcomed our Harvard Hornets back for the first day of school, and what a great way to kick off a new year! From reconnecting with friends to meeting new teachers and making new memories, there was plenty of excitement throughout the building.
Welcome back, Hornets! Let’s make it a great year! 💛🖤
#HarvardHornets #HJH #FirstDayOfSchool #HarvardRising
The halls of Harvard Junior High School are buzzing once again! 💛🖤
Today we welcomed our Harvard Hornets back for the first day of school, and what a great way to kick off a new year! From reconnecting with friends to meeting new teachers and making new memories, there was plenty of excitement throughout the building.
Welcome back, Hornets! Let’s make it a great year! 💛🖤
#HarvardHornets #HJH #FirstDayOfSchool #HarvardRising
Harvard Junior High Families,
This message is to let you know that registration for fall sports it's now open!
If you have any questions please reach out at (815) 943-6466.
This message is to let you know that registration for fall sports it's now open!
If you have any questions please reach out at (815) 943-6466.
As the final buses pull away and the hallways grow quiet, we say goodbye to another unforgettable school year. 🚌💛
Wishing everyone a safe, relaxing, and fun-filled summer! We can’t wait to see you again next school year. 🌞📚
Goodbye for now, Harvard Hornets! 🐝Enjoy your summer!!
Wishing everyone a safe, relaxing, and fun-filled summer! We can’t wait to see you again next school year. 🌞📚
Goodbye for now, Harvard Hornets! 🐝Enjoy your summer!!
Good evening families,
Tonight is our Promotion Ceremony! Students will enter through Door 1, and parents and guests should enter through Door 19. Doors will open at 5:15 PM.
For those unable to attend in person, here is the livestream link once again:
https://www.youtube.com/live/LIhFsdciisY
Buenas noches, familias:
¡Esta noche es nuestra Ceremonia de Promoción! Los estudiantes entrarán por la Puerta 1, y los padres e invitados deberán entrar por la Puerta 19. Las puertas se abrirán a las 5:15 p. m.
Para aquellos que no puedan asistir en persona, aquí tienen nuevamente el enlace de la transmisión en vivo:
https://www.youtube.com/live/LIhFsdciisY
As the school year starts winding down, we are turning up the fun with SPIRIT WEEK! 🖤💛
From crazy outfits to themed days and lots of school pride, our students and staff are making the most of these final weeks together. Thank you to everyone participating and helping create so many great memories before summer break! ☀️📚
We can’t wait to see all the creativity, laughter, and school spirit throughout the week!
#HarvardRising #HarvardHornets #SpiritWeek
From crazy outfits to themed days and lots of school pride, our students and staff are making the most of these final weeks together. Thank you to everyone participating and helping create so many great memories before summer break! ☀️📚
We can’t wait to see all the creativity, laughter, and school spirit throughout the week!
#HarvardRising #HarvardHornets #SpiritWeek
🎶 Some highlights from our Choir Rehearsal Day! 🎶
Students in grades 6–12 came together to rehearse our group piece, “High Flight,” with Mrs. Sullivan in preparation for our Spring Concert on Thursday, May 7 at 6:30 PM in the Harvard High School North Gym.
Each choir had the opportunity to perform for one another and receive constructive feedback—such a great way to grow as musicians! The 6th–8th graders also participated in a Q&A session with our high school choir members, asking questions about choir in high school, why they joined, and what makes it so enjoyable.
It was a fantastic morning filled with music, learning, and connection. We can’t wait to share it all with you at the concert! 🎤✨
#HarvardRising #ChoirConcert
Students in grades 6–12 came together to rehearse our group piece, “High Flight,” with Mrs. Sullivan in preparation for our Spring Concert on Thursday, May 7 at 6:30 PM in the Harvard High School North Gym.
Each choir had the opportunity to perform for one another and receive constructive feedback—such a great way to grow as musicians! The 6th–8th graders also participated in a Q&A session with our high school choir members, asking questions about choir in high school, why they joined, and what makes it so enjoyable.
It was a fantastic morning filled with music, learning, and connection. We can’t wait to share it all with you at the concert! 🎤✨
#HarvardRising #ChoirConcert
Good morning families of our 8th Grade Students. We are so excited to have the opportunity to celebrate our 8th-grade students at the end of the school year. They have done a wonderful job here during their three years at Harvard Junior High School!
As we look towards May, here are some dates and pieces of information I want to share with you.
First of all, on Monday, May 18th, we will have our 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony at Harvard High School. Please see the attached invitation for specific details.
Additional end-of-the-school-year events for 8th grade students:
8th Grade Visit to Harvard High School (April 27th, Morning)
8th Grade Dance (May 15th, 6:00 - 8:00)
8th Grade Promotion (May 18th at 6:00, Harvard High School)
This event will be live-streamed as well
Thank you, and please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Patrick Podgorski
Principal,
Harvard Junior High School
As we look towards May, here are some dates and pieces of information I want to share with you.
First of all, on Monday, May 18th, we will have our 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony at Harvard High School. Please see the attached invitation for specific details.
