📢 Check out these important dates for November!

🌎 East and Central students celebrated Culture Day last week! From sharing delicious foods to showcasing traditions and music, students gave their school communities a glimpse into the cultures that make each of them unique.










The Lincoln-Way East science department was recently granted a donation from the Lincoln-Way Foundation for skeletons🩻! The Anatomy & Physiology students received them today, just in time for Halloween! Thank you to the foundation for continuing to provide donations that enhance the student experience.

Our teaching internship students have been getting settled in their classrooms at our feeder schools and loving every minute of it! A big thank you to Mokena, New Lenox, and Frankfort school districts for hosting these aspiring educators!
The little Knights, Griffins, and Warriors preschool program spent some time trick-or-treating through the school this week! We loved seeing their costumes, and the high school students did a great job helping their littles and joining in on the costume fun. Happy Halloween! 🔴🔵🟠🎃










With winter quickly approaching, Lincoln-Way is teaming up with the Village of New Lenox to provide FREE vehicle inspections for senior citizens in the community.
Lincoln-Way automotive students, under the supervision of an auto shop teacher, will offer the following services:
• Check fluids – engine oil, trans fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid and windshield washer fluid
• Check belts and hoses
• Inspect tires for tread wear, cracks and dry rot
• Inspect underside suspension and front-end parts
• Load test batteries
• Check coolant strength for freeze protection
• Check headlights, turn signals, parking lamps and registration plate bulbs
The vehicle inspections will be conducted on Thursday, November 20th and Friday, November 21st from 8:30am to 10:30am at Lincoln-Way Central High School, 1801 E. Lincoln Highway in New Lenox (enter off of Schoolhouse Road at the 1st entrance north of Route 30).
Appointments are needed! Those interested are asked to contact Alaina Murphy at amurphy@newlenox.net or 815-462-6417, or Kristine Kioltyka at kkioltyka@newlenox.net or 815-462-6145 to sign up and reserve your time slot.
Lincoln-Way automotive students, under the supervision of an auto shop teacher, will offer the following services:
• Check fluids – engine oil, trans fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid and windshield washer fluid
• Check belts and hoses
• Inspect tires for tread wear, cracks and dry rot
• Inspect underside suspension and front-end parts
• Load test batteries
• Check coolant strength for freeze protection
• Check headlights, turn signals, parking lamps and registration plate bulbs
The vehicle inspections will be conducted on Thursday, November 20th and Friday, November 21st from 8:30am to 10:30am at Lincoln-Way Central High School, 1801 E. Lincoln Highway in New Lenox (enter off of Schoolhouse Road at the 1st entrance north of Route 30).
Appointments are needed! Those interested are asked to contact Alaina Murphy at amurphy@newlenox.net or 815-462-6417, or Kristine Kioltyka at kkioltyka@newlenox.net or 815-462-6145 to sign up and reserve your time slot.



Check out this snapshot of Lincoln-Way boys cross country athletes at the IHSA 3A regional competition this past weekend. Lincoln-Way runners came in first, second, and third place, with the Knights capturing the team win. Way to go! 🔴🔵🟠
📷: Suzanne Hoff
📷: Suzanne Hoff

🖖 Attention, Lincoln-Way — Mission Accomplished! 🚀
This past weekend, the Lincoln-Way Marching Band boldly went where few bands have gone before — Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, home of the Bands of America Super Regional!
After an out-of-this-world preliminary performance, the LWMB soared to the top out of nearly 100 bands from 11 different states, earning a coveted spot in the Finals! Under the dazzling stadium lights, they delivered another stellar show, securing 14th place overall among some of the nation’s finest ensembles.
This season’s journey has been months in the making — countless rehearsals, late nights, and light-speed dedication — all leading to this incredible finale and reward for their hard work and dedication.
🌟 Congratulations, LWMB, on a phenomenal season! You’ve truly gone where no band has gone before!
📸: Amy Bulbrooke Photography , Tina Benfante
This past weekend, the Lincoln-Way Marching Band boldly went where few bands have gone before — Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, home of the Bands of America Super Regional!
After an out-of-this-world preliminary performance, the LWMB soared to the top out of nearly 100 bands from 11 different states, earning a coveted spot in the Finals! Under the dazzling stadium lights, they delivered another stellar show, securing 14th place overall among some of the nation’s finest ensembles.
This season’s journey has been months in the making — countless rehearsals, late nights, and light-speed dedication — all leading to this incredible finale and reward for their hard work and dedication.
🌟 Congratulations, LWMB, on a phenomenal season! You’ve truly gone where no band has gone before!
📸: Amy Bulbrooke Photography , Tina Benfante








