This summer, don’t just “get by” — GET AHEAD. 🔥
Chester High School is proud to launch the brand-new IGNITE ACADEMY, an exciting enrichment program designed to help students grow, build confidence, strengthen skills, and start the next school year STRONGER than ever before.
📚 Focused support in:
✅ Reading & English Language Arts
✅ Math Skills & Confidence Building
✅ Small-Group Instruction
✅ Fun, Engaging Learning Activities
✅ Prevent Summer Learning Loss
This is NOT summer school.
This is a chance to LEVEL UP. 💥
Students will receive personalized support, encouragement from caring educators, and the opportunity to sharpen academic skills in a positive, motivating environment. Whether your child needs extra support, wants to stay sharp, or is looking to gain an academic edge — IGNITE ACADEMY is built for them.
🔥 Why families are excited:
✔ FREE program provided by CHS
✔ Limited class sizes for more individual attention
✔ Supportive and engaging atmosphere
✔ Helps students feel prepared and confident for next year
✔ Seats are EXTREMELY LIMITED
📍CHS Ignite Academy will be located at Chester Grade School.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Seats are expected to fill FAST.
Once spots are gone, students will be placed on a waiting list.
📞 Contact the CHS Main Office TODAY to reserve your student’s seat before it’s too late! 618-826-2302
#CHSIgniteAcademy #ChesterHighSchool #IgniteLearning #FutureStartsNow #StayAhead #StudentSuccess #YellowJackets #SummerEnrichment #LevelUp #LimitedSeats
🚨 ¡INSCRIPCIONES ABIERTAS AHORA: CHS IGNITE ACADEMY! 🚨
Este verano, no solo “te conformes” — AVANZA. 🔥
Chester High School se enorgullece de lanzar la nueva IGNITE ACADEMY, un emocionante programa de enriquecimiento diseñado para ayudar a los estudiantes a crecer, desarrollar confianza, fortalecer habilidades y comenzar el próximo año escolar MÁS FUERTES que nunca.
📚 Apoyo enfocado en:
✅ Lectura y Artes del Lenguaje Inglés
✅ Habilidades Matemáticas y Desarrollo de Confianza
✅ Instrucción en grupos pequeños
✅ Actividades de aprendizaje divertidas y dinámicas
✅ Prevención de la pérdida de aprendizaje durante el verano
¡Esto NO es escuela de verano!
Esta es una oportunidad para SUBIR DE NIVEL. 💥
Los estudiantes recibirán apoyo personalizado, motivación de educadores comprometidos y la oportunidad de fortalecer sus habilidades académicas en un ambiente positivo y motivador. Ya sea que su hijo necesite apoyo adicional, quiera mantenerse al día académicamente o busque obtener una ventaja académica, IGNITE ACADEMY está diseñada para ellos.
🔥 Por qué las familias están emocionadas:
✔ Programa GRATUITO ofrecido por CHS
✔ Tamaños de clase limitados para mayor atención individual
✔ Ambiente de apoyo y participación activa
✔ Ayuda a los estudiantes a sentirse preparados y seguros para el próximo año
✔ Los espacios son EXTREMADAMENTE LIMITADOS
📍CHS Ignite Academy estará ubicada en Chester Grade School.
⚠️ IMPORTANTE: Se espera que los lugares se llenen RÁPIDAMENTE.
Una vez que los espacios se agoten, los estudiantes serán colocados en una lista de espera.
📞 ¡Comuníquese HOY con la oficina principal de CHS para reservar el lugar de su estudiante antes de que sea demasiado tarde! 618-826-2302
#CHSIgniteAcademy #ChesterHighSchool #IgniteLearning #FutureStartsNow #StayAhead #StudentSuccess #YellowJackets #SummerEnrichment #LevelUp #LimitedSeats
CGS & CHS: GRADES FINALIZED & POSTED
Chester High School grades are finalized and posted. Log into TeacherEase to see report cards, GPA and class rank.
Chester Grade School final report card grades for grades 6–8 are now available to view in TeacherEase. Kindergarten through 5th grade students received paper report cards on the last day of school.
