Please note two changes to the 2026-27 Midwest Central school calendar following the October Board meeting:
February 3 has been added as a half day.
The previously scheduled April half day has been moved to April 14 to accommodate ACT testing.
The updated calendar is available at www.MidwestCentral.org.
Please take a moment to update your calendars with these changes!
February 3 has been added as a half day.
The previously scheduled April half day has been moved to April 14 to accommodate ACT testing.
The updated calendar is available at www.MidwestCentral.org.
Please take a moment to update your calendars with these changes!
See a school bus approaching railroad tracks? Expect it to stop—even when no students are on board.
Bus drivers activate their hazard flashers, stop, and look and listen for trains before crossing.
If you’re behind the bus:
• Slow down and give it room to stop.
• Never cross the centerline to pass within 100 feet of a railroad crossing.
• Let the bus clear the tracks, and cross only when there’s enough space for your entire vehicle on the other side.
A few extra seconds are worth a safe arrival.
Learn more about school buses and railroad crossings: https://www.midwestcentral.org/page/transportation
Bus drivers activate their hazard flashers, stop, and look and listen for trains before crossing.
If you’re behind the bus:
• Slow down and give it room to stop.
• Never cross the centerline to pass within 100 feet of a railroad crossing.
• Let the bus clear the tracks, and cross only when there’s enough space for your entire vehicle on the other side.
A few extra seconds are worth a safe arrival.
Learn more about school buses and railroad crossings: https://www.midwestcentral.org/page/transportation
Reminder - Today is a 1/2 day for students due to evening Parent/Teacher Conferences! There are no PreK classes. Buildings will dismiss as follows: PS - 11:40, MS - 11:20, HS - 11:30
Our Community Chapter Little Free Library is officially open!
Earlier this school year, we shared that Midwest Central received a grant from the Forman Valley Community Foundation to bring this project to our community. Since then, our Advanced Ag Mechanics class assembled and installed the library, and it is now stocked with its first collection of books for readers of all ages, from Pre-K through adult.
The idea is simple: take a book or share a book. Books are free for anyone to enjoy, and book donations are welcome to help keep the library stocked. Our Work Skills class will help keep The Community Chapter stocked and maintained on a regular basis.
The Community Chapter has also been added to the Little Free Library map and can be found through the Little Free Library app.
This project came together thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Teresa Hill, Mrs. Abbie Schneider, and Mr. Steve Snider, along with the students who helped turn the idea into a finished project for our community. Thank you to everyone who played a part in making this project happen.
The Community Chapter is located on school property, with the surrounding area included in the district’s normal security camera coverage.
We’re excited to see The Community Chapter put to use!
Earlier this school year, we shared that Midwest Central received a grant from the Forman Valley Community Foundation to bring this project to our community. Since then, our Advanced Ag Mechanics class assembled and installed the library, and it is now stocked with its first collection of books for readers of all ages, from Pre-K through adult.
The idea is simple: take a book or share a book. Books are free for anyone to enjoy, and book donations are welcome to help keep the library stocked. Our Work Skills class will help keep The Community Chapter stocked and maintained on a regular basis.
The Community Chapter has also been added to the Little Free Library map and can be found through the Little Free Library app.
This project came together thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Teresa Hill, Mrs. Abbie Schneider, and Mr. Steve Snider, along with the students who helped turn the idea into a finished project for our community. Thank you to everyone who played a part in making this project happen.
The Community Chapter is located on school property, with the surrounding area included in the district’s normal security camera coverage.
We’re excited to see The Community Chapter put to use!
Bus stop safety starts before the bus arrives.
When approaching a school bus stop, watch for these four types of hazards:
• Roadside obstacles: Trees, intersections, construction, and other obstructions can hide children from view.
• Weather and visibility: Leaves, snowbanks, ice, rain, fog, darkness, and bright sunlight can create hazards.
• Moving or changing conditions: Traffic, parked cars, pedestrians, pets, and trash bins can affect visibility and movement.
• Distractions and unexpected activity: Watch for children running late, horseplay, and activity around the stop.
Slow down, stay focused, and expect the unexpected. Our Raiders are counting on you.
Learn more about bus stop safety: https://www.midwestcentral.org/page/transportation
When approaching a school bus stop, watch for these four types of hazards:
• Roadside obstacles: Trees, intersections, construction, and other obstructions can hide children from view.
• Weather and visibility: Leaves, snowbanks, ice, rain, fog, darkness, and bright sunlight can create hazards.
