Get Involved at JTHS 

The Board of Education holds monthly meetings open to the public. Agendas are posted at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. 
 
Who’s Invited? Parents/Guardians, Students, Staff, Alumni, Community 
 
Dates: September 19, October 17, November 14, December 19, January 16, February 20, March 19, April 16, May 21, June 18 
 
Time: 7 p.m. (Sign up before 6:50 p.m. if you wish to make a public comment) 
 
Location: Administrative Center  
 
Livestream: View meetings live 
 
Questions? Contact Tanya Rico

An opportunity for students and families to meet teachers and staff and learn about the programs and opportunities available.  This is an early release day for students with dismissal at 1:15 p.m. 
 
Who’s Invited: Parents/Guardians, Families, Students 
 
Date: August 30 
 
Time: 6 to 8 p.m. 
 
Location: Joliet Central and Joliet West

View Central Homecoming Info
View West Homecoming Info

Are you interested in volunteering and want to learn about the opportunities that are available to get involved? Then this event is for you!  Topics include internships, career fairs, classroom speakers, mentorship, and more!  A hot breakfast is served.  View the Partnership Recruitment Breakfast Flyer for more information.  
 
Who’s Invited: Business and Community Members, Parents/Guardians, and Alumni Interested in Volunteering 
 
Date: October 5 
 
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 – Hot Breakfast is Served 
 
Location: Administrative Center 
 
RSVP: By Sept. 28 HERE 
 
Questions? Contact Shelley Clark 

An opportunity for parents and students to meet with teachers virtually to discuss grades and progress.  Parent Teacher Conferences take place by appointment.  
 
Who’s Invited: Parents/Guardians, Students 
 
Dates & Times:  
Semester 1 
October 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. (Early Release Day) 
October 13 from 9 to 3 p.m. (No Classes) 
 
Semester 2 
March 7 from 4 to 7 p.m. (Early Release Day) 
March 8 from 9 to 3 p.m. (No Classes) 

Location: Virtual 

Questions?  Contact Shelley Clark

A board-sanctioned committee that reviews and recommends changes to district policies, including bullying, harassment, disciplinary codes, and dress code.  This committee will develop plans to achieve the specific result of Action Plan 4.3: Implement a holistic and inclusive approach to restorative justice practices in student discipline in order to minimize the impact of staff bias and behavior outcomes on student achievement.   Students receive community service for attending.  Bring the Community Service Form and have it signed. 
 
Who’s Invited? Parents/Guardians, Students, Staff, Alumni & Community 
 
Dates: September 12, September 26, October 10, October 24, November 7, December 5, & December 12 - Participants should attend all meetings if possible. 
 
Time: 5 to 7 p.m. 
 
Location: Joliet Central Multipurpose Room 
 
How to Sign Up: Complete the Strategy 1.5 Action Planning Team/Parent Teacher Advisory Committee Sign-Up Form  
 
Questions?  Contact Steve Locke at (Central Campus) or Brett Marcum at (West Campus)

Focus group members will assist in developing plans to implement Action Plan 2.2 of the Strategic Plan which calls for the creation of supportive programming that improves the success of all student subgroups to increase the graduation rate and post-secondary success.  Students will receive community service hours for their participation.  Bring the Community Service Form and have it signed. 
 
Who’s Invited: Parents/Guardians, Students, Staff, Alumni & Community 
 
Time: 3:45 to 5:15 p.m. 
 
Dates & Locations:  September 12 at the JTHS Transition Center; September 26, October 10 & October 24 at the JTHS Administrative Center - Participants should attend all meetings if possible. 
 
How to Sign Up: Please RSVP no later than Friday, September 8 by completing the Special Education Focus Group Sign-Up Form. 
 
Questions?  Contact Jamila Cage  or Jessica Wilkinson

This committee will develop plans to achieve the specific result of Action Plan 3.2: Increase the attendance rate to 90% or greater by implementing proactive, positive and collaborative approaches and programs. Students will receive community service hours for their participation.  Bring the Community Service Form and have it signed. 
 