Families may view report cards for any grade level in TeacherEase. Thank you
CGS Y CHS: CALIFICACIONES FINALIZADAS Y PUBLICADAS
Las calificaciones de Chester High School han sido finalizadas y publicadas. Inicie sesión en TeacherEase para ver las boletas de calificaciones, el GPA y el rango de clase.
Las calificaciones finales de las boletas de Chester Grade School para los grados 6.º a 8.º ya están disponibles para verse en TeacherEase. Los estudiantes de Kindergarten a 5.º grado recibieron boletas impresas el último día de clases.
Las familias pueden ver las boletas de calificaciones de cualquier nivel escolar en TeacherEase. Gracias.
CGS & CHS students who plan to participate in school sports must have a current sports physical on file before taking part in any practice or game. Sports physicals are only valid for one year and one month from the physical appointment date.
Chester Memorial Hospital is offering a FREE Sports Physical Clinic on July 18.
See the link below for more information.
https://www.mhchester.com/free-sports-physicals
CGS & CHS: RANDOLPH COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT IN SPARTA IMMUNIZATION CLINIC
Students entering Kindergarten, 6th grade, and 9th grade must submit a health physical and proof of immunizations. A health physical satisfies the sports physical requirement, but a sports physical does not satisfy the health physical requirement. Health physicals are valid for one year from the physical appointment date.
The Randolph County Health Department in Sparta will host an immunization clinic for 6th graders on June 17. See the link below for more information.
https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3096/Ccsd/721a9cc8-d8ec-41f5-a226-c0a6f251172a/Back-to-School-Immunization-Clinic.pdf?disposition=inline
CGS: RANDOLPH COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT DENTAL CLINIC & DENTAL SAFARI
Students entering Kindergarten, 2nd grade, and 6th grade must provide a current eye exam and dental exam.
The Randolph County Health Department is hosting a Dental Clinic on July 10.
See the link below for more information.
https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3096/Ccsd/b142774a-97e1-412b-994d-07e9d48cb454/SIUC-Dental-Clinic.png?disposition=inline
Dental Safari will be at the Randolph County Health Department on July 13.
See the link below for more information. (Dental Safari will also visit CGS in December 2026.)
https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3096/Ccsd/82825160-d754-4705-aa01-ebebf101df69/Dental-Safari-Clinic.png?disposition=inline
If you have any questions, please contact the
Chester Grade School Office: (618) 826-2354.
Chester High School Office: (618) 826-2302
Summer office hours are Mon - Fri, 9 AM - 2 PM. Thank you!
CGS Y CHS: CLÍNICA GRATUITA DE EXÁMENES FÍSICOS DEPORTIVOS DEL CHESTER MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Los estudiantes de CGS y CHS que planeen participar en deportes escolares deben tener un examen físico deportivo vigente en archivo antes de participar en cualquier práctica o juego. Los exámenes físicos deportivos son válidos solo por un año y un mes a partir de la fecha de la cita médica.
Chester Memorial Hospital ofrecerá una Clínica GRATUITA de Exámenes Físicos Deportivos el 18 de julio.
Consulte el enlace a continuación para obtener más información.
https://www.mhchester.com/free-sports-physicals
CGS Y CHS: CLÍNICA DE INMUNIZACIÓN DEL DEPARTAMENTO DE SALUD DEL CONDADO DE RANDOLPH EN SPARTA
Los estudiantes que ingresan a Kindergarten, 6.º grado y 9.º grado deben presentar un examen físico de salud y comprobante de vacunas. Un examen físico de salud cumple con el requisito del examen físico deportivo, pero un examen físico deportivo no cumple con el requisito del examen físico de salud. Los exámenes físicos de salud son válidos por un año a partir de la fecha de la cita médica.
El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Randolph en Sparta llevará a cabo una clínica de inmunización para estudiantes de 6.º grado el 17 de junio. Consulte el enlace a continuación para obtener más información.
https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3096/Ccsd/721a9cc8-d8ec-41f5-a226-c0a6f251172a/Back-to-School-Immunization-Clinic.pdf?disposition=inline
CGS: CLÍNICA DENTAL DEL DEPARTAMENTO DE SALUD DEL CONDADO DE RANDOLPH Y DENTAL SAFARI
Los estudiantes que ingresan a Kindergarten, 2.º grado y 6.º grado deben proporcionar un examen de la vista y un examen dental vigentes.
