Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter! When you subscribe, you will receive the following: The West40 newsletter every two months (Please scroll down to see our past Newsletters.) The semi-monthly Learning BEAT filled with Professional Learning opportunities such as AAs , Empower ED and Networks The Comprehensive Education Services Newsletter twice a year informing you of important dates Which Newsletter(s) would you like to subscribe to?* Learning BEAT: A catalog of Administrator Academies and Empower ED learning sessions CES Professional Learning West40 Newsletter Email* Join Our Mailing List Yes, subscribe me to your newsletters. * A Sense of Belonging August 2026 Download Removing Barriers February 2026 Download Elevating Education August, 2025 Download Meeting Your Needs February, 2025 Download The Stories That Unite Us June 2026 Download Holiday Wish List December 2025 Download Horizons & Highlights June, 2025 Download Give to Grow December, 2024 Download A World Awaits April 2026 Download Let's Be Real October, 2025 Download Forward Thinking April, 2025 Download Everything. Everywhere. October, 2024 Download

T0 Our West40 Community Removing barriers to student success by providing wraparound services for their families. By partnering with non-profit organizations and providing links to vital resources such as food, clothing, medical support, and housing, West40 plays an important role in the health and well-being of our community members. Community Resources Partnerships with local community organizations and businesses to provide wraparound support in various areas such as food, housing, mental health and more. COMMUNITY RESOURCES WEBSITE Heart 2 Heart Program Providing students in our programs and their families the support they need — another way West40 removes barriers to student success. HEART 2 HEART PROGRAM PAGE BY THE NUMBERS 2024-2025 3,250 5,200 (approx.) Backpacks distributed at BackPack GiveBack and other school events Hot Meals Served 140 147 Thanksgiving Turkeys and Meals Distributed Students Honored at School Citizen of the Year (SCOTY) Awards 136 Community Events 300 Families Served by Heart 2 Heart Store

Continuous School Improvement Our team provides targeted professional learning and strategic support designed to align with your school or district’s mission, strategic priorities, and the specific goals outlined in your improvement plan. Partnering with You to Achieve Your School’s Goals West40 is proud to be an approved ISBE Learning Partner and CPS-approved vendor, ready to walk alongside your school on its improvement journey. Who we've partnered with: Our services align with key frameworks, including Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Continuous Improvement Work Plan (CIWP) foundations. Continuous Improvement & Data Driven Leadership CIWP Support Collaborative Leadership Summative Designation Navigation Assessment Training & Support Data Analysis & Decision-Making Monitoring, Evaluating, & Sustaining Change Educator Support & Professional Capacity Connectedness and Wellbeing Curriculum and Instruction Inclusive & Supportive Learning Environment We offer expertise in a wide range of areas, including: INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE? Please use this form below to let us know how we can support your school community. First name* Last name* Email* Message* Submit

Heart 2 Heart Program Providing students in our ALOP programs and their families access to private shopping appointments for life's essential items. HEART 2 HEART STORE HOW WE HELP Located within our Lexington facility, the Heart 2 Heart store offers private shopping appointments. Each guest can select brand-new complimentary items to take home, such as clothing, personal care items, shoes, baby products, furniture, and more. All items are new and provided by individuals and companies in the Chicagoland area. WHO WE SERVE Students in our student programs and their families. Heart 2 Heart: West40 Store Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied HEART 2 HEART FOOD MART The Heart 2 Heart Food Mart is a welcoming community resource open to all, dedicated to providing fresh, nutritious food to individuals and families in need. Operated with compassion and dignity, the Food Mart offers a warm, market-style shopping experience where guests can choose the items that best meet their needs—fostering a sense of respect and empowerment. Located at 10900 Cermak Road in Westchester, we’re proud to support students in our programs and their families through our partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository, helping ensure access to healthy food for our community. Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied FOOD MART HOURS & LOCATION Saturday - Monday: CLOSED Tuesday: 1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. Wednesday: 3:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. Thursday: 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. Friday: 12:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M. CLICK HERE FOR FOOD MART DIRECTIONS 10900 Cermak Road in Westchester DOWNLOAD FOOD MART HOURS HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. PAM VUJOVICH Heart 2 Heart Coordinator pvujovich@west40.org MICHAEL HOLLAND Heart 2 Heart Receptionist mholland@west40.org DAVID WALKER Delivery & Community Specialist dwalkerjr@west40.org ANTONY SANCHEZ Heart 2 Heart antonysanchez@west40.org