Who’s Invited: Parents/Guardians, Students, Staff, Alumni & Community 
 
Time: 4:30 to 6 p.m. 
 
Location: JTHS Administrative Center 
 
Dates: September 21, October 5, November 16 & December 14. 
 
How to Sign Up:  Committee members should attend all meetings if possible.  Complete the Strategy 3.2 Action Planning Committee Sign-Up Form if you would like to participate as a member of this committee. 
 
Questions? Contact Principal Hallihan (Central) or Principal Parker (West)

This committee will develop plans to achieve the specific result of Action Plan 4.3: Structure the school day to provide flexible scheduling options and targeted support to meet the individualized needs of students and foster a collaborative and supportive environment for staff.  Students will receive community service hours for their participation.  Bring the Community Service Form and have it signed. 

Who’s Invited: Parents/Guardians, Students, Staff, Alumni & Community 
 
Time: 5 to 7 p.m. 
 
Location: JTHS Administrative Center 
 
Dates: September 6, September 20, October 11, November 1, November 15, and December 6. 
 
How to Sign Up:  Committee members should attend all meetings if possible.  Complete the Strategy 4.3 Action Planning Committee Sign-Up Form if you would like to participate as a member of this committee. 
 
Questions? Contact Dianne McDonald 

The Joliet Township High School Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Karla Guseman invite members of the public to the annual State of the District Address on February 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Joliet West High School Foyer, Rotunda  & Cafeteria.  The State of District Address will provide a comprehensive overview of the district’s health, including academic and financial aspects, the 5-year Strategic Plan, social-emotional supports, facilities, activities/athletics, and more. 

Who’s Invited? Community Members, Civic Leaders, Legislators, Parents, Staff, Students, Alumni, and Resource Vendors

Date: February 6

Time: 
Meet & Greet (Appetizers, Musical Entertainment, Resource Vendors)
5 to 6 p.m.

State of the District Address
6 to 7 p.m.

Location:
Joliet West High School Cafeteria, Rotunda & Foyer – Enter Building Through Door 5

RSVP: Complete the State of the District RSVP Form by January 22 so that we can plan accordingly

Questions? Contact Kristine Schlismann

The athletic schedules are posted to the 8 to 18 website and can be accessed via the links below. 
Central Athletic Schedule 
West Athletic Schedule 
 
Tickets for athletic events can be purchased via the links below. 
Central Campus Tickets 
West Athletic Tickets

The annual crosstown Central vs. West cross-town volleyball event.  The Pink Heals event has been a part of the JT volleyball programs since 2008 and has a special meaning to all that have been a part of our volleyball family.  

Who's Invited? Cancer Survivors & Families, Parents, Students, Staff, Alumni & Community

Date: October 16

Location: Joliet West Gymnasium

Time: Doors Open at 3:30 p.m.  The JV/Freshman game starts at 4:30 p.m., followed by the Pre-Game Survivors Ceremony, and then the varsity game.

Tickets: JTHS will sell Pink Heals Shirts for $15 each at the event.  Shirts can also be purchased online.  The online store closes September 13 at midnight. Individuals wearing the shirt may enter the event for free. Otherwise, the cost to enter is $5 per person. 
 

Do you want to volunteer to help our athletic programs?  Then join the JT Boosters! The Boosters raise funds to supplement the athletic budgets, provide scholarships, and promote Steelmen and Tiger Pride.  Fundraisers include a golf outing and a Night of Champions event. 
 
Who’s Invited? Parents/Guardians, Staff, Alumni, Community 
 
Dates: September 13, October 11, November 15, January 10, February 14, March 13, April 10, May 15 
 
Time: 6 p.m. 
 
Location: Administrative Center  
 
Questions? Contact Tanya Rico

Proceeds benefit the JTHS Booster mission of supplementing the athletic budgets, providing scholarships, and promoting Steelmen and Tiger school pride. 

Who’s Invited: Parents, Staff, Community, Alumni

Date: September 10

Time: Registration begins at 8 a.m. and tee off is at 9 a.m.