El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Randolph organizará una Clínica Dental el 10 de julio.
Consulte el enlace a continuación para obtener más información.
https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3096/Ccsd/b142774a-97e1-412b-994d-07e9d48cb454/SIUC-Dental-Clinic.png?disposition=inline
Dental Safari estará en el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Randolph el 13 de julio.
Consulte el enlace a continuación para obtener más información. (Dental Safari también visitará CGS en diciembre de 2026.)
https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3096/Ccsd/82825160-d754-4705-aa01-ebebf101df69/Dental-Safari-Clinic.png?disposition=inline
Si tiene alguna pregunta, comuníquese con la
Oficina de Chester Grade School: (618) 826-2354
Oficina de Chester High School: (618) 826-2302
El horario de oficina de verano es de lunes a viernes, de 9:00 a. m. a 2:00 p. m. ¡Gracias!
You must pick up a new car tag. Last year’s car tags may not be used.
CECC, CGS & CHS: SPEECH & LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST APPRECIATION DAY
We would like to thank our Speech Pathologists Casey Peters and Jenna Uchtman.
Thank you for all of your hard work supporting our students and community!
CECC, CGS Y CHS: DÍA DE APRECIACIÓN A LOS PATÓLOGOS DEL HABLA Y LENGUAJE
Nos gustaría agradecer a nuestras patólogas del habla y lenguaje, Casey Peters y Jenna Uchtman.
¡Gracias por todo su arduo trabajo apoyando a nuestros estudiantes y comunidad!
Don’t Forget!
You need a NEW car tag this year.
Last year’s car tag cannot be used.
We look forward to seeing you! 🚗💙
Today is the day, come join us in celebrating this milestone in the lives of our graduates.
Chester High School One Hundred Fortieth Commencement
Sunday, May 17th, 2026
Chester High School, Colbert Memorial Gymnasium, 3:00pm
Public please enter through the Professor Sharp Cafeteria
Doors open to the public 2:00pm
CHS CLASS OF 2026 GRADUATION LIVESTREAM
The CHS Graduation Ceremony will be streamed for live viewing as well as reviewing on Hudl, Youtube and Facebook.
For your convenience, QR codes are included in the attached graphics, and the links are provided below. We invite you to join us for this exciting event!
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
In the event of any issues with the Facebook Live feed, we encourage you to utilize one of the alternative platforms available. Thank you for your understanding.
CHS: GRADUACIÓN DE LA CLASE DE 2026
Hoy es el día; acompáñenos a celebrar este importante logro en la vida de nuestros graduados.
Centésima Cuadragésima Ceremonia de Graduación de Chester High School
Domingo, 17 de mayo de 2026
Chester High School, Colbert Memorial Gymnasium, 3:00 p. m.
El público debe ingresar por la cafetería Professor Sharp.
Las puertas se abrirán al público a las 2:00 p. m.
TRANSMISIÓN EN VIVO DE LA GRADUACIÓN DE LA CLASE DE 2026 DE CHS
La ceremonia de graduación de CHS será transmitida en vivo y también estará disponible para volver a verse en Hudl, YouTube y Facebook.
Para su conveniencia, los códigos QR están incluidos en los gráficos adjuntos y los enlaces se proporcionan a continuación. ¡Los invitamos a acompañarnos en este emocionante evento!
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
En caso de cualquier problema con la transmisión en vivo de Facebook, les recomendamos utilizar una de las plataformas alternativas disponibles. Gracias por su comprensión.
Come join us to celebrate a milestone in the lives of our graduating class.
The CHS Commence Ceremony will be held Sunday, May 17th, 2026 at 3:00pm in the Colbert Memorial Gymnasium.
Doors enter to the public at 2:00pm, please enter through the Professor Sharp Cafeteria.
GRADUACIÓN DE CHS 2026
Acompáñenos para celebrar un momento importante en la vida de nuestra clase graduada.