Communications Services CHANGE THE CONVERSATION. CELEBRATE PEOPLE. CELEBRATE WINS. TELL YOUR STORY. Changing the Narrative about Education. Let's tell your stories celebrating students, teachers, and administrators, as well as community partners, in building successful learning environments for students. At West40, we see things differently and think about things differently. With that lens and equipped with 6+ years of servicing the education industry, the West40 Communications team will partner with you to help form your narrative as well as support you in the following ways: Branding Video recording and production Graphic design and writing for print and digital collateral, including flyers, mailers, and annual reports Press Release Writing Creation of infographics and presentation templates Communications Network LEARN MORE Why West40 Communications? Because we have serviced education for 6+ years AND we believe that it is time to change the narrative about education. Ready To Put Our Heads Together & Tell Your Story? HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. MARIANNA DELINCK MANLEY Director of Communications mdelinckmanley@west40.org

Videos CHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL! Video Archive West40 Intermediate Center Play Video Play Video 01:53 How West40 Supports the Permitting Process West40's Comprehensive Educational Services team works with area school districts on their permitting and building occupancy requirements. In this video, Elmwood Park High School District 201 describes its recent renovation project and how West40 was involved from the beginning. Play Video Play Video 02:32 West40 Area Superintendents Share Tips on Investing in Staff Retention West40 asked area superintendents to share tips for creating a positive team culture that can contribute to staff retention. From increased communication and celebrations to an on-site daycare, district leaders understand the importance of building workplaces where educators feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Play Video Play Video 02:07 Walk in Their Shoes - Senior Director of Executive Support In our latest episode of Walk in Their Shoes, West40's Dr. Mike Popp shares what it means to advocate on behalf of West40, students, educators, and schools. Dr. Popp's work in Springfield and across Illinois truly helps shape the future of education! Play Video Play Video 00:51 Global Connections: China 2026 West40 is helping students and educators build Global Connections around the world. In April 2026, West40 partnered with AESA Global to take West Cook County high school students on an unforgettable journey to China. Students experienced daily life in Chinese schools, formed lasting friendships, and explored historic and cultural landmarks. This 45-second teaser offers a glimpse into the experience, with a full video coming soon. Interested in future Global Connections opportunities? Contact us at globalconnections@west40.org. #GlobalConnections #StudentTravel #GlobalEducation #West40 #AESAGlobal #ChinaExchange Play Video Play Video 01:33 Impossible Science WOWS Students from Across West Cook County We had such a great time introducing hundreds of West40 area students to Impossible Science in April 2026 at Morton College! Jason Latimer and his team wowed the crowds through a mix of magic and science! Play Video Play Video 02:11 A Partnership in Learning - Oak View Elementary and West40 West40 partnered with Oak View Elementary of Valley View School District 365 to support its co-planning, needs assessment, and professional development goals. In this video, principal Jennifer Duffy and school staff members explain how the work has resulted in school improvement. West40 is a designated learning partner and can support districts across Illinois. Connect with West40 as a thought partner by visiting www.west40.org Play Video Play Video 01:53 West40's Dr. Mark Klaisner Shares Update from China (March 2026) West40 Executive Director Dr. Mark Klaisner is in Beijing, China this week with a goal to bring better collaborative global-minded experiences for students. Play Video Play Video 01:13 Groceries with Care: Inside West40's Heart 2 Heart Food Mart The Heart 2 Heart Food Mart is here to support our friends and neighbors! We are located at 10900 Cermak Road in Westchester, IL. Hours: Saturday–Monday: Closed Tuesday: 1PM–3PM Wednesday: 3PM–5PM Thursday: 10AM–12PM Friday: 12PM–2PM Play Video Play Video 02:00 Jose's Journey - West40 Student Spotlight West40 Seniors Plus student Jose is making strides in the classroom and on the Proviso East High School football and soccer field! We are excited to follow Jose's journey! Load More

Professional Learning Coordinator KARLA CHAVEZ KARLA CHAVEZ < Back KARLA CHAVEZ More about Karla Professional Learning Coordinator Karla's contribution to the organization are highly valued as she has been instrumental in providing educators and staff with essential resources and support that have empowered them to excel in their roles. Her expertise, professionalism, and organizational detail have been integral in keeping the Professional Learning team focused on our mission to support educators in realizing their full potential for the betterment of their students. kchavez@west40.org Previous Next