Location: Inwood Golf Course

Ticket Info: Tickets are $110 per person which includes 18 holes, a cart, a tee gift, range balls, lunch, drinks, longest drive and closest to the pin contests, and raffles.  Click HERE to sponsor

Sponsorship Info: Sponsorships include carts ($600), hole sponsor ($150), lunch ($300) and raffle prizes ($250).  Contact Steve Millsaps at (815) 727-6920 if you wish to donate a raffle prize.  Click HERE to sponsor.

Questions? Contact Tanya Rico

 

A fall, winter, and spring mentorship dinner is held for senior athletes at Joliet West.  During the dinners, mentors are paired with athletes to tell their story and engage in conversation.    
 
Who Can Mentor? Parents/Guardians, Staff, Alumni, Community 
 
Dates:  
Fall Dinner – August 30 
Spring Dinner – March 7 
Winter Dinner – TBD 
 
Time: 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. 
 
Location: Joliet West Cafeteria  
 
How to Sign Up as a Mentor:  For the fall dinner, complete the Fall Mentor Sign-Up Form  
 
Questions?  Contact Steve Millsaps

A 501(C)3 Organization that raises money for scholarships, educational mini-grants, and contributions to the principal’s discretionary fund.  Fundraising events include an annual golf outing and a trivia event.  Open to alumni, parents, and the community.  
 
Who’s Invited: Parents/Guardians, Staff, Alumni, Community 
 
Dates: September 6, October 3, November 7, December 5 

Time: 5 to 6:30 p.m. 
 
Location: Administrative Center  
 
Questions: Contact Mark Turk 

Are you passionate about JTHS history and the preservation of historical items?  Do you want to help give school tours? Students receive community service for attending.  Bring the Community Service Form and have it signed. 
 
Who’s Invited? Parents/Guardians, Students, Staff, Alumni, Community 
 
Dates: November 9, January 11, March 21, May 16  
Time: 7 p.m. 
 
Location: Joliet Central Third Floor Archives Area  
 
Questions?  Contact Emily Petronio

A support group for grandparents raising children that provides fellowship and assistance in navigating the educational and public service aid systems.  View the Grandparents Raising Children Flyer. 
 
Who’s Invited? All Grandparents Raising Children – Does Not Have to Be A JTHS Student 
 
Location: Administrative Center  
 
Time: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 
 
Dates: September 19, October 17, November 21, January 16, February 20, March 19 
 
Holiday Party – December 15 from 4 to 9 p.m. – RSVP Required 
 
Questions?  Contact Mary White

Meetings are held in Spanish with English interpretation and address topics aimed to improve student achievement, involvement, and social/emotional well-being.  Students receive community service for attending.  Bring the Community Service Form and have it signed.  Dinner and childcare provided. 
 
Who’s Invited: Parents/Guardians, Students, Alumni, Community 
 
Dates, Times, Location Topics:
October 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. @ Central Cafeteria 
Topic: Educational Supports
Presenters Include Superintendent Dr. Guseman, Athletics Leadership & School Counselors
View the October 19 BPAC Flyer
 
November 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. 
Location TBD – Topic TBD 
 
February 27 from 5 to 7 p.m. 
Virtual/Zoom – Topic TBD 
 
April 23 from 5 to 7 p.m. 
Location TBD - Topic: Social Emotional Resource Workshop w/ Dr. Ferney Ramirez. 
 
Questions?  Contact Ms. Marcela Flores at mflores@jths.org

An event for Spanish-speaking families who are new to the United States.  Topics include graduation requirements, vaccines, attendance, and the Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee (BPAC).  Parents and students can also get help with technology at the event.  Free childcare is available for children 3 years and older. 

Who’s Invited? Spanish-speaking parents and students who are new to the United States.

Date: September 5

Time: 6 to 8 p.m.

Location: Joliet Central Multipurpose Room

How do I Register? Complete the Registration Form if you plan to attend.

 

Are you a member of a community or faith-based organization looking for an opportunity to connect with JTHS leadership and the superintendent to align resources, embrace diversity, and support the JTHS Strategic Plan?  Then JRECC is for you!!  A hot breakfast is served. 
 