La ceremonia de graduación de CHS se llevará a cabo el domingo 17 de mayo de 2026 a las 3:00 p. m. en el Colbert Memorial Gymnasium.
Las puertas se abrirán al público a las 2:00 p. m.; por favor, ingrese por la cafetería Professor Sharp.
CUSD 139: CLOSING DAY 2026
Today we celebrated the successful conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year.
Pictured are staff members recognized for 5, 15, 20, 25, and 30 years of dedicated service to the district, along with our retirees. Their commitment, professionalism, and care have made a lasting impact on the lives of our students and school community.
We are grateful to our staff, families, and community for their continued support throughout the educational journey of our students. Thank you, and best wishes for a wonderful summer!
CUSD 139: DÍA DE CLAUSURA 2026
Hoy celebramos la exitosa conclusión del año escolar 2025–2026.
En la imagen aparecen miembros del personal reconocidos por 5, 15, 20, 25 y 30 años de servicio dedicado al distrito, junto con nuestros jubilados. Su compromiso, profesionalismo y dedicación han dejado un impacto duradero en la vida de nuestros estudiantes y en nuestra comunidad escolar.
Estamos agradecidos con nuestro personal, familias y comunidad por su continuo apoyo durante la trayectoria educativa de nuestros estudiantes. ¡Gracias y les deseamos un maravilloso verano!
ACT has informed local school districts that scores for students who completed the ACT online during the spring school-day testing window will need to be reissued.
Students who took the ACT online this spring will temporarily lose access to their scores beginning Wednesday, May 13. According to ACT, revised scores will be available again no later than June 2nd.
ACT has shared the following information:
• Composite and section scores will either remain the same or increase slightly based on individual student performance.
• Scores will NOT decrease from what was previously released.
• Revised scores will be posted through MyACT accounts for students and parents/guardians who created accounts.
• Updated scores will also be sent to schools, districts, and any colleges or scholarship agencies selected through ACT’s score distribution process.
If scores were sent to colleges or scholarship agencies outside of ACT’s score distribution process, students will need to resend those scores after revised results are received.
Families who did not create a MyACT account are encouraged to contact ACT at 319-337-1313 for additional information regarding next steps.
CHS: ACTUALIZACIÓN DE INFORMACIÓN DEL ACT
ACT ha informado a los distritos escolares locales que los puntajes de los estudiantes que completaron el ACT en línea durante el período de exámenes escolares de primavera deberán ser emitidos nuevamente.
Los estudiantes que tomaron el ACT en línea esta primavera perderán temporalmente el acceso a sus puntajes a partir del miércoles 13 de mayo. Según ACT, los puntajes revisados volverán a estar disponibles a más tardar el 2 de junio.
ACT ha compartido la siguiente información:
• Los puntajes compuestos y de cada sección permanecerán iguales o aumentarán ligeramente según el desempeño individual de cada estudiante.
• Los puntajes NO disminuirán con respecto a los que fueron publicados anteriormente.
• Los puntajes revisados se publicarán a través de las cuentas MyACT para estudiantes y padres/tutores que hayan creado una cuenta.
• Los puntajes actualizados también serán enviados a las escuelas, distritos y cualquier universidad o agencia de becas seleccionada mediante el proceso de envío de puntajes de ACT.
Si los puntajes fueron enviados a universidades o agencias de becas fuera del proceso de envío de puntajes de ACT, los estudiantes deberán reenviar esos puntajes después de recibir los resultados revisados.
Las familias que no hayan creado una cuenta MyACT deben comunicarse con ACT al 319-337-1313 para obtener información adicional sobre los próximos pasos.
CGS GRADUATION (STREAMING BROADCAST)
Chester Grade School Graduation
Thursday, May 14th, 2026
Chester High School, Colbert Memorial Gymnasium, 6:00pm
Public please enter through the Professor Sharp Cafeteria
Doors open to the public 5:30pm
Students should report to CHS Juergens Gym by 5:15pm.