• Moving or changing conditions: Traffic, parked cars, pedestrians, pets, and trash bins can affect visibility and movement.
• Distractions and unexpected activity: Watch for children running late, horseplay, and activity around the stop.
Slow down, stay focused, and expect the unexpected. Our Raiders are counting on you.
Learn more about bus stop safety: https://www.midwestcentral.org/page/transportation
We are incredibly proud to share some very exciting news for Midwest Central!
Midwest Central Primary School has been named a 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon School!
MCPS received this prestigious recognition as an Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School, an honor that reflects the tremendous work taking place within our classrooms each and every day.
Only 24 schools across Illinois were recognized as Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools this year. To see Midwest Central Primary School among them is an incredible honor and one that belongs to our entire school community.
This recognition is a testament to our students who show up ready to learn, our teachers and staff who pour so much into helping every child succeed, and our families who support that work along the way.
We couldn't be prouder of what is happening at MCPS. Congratulations to our students, staff, families, and everyone who has played a part in this outstanding achievement.
What an amazing day to be a Raider!
#MCRaiderNationProud
Midwest Central Primary School has been named a 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon School!
MCPS received this prestigious recognition as an Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing School, an honor that reflects the tremendous work taking place within our classrooms each and every day.
Only 24 schools across Illinois were recognized as Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools this year. To see Midwest Central Primary School among them is an incredible honor and one that belongs to our entire school community.
This recognition is a testament to our students who show up ready to learn, our teachers and staff who pour so much into helping every child succeed, and our families who support that work along the way.
We couldn't be prouder of what is happening at MCPS. Congratulations to our students, staff, families, and everyone who has played a part in this outstanding achievement.
What an amazing day to be a Raider!
#MCRaiderNationProud
School bus lights send an important message. Do you know what each one means?
🟡 Flashing yellow: Slow down, watch for children, and prepare to stop.
🔴 Flashing red + extended stop arm: Stop at least 20 feet from the bus.
• On two-lane roads, BOTH directions must stop.
• On roads with four or more lanes and at least two lanes traveling in the opposite direction, traffic traveling WITH the bus must stop. Opposing traffic should proceed cautiously.
• On one-way roads, all traffic must stop.
Remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm is withdrawn. Check for children before proceeding.
White rooftop strobe: Helps make the bus more visible, including in poor weather.
Hazard flashers near railroad tracks: Expect the bus to stop. Never cross the centerline to pass a bus within 100 feet of a railroad crossing.
A few moments of patience help protect our Raiders.
Learn more about bus stop safety: https://www.midwestcentral.org/page/transportation
🟡 Flashing yellow: Slow down, watch for children, and prepare to stop.
🔴 Flashing red + extended stop arm: Stop at least 20 feet from the bus.
• On two-lane roads, BOTH directions must stop.
• On roads with four or more lanes and at least two lanes traveling in the opposite direction, traffic traveling WITH the bus must stop. Opposing traffic should proceed cautiously.
• On one-way roads, all traffic must stop.
Remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm is withdrawn. Check for children before proceeding.
White rooftop strobe: Helps make the bus more visible, including in poor weather.
Hazard flashers near railroad tracks: Expect the bus to stop. Never cross the centerline to pass a bus within 100 feet of a railroad crossing.
A few moments of patience help protect our Raiders.
Learn more about bus stop safety: https://www.midwestcentral.org/page/transportation
Parent/Teacher Conferences are this week.
✅ Thursday, October 22: Early dismissal with students attending a half day (morning only) - There are no PreK classes. Buildings will dismiss as follows: PS - 11:40, MS - 11:20, HS - 11:30
✅ Friday, October 23: No School
We look forward to connecting with families during conferences!
Transportation Spotlight: Jarrod Cunningham
Meet Jarrod, driver of Bus #9! Jarrod has been part of our Midwest Central transportation family for three years, and if you’ve ever tried to catch him between trips, you know he’s always on the go!
In addition to his daily route, Jarrod keeps our Raiders moving to sporting events and other activities. Over the past three years, he has logged more than 300 activity trips alongside his regular route—quite a few miles supporting our students!
Jarrod has become a huge asset to our transportation team, and we appreciate his dedication to safely getting our Raiders to school, to their activities, and back home.
Thank you, Jarrod, for your hard work, commitment to safety, and the many miles you travel for our students and families!
Today also marks the start of School Bus Safety Week. Throughout the week, we’ll share reminders about bus lights, bus stops, railroad crossings, and danger zones. Help support Jarrod and all our drivers by slowing down, staying alert, and doing your part to keep every ride safe!