Today marks Principal Appreciation Day, and we want to thank our wonderful building leaders for their unwavering dedication to our students! Take a moment to thank not only these three, but each of our building administrators today.

Lincoln-Way AJFROTC students and select junior high students listened in to a powerful presentation this morning from the Tribute to Valor Foundation. Dedicated to inspiring youth to become the best version of themselves, Tribute to Valor allows an opportunity for students to hear from American heroes who embody the core values of the Medal of Honor.
The event, hosted by New Lenox Mayor Tim Baldermann and Tribute to Valor board member Tony Orlando, featured retired SMSgt Israel Del Toro and retired CW5 Gary Linfoot, both decorated veterans who overcame obstacles in their own lives. They spoke to students about courage, integrity, and commitment, and inspired them to ask the question 'Who Am I?"
Thank you to the Tribute to Valor Foundation and Mayor Baldermann for giving our students this incredible opportunity.
The event, hosted by New Lenox Mayor Tim Baldermann and Tribute to Valor board member Tony Orlando, featured retired SMSgt Israel Del Toro and retired CW5 Gary Linfoot, both decorated veterans who overcame obstacles in their own lives. They spoke to students about courage, integrity, and commitment, and inspired them to ask the question 'Who Am I?"
Thank you to the Tribute to Valor Foundation and Mayor Baldermann for giving our students this incredible opportunity.










Lincoln-Way is excited to partner with the Will County Center for Economic Development on a paid summer internship program for high school students!
We are currently looking for employers to participate in the 2026 Will County Summer Internship Program! This is your opportunity to connect with high school students who are eager to learn, gain real-world experience, and contribute to your organization. Applications close Friday, November 14th. Secure your spot today! Apply now:https://willcountyced.com/will-county-summer-internship-program/
We are currently looking for employers to participate in the 2026 Will County Summer Internship Program! This is your opportunity to connect with high school students who are eager to learn, gain real-world experience, and contribute to your organization. Applications close Friday, November 14th. Secure your spot today! Apply now:https://willcountyced.com/will-county-summer-internship-program/

📣 Big News!
Lincoln‑Way East High School has been named one of only 15 public schools in Illinois to receive the prestigious Governor’s Blue Ribbon Award for 2025! 🏆✨ This recognition reflects the outstanding dedication of our students, teachers, staff, and community partners, and the tradition of excellence fostered over the past 25 years.
🔵 Read the full story and join us in celebrating: https://www.lw210.org/article/2499960

Lincoln-Way East senior Damilola Alabi is inspiring the next generation of scientists through STEM Sprouts, bringing hands-on science to kids in our community.
Recently, the group hosted an interactive night of experiments with nearly 50 Cub Scouts from Pack 270. They explored fingerprinting, pond water microscopy, light signals, and the chemistry behind homemade ice cream!
Advisor Maria Wilson and more than 20 student volunteers helped to make this event a success.
🔗Read more about the event here: https://www.lw210.org/article/2499813
Recently, the group hosted an interactive night of experiments with nearly 50 Cub Scouts from Pack 270. They explored fingerprinting, pond water microscopy, light signals, and the chemistry behind homemade ice cream!
Advisor Maria Wilson and more than 20 student volunteers helped to make this event a success.
🔗Read more about the event here: https://www.lw210.org/article/2499813






The district-wide career fair took place this morning at Lincoln-Way Central. More than 700 students from across the district had an opportunity to explore career paths and participate in hands-on demonstrations from over 40 employers. We extend a heartfelt thank you to our community partners and local employers who took time out of their day to talk with our students and help them find their path.