CGS GRADUATION LIVESTREAM
The CGS Graduation Ceremony will be streamed for live viewing as well as reviewing on Hudl, Youtube and Facebook. For your convenience, QR codes are included in the attached graphics, and the links are provided below. We invite you to join us for this exciting event!
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
In the event of any issues with the Facebook Live feed, we encourage you to utilize one of the alternative platforms available. Thank you for your understanding.
GRADUACIÓN DE CGS (TRANSMISIÓN EN VIVO)
Graduación de Chester Grade School
Jueves, 14 de mayo de 2026
Chester High School, Colbert Memorial Gymnasium, 6:00 p. m.
El público debe ingresar por la cafetería Professor Sharp.
Las puertas se abrirán al público a las 5:30 p. m.
Los estudiantes deben presentarse en el gimnasio Juergens de CHS a las 5:15 p. m.
TRANSMISIÓN EN VIVO DE LA GRADUACIÓN DE CGS
La ceremonia de graduación de CGS será transmitida en vivo y también estará disponible para volver a verse en Hudl, YouTube y Facebook. Para su conveniencia, los códigos QR están incluidos en los gráficos adjuntos y los enlaces se proporcionan a continuación. ¡Los invitamos a acompañarnos en este emocionante evento!
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
En caso de cualquier problema con la transmisión en vivo de Facebook, les recomendamos utilizar una de las plataformas alternativas disponibles. Gracias por su comprensión.
2026 CHS Signing Day honors Class of 2026 seniors (3 of 3)
76 seniors are recognized for future plans following graduation
BY JIM BEERS
4-year colleges or universities
The 46 CHS senior students going to a 4-year college or University include the following (in alphabetical order):
Columbia College (1): Annah Helvey-Ahring.
Greenville University (1): Morgan Miers.
Howard University (1): Skyla Walker.
Jefferson College (1): David August.
McKendree University (3): Gabriel Coffman, Ethan Colvis, and Jonathan Hayer.
Millikin University (1): Megan Zimmer.
Missouri Baptist University (1): Lexie Mott.
Missouri State University (1): Trevor Keeton.
Southeast Missouri University (3): Natalie Guetersloh, Southern LaChance, and Maggie Caby.
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale (9): Morgan Absher, Hayden Cartwright, Anthony Hernandez-Huert, Kylie Hicks, Rylie Myers, Kaylee Rogers, Jason Sibley, Mason Straight, and Jessica Stumpe.
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville (2): Emily Gruenewald and Camryn Wolff.
University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana (3): Addison Gottschammer, Erin Liefer, and Elizabeth Wilson.
University of Northwestern Ohio (1): Liam Holland.
2-year colleges
John A. Logan College (3): Brenna Astin, Alexander Partin, and Brayden Tucker.
Rend Lake College (1): Reed Creason.
Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) (11): Aaliyah Berkbuegler, Jacob Casteel, Alyssa Coffey, Caleb Coffey, Callie Davis, Lillian Diskey, Ivan Hobbs, Kylee Kempfer, Robert Myers, Madison Stauffer, and Olivia Vasquez.
Trade Schools
Renaissance Beauty School (2): Aubrey Coleman and Riley Lochhead.
Penn Foster (1): Macy Bert.
United States Military
Navy (2): Roman Carter and Derrius Shoemate.
Army (2): Luke Hobeck and Luke Kennedy.
Marines (1): Santino Decker.
Coast Guard (1): Isaac Sims.
Work Force
The following 21 CHS seniors plan to enter the work force after graduation. Lucas Chandler, Amelia Crawford, Mackenzie Deimund, Peyton Dickson, Carlos Jimenez, Franklin Jimenez, Brayden Juenger, Ryan Junger, Trayton Peters, Caleb Richmond, Jacob Shields, Konner Schroeder, Isac Smith, Jonathon, Snow, Larry Sorto, Jacob Stueve, Camden Ward, Drew Wilderman, Gavin Wilderman, Adyn Winchester, and Gage Yankey.
Gap Year
The following three CHS seniors will take a Gap Year from school to determine the path they wish take for their future endeavors. Bralynn Astin, Brayan Cates, and Sunny Jausel.
