December 19, 2025 Update Message from Superintendent Dr. Skertich

Posted Date: 12/19/25 (08:00 AM)

Kahok Families,

The holiday season is here, and that means family gatherings, special events and fun activities for our students, staff and families. This time of year also reminds us how fortunate our district is to have hundreds of individuals, clubs, organizations and local businesses who show generosity to those in need.

We are grateful for the support provided to our students in so many meaningful ways.

This year, the generosity of our communities will provide shoes, food, clothing, toys and more for over 520 students.

A large collection of Christmas gifts wrapped in festive paper and placed in gift bags.

Kahok Community Project Christmas Gifts

The Kahok Community Project is an example of our entire community's commitment to helping others. Every year, individuals, groups, businesses and organizations step-up to provide Christmas gifts to students in our district. That dedication is one of our district’s greatest strengths and shows how much our families and students matter.

KAHOKstrong Food Drive

Seeing growing food insecurity in our communities, KAHOKstrong organized an impromptu food drive to support families and local food pantries. Over several weeks, they gathered more than one thousand pounds of food at collection boxes throughout our district and at local businesses. KAHOKstrong’s many efforts, year after year, make a direct impact on students, staff and community members during challenging times. We truly appreciate all they do.

A collection of cardboard boxes and bags filled with non-perishable food items are neatly arranged along a wall.

Volunteers sort through piles of socks and shoes for a donation drive, with holiday decorations in the background.

Collinsville Charities for Children

A BIG thank you goes out to Collinsville Charities for Children for their ongoing work to provide new shoes and socks to K–6 students. With help from high school student volunteers, they provided over 350 children with shoes, socks, a candy cane and a much appreciated visit with Santa. They work year-round to raise funds for this event. Their efforts bring smiles to students’ faces every year.

As we begin Winter Break, I want to remind everyone of some key events in the weeks ahead:

December 27–29	Prairie Farms Holiday Classic
January 5	Students Return from Winter Break
January 16	Teacher In-Service - No School
January 19	Martin Luther King Day - No School
February 16	Presidents’ Day - No School
February 19 2026	Collinsville Kahok Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Looking even farther ahead, attached is the school year calendar for 2026–27. The 2025–26 school year calendar was approved by the Board of Education on December 15, 2025. Please note: Calendars are subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances or state guidance applicable to the school year.

On behalf of our entire district, I want to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season with family and friends. Please be safe and enjoy the down time. Happy Holidays! Don’t forget to wear your purple and show you Kahok Pride!

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent

[Friday, Dec 19 at 9:31 AM]
The Spanish version of the 26-27 calendar has been updated. Please disregard the previous attachment and use the new version.