📣 We Want to Hear from YOU!
Chester School District is launching a long-term Strategic Plan, and your voice matters. As part of this process, we are conducting a Community Survey to gather valuable input from parents, employees, board members, and community members.
Your feedback will help guide our priorities, shape district goals, and strengthen the future of our schools.
📝 Please take a few minutes to complete the survey:
🔗 https://forms.gle/ZnSEDCqxxYnSjP1J8
📱 Or scan the QR code in the image attached to this post!
The survey is open to all stakeholders—including parents, staff, students, alumni, business owners, and residents who want to be part of shaping our future.
Thank you for being an important part of Chester CUSD 139’s continued growth and success.
#ChesterCUSD139 #StrategicPlanning #CommunityEngagement #YourVoiceMatters #TogetherWeGrow
Chester School District is launching a long-term Strategic Plan, and your voice matters. As part of this process, we are conducting a Community Survey to gather valuable input from parents, employees, board members, and community members.
Your feedback will help guide our priorities, shape district goals, and strengthen the future of our schools.
📝 Please take a few minutes to complete the survey:
🔗 https://forms.gle/ZnSEDCqxxYnSjP1J8
📱 Or scan the QR code in the image attached to this post!
The survey is open to all stakeholders—including parents, staff, students, alumni, business owners, and residents who want to be part of shaping our future.
Thank you for being an important part of Chester CUSD 139’s continued growth and success.
#ChesterCUSD139 #StrategicPlanning #CommunityEngagement #YourVoiceMatters #TogetherWeGrow
CHS: RALLY TOWEL SPONSORS THANK YOU
Chester High School extends its heartfelt gratitude to our Rally Up, Let's Can Hunger, Food Drive Rally Towel Sponsors: Dairy Queen of Chester, Buena Vista National Bank, and Silkworm. Your generous contributions support our mission to eliminate hunger for students at Chester High School through the Just for Jackets program.
Continuing donations are welcome. Please contact the Chester High School main office for more information.
CHS: GRACIAS A LOS PATROCINADORES DE TOALLAS DE LA MANIFESTACIÓN
La Escuela Preparatoria Chester agradece profundamente a nuestros patrocinadores de toallas de la campaña "¡A por todas, a combatir el hambre!": Dairy Queen de Chester, Buena Vista National Bank y Silkworm. Sus generosas contribuciones apoyan nuestra misión de erradicar el hambre entre los estudiantes de la Escuela Preparatoria Chester a través del programa "Just for Jackets".
Se agradecen las donaciones continuas. Para obtener más información, comuníquese con la oficina principal de la Escuela Preparatoria Chester.
Chester High School extends its heartfelt gratitude to our Rally Up, Let's Can Hunger, Food Drive Rally Towel Sponsors: Dairy Queen of Chester, Buena Vista National Bank, and Silkworm. Your generous contributions support our mission to eliminate hunger for students at Chester High School through the Just for Jackets program.
Continuing donations are welcome. Please contact the Chester High School main office for more information.
CHS: GRACIAS A LOS PATROCINADORES DE TOALLAS DE LA MANIFESTACIÓN
La Escuela Preparatoria Chester agradece profundamente a nuestros patrocinadores de toallas de la campaña "¡A por todas, a combatir el hambre!": Dairy Queen de Chester, Buena Vista National Bank y Silkworm. Sus generosas contribuciones apoyan nuestra misión de erradicar el hambre entre los estudiantes de la Escuela Preparatoria Chester a través del programa "Just for Jackets".
Se agradecen las donaciones continuas. Para obtener más información, comuníquese con la oficina principal de la Escuela Preparatoria Chester.
CHS: NHS INDUCTION CEREMONY
We invite you to attend the Chester High School Summit Chapter's National Honor Society Induction Ceremony this evening. Join us in celebrating the achievements of our new inductees and acknowledging the contributions of our current members.
Wednesday, November 12th, 6:00 pm, in the Colbert Gymnasium.