Chester High School Senior Signing Day was deemed a huge success by students and parents alike! Hats off to the CHS Class of 2026 and best of luck in all of your future endeavors!
PHOTO 17
Reed Creason will attend Rend Lake College
PHOTO 18
CHS is sending 11 students to Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC next fall including (in no particular order) Aaliyah Berkbuegler. Jacob Steel, Alyssa Casteel, Caleb Coffey, Callie Davis, Lillian Diskey, Ivan Hobbs, Kylee Kempfer, Robert Myers, Madison Stauffer, and Olivia Vasquez. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 19
Three Chester High School seniors will attend Trade School next fall including Macy Bert (Penn Foster), Aubrey Coleman (Renaissance Beauty School) and Riley Coleman (Renaissance Beauty School). Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 20
Chester High School has six young men entering the United States Armed Forces after graduation. Santino Decker will enlist in the Marines. Luke Hobeck and Luke Kennedy will enlist in the Army. Roman Carter and Derrius Shoemate will enlist in the Navy. Isaac Sims will enlist in the Coast Guard. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 21
Skyla Walker will attend Howard University. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 22
This group of Chester High School seniors intend to enter the Work Force after graduation. Listed (in no particular order) are Lucas Chandler, Ameila Crawford, Mackenzie Deimund, Peyton Dickson, Carlos Jimenez, Franklin Jimenez, Brayden Juenger, Ryan Junger, Trayton Peters, and Caleb Richmond. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 23
This group of CHS students have chosen to enter the Work Force following graduation. Listed (in no particular order) are Jacob Shields, Konner Schroeder, Isac Smith, Jonathan Snow, Larry Sorto, Camden Ward, Drew Wilderman, Gavin Wilderman, Adyn Winchester, and Gage Yankey. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 24
Three students at CHS have decided to take a Gap Year off from school to decide which direction they wish to take for their future endeavors. Pictured is Brayan Cates. He is joined by Bralynn Astin and Sunny Jausel (not pictured). Jim Beers Photo
76 seniors are recognized for future plans following graduation
BY JIM BEERS
In the Class of 2026, the There are 28 students that will attend one of 13 four-year colleges. There will be 15 students attending 2-year colleges, for a total of 43 students going to academic colleges or universities. Six students will join branches of the United States Military, Three students will go to Trade Schools. There will be 21 students entering the work force, and three students have decided to take a gap year to ponder their future endeavors.
In the 4-year college or university category, Southern Illinois University in Carbondale has the most seniors entering its doors in the fall of 2026 as nine seniors will go to SIU-C. Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) has the second biggest number CHS seniors heading its way with 11 students registering there. The work force has 21 students entering its career choice.
The 13 four-year colleges or universities and their respective numbers of CHS freshmen entering their ranks in fall of 2026 include Southern Illinois University-Carbondale (9), McKendree University (3), Southeast Missouri University (3), University of Illinois (3), Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville (2), and eight other universities that have one CHS students each attending including Columbia College, Greenville University, Howard University, Jefferson College, Millikin University, Missouri Baptist University, Murray State University, and University of Northwestern Ohio.
The three two-Year colleges and their number of incoming Chester freshmen next fall include Southwestern Illinois College (11), John A. Logan College (3), and Rend Lake College (1), for a total of 15 students from CHS going to SWIC.
Three CHS seniors will attend a trade school including the Renaissance Beauty College (2), and Penn Foster College (1).
Seniors names and their respective immediate courses of action appear below.
PHOTO 9
Lexie Mott will attend Missouri Baptist University next fall. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 10
Trevor Keeton will attend Murray State next fall. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 11
Southern LaChance, Natalie Guetersloh and Maggie Caby will attend Southeast Missouri University next fall. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 12
CHS will send nine students to Southern Illinois University next fall. In no particular order are Morgan Absher, Hayden Cartwright, Anthony Hernandez-Huerta, Kylie Hicks, Rylie Myers, Kaylee Rogers, Jason Sibley, Mason Straight, and Jessica Stumpe. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 13
Emily Gruenwald and Camryn Wolff will attend Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville next fall. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 14
Addison Gottschammer, Erin Liefer, and Elizabeth Wilson will attend the University of Illinois Champaign next fall. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 15
Liam Holland will attend the University of Northwestern Ohio next fall. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 16
Alexander Partin, Brayden Tucker, and Brenna Astin (not pictured) will attend John A. Logan College next fall. Jim Beers Photo
76 seniors are recognized for future plans following graduation
BY JIM BEERS
Chester High School seniors will graduate Sunday May 17, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Several years ago CHS began a tradition of recognizing every senior in a school-wide assembly titled, “Senior Signing Day”.