Meet Jarrod, driver of Bus #9! Jarrod has been part of our Midwest Central transportation family for three years, and if you’ve ever tried to catch him between trips, you know he’s always on the go!
In addition to his daily route, Jarrod keeps our Raiders moving to sporting events and other activities. Over the past three years, he has logged more than 300 activity trips alongside his regular route—quite a few miles supporting our students!
Jarrod has become a huge asset to our transportation team, and we appreciate his dedication to safely getting our Raiders to school, to their activities, and back home.
Thank you, Jarrod, for your hard work, commitment to safety, and the many miles you travel for our students and families!
Today also marks the start of School Bus Safety Week. Throughout the week, we’ll share reminders about bus lights, bus stops, railroad crossings, and danger zones. Help support Jarrod and all our drivers by slowing down, staying alert, and doing your part to keep every ride safe!
Raider Nation, today marks the end of the 1st nine weeks. Congratulations to our students on a strong start to the school year, and best of luck as we begin the 2nd quarter!
Happy Columbus Day, Raider Nation!
Whether you're exploring the outdoors, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a day to recharge, we hope you're having a great day. We look forward to welcoming students back tomorrow!
Whether you're exploring the outdoors, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a day to recharge, we hope you're having a great day. We look forward to welcoming students back tomorrow!
Reminder, Raider Nation! There will be no school on Monday, October 12, in observance of Columbus Day. Enjoy the long weekend!
Trunk-or-Treat is almost here! Join us for a frightfully fun night on Saturday, October 31, at Midwest Central High School! Trick out your costumes and stroll through a row of decorated cars. Community members are welcome to join in the fun! Inside, there will be games, photo ops, and devilishly delicious treats. Celebrate with us on Halloween night! 🎃👻🕷️
Help brighten the holidays for families in our Raider community!
Snow Buddies supports children and families in need within Midwest Central School District.
You can help in two ways:
• Donate now: Monetary donations can be dropped off at any Midwest Central school office to help purchase gifts.
• Shop for a family: Beginning November 9, pick up a tag at Midwest Central Primary School with a participating family’s gift wishes and use it to guide your shopping.
Questions? Contact Megan McMullen at mcmullen@midwestcentral.org or 309.968.6464.
Thank you for helping bring holiday joy to local families!
Snow Buddies supports children and families in need within Midwest Central School District.
You can help in two ways:
• Donate now: Monetary donations can be dropped off at any Midwest Central school office to help purchase gifts.
• Shop for a family: Beginning November 9, pick up a tag at Midwest Central Primary School with a participating family’s gift wishes and use it to guide your shopping.
Questions? Contact Megan McMullen at mcmullen@midwestcentral.org or 309.968.6464.
Thank you for helping bring holiday joy to local families!
Transportation Spotlight: Jessica Herndon
Meet Jessica Herndon, driver of Bus #3! Jessica first joined Midwest Central as a school bus monitor, serving in that role for four years before deciding to take the next step and train to become a school bus driver. She is now in her second year behind the wheel and enjoys the opportunity to serve students and families each day.
When asked what she enjoys most about being a bus driver, Jessica shared that she loves hearing the stories from both students and co-workers.
Like many drivers, one of Jessica's biggest challenges is dealing with traffic and distracted drivers. This year, she's looking forward to a year filled with safe rides, happy faces, good mornings, and lots of smiles.
Thank you, Jessica, for your dedication to our students and for helping make every bus ride a safe and positive experience!
Meet Jessica Herndon, driver of Bus #3! Jessica first joined Midwest Central as a school bus monitor, serving in that role for four years before deciding to take the next step and train to become a school bus driver. She is now in her second year behind the wheel and enjoys the opportunity to serve students and families each day.
When asked what she enjoys most about being a bus driver, Jessica shared that she loves hearing the stories from both students and co-workers.
Like many drivers, one of Jessica's biggest challenges is dealing with traffic and distracted drivers. This year, she's looking forward to a year filled with safe rides, happy faces, good mornings, and lots of smiles.
Thank you, Jessica, for your dedication to our students and for helping make every bus ride a safe and positive experience!
Happy Custodial & Maintenance Workers Day!
They fix things we've broken. They clean things we've spilled. They move things we've misplaced. And somehow they always know where the ladder is.
Today we celebrate the team that keeps Midwest Central looking great and running smoothly.
Thank you for all you do behind the scenes each and every day!