Please enter through the Professor Sharp Cafeteria, doors open to the public at 5:30pm. Thank you
CHS: CEREMONIA DE INDUCCIÓN A LA SOC
Les invitamos a la Ceremonia de Inducción a la Sociedad Nacional de Honor (NHS) del Capítulo Summit de la Escuela Preparatoria Chester esta noche. Únanse a nosotros para celebrar los logros de nuestros nuevos miembros y reconocer las contribuciones de nuestros miembros actuales.
Miércoles 12 de noviembre, 18:00 h, en el Gimnasio Colbert.
Por favor, ingresen por la Cafetería Profesor Sharp. Las puertas se abrirán al público a las 17:30 h. Gracias.
We invite you to attend the Chester High School Summit Chapter's National Honor Society Induction Ceremony this evening. Join us in celebrating the achievements of our new inductees and acknowledging the contributions of our current members.
Wednesday, November 12th, 6:00 pm, in the Colbert Gymnasium.
Please enter through the Professor Sharp Cafeteria, doors open to the public at 5:30pm. Thank you
CHS: CEREMONIA DE INDUCCIÓN A LA SOC
Les invitamos a la Ceremonia de Inducción a la Sociedad Nacional de Honor (NHS) del Capítulo Summit de la Escuela Preparatoria Chester esta noche. Únanse a nosotros para celebrar los logros de nuestros nuevos miembros y reconocer las contribuciones de nuestros miembros actuales.
Miércoles 12 de noviembre, 18:00 h, en el Gimnasio Colbert.
Por favor, ingresen por la Cafetería Profesor Sharp. Las puertas se abrirán al público a las 17:30 h. Gracias.
CECC, CGS & CHS 2025-2026 STAFF INTRODUCTIONS
CUSD 139 would like to introduce our employees to the community. There are many new faces as well as returning veteran staff. We are looking forward to the start of a great 2025-2026 school year and step forward with students first and the community we serve.
CUSD 139 would like to introduce our employees to the community. There are many new faces as well as returning veteran staff. We are looking forward to the start of a great 2025-2026 school year and step forward with students first and the community we serve.
PHOTO 1 CHS Volunteers
Chester High School volunteers pose for a photo at the end of the October 22, 2025, Chester Area Christian Food Pantry Mobile Market. (Left to right) Amy Miller, CHS Teacher, Leslie Asbury, Mackenzie Deimund, Peyton Dixon, Brookelynn McClain, Ella Jackson, and Angie Werner, CHS Para-professional. The CHS group is loyal, consistent, and does a great job of assisting adult staff each month at the Mobile Market. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2 Koenegstein and Lee Hollaway
The Chester Area Christian Food Pantry Mobile Market lost a loyal volunteer November 1 as Lee Hollaway (right) moved to Northern Illinois to be closer to family. After being in Chester for numerous decades, Hollaway, who was very active in many civic programs, will be missed very much. Pictured here, Hollaway (right) poses with food pantry Manager, Bob Koenegstein (left), at the October 2025 Mobile Market. In the St. Louis Area Food Bank Truck is Jon Nunnery. Farewell good servant, Lee Hollaway. You will be missed! Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3 Volunteers sort food
More than 25 volunteers unload and sort food to be distributed to visitors at the October 2025 Mobile Market. The monthly event is sponsored by the Chester Area Christian Food Pantry, which is managed by Bob Koenegstein, a member of the First United Methodist Church in Chester. Some of the items offered at the event include potatoes, Apples, fig bars, cheese puffs, pastries, pop tarts, bags of assorted meats, cocoa mix, mixed candies, Hostess Honey Buns, Ice Cream Klondike Bars, and miscellaneous bags of assorted foods. For the month of August 2025, the Food Pantry served 225 households that had 586 individuals, 213 of which were children. The Pantry currently need donations of boxed dinners, soups, crackers, canned meats, and canned vegetables. Monetary donations are always welcomed to purchase items that are not donated. The next Mobile Market will be held the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday November 26. The eve3nt is held at the Cohen Recreation Complex at 8 a.m. Vouchers can be obtained at the CACFP at the Koeneman Acres Housing Project on Wednesdays from 9-2. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 4
Chester High School students Peyton Dixon and Ella Jackson help prepare food items to be distributed to visitors at the October 2025 Chester Area Christian Food Pantry Mobile Market. Both students are regular volunteers at the monthly Mobile Market events and enjoy helping feed those in need of food support. Jim Beers Photo
