August 11, 2025 – Decatur Public Schools (DPS #61) is preparing to welcome students back for the 2025-26 school year, with the first day of classes set for Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
District officials are reminding parents and guardians that students must be registered before school begins to access class schedules and bus information. Families can register online at www.dps61.org/skyward. Students who are not registered before the first day will be marked “inactive” in Skyward and will not be able to attend until registration is complete. More registration information is available at www.dps61.org/registration or by contacting your child’s school office.
Updated Policies
This year, DPS #61 has updated district policies regarding offensive or noxious odors, including the smell of marijuana. Students who arrive at school smelling of marijuana or other strong odors will be asked to call home for a change of clothes or be picked up before returning. The district notes that such odors can cause allergic reactions, affect indoor air quality, and disrupt learning.
The cell phone and personal electronics policy has also been updated. Students are strongly encouraged to leave devices such as phones, earbuds, and smart watches at home. If brought to school, devices must remain powered off and stored in lockers or designated classroom areas during the day. Progressive discipline will be applied for repeated violations, ranging from warnings to office referrals.
Parent Communication Tools
The district continues to use ParentSquare to share news, events, and updates with families. The free app, available for iOS and Android, provides access to posts, sign-ups, events, and other school communications.
Mental Health Services
DPS #61 is partnering with Cartwheel, a telehealth provider specializing in youth mental health services, to give students rapid access to licensed therapists and child psychiatrists. Cartwheel will help address issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, trauma, academic stress, and more.
Health Requirements
The state deadline for required vaccinations and immunizations is October 15, 2025. Students without updated health records on file by that date will be excluded from school until requirements are met. Details are available at www.dps61.org/HealthRequirements, or by contacting your school nurse or the district Health Services Department at 217-362-3318.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to review the Student Code of Conduct and Parent Handbook before the school year begins to ensure a smooth start.