Additional end-of-the-school-year events for 8th grade students:
8th Grade Visit to Harvard High School (April 27th, Morning)
8th Grade Dance (May 15th, 6:00 - 8:00)
8th Grade Promotion (May 18th at 6:00, Harvard High School)
This event will be live-streamed as well
Thank you, and please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Patrick Podgorski
Principal,
Harvard Junior High School
April is Autism Awareness Month, and our Student Council took a meaningful step to show their support! 💙
Students spent time creating homemade bracelets to help raise awareness and celebrate inclusion within our school community. Each bracelet is a small reminder of the importance of understanding, acceptance, and kindness.
We’re proud of our students for using their voices and creativity to make a difference! #AutismAwareness #HarvardRising
Students spent time creating homemade bracelets to help raise awareness and celebrate inclusion within our school community. Each bracelet is a small reminder of the importance of understanding, acceptance, and kindness.
We’re proud of our students for using their voices and creativity to make a difference! #AutismAwareness #HarvardRising
Dear Harvard Junior High Families,
Harvard Junior High is making an important change next year. Starting in the 2026-27 school year, the school will transition from block scheduling to a traditional daily period schedule.
This decision was not made lightly. My team and I conducted a thorough review of student performance data and gathered feedback from staff and families before moving forward. The research is clear: students benefit from seeing their teachers every day. That means more consistent instruction, more frequent feedback, and a predictable routine that helps students stay organized and on track.
"By moving to a straight period schedule, we are relying on stakeholder input, research about best practices with middle grade scheduling, prioritizing regular practice, stronger relationships with teachers, and a more predictable structure that supports academic growth for all students.”
Dr. Brandon C. White, Superintendent, Harvard CUSD 50
We have prepared a detailed FAQ to address your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are committed to making this transition smooth and successful for every student. Please don't hesitate to reach out to the main office at 815-943-6466 or by contacting your child's teachers with any questions.
Thank you for your continued support of Harvard Junior High.
Sincerely,
Patrick Podgorski
Principal, Harvard Junior High School
Harvard Junior High is making an important change next year. Starting in the 2026-27 school year, the school will transition from block scheduling to a traditional daily period schedule.
This decision was not made lightly. My team and I conducted a thorough review of student performance data and gathered feedback from staff and families before moving forward. The research is clear: students benefit from seeing their teachers every day. That means more consistent instruction, more frequent feedback, and a predictable routine that helps students stay organized and on track.
"By moving to a straight period schedule, we are relying on stakeholder input, research about best practices with middle grade scheduling, prioritizing regular practice, stronger relationships with teachers, and a more predictable structure that supports academic growth for all students.”
Dr. Brandon C. White, Superintendent, Harvard CUSD 50
We have prepared a detailed FAQ to address your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are committed to making this transition smooth and successful for every student. Please don't hesitate to reach out to the main office at 815-943-6466 or by contacting your child's teachers with any questions.
Thank you for your continued support of Harvard Junior High.
Sincerely,
Patrick Podgorski
Principal, Harvard Junior High School
Our 8th grade ELA students have been hard at work researching colleges and putting their skills into action by writing formal letters to the schools they selected. After sending them off, the excitement is already building—some students have begun receiving responses!
From personalized letters to informational materials and even a few fun surprises, it’s been incredible to see their efforts pay off. This authentic experience not only strengthens their writing skills but also gives them a glimpse into the opportunities that lie ahead. 📬✨
#HarvardRising #JrHornetsRising #CollegeLetters
From personalized letters to informational materials and even a few fun surprises, it’s been incredible to see their efforts pay off. This authentic experience not only strengthens their writing skills but also gives them a glimpse into the opportunities that lie ahead. 📬✨
#HarvardRising #JrHornetsRising #CollegeLetters
In 7th grade Social Studies with Mr. Rada, students are building strong collaborative, academic, and communication skills in both English and Spanish—all through the lens of history! 🌎📚
This week, the focus is on the expansion of the United States during the 19th century. Through engaging discussions and interactive activities, students are sharpening their critical thinking while working together as a team.
It’s exciting to see students making connections, sharing ideas, and growing as learners every day! 💬✨
#HarvardRising #HJH
This week, the focus is on the expansion of the United States during the 19th century. Through engaging discussions and interactive activities, students are sharpening their critical thinking while working together as a team.
It’s exciting to see students making connections, sharing ideas, and growing as learners every day! 💬✨
#HarvardRising #HJH
Our 8th graders recently stepped into the real world during our Reality Store experience—and let’s just say, adulthood came fast! 💼💰
Each student was assigned a career and monthly salary, then challenged to budget their way through life by visiting stations like housing, transportation, childcare, food, and more. As they paid their “bills,” they quickly realized how far (or not so far!) their income could stretch.
This hands-on activity gave students a powerful look at financial responsibility, decision-making, and the true cost of living. From tough choices to eye-opening moments, our students walked away with a deeper appreciation for planning ahead and managing money wisely.