Chester High School volunteers pose for a photo at the end of the October 22, 2025, Chester Area Christian Food Pantry Mobile Market. (Left to right) Amy Miller, CHS Teacher, Leslie Asbury, Mackenzie Deimund, Peyton Dixon, Brookelynn McClain, Ella Jackson, and Angie Werner, CHS Para-professional. The CHS group is loyal, consistent, and does a great job of assisting adult staff each month at the Mobile Market. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2 Koenegstein and Lee Hollaway
The Chester Area Christian Food Pantry Mobile Market lost a loyal volunteer November 1 as Lee Hollaway (right) moved to Northern Illinois to be closer to family. After being in Chester for numerous decades, Hollaway, who was very active in many civic programs, will be missed very much. Pictured here, Hollaway (right) poses with food pantry Manager, Bob Koenegstein (left), at the October 2025 Mobile Market. In the St. Louis Area Food Bank Truck is Jon Nunnery. Farewell good servant, Lee Hollaway. You will be missed! Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3 Volunteers sort food
More than 25 volunteers unload and sort food to be distributed to visitors at the October 2025 Mobile Market. The monthly event is sponsored by the Chester Area Christian Food Pantry, which is managed by Bob Koenegstein, a member of the First United Methodist Church in Chester. Some of the items offered at the event include potatoes, Apples, fig bars, cheese puffs, pastries, pop tarts, bags of assorted meats, cocoa mix, mixed candies, Hostess Honey Buns, Ice Cream Klondike Bars, and miscellaneous bags of assorted foods. For the month of August 2025, the Food Pantry served 225 households that had 586 individuals, 213 of which were children. The Pantry currently need donations of boxed dinners, soups, crackers, canned meats, and canned vegetables. Monetary donations are always welcomed to purchase items that are not donated. The next Mobile Market will be held the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday November 26. The eve3nt is held at the Cohen Recreation Complex at 8 a.m. Vouchers can be obtained at the CACFP at the Koeneman Acres Housing Project on Wednesdays from 9-2. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 4
Chester High School students Peyton Dixon and Ella Jackson help prepare food items to be distributed to visitors at the October 2025 Chester Area Christian Food Pantry Mobile Market. Both students are regular volunteers at the monthly Mobile Market events and enjoy helping feed those in need of food support. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 1
CHS student Ryker Hoffman donates blood at the Fall Blood Drive at Chester High School. The event was sponsored by the CHS National Honor Society. Ryker had plenty of peer support during his donation. Pictured are Gavin Wilderman, Hoffman (donating), Callie Davis, Addison Gottschammer, and Lillian Diskey. Students and various walk-in donors from the community visited Juergens Gym throughout the day to make their donations. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
Thursday November 6 Chester High School hosted its Fall Blood Drive.
The event w3as sponsored by the Summit Chapter of the CHS National Honor Society. Pictured are NHS members Olivia Vasquez and Maddie Stauffer who were managing the Registration Table. Throughout the day the Red Cross Blood Drive collected a total of 35 units of useable blood. There were 39 individuals attempt to give blood, 14 of which were first time donors. Ten of those were Type O Donors. The Spring CHS Blood Drive will take place Wednesday April 28, 2026. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3
Chester High School student, Kiara Mathis donates blood Thursday November 6 at the Fall Blood Drive at CHS. This event was sponsored by the CHS Sumit Chapter of the National Honor Society. Assisting Mathis with her donation was LeSheba Morris, a Red Cross Collection Specialist. All went well with Kiara's donation experience, and she noted that she has donated several times prior to the November 6 Red Cross Blood Drive. CHS will host its Spring Blood Drive Wednesday April 28, 2026, at CHS Juergens Gymnasium. Walk-in donors are always welcome. Jim Beers Photo
CHS student Ryker Hoffman donates blood at the Fall Blood Drive at Chester High School. The event was sponsored by the CHS National Honor Society. Ryker had plenty of peer support during his donation. Pictured are Gavin Wilderman, Hoffman (donating), Callie Davis, Addison Gottschammer, and Lillian Diskey. Students and various walk-in donors from the community visited Juergens Gym throughout the day to make their donations. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
Thursday November 6 Chester High School hosted its Fall Blood Drive.