🎉 Please join us in welcoming Breanna Bembenek as the head coach for the varsity girls soccer program at Lincoln‑Way Central . Breanna is a 2017 graduate of Lincoln-Way West where she played soccer all four years, and went on to play at the collegiate level as well. Coach Bembenek has been on the coaching staff for the Knights boys and girls soccer teams for the past several years, and is also a science teacher at Central. Follow the link to learn more: https://www.lw210.org/article/2498998

📣 Attention 8th grade private and homeschool families! Lincoln-Way will offer the PreACT 8/9 this fall for students entering high school next year.
This assessment helps establish a baseline for college and career readiness, provides practice with ACT-style questions, and ensures students receive personalized course recommendations in February 2026.
*These testing dates are also for any student in a feeder junior high who misses the PreACT 8/9 at school.
Below are three options to take this assessment. No matter what campus you will attend, you can select any of the options below to take the PreACT8/9.
🟠 Wednesday, November 19th @ LWW (9:00 am)
🔴 Thursday, November 20th @ LWC (5:00 pm)
🔵 Monday, November 24th @ LWE (9:00 am)
Follow this link to register for the test: https://forms.office.com/r/zyk5rWAvAh
Questions? Contact Dr. Tracey Miller, Director of Assessment & Instruction, at tmiller@lw210.org.
This assessment helps establish a baseline for college and career readiness, provides practice with ACT-style questions, and ensures students receive personalized course recommendations in February 2026.
*These testing dates are also for any student in a feeder junior high who misses the PreACT 8/9 at school.
Below are three options to take this assessment. No matter what campus you will attend, you can select any of the options below to take the PreACT8/9.
🟠 Wednesday, November 19th @ LWW (9:00 am)
🔴 Thursday, November 20th @ LWC (5:00 pm)
🔵 Monday, November 24th @ LWE (9:00 am)
Follow this link to register for the test: https://forms.office.com/r/zyk5rWAvAh
Questions? Contact Dr. Tracey Miller, Director of Assessment & Instruction, at tmiller@lw210.org.

All three Lincoln-Way libraries were recently renovated thanks in large part to a generous donation from the Lincoln-Way Foundation. This morning, in partnership with the New Lenox Chamber of Commerce, Central hosted a ribbon cutting to celebrate the new spaces. Attendees received a tour led by students and enjoyed coffee from Central Perk.






Last night, the Board of Education recognized the ten Lincoln-Way students who achieved a perfect score of 36 on their ACT. Join us in congratulating the following students on this outstanding achievement:
Central:
Hailey Coennen
Nora Flynn
Aidan Stockrahm
East:
Logan Fox
Tiag Hertsberg
Kaitlyn Poidomani
Anthony Russotto
Felix Sacks
West:
Benjamin Doggett
Ethan Ferrucci
Central:
Hailey Coennen
Nora Flynn
Aidan Stockrahm
East:
Logan Fox
Tiag Hertsberg
Kaitlyn Poidomani
Anthony Russotto
Felix Sacks
West:
Benjamin Doggett
Ethan Ferrucci

During Friday's institute day, administrators and support staff attended a half-day training where they reviewed important procedures and protocols related to the safety and security of our school buildings. We want to thank our staff and community partners who participated in this training - your commitment and dedication to school safety is greatly appreciated.





At the homecoming football game on Friday night, Lincoln-Way East honored the school's past and present building principals to celebrate its 25th school year:
🔵Dr. Mike Gardner - 2001-2008
🔵Dr. Brenda Jensen - 2008-2011
🔵Dr. Scott Tingley - 2011-2013
🔵Dr. Sharon Michalak - 2013-2021
🔵Mr. Toriano Griggs - 2021-Present
These five principals left a lasting impact on the school, establishing the traditions that are carried through the hallways each day. ✨
🔵Dr. Mike Gardner - 2001-2008
🔵Dr. Brenda Jensen - 2008-2011
🔵Dr. Scott Tingley - 2011-2013
🔵Dr. Sharon Michalak - 2013-2021
🔵Mr. Toriano Griggs - 2021-Present
These five principals left a lasting impact on the school, establishing the traditions that are carried through the hallways each day. ✨

