New Musical Instruments to Support Student Musicians
District 214 is investing in new musical instruments to support student participation across its music programs.
The new instruments will replace items that are no longer repairable or have reached the end of their useful lifespan, ensuring students have access to reliable, high-quality equipment for learning and performance. The purchases are funded through the FY26 Instructional Materials and Media Purchases (IMMP) budget.
The instruments will be purchased from Sweetwater Sound, Cassandra Strings, and Music & Arts following a competitive bidding process.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities Available for D214 Students
District 214 students can take the next step in their future by applying for internships and apprenticeships that provide hands-on, real-world experience connected to their coursework and career interests.
Applications are currently open for several opportunities. Apprenticeships are available for current juniors and provide practical experience during their senior year, with applications due by December 31, 2025. Summer internships are open to current sophomores and juniors who will be 16 or older by June 1, 2026, with applications due by February 28, 2026. Students can apply for both opportunities through SchooLinks.
2026 Summer Experience Program Offers Courses and Enrichment Opportunities
District 214’s 2026 Summer Experience Program will provide students with a variety of courses and enrichment opportunities. Courses will be held at Prospect High School, with the Extended School Year program offered at the Specialized Schools, and additional programs available through the Talent Development Program.
The program will run in two sessions, June 8 to 25 and July 6 to 23, and will include both in-person and online instruction.
Academic course fees for 2026 will be $228 per session, up from $211, while transportation fees will remain $84 per session. Students enrolled in select programs or with approved fee waivers will not be charged.
Roof Replacement Planned at District 214’s Specialized Schools
High School District 214 is moving forward with plans to replace the roof at its Specialized Schools, located in the A Building of the Forest View Educational Center.
For the past several months, the roof has experienced ongoing leaks that have affected building operations. A roof moisture survey conducted on August 4, 2025, confirmed that nearly half—49.3%—of the roof area contains wet insulation. The survey, which included core samples and pin meter testing, underscored the need for full replacement rather than short-term repairs.
The existing roof membrane, originally designed with coal tar pitch to withstand ponding water, has reached the end of its useful life. The building’s flat structure holds more water than expected, and over time the roof has lost its ability to effectively prevent leaks. Heat from the sun also accelerates deterioration of the coal tar pitch, further limiting its waterproofing capability.
To ensure the Specialized Schools remain watertight and functional, the District will replace the roof system entirely. The project includes removing the existing roof down to the structural deck, installing new tapered insulation, and applying a fluid-applied waterproofing system. To avoid disruptions, all work will take place after school hours.
District 214 will purchase materials and installation services through a competitively bid joint purchasing contract with Omnia Partners, ensuring efficiency and cost savings. The total project cost will not exceed $1.5 million.
This investment reflects District 214’s commitment to maintaining safe, secure, and modern learning environments for all students.
District 214 Board of Education Considers On-Site Solar Energy Project
High School District 214 is exploring a new chapter in sustainability and resource management, as the Board of Education considers the potential installation of on-site solar panels at district facilities. The initiative aligns directly with Goal 3 of the district’s five-year strategic plan—maximizing the impact of district resources—and reflects a forward-looking approach to both fiscal responsibility and environmental stewardship.
The district has partnered with Nania Energy Advisors, its long-standing energy advisor firm, to evaluate the feasibility of installing solar energy systems across various schools. With energy costs representing a significant portion of annual operating expenses, solar solutions offer a promising way to capture savings while reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. Beyond lowering utility bills, the project would allow the district to benefit from federal financial incentives currently available, positioning District 214 to secure long-term economic advantages before those opportunities expire.
Administrators are recommending a phased approach, beginning with Rolling Meadows High School as the site for a Phase I pilot project. The Board’s consideration of solar energy represents more than just a facilities decision—it is an investment in the district’s future, one that prioritizes financial responsibility while modeling forward-thinking practices for students and the broader community.
District 214 to Host Graduations at NOW Arena
High School District 214 will host its graduation ceremonies at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates beginning in 2026.
This decision reflects the district’s commitment to providing a high-quality, family-friendly graduation experience. The NOW Arena offers numerous advantages, including seating for up to 8,000 guests, 3,200 free on-site parking spaces, full ADA accessibility, and professional coordination of logistics such as graduate lineups, security, and family reunification areas.
2026
Sunday (5/24/2026)
Elk Grove: 10 a.m.
Prospect: 2 p.m.
Rolling Meadows: 6 p.m.
Tuesday (5/26/2026)
Wheeling: 7 p.m.
Wednesday (5/27/2026)
Hersey: 7 p.m.
Thursday (5/28/2026)
Buffalo Grove: 7 p.m.
2027
Friday (5/14/2027): Elk Grove
Saturday (5/15/2027): Buffalo Grove, Hersey, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling
Wednesday (5/19/2027): Prospect