The event w3as sponsored by the Summit Chapter of the CHS National Honor Society. Pictured are NHS members Olivia Vasquez and Maddie Stauffer who were managing the Registration Table. Throughout the day the Red Cross Blood Drive collected a total of 35 units of useable blood. There were 39 individuals attempt to give blood, 14 of which were first time donors. Ten of those were Type O Donors. The Spring CHS Blood Drive will take place Wednesday April 28, 2026. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3
Chester High School student, Kiara Mathis donates blood Thursday November 6 at the Fall Blood Drive at CHS. This event was sponsored by the CHS Sumit Chapter of the National Honor Society. Assisting Mathis with her donation was LeSheba Morris, a Red Cross Collection Specialist. All went well with Kiara's donation experience, and she noted that she has donated several times prior to the November 6 Red Cross Blood Drive. CHS will host its Spring Blood Drive Wednesday April 28, 2026, at CHS Juergens Gymnasium. Walk-in donors are always welcome. Jim Beers Photo
Chester Grade School honors local veterans with school-wide assembly (3 of 3)
Approximately 40 veterans and family members enjoy a morning of recognition, music and tribute
BY JIM BEERS
Rueling briefly discussed the high amount of responsibility involved with his position. While his job was very important, he later felt that he wanted to do something different in the military. As his four years came to a close, he realized that he really preferred to move closer to home and become a teacher. At the same time, he also wanted to keep serving his country.
That is when he decided to teach, and continue to serve. It just so happened that the Illinois Air National Guard was hiring for the exact position in which he was interested. He wanted to become an Intelligence Officer. Once again, Rueling “killed two birds with one stone”. He was able to teach, and serve in the Air National Guard at the same time.
In October of 2023 Rueling was promoted to the rank of Captain. He then transferred from full time active duty to part time duty in the Air National Guard, based in Springfield, Illinois. In 2024 he spent 6 months in San, Angelo, Texas at Goodfellow AFB to train to become an intelligence officer.
In this role, he strives to measure the enemy’s strengths and weaknesses, and their intent and capabilities. His discoveries help military decision-makers keep one step ahead of our enemies. Rueling said, “I have found a lot of joy in my job because I use a lot of history in my job and that helps us know what the bad guys will most likely do just by looking at and understanding their history.”
At the end of 2024 Rueling completed his training as an Intelligence Officer and moved back to Chester and accepted his full-time History teaching position at CHS. He now serves part time in the Air National Guard as an Intelligence Officer.
Rueling noted that he wanted to speak at the Veteran’s Day Assembly to honor those veterans that came before him, some of which gave much more than he. Rueling said that it is one way we all can help re-pay the debt that we owe to those veterans who sacrificed much more than we did, to help keep our nation safe and free. He was extremely happy and proud to be able to share his military journey with everyone at the Veteran’s Day Assembly!
Following Rueling’s portion of the event, the Junior High Band performed, “Preedom Pinale”, arranged by Michael Story. The song was introduced by Brooklyn Eggemeyer. The Kindergarten through 4th Grade Chorus then sang, “Thank You Soldiers”, by Michael & Angela Souders. That performance was introduced by Max Watson.
To close out the assembly, the CGS Junior High Band performed, “Marches of the Armed Forces”, arranged by Michael Sweeney. Kiersten Coffey introduced the song and Jaymie Dickerson narrated the various armed forces theme songs as they were being played. Members of the various branches of the armed forces were asked to stand and be recognized as their respective theme song was being played.