Compliance West40 conducts inspections of more than 300 items, including students' and staff files, health records, fingerprinting and background checks, mandated teacher training and school curriculum, to improve and support the programs necessary to provide quality educational experiences to students. ALL FORMS RECORDS & REQUIREMENTS OTHER AED Example Plan 1. Download PDF Annual Review of Crisis Plan 3. Download Doc Counseling Service Needs Assessment 7. Download PDF IL Mandated Trainings 11. Download PDF Integrated Pest Management Plan 13. Download Doc Mandated and Recommended Training Requirements FY25 16. Download PDF Safety Drill Documentation FY25 20. Download Doc Website Publishing Requirements for School Districts 26. Download PDF Accelerated Placement Act 2. Link Coming Clarification Immunization Requirements School 5. Download PDF District Safety Review 8. Download PDF IL Mandated Units of Study 12. Download PDF Mandated Units of Study FY24 15. Download PDF SSDA Requirements FY24 19. Download Doc Student Permanent Records 24. Download PDF Concussion Items 6. Download PDF LTC Reference Guide Website Publishing 14. Download PDF Transitional Bilingual Education Code 25. Download PDF Erin's Law 10. Link Coming NDEP School Guide 17. Download PDF Checklist for Individual Employee 4. Download PDF Non Cert. Personnel Checklists 18. Download Doc Sex Equity Survey 22. Download Doc Employee Bus Driver Checklist 9. Download Doc Sample Pupil Personnel Services Survey 21. Download PDF Sex offender and child murder Form 23. Download Doc AED Example Plan 1. Download PDF Annual Review of Crisis Plan 3. Download Doc Clarification Immunization Requirements School 5. Download PDF Counseling Service Needs Assessment 7. Download PDF Employee Bus Driver Checklist 9. Download Doc IL Mandated Trainings 11. Download PDF Integrated Pest Management Plan 13. Download Doc Mandated Units of Study FY24 15. Download PDF NDEP School Guide 17. Download PDF SSDA Requirements FY24 19. Download Doc Sample Pupil Personnel Services Survey 21. Download PDF Sex offender and child murder Form 23. Download Doc Transitional Bilingual Education Code 25. Download PDF Accelerated Placement Act 2. Link Coming Checklist for Individual Employee 4. Download PDF Concussion Items 6. Download PDF District Safety Review 8. Download PDF Erin's Law 10. Link Coming IL Mandated Units of Study 12. Download PDF LTC Reference Guide Website Publishing 14. Download PDF Mandated and Recommended Training Requirements FY25 16. Download PDF Non Cert. Personnel Checklists 18. Download Doc Safety Drill Documentation FY25 20. Download Doc Sex Equity Survey 22. Download Doc Student Permanent Records 24. Download PDF Website Publishing Requirements for School Districts 26. Download PDF HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. STEVE BOGREN Chief Comprehensive Educational Services Officer sbogren@west40.org PHILIP ABRAHAM Director of Comprehensive Educational Services pabraham@west40.org

McKinney-Vento ABOUT MCKINNEY VENTO RIGHTS FAQ ABOUT The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that works to ensure educational stability for homeless youth. The McKinney-Vento act allows eligible students to enroll in school and receive transportation without delay. The McKinney-Vento Act’s definition of “homeless” for children and youth reflects the reality of family homelessness today. The definition specifically includes children living in emergency shelters, motels, hotels, trailer parks, cars, parks, public spaces, or abandoned buildings, and those sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason. According to the McKinney-Vento Act, the term “homeless children and youths” refers to individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and includes the following four categories: Children and youth who: share the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; or are abandoned in hospitals. Children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings. Children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings. Children of migrant or seasonal workers who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described in the first three categories. The McKinney-Vento Act and other federal laws do not give official definitions of a “fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence” as it pertains to children and youth experiencing homelessness. However, the following working definitions may be useful: A “fixed nighttime residence” is stationary, permanent, and not subject to change. A “regular nighttime residence” is used on a predictable, routine, or consistent basis. An “adequate nighttime residence” sufficiently meets the physical and psychological needs typically met in home environments.McKinney-Vento Act’s Definition of “Homeless” for Children and Youth What is the McKinney-Vento Act? The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures the educational rights and protections of children and youth experiencing homelessness. What meets the definition of Homelessness? What are some examples of substandard housing? What are the options and considerations for school selection? Who determines McKinney-Vento eligibility of a student in transition? Can students be enrolled without the proper documentation? Who are Unaccompanied Homeless Youth? How long can a homeless student or unaccompanied youth attend the school of origin? FAQ THE RIGHTS FOR MCKINNEY-VENTO FAMILIES What are their rights? Educational rights and protections for eligible children include: Choice of School McKinney-Vento eligible children may attend their school of origin (meaning the last school attended or the school attended when the child lost permanent housing). Alternatively, they may attend the school that serves their temporary living situation. Their caregiver makes this choice. Immediate Enrollment Eligible children still qualify even if medical records, birth certificates, or transcripts cannot be introduced at the time of enrollment. Transportation to School of Origin If requested, transportation must be provided in some form. Early Childhood Education Priority considerations can be made for children under five years old. Free Lunch and Fee Waivers Due to unstable living situations, children are eligible for any free meal programs provided by their school district, including lunch and breakfast, where applicable. HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. JIMMY PAWOLA Director of McKinney-Vento Operations Area 1 Lead Liaison (708) 240-1870 jpawola@west40.org JIMMY MORTILLARO Associate Director of McKinney-Vento Operations (708) 240-1004 jmortillaro@west40.org SOLOMIIA NARYTNYK McKinney-Vento Specialist (224) 531-1509 snarytnyk@west40.org

