Communication Guidelines for Families

A Message from the Superintendent

Dear Sycamore Community School District 427 Families,

We are committed to providing clear, timely communication about your student’s educational experience. We value strong partnerships with our families and encourage open communication with teachers and school staff throughout the year.

This guide is designed to help you understand how and when you can expect to receive information, as well as where to go when questions arise. For additional support, we encourage you to begin by contacting your student’s school. You may also reach out to our Communications & Community Engagement Department at (815) 899-8100.

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting our students.

Sincerely,
Dr. Kristen Campbell
Superintendent

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How We Communicate with You

You can expect to hear from the district, schools, and Board of Education through a variety of channels. We continuously evaluate our communication methods to ensure information is shared in a timely and effective manner.

After the Board
An After the Board recap is shared after each regular Board of Education meeting that includes highlights, key decisions, and links to meeting materials and recordings to watch the meeting in full.

School-Based Newsletters
Each school provides a weekly newsletter every Monday with important information related to your student’s school. There is also a section titled “District News’’ with happenings from the entire district school community.

District Communications
Districtwide updates are shared as needed to provide important information, celebrate achievements, and highlight key initiatives.

Website
Our district website serves as a central hub for news, resources, calendars, and important updates.

Communication Tools

ParentSquare
ParentSquare is the district’s primary communication platform for district, school, classroom, and emergency messages. Families receive notifications via email, text, or app based on their preferences. They can also choose to receive information instantly when it’s sent out, or in one daily message at 6:00 PM each day.  

District Website
The website provides up-to-date information and resources, including a staff directory to help you connect with the right person.

Social Media
Facebook and Instagram are used to share timely updates, highlight student and staff accomplishments, and provide a window into daily life across our schools. While social media is a great way to stay connected and celebrate our community, it is not used for urgent or emergency communication. For important or time-sensitive information, families should refer to ParentSquare and direct district communications.

Reaching Out with Questions

Clear and respectful communication helps resolve most questions quickly and effectively. In most cases, concerns should begin at the school level. Please allow 2 business days for a response from the individual.

In general, the recommended order for addressing concerns:

For Elementary/Early Childhood Parents/Guardians

1. Your Student’s Teacher 
2. Principal or Assistant Principal (K-5) or Early Childhood Administrator
3. Director of Learning & Teaching (K-5)
4. Chief Academic Officer
5. Superintendent

For Middle School Parents/Guardians

1. Your Student’s Teacher
2. Assistant Principal or Dean of Students
3. Principal
4. Director of Learning & Teaching (6-12)
5. Chief Academic Officer
6. Superintendent

For High School Parents/Guardians

1. Your Student’s Teacher
2. Assistant Principal or Dean of Students
3. Principal
4. Director of Learning & Teaching (6-12)
5. Chief Academic Officer
6. Superintendent

We recommend beginning with an email, as teachers cannot take calls during class. Staff members may schedule phone calls if necessary. Response times may vary depending on the situation. For non-emergency concerns, you can expect acknowledgement within 2 business days. Emergencies will be addressed as quickly as possible.

While the Board of Education values community input, Board members are not involved in day-to-day operations. Starting at the school level ensures the most efficient resolution.

Who to Contact for Common Questions