Closing remarks were then presented by Dr. Kristen Petrowske, Assistant Principal. The assembly was then complete and students were released to return to their classrooms.
PHOTO 15
Kolin Martinez introduces the Kindergarten thru 4th Grade Chorus in their performance of "God Bless America". Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 16
Mabrie Cushman introduces the 6trh Grade Band performance of, "American Pride" by Andrew Balent. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 17
Brooklyn Eggemeyer introduces the CGS Junior High Band performance of "Freedom Finale", arranged by Michael Story.
Photo 18
Max Watson introduces the Kindergarten thru 4th Grade Chorus performance of "Thank You Soldiers", Michael & Angela Souders. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 19
Kiersten Coffey introduces the Junior High Band performance of "Marches of the Armed Forces" arranged by Michael Sweeney. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 20
Jaymie Dickerson announces the various armed force's theme songs during the Junior High Band performance of, "Marches of the Armed Forces". Jim Beers Photo
Approximately 40 veterans and family members enjoy a morning of recognition, music and tribute
BY JIM BEERS
Rueling briefly discussed the high amount of responsibility involved with his position. While his job was very important, he later felt that he wanted to do something different in the military. As his four years came to a close, he realized that he really preferred to move closer to home and become a teacher. At the same time, he also wanted to keep serving his country.
That is when he decided to teach, and continue to serve. It just so happened that the Illinois Air National Guard was hiring for the exact position in which he was interested. He wanted to become an Intelligence Officer. Once again, Rueling “killed two birds with one stone”. He was able to teach, and serve in the Air National Guard at the same time.
In October of 2023 Rueling was promoted to the rank of Captain. He then transferred from full time active duty to part time duty in the Air National Guard, based in Springfield, Illinois. In 2024 he spent 6 months in San, Angelo, Texas at Goodfellow AFB to train to become an intelligence officer.
In this role, he strives to measure the enemy’s strengths and weaknesses, and their intent and capabilities. His discoveries help military decision-makers keep one step ahead of our enemies. Rueling said, “I have found a lot of joy in my job because I use a lot of history in my job and that helps us know what the bad guys will most likely do just by looking at and understanding their history.”
At the end of 2024 Rueling completed his training as an Intelligence Officer and moved back to Chester and accepted his full-time History teaching position at CHS. He now serves part time in the Air National Guard as an Intelligence Officer.
Rueling noted that he wanted to speak at the Veteran’s Day Assembly to honor those veterans that came before him, some of which gave much more than he. Rueling said that it is one way we all can help re-pay the debt that we owe to those veterans who sacrificed much more than we did, to help keep our nation safe and free. He was extremely happy and proud to be able to share his military journey with everyone at the Veteran’s Day Assembly!
Following Rueling’s portion of the event, the Junior High Band performed, “Preedom Pinale”, arranged by Michael Story. The song was introduced by Brooklyn Eggemeyer. The Kindergarten through 4th Grade Chorus then sang, “Thank You Soldiers”, by Michael & Angela Souders. That performance was introduced by Max Watson.
To close out the assembly, the CGS Junior High Band performed, “Marches of the Armed Forces”, arranged by Michael Sweeney. Kiersten Coffey introduced the song and Jaymie Dickerson narrated the various armed forces theme songs as they were being played. Members of the various branches of the armed forces were asked to stand and be recognized as their respective theme song was being played.
Closing remarks were then presented by Dr. Kristen Petrowske, Assistant Principal. The assembly was then complete and students were released to return to their classrooms.
PHOTO 15
Kolin Martinez introduces the Kindergarten thru 4th Grade Chorus in their performance of "God Bless America". Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 16
Mabrie Cushman introduces the 6trh Grade Band performance of, "American Pride" by Andrew Balent. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 17
Brooklyn Eggemeyer introduces the CGS Junior High Band performance of "Freedom Finale", arranged by Michael Story.