They fix things we've broken. They clean things we've spilled. They move things we've misplaced. And somehow they always know where the ladder is.
Today we celebrate the team that keeps Midwest Central looking great and running smoothly.
Thank you for all you do behind the scenes each and every day!
Meet Chad Ramme, driver of Bus #11! After serving 23 years in the United States Army and later working as a semi-truck driver, Chad returned to Illinois looking for a career that would allow him to make a difference close to home. He completed his school bus training at Midwest Central and has now been safely transporting students for the past nine years.
When asked what he enjoys most about being a school bus driver, Chad shared,"Knowing I am the first smiling face my students see in the morning and the last one they see in the afternoon."
Chad takes great pride in building positive relationships with his students and helping create a safe, respectful environment on Bus #11. This year, his goal is to continue having one of the best-behaved buses in the district.
Thank you, Chad, for your service, dedication, and commitment to the students and families of Midwest Central!
When asked what he enjoys most about being a school bus driver, Chad shared,"Knowing I am the first smiling face my students see in the morning and the last one they see in the afternoon."
Chad takes great pride in building positive relationships with his students and helping create a safe, respectful environment on Bus #11. This year, his goal is to continue having one of the best-behaved buses in the district.
Thank you, Chad, for your service, dedication, and commitment to the students and families of Midwest Central!
Important Community Notice: Construction Project and Campus Access Changes
Midwest Central broke ground this week to begin building a new gym east of the high school. We would like to inform students, families, staff, and community members about changes on campus that will continue throughout the entire 2026-27 school year.
As part of this project, a construction area located at MCHS has been securely fenced off to protect the safety of students, staff, and visitors. The project will impact the student walkway between the High School and Primary School buildings as well as parking availability in the high school parking lot.
Safety Remains Our Top Priority
We ask all students, parents, and visitors to remain alert and exercise caution when on campus. Specifically:
• Do not enter or attempt to access any fenced construction areas.
• Follow all posted signs and use only approved walkways and building entrances.
• Be mindful of construction equipment, vehicles, and workers operating in the area.
• Allow extra time for arrival and departure due to changes in traffic and parking patterns.
The construction zone has been designed to maintain a safe separation between school operations and construction activities; however, community cooperation is essential to ensuring everyone's safety.
Parking and Access - The construction project will temporarily reduce available parking in the high school lot. Visitors attending school events are encouraged to watch for updated parking guidance and signage throughout the year.
Spring Sports Information - At this time, access routes and parking arrangements for spring activities, including baseball and track events, are still being finalized. Additional information regarding attendance, parking, and facility access for spring sports will be communicated to families and community members closer to the start of those seasons.
Thank You for Your Patience - We appreciate the flexibility, patience, and support of our students, families, staff, and community as we complete this important project. These improvements will benefit our schools and community for years to come.
Questions regarding the construction project may be directed to Dr. Todd Hellrigel, Superintendent, or Sally Timm, Assistant Superintendent at 309.968.6868 or toddh@midwestcentral.org or timm@midwestcentral.org.
Transportation Spotlight: Crystal Simpson
Meet Crystal Simpson, driver of Bus #12! Crystal began her school bus driving career at Midwest Central, where she served our district for three years before relocating. She then spent five years driving for District 150 before returning home to Midwest Central. Now in her second year back with District 191, Crystal brings a decade of experience behind the wheel.
In addition to driving a regular morning and afternoon route, Crystal also drives one of our two midday Pre-K routes, helping ensure our youngest Raiders travel safely to and from school.
When asked what she enjoys most about driving a school bus, Crystal shared that she loves getting to see the kids every year. Her biggest challenge? Stop-arm runners, a reminder of how important bus safety is for everyone on the road.
Thank you, Crystal, for your dedication to our students and families and for the many miles you travel to keep them safe each day!
Meet Crystal Simpson, driver of Bus #12! Crystal began her school bus driving career at Midwest Central, where she served our district for three years before relocating. She then spent five years driving for District 150 before returning home to Midwest Central. Now in her second year back with District 191, Crystal brings a decade of experience behind the wheel.
In addition to driving a regular morning and afternoon route, Crystal also drives one of our two midday Pre-K routes, helping ensure our youngest Raiders travel safely to and from school.
When asked what she enjoys most about driving a school bus, Crystal shared that she loves getting to see the kids every year. Her biggest challenge? Stop-arm runners, a reminder of how important bus safety is for everyone on the road.
Thank you, Crystal, for your dedication to our students and families and for the many miles you travel to keep them safe each day!
Join our team!
