As we move further into the semester, we are shifting into momentum mode. Routines are in place, expectations are clear, and the focus now is on consistency, effort, and follow-through. This weeks theme is Be More Grateful, encouraging students to pause, reflect, and recognize the people and opportunities that support their growth. Gratitude helps ground our work, strengthens relationships, and reminds us that showing up each day matters.
🧠 7 Mindsets – Be More Grateful
Students will focus on the theme Be More Grateful, reflecting on the people, opportunities, and supports in their lives and how gratitude connects to effort, resilience, and positive choices.
🎉 100th Day of School – Wednesday
Wednesday marks the 100th Day of School. Students are encouraged to dress like they are 100 years old as we celebrate this milestone together. It’s a fun reminder that consistency and showing up every day add up.
⏰ Panorama + School Links – Thursday
On Thursday, we will run an Extended 3rd Hour to make sure students complete two important items:
Panorama Survey
School Links Course Planner
Both are critical tools that help students reflect on their experience and plan for the future. It is important that all students complete both during this time.
📈 Tutoring & ACT Support
Tutoring is open to all students and takes place after school on Tuesdays in Room 714 and Thursdays in Room 228. Students can attend for help with classwork or to focus on ACT preparation. Practicing for the ACT matters. It builds familiarity with the test, strengthens reading and math skills, and builds confidence. Consistent practice leads to better outcomes and more options after high school.
Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who want to work on ACT skills during tutoring will be enrolled in ACT-focused Edgenuity strands and supported by after-school tutors. We are also working on incentives for students who complete ACT strands. We know the best incentives come from student voice, so students are encouraged to share what motivates them by reaching out to Mr. Laird.
☕ Attendance Matters
Attendance continues to be a focus. During Quarter 3, students with 95% attendance or better are eligible for daily prize drawings. Showing up consistently builds momentum and keeps students on track.
🦁 Lions Basketball Update
The Lions picked up a strong conference/city win over Richwoods, 74–65. Nigel Moore and JJ Duffin led the way with 19 points each, followed by Fenix Foy with 16 and Kayden Turner with 11.
To top it off Orlando Edwards was voted Journal Star Athlete of the Week last week!!!
With the win, Peoria improves to 12–5 overall and 5–0 in Big 12 play. This was a complete team effort, and we are proud of how this group continues to compete, support one another, and represent Peoria High School.
🦁 Don't Forget about the Girls Now!!!
The Lions battled hard against Richwoods, staying competitive through three quarters before Richwoods pulled away late. The effort and fight from this group did not go unnoticed.
Freshman Saniya Jones led all scorers with a game-high 14 points, continuing to show confidence and composure well beyond her years. Ciara “CeCe” Stokes followed with 13 points, providing a strong offensive presence and steady energy throughout the game.
Proud of the growth, toughness, and resilience this team continues to show as they keep getting better together.
1615: Show Up. Own Everything. Hunt Excellence.