Who’s Invited?: Community and Faith-Based Leaders 
 
Location: Administrative Center  
 
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. – Hot Breakfast Provided 
 
Dates: October 20, December 15, February 23 & April 19  
 
Questions?  Contact Kristine Schlismann

Are you passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion? Do you want to participate in authentic conversations with school and community leaders regarding the impact of racism on students, disciplinary patterns, instructional practices, and school policies?  Then join us for critical conversations and our commitment to ending systemic racism!  Students receive community service for attending.  Bring the Community Service Form and have it signed. 
View Flyer
 
Who’s Invited? Parents/Guardians, Students, Staff, Alumni, Community 
 
Dates, Times & Locations: 
September 23 from 9 a.m. to Noon @ Administrative Center 
 
October 18 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. @ Spanish Community Center 
 
February 10 from 9 a.m. to noon @ National Hook-Up of Black Women, Inc. 
 
April 24 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. @ Workforce Services Division – Will County 

Complete the Sign Up Form if you will attend.
 
Questions?  Contact Steve Seper
 

Joliet West’s Key Club invites families and the community to their Trunk or Treat.  The event, geared toward younger children, takes place in the senior parking lot, which is located off Glenwood Avenue next to the tennis courts.  There is no charge to attend. The fun-filled event includes candy, games, decorated cars, and more.  We hope to see you there! 

Who’s Invited: Parents, Students, Staff, Community, Alumni
Date: Oct. 18
Time(s): 4 to 6 p.m.
Location: Joliet West High School in the senior parking lot, which is located off Glenwood Avenue next to the tennis courts.

A community-based intervention for students on Expulsion Warning who wish to repair the harm created by their actions and earn their way off the expulsion warning list.  The student, his/her parent, the PSC Circle Coordinator, and the community volunteer participate in four 1-hour circles to answer and examine the questions: What happened? What were you (the student) thinking at the time? Who has been affected by what you (the student) has done? What do you (the student) think needs to be done to make things right?
View the PSC Flyer (English)
View the PSC Flyer (Spanish)

Who Can Volunteer? Community Members, Parents, Alumni

How Does the Volunteer Participate? By sharing their life experiences and insight during the circle conversation

Dates: TBD on a case-by-case basis. Each circle volunteer experience is comprised of four 1-hour circles completed consecutively

Times: Circles take place in the evening or on weekends – Case by case basis

PSC Location: Administrative Center

How to Volunteer: Contact Greg Thompson

An annual opportunity for individuals of all ages to work side-by-side completing community service projects at locations throughout the Joliet-area community in honor of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Hot breakfast and lunch are provided.  Organizations are encouraged to submit their own community service project within the community for completion.  Students receive five community service hours for participation and are given a certificate of completion for documentation.

Who’s Invited: Students, Staff, Families, Alumni, Community

Date: January 15

Time:
Volunteer Check-In – Breakfast – Welcoming Remarks
7:30 to 8:30 a.m.

Community Service Completion
9 a.m. to Noon

Lunch, Project Re-Caps & Entertainment
Noon to 2 p.m.

Location: Joliet Central High School

To Volunteer:
Complete the Volunteer Sign-Up Form

To Submit a Service Project:
Complete the Community Service Project Submittal Form

To Sponsor:
Complete the Sponsorship Form

Questions? Contact Kristine Schlismann  

An annual event that honors the service of our veterans.  Included among the cast of this poignant ceremony are the JROTC Cadets; the Joliet Central Symphonic Band with a musical tribute representing each branch of the service; the Joliet Central Choirs; ROTC Commander Phil Jayko reading “Duty, Honor, Country,” and the reading of veteran service biographies. Following the ceremony, a reception takes place in the Student Center for veterans, military personnel, families, friends, and community. Refreshments are provided by Central Culinary Arts students. 

Who’s Invited: Veterans, Military Personnel, Families, Students, Community, Alumni

Date: November 9

Time/Location:
Ceremony – Central Campus Auditorium
Begins at 2:20 p.m.

Reception – Central Campus Student Center Galleria
3:30 p.m. immediately following the ceremony.  Musical entertainment & appetizers provided.

