7 Key Updates: What Parents Need To Know About Friendship Junior High Des Plaines In The 2024-2025 School Year
Friendship Junior High School (FJHS) in Des Plaines, Illinois, continues to be a dynamic center for middle-grade education, operating within the Community Consolidated School District 59 (CCSD59). As of the current 2024-2025 school year, the school is focused on a strategic plan for improvement, backed by recent performance data and a commitment to broad student development. This article provides an in-depth look at the most recent academic performance, administrative structure, and the wide array of programs that define the student experience at FJHS today.
Located in the northwest suburb of Des Plaines, approximately 25 miles from Chicago, FJHS serves students in grades 6 through 8. The school’s current focus is on preparing students to be "Successful for Life," a core mission of the district. The following sections detail the essential, up-to-date information for parents, prospective students, and community members.
Friendship Junior High School: At-a-Glance Profile (2024-2025)
To provide a clear picture of the school’s leadership and structure, here is a complete profile based on the most recent data available:
- School Name: Friendship Junior High School (FJHS)
- Location: 550 Elizabeth Ln, Des Plaines, IL 60018
- Grades Served: 6–8
- School District: Community Consolidated School District 59 (CCSD59)
- Current Principal: Mr. Michael Wheatley
- District Superintendent: Dr. Terri Bresnahan
- School Size: Approximately 616 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: Favorable, contributing to a personalized learning environment
- Performance Rating: Rated as an "above average" public school by key educational review platforms
Academic Focus and Performance Metrics: The 2024 5Essentials Report
The academic standing of Friendship Junior High is best understood through the Illinois State Board of Education’s annual reports, which provide a detailed snapshot of student achievement and school climate. The most recent data highlights both areas of strength and a clear path for growth.
FJHS is 'Organized for Improvement'
According to the 2024 Illinois 5Essentials Survey Report, Friendship Junior High is officially categorized as "Organized for Improvement." This designation, derived from the comprehensive UChicago Impact framework, indicates that the school has a solid foundation in some key areas but is actively working on strengthening others to maximize student success. The 5Essentials framework measures five critical areas of school organization: Effective Leaders, Collaborative Teachers, Involved Families, Supportive Environment, and Ambitious Instruction. The current status signifies a school that is strategically committed to refining its practices and achieving higher standards.
Strong Science Achievement
A notable highlight in recent performance data is the success in science education. The Illinois Science Assessment (ISA) results show that 51.7% of 8th-grade students at FJHS demonstrated proficiency or exceeded expectations. This strong performance in Science is a testament to the school's curriculum and the dedication of its teaching staff in promoting STEM literacy among junior high students.
The CCSD59 Student-Led Lunch Menu Update
In a unique and highly relevant update for the 2024-2025 school year, CCSD59 students, including those from FJHS, played a direct role in shaping the new school lunch menus. This initiative, featured in a December 2024 district article, demonstrates the district's commitment to student voice and ensuring that the meals provided through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) are both nutritionally balanced and appealing to the students. Parents should note the updated 2024-2025 lunch paid meal price is $3.35, with breakfast at $1.30.
Enrichment and Extracurricular Life at Friendship Junior High
The junior high experience at FJHS extends far beyond the core academic subjects. The school offers a robust selection of programs and activities designed to foster creativity, physical fitness, and leadership skills. These extracurriculars are key entities that build a well-rounded educational experience.
Diverse Academic and Enrichment Programs
Friendship Junior High offers a range of electives, allowing students to explore diverse interests before high school. These academic courses often include Fine and Applied Arts and Foreign Languages. Furthermore, students can participate in specific literacy programs such as the Accelerated Reader Program and the competitive Battle of the Books, which encourages reading comprehension and teamwork.
- Electives: Fine and Applied Arts, Foreign Languages, Career Readiness (often part of the middle school curriculum).
- Literacy Focus: Accelerated Reader Program, Battle of the Books.
- Community Events: The school calendar regularly features events like the Variety Show and cultural celebrations such as the recent Día de los Muertos gathering.
Interscholastic and Intramural Sports
FJHS is home to a competitive interscholastic sports program, giving students the opportunity to represent their school against other junior high teams. The sports available typically include:
- Boys Basketball
- Girls Basketball
- Boys Volleyball (with a recent game noted in April 2024)
- Girls Volleyball Team
For students who prefer non-competitive play, the Intramural Sports program offers a chance to engage in physical activities like organized softball games, which often meet after school following spring vacation.
Clubs and Activities
A strong club presence allows students to connect with peers who share similar passions. Key clubs at Friendship Junior High include:
- FAC's Club: The Family Consumer Science Club (formerly Life Skills Club) offers students a chance to learn skills like cooking, meeting after school.
- Drama Club: A popular outlet for creative expression and stage performance.
The combination of these programs ensures that every student at Friendship Junior High Des Plaines has multiple avenues for growth, whether through academic challenge, athletic competition, or creative pursuits.
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