During that assembly each student is introduced and his or her future plans are announced to highlight what “life after high school” will be for that student. According to design, the assembly serves two primary functions.
The first is to help seniors celebrate the conclusion of their careers at CHS and announce what their immediate futures have in store for them. The second function of honoring the seniors is to help set an example for the remaining underclassmen at CHS to encourage them to strive for similar goals in their remaining three years of high school at CHS.
The annual “Senior Signing Day” assembly typically takes about 45 minutes-to-an-hour and is led by Chester High School Principal, Jeremy Blechle. Blechle serves as Master of Ceremonies for the event which includes all students at CHS. Parents are invited to attend the event as well as members of the community in general.
The 2026 CHS Senior Signing Day took place Wednesday May 6 at 11:15 a.m. There was a large group of parents and community members in attendance as well as all CHS seniors and underclassmen. Seniors were seated front-and-center in Colbert Memorial Gymnasium, on Rocky Bridges Court.
CHS Technology Advisor, Dwight Lochhead, utilized the huge video screen that was recently installed in Colbert Gymnasium as a backdrop for the event, and as each individual was announced, he or she came to the front of the presentation area in front of the audience and signed his or her specially designed Signing Day Certificate in front of the crowd.
Every student in the Class of 2026 was honored and recognized. Students were brought to the signing tables located along the sidelines of Rocky Bridges Court, in groups, determined by what the individual future plans of each group were.
This year, student groups included students going to 4-Year Colleges or Universities, students who will attend 2-Year Junior Colleges, students joining the United States Military, students taking a “Gap Year” (taking a year off to decide what their future plans will be), Students going into Trade Schools, and students going into the Work Force.
PHOTO 1
Jeremy Blechle, Chester High School Principal, was Master of Ceremonies at the 2026 CHS Senior Signing Day event. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
At the conclusion of the 2026 Chester High School Senior Signing Day assembly Principal Jeremy Blechle meets with his Class of 2026 for the final time prior to final exams. Seniors had final exams a week earlier than underclassmen and were released from school. Friday May 8 was the last day of school for the Class of 2026. Graduation is Sunday May 17 at 3:00, p.m. Jim Beers Photo
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This is the left half of the CHS Class of 2026 that were recognized and honored at the 2026 CHS Senior Signing Day event held Wednesday May 6 at CHS at 11:15 a.m. All seniors were introduced and honored during the evet. Jim Beers Photo
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This is the other half of the CHS Class of 2026 that sat on the right side of center court at Chester's Colbert Memorial Gymnasium. The event was Senior Signing Day 2026 when all seniors were introduced and praised for their intentions to pursue individual post-high school goals. Jim Beers Photo
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Anah Helvey Ahring will attend Columbia College. Jim Beers Photo
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Morgan Miers will attend Greenville University next fall. Jim Beers Photo
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Jonathan Hayes, Ethan Colvis, and Gabriel Coffman will attend McKendree University next fall. Jim Beers Photo
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Megan Zimmer will attend Millikin University next fall. Jim Beers Photo
Students are rewarded for demonstrating Respect, Responsibility, and Empathy
BY JIM BEERS
Chester Grade School recognized 28 students on Friday April 24, 2026 in grades Kindergarten through 8th, for demonstrating the “HIVE” PBIS good character traits of either Respect, Responsibility, Safety, or Empathy.
There are four “HIVE” PBIS characteristics that teachers and staff at CGS look for and encourage every day. Students are praised for 1) Having Respect, 2) Initiating Responsibility, Valuing Safety, and Encouraging Empathy.