Instructions for Entering the Building
Visitors may arrive any time after 1:30 p.m.  Parking is available in all lots and guests may enter the building at the Auditorium Entrance off Eastern Avenue or through the Student Center Circle Drive Main Entrance if mobility restricted.

How Can Veterans Receive Recognition at the Event?
Veterans can complete the online form HERE or contact the Community and Alumni Relations Office at (815) 727-6796 to receive recognition at the event.

Questions? Contact Kristine Schlismann

Joliet Central High School invites 8^th grade students and families to the Steelmen Academy Showcase for incoming freshmen on Wednesday, January 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Joliet Central High School, 201 E. Jefferson Street in Joliet.  Spanish interpretation is available.  The event kicks off in the Student Center Galleria at 6 p.m. Students and families can tour the school and speak with current students, teachers, and counselors about elective courses, athletics, and activities. Student performances and entertainment is provided by Central’s music programs.  Guests may enter through the Main Entrance or through Door J, the Auditorium Entrance, on Eastern Avenue.  Parking is available in all school lots. 

Who’s Invited: Incoming Freshman Students & Families/Current 8th Graders Who Will Attend Central in the Fall

Date: January 31

Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: Joliet Central High School - Guests may enter through the Main Entrance or through Door J, the Auditorium Entrance, on Eastern Avenue.  Parking is available in all school lots. 

Questions? Contact Jodi Casagrande

Joliet West High School will host its annual 8th Grade Preview Night for incoming freshmen and their families on Wednesday, January 31, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Joliet West High School, 401 N. Larkin Avenue in Joliet. The event kicks off in the Auditorium at 5:30 p.m. with an overview of Joliet West High School followed by a series of programs parents and students can choose to attend.  Program topics and information are in the links below.  Students and parents may attend up to four programs based on their interests.

Who’s Invited: Incoming Freshman Students & Families/Current 8th Graders Who Will Attend West in the Fall

Date: January 31

Time: 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Location: Joliet West High School - Guests should enter through Door 5 off Glenwood Avenue near the cafeteria.  Parking is available in all school lots.  

Questions? Contact Virginia Paramo or Lisa Guzman (Habla Espanol)

Central Band Performances, 2023-2024, from www.jolietcentralbands.org/calendar

Performance at Bicentennial Park
August 31 at 6:30 p.m. – Bicentennial Park

Performance at Home Football Game
September 29 at 6:30 p.m. – Central Football Field

Performance at Homecoming Parade
October 7 at 9 a.m. – Central Campus

Performance at Joliet Central Veteran’s Day Event
November 9 at 2:15 p.m. – Central Campus

Performance at Joliet Light Up the Holidays Parade
November 24 at 5 p.m. – Downtown Joliet

Winter Band Concert
February 25 at 3 p.m. – Central Auditorium

Spring Band Concert
May 19 at 3 p.m. – Central Auditorium

West Band Concert Dates
October 5 - Showcase Concert, 7 PM (Band, Choir, Orchestra)

December 14 - Band Winter Concert, 7 PM

February 8 - Chamber Concert, 7 PM

February 24 - Band Spaghetti Dinner, 4-7 PM

May 9 - Band Spring Concert, 7 PM

May 11 - Band Food Truck Festival, 4-7 PM

Football Game Performances - 6:30 PM
August 25

September 15, 22, 29

October 13

Parades
Homecoming Parade:  September 29

Light Up the Holidays Parade, November 24

Other Events with Student Performances
February 24 - Band Spaghetti Dinner, 4-7 PM

May 11 - Band Food Truck Festival, 4-7 PM

Fall Play
October 12, 13, and 14 at 7 p.m. – Central Auditorium

Spring Musical
April 18, 19, and 20 at 7 p.m. – Central Auditorium

Fall Play
November 3-5 – Joliet West Auditorium

Spring Musical
The Spring Musical offers three performances which are open to the public.  It features acting, singing, and a pit orchestra of Joliet West students.  Tickets are available online or at the door.