Licensure Serving administrators, teachers, and school staff with all aspects of their licensure needs. Find the latest information below on Illinois licensure, endorsements, approvals, professional development and license renewal. ALL FORMS RECORDS & REQUIREMENTS OTHER Educator Licensure Requirements 15. Link to Webpage How To Create An ELIS Account 27. Link to Webage Illinois Licensure, Endorsement, and Approval Requirements 31. Link to Webpage Out of State Applicant Requirement Checklist 48. Download PDF Renewal and Reinstatement 52. Link to Webpage Guidelines for Individuals Completing an Illinois State Approved Teaching Program 21. Link to Webpage ISBE Forms 30. Link to Webpage Out of Country Applicant Requirement Checklist 47. Download PDF Renewal and Professional Development 51. Link to Webpage Subsequent Teaching Endorsement Requirements 62. Link to Webpage Educator Licensure Requirements 15. Link to Webpage Illinois Licensure, Endorsement, and Approval Requirements 31. Link to Webpage Subsequent Teaching Endorsement Requirements 62. Link to Webpage Guidelines for Individuals Completing an Illinois State Approved Teaching Program 21. Link to Webpage Renewal and Reinstatement 52. Link to Webpage How To Create An ELIS Account 27. Link to Webage Renewal and Professional Development 51. Link to Webpage 30. ISBE Forms Link to Webpage 48. Out of State Applicant Requirement Checklist Download PDF 47. Out of Country Applicant Requirement Checklist Download PDF HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. GINA SIERRA Educator Licensure Specialist gsierra@west40.org ANA MOJARRO Educator Licensure Specialist amojarro@west40.org

Mental Health Support Reducing barriers so students can receive timely and direct mental health services while providing guidance for those who serve them. HOW WE HELP West40 provides support for students experiencing symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of depression, difficult life changes, family challenges, and other concerns affecting their daily lives. Additionally, we offer substance use prevention and early intervention services for students and educational sessions for parents, guardians, and educators. For educators, mental health professionals, social workers, and staff members, reflective consultation is available to promote learning, professional growth, and self awareness. Individual and peer clinical supervision is also available for those completing internship hours. WHO WE SERVE Direct Services: Referred students from West40 programs, including ALOP, Safe School, Remote School, or Truancy and Teen Parent Parents and family members Reflective Consultation: Social workers, educators, mental health professionals, other care providers within West40 districts, and West40 staff. Clinical Supervision: West40 staff completing clinical supervision requirements for professional counseling licensure BUILD If you are in need of BUILD, Substance use prevention services click the button to the left for more information on the program and who to contact. BUILD Program Webpage HOW CAN WE HELP? LET'S CONNECT. LAURA GUZMAN LOPEZ Director of Mental Health Support lguzmanlopez@west40.org

Professional Learning Specialist DR. ERIKA LUKASIK DR. ERIKA LUKASIK < Back DR. ERIKA LUKASIK More about Erika Professional Learning Specialist Dr. Erika Lukasik joined the West40 Professional Learning team as Professional Learning Specialist with a focus on literacy in the summer of 2024. She has worked in literacy instruction at the elementary, middle school, high school, and higher education levels for the past 18 years serving as a literature teacher, reading specialist, instructional coach, and literacy coordinator. When she isn’t focused on literacy instruction, she’s curled up with her dog and a good book, going to stand-up comedy shows, or listening to Taylor Swift. Erika believes that professional learning is the heart of a reflective and responsive teaching practice. elukasik@west40.org Previous Next