Great job to our 8th graders for taking on the challenge and gaining real-life skills that will last a lifetime! 👏
#HarvardRising #JrHornetsRising #RealityStore
Each student was assigned a career and monthly salary, then challenged to budget their way through life by visiting stations like housing, transportation, childcare, food, and more. As they paid their “bills,” they quickly realized how far (or not so far!) their income could stretch.
This hands-on activity gave students a powerful look at financial responsibility, decision-making, and the true cost of living. From tough choices to eye-opening moments, our students walked away with a deeper appreciation for planning ahead and managing money wisely.
Great job to our 8th graders for taking on the challenge and gaining real-life skills that will last a lifetime! 👏
#HarvardRising #JrHornetsRising #RealityStore
Good Morning 8th Grade Parents & Guardians,
It has been brought to my attention that the 8th grade dance has historically been a parent run and organized event. As a new building principal, I would love to continue the tradition of having parents be involved and help with the planning and set-up for the event.
Tha dance is planned for May 15th, 6-8pm. The commitment would be just to attend one or two meetings between then and some set up commitment from 3-6pm on the 15th of May.
If you are interested in helping out, please reach out and send me an email. My contact information is:
Email: ppodgorski@cusd50.org
Phone: 815-943-6466
It has been brought to my attention that the 8th grade dance has historically been a parent run and organized event. As a new building principal, I would love to continue the tradition of having parents be involved and help with the planning and set-up for the event.
Tha dance is planned for May 15th, 6-8pm. The commitment would be just to attend one or two meetings between then and some set up commitment from 3-6pm on the 15th of May.
If you are interested in helping out, please reach out and send me an email. My contact information is:
Email: ppodgorski@cusd50.org
Phone: 815-943-6466
Good afternoon,
Please see the weekly newsletter update from Mr. Podgorski. We hope everyone has a wonderful Easter weekend and we will see everyone on Monday.
Thank you,
April 2nd Smore Newsletter
https://app.smore.com/n/7bfum
Please see the weekly newsletter update from Mr. Podgorski. We hope everyone has a wonderful Easter weekend and we will see everyone on Monday.
Thank you,
April 2nd Smore Newsletter
https://app.smore.com/n/7bfum
MINECRAFT CANCELATION!!
"Due to the forecasted severe weather this afternoon, I have decided to cancel Minecraft Club today April 2nd, 2026. Minecraft club will meet again next week on WEDNESDAY April 8th, 2026 and FRIDAY April 10, 2026 . I apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for understanding!
Mr. D"
¡¡CANCELACIÓN DE MINECRAFT!!
«Debido a las condiciones climaticas con pronosticadas para esta tarde, he decidido cancelar el Club de Minecraft hoy, 2 de abril de 2026. El Club de Minecraft se reunirá nuevamente la próxima semana: el MIÉRCOLES 8 de abril de 2026 y el VIERNES 10 de abril de 2026. ¡Pido disculpas por cualquier inconveniente y agradezco su comprensión!
Sr. D»
Good evening,
Please disregard any information you have heard about an incoming 6th grade orientation for next year happening tonight. This event was placed on the building calendar and website by the previous administration.
Mr. Podgorski and Mrs. Bigler have already been working to do an elective fair at Jefferson and an orientation at the Junior High on the same day/night later this year.
More communication will be coming out soon about that.
Thank you and apologies for any confusion
Buenas Tardes:
Por favor, descarten la información que hayan recibido sobre una sesión de orientación para los alumnos que ingresarán a 6.º grado el próximo año, la cual supuestamente tendría lugar esta noche. Este evento fue incluido en el calendario del edificio y en el sitio web por la administración anterior.
El Sr. Podgorski y la Sra. Bigler ya están trabajando en la organización de una feria de asignaturas optativas en Jefferson y una sesión de orientación en la escuela secundaria (Junior High), las cuales se llevarán a cabo el mismo día —o la misma noche— más adelante este año.
Próximamente enviaremos más información al respecto.
Gracias y disculpen cualquier confusión.
Dear Hornet Families,
Registration for the 2026–2027 school year will open on April 9.
To get started, please visit our registration page: www.cusd50.org/registration Registration links will be updated and available on April 9.
If you need assistance with the registration process, we invite you to attend our Registration Event on April 9 from 5:00–7:30 PM at Crosby Elementary. Staff will be available to support families, including Spanish translation services and tech help. A postcard will be going home with your student tomorrow regarding this event.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to District Registrar, Angelica Cadena, at acadena@cusd50.org or at 815-943-4022.
Thank you
Registration for the 2026–2027 school year will open on April 9.
To get started, please visit our registration page: www.cusd50.org/registration Registration links will be updated and available on April 9.
If you need assistance with the registration process, we invite you to attend our Registration Event on April 9 from 5:00–7:30 PM at Crosby Elementary. Staff will be available to support families, including Spanish translation services and tech help. A postcard will be going home with your student tomorrow regarding this event.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to District Registrar, Angelica Cadena, at acadena@cusd50.org or at 815-943-4022.
Thank you