March 15 - 7:00 pm:  Musical opening night
March 16th - 7:00 pm:  Musical performance
March 17th - 2:00 pm:  Musical Matinee performance

 

September 7th - 7 pm:  Opera Scenes
After a few years away, Opera Scenes returns in 2023! Traditionally, this performance features short cuts from various opera, but in 2023, this evening will feature both scenes of opera and a pair of 10 minute musicals.

October 5th - 7 pm:  Fall Performance Showcase
The Fall Performance Showcase features the Concert Choir, Philharmonia, and Symphonic Band performing together in a free concert in the Joliet West Auditorium.

November 30th - 5:30 pm:  Songs of the Season
Songs of the Season is a yearly benefit dinner held at the Jacob Henry Ballroom featuring the Chamber Choir, Ensemble, Mixed Chorus, Concert Choir, Men's Chorus and various Soloists and Small groups.  The event includes a raffle and three course dinner.  Reservations can be purchased in November.

December 7th - 7:00 pm:  Winter Choral Concert
The Winter Choral Concert is a free event in the Joliet West Auditorium featuring music from the Chamber Choir, Concert Choir, Mixed Chorus, Ensemble, and Men's Choir along with the choirs from Troy Middle School.

February 10th - all day:  Joliet Choir Contest
Joliet West hosts an annual choir contest open to high school groups. Audience attendance at this event is free and open to the public. Most recently, in 2023, the A. A. Stagg High School Chorale won the contest.

February 15th - 7:00 pm:  Midwinter Concert
The Midwinter Concert features the Concert Choir.  This is a free event on campus at Joliet West High School.

March 15th - 7:00 pm:  Musical opening night

March 16th - 7:00 pm:  Musical performance

March 17th - 2:00 pm:  Musical Matinee performance
The Spring Musical offers three performances which are open to the public.  It features acting, singing, and a pit orchestra of Joliet West students.  Tickets are available online or at the door.

May 7th - 7:00 pm:  Spring Concert
The Spring Choral Concert is the final performance of the season and it features the Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, Ensemble, and Mixed Chorus.  This is a free event held in the Joliet West Auditorium.

October 26
Fall Choir Concert, 7 p.m. at Central

November 20
Rialto Holiday Concert with the Madrigal Singers - Time: TBD

November 24
Joliet Tree Lighting - Madrigal Singers in Downtown Joliet - Time TBD

December 10
Sounds of the Season, 3 p.m. at Central

March 14
Spring Choir Concert 7 p.m. at Central Auditorium

March 23
Chamber Concert 7 p.m. at Central Auditorium

May 9
Choir Pops Concert 7 p.m. at Central Auditorium

Bicentennial Park Concert
August 31 at 6:30 p.m. - Bicentennial Park

Fall Showcase Concert
October 5 at 7 p.m. – West Campus

Orchestra Festival Day with District 86
October 27 from noon to 8 p.m. – West Campus

Steelmen Academy Showcase
January 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. – Central Campus

West Curriculum Preview
January 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. – West Campus

Sounds of the Season Concert
December 10 at 3 p.m. – Central Campus

Winter Orchestra Concert
February 1 at 7 p.m. –  Joliet Central Auditorium

Chamber Orchestra Concert
March 21 at 7 p.m. – Central Auditorium

Spring Orchestra Concert
May 2 at 7 p.m. – West Campus

An annual event celebrating the careers of our dedicated retirees. 

Who’s Invited: Retirees & Their Families, Staff

Date: May 14

Time:
Social Hour
5:30 to 6:30
Program
6:30 p.m.
Event Concludes
8 p.m.

Location: Jacob Henry Mansion Estate Gathering Room

An annual event celebrating JTHS volunteers, partners, and donors.  This event is invitation only for those who dedicated service to our district.

Who’s Invited: Volunteers, Community Partners, Donors – Invitation Only

Date: April 9

Location: Jacob Henry Mansion Estate Grand Ballroom

Time:
Hors D’oeuvres, Social Hour with Cash Bar
5 to 6 p.m.

Program
6 to 8 p.m.

Are you interested in providing an internship or serving as a classroom speaker or mentor? Do you have a partnership idea you would like to discuss?  If so, complete the Partnership Sign Up Form.

Questions? Contact Shelley Clark