Teachers and staff can nominate students for demonstrating one or more of these traits. Nominations are made twice a month. Students caught using at least one of these traits are eligible for nomination.
For the Friday April 24, 2026 awards program there were 28 students who received awards, 13 for Respect, 9 for Responsibility, 1 for Safety, and 5 for Empathy. Those students are listed below.
RESPECT: (13) Karsen Downey, Kindergarten, Eloise Anderson, 1st Grade, Axl Law, and Jeremiah Ferrell, 2nd Grade, Delaney Partin, Reagan Bryant, Za’niayh Wilson, and Rhylann Huey, 3rd Grade, Mariela Pastor Clover, 4th Grade, Neymar Sica Ixcoy, Evelee Ahring, and Jonathon Keeton, 6th Grade, and Jaxon Hanna 8th Grade.
RESPONSIBILITY: (9) Kash Perreuquet, Kindergarten, Kennedy Risley and Karson Nanney, 3rd Grade, Edwin Valesquez, 4th Grade, Briseida Keeton, 5th Grade, Chad Hoffman, 6th Grade, Kierstan Coffey, 7th Grade, and Jake Dunn and Jaxon Hanna, 8th Grade.
SAFETY: (1) Javari Heinemeyer, 5th Grade.
EMPATHY: (5) Kru Jany, 1st Grade, Kris Crouch and Caleb Voudrie, 4th Grade, Harper Moist, 5th Grade, and Arieanna Lee, 8th Grade.
Each student was recognized Friday April 24, 2026 over the CGS Public Address System. Each also received a certificate and all recipients were included in a group photo. Kasey Crook, School Counselor, coordinates the “HIVE” PBIS awards program.
Come to the High School Cafeteria tonight from 3:00–6:00 PM to register or pick up your car tag.
CHS SPRING BAND CONCERT (STREAMING BROADCAST) --CORRECTION--
Chester High School Spring Concert
Tuesday, May 12th, 2026
Colbert Memorial Gymnasium, 6:30pm
Please Enter through the Professor Sharp Cafeteria
Doors open to the public 6:00pm
Help us celebrate another year of remarkable music as Mr. Colonel says goodbye to CHS.
CHS CONCERT LIVESTREAM
The CHS concert will be streamed for live viewing as well as reviewing on Hudl, Youtube and Facebook.
For your convenience, QR codes are included in the attached graphics, and the links are provided below. We invite you to join us for this exciting event!
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
In the event of any issues with the Facebook Live feed, we encourage you to utilize one of the alternative platforms available. Thank you for your understanding.
CONCIERTO DE PRIMAVERA DE BANDA DE CHS (TRANSMISIÓN EN VIVO) --CORRECCIÓN--
Concierto de Primavera de Chester High School
Martes, 12 de mayo de 2026
Colbert Memorial Gymnasium, 6:30 p. m.
Por favor, ingrese por la cafetería Professor Sharp
Las puertas se abrirán al público a las 6:00 p. m.
Acompáñenos a celebrar otro año de música excepcional mientras el Sr. Colonel se despide de CHS.
TRANSMISIÓN EN VIVO DEL CONCIERTO DE CHS
El concierto de CHS será transmitido en vivo y también estará disponible para volver a verse en Hudl, YouTube y Facebook.
Para su conveniencia, los códigos QR están incluidos en los gráficos adjuntos y los enlaces se proporcionan a continuación. ¡Los invitamos a acompañarnos en este emocionante evento!
Hudl: https://fan.hudl.com/usa/il/chester/organization/14289/chester-high-school
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChesterHighSchoolIL
Facebook: Chester Community Unit School Dist No 139
En caso de cualquier problema con la transmisión en vivo de Facebook, les recomendamos utilizar una de las plataformas alternativas disponibles. Gracias por su comprensión.
Hayden Cartwright signing for Dance at Southern Illinois University Carbondalee
Please join us in the Professor Sharp Cafeteria at 3:15pm.
CHS: FIRMA UNIVERSITARIA MIÉRCOLES 13/5/25
Hayden Cartwright firmará para Danza en Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Acompáñenos en la cafetería Professor Sharp a las 3:15 p. m.