Photo 18
Max Watson introduces the Kindergarten thru 4th Grade Chorus performance of "Thank You Soldiers", Michael & Angela Souders. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 19
Kiersten Coffey introduces the Junior High Band performance of "Marches of the Armed Forces" arranged by Michael Sweeney. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 20
Jaymie Dickerson announces the various armed force's theme songs during the Junior High Band performance of, "Marches of the Armed Forces". Jim Beers Photo
Chester Grade School honors local veterans with school-wide assembly (2 of 3)
Approximately 40 veterans and family members enjoy a morning of recognition, music and tribute
BY JIM BEERS
Chester Grade School Principal Tim Blair gave a warm welcome to the crowd and the entire audience was led in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the singing of the National Anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner”.
Mrs. Colonel then directed the Kindergarteners, 1st Graders, 2nd Graders, 3rd Graders, and 4th Graders in singing, “God Bless America”, by Irving Berlin. CGS student, Kolin Martinez had the honor of introducing the first song. The 6th Grade Band then performed, “American Pride”, by Andrew Balent. Mabrie Cushman introduced the band number. Both performances were executed with talent, class and perfection.
It was now time for the guest speaker of the day. Chester High School Principal, Jeremy Blechle, took center stage to introduce the speaker, who was a much respected teacher at CHS. Wyatt Rueling, a history teacher and well-liked Quarterback Coach for the undefeated, Conference Champion JV YellowJackets, was the 2025 Veteran’s Day Guest Speaker.
Blechle asked to introduce Rueling due to the fact that Blechle had taught Rueling when he was in high school. Blechle then followed his career after college, into the United States Air Force, then back to CHS as a teacher. Blechle was quite honored to have the opportunity to introduce Rueling as a veteran and former student at CHS.
Wyatt welcomed all of the veterans in attendance and stated that he was honored to have been asked to speak at the assembly. Rueling noted that he was a teacher at CHS and a veteran, currently serving in the Air National Guard as a Captain in the United States Air Force.
Rueling then proceeded to tell everyone about his journey as a veteran and the reason he had chosen his career. Rueling graduated from Chester High School in 2015. Upon graduation he was conflicted between his desire to serve his country and to go to college and earn a college degree. He resolved that conflict by going to college and joining the ROTC Program.
Rueling said, “I saw that this was a perfect way to knock out two birds with one stone. It allowed me to go to college to get my Bachelor’s Degree as well as getting military training at the same time during my four years at college.”
Part of the deal was that he had to go into the Air Force in “active duty” for four years after graduating college. He was signed into the service as a Second Lieutenant the day after graduation. This began his journey in the US Military.
Rueling’s first job in the Air Force was to be a Nuclear and Missile Operations Officer. He moved to Vandenberg AFB in California for eight months to do his training, after which he sent 3 years and 4 months in Minot North Dakota. His job was to command Nuclear Missiles if necessary.
Rueling said, “There are three ways to launch a nuclear weapon, from a submarine, from a bomber air plane or from the land. I was assigned to a land bunker. If the President ever decided to launch a strike and do it from the land, I and several of my Missileers would have had to launch them.”
PHOTO 8
Sue Colonel, CGS General Music Tacher and Band Director leads the kindergarten through 4th Grade chorus in singing, "God Bless America", by Irving Berlin, at the annual Veterans Day Assembly at CGS. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 9
The Chester Grade School 6th Grade Band poses for a picture prior to the start of the Veteran's Day Assembly at CGS. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 10
The CGS Junior High Band plays, "Invincible" by Robert W. Smith, to usher the Color Guard and Veterans into the CGS Gym for the start of the 2025 CGS Veterans Day Assembly. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 11
Local Accompanist Vicky Beers provided piano accompaniment for both of the Kindergarten through 4th Grade Chorus songs at the 2025 Chester Grade School Veterans Day Assembly. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 12
Local Veteran Ken Dillman is impressed with te Veterans Breakfast served prior to the 2025 Veteran's Day Assembly at CGS Monday November 10. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 13
Jeremy Blechle, Chester High School Principal. introduced Wyatt Rueling, the Guest Speaker at the 2025 Chester Grade School Veteran's Day Assembly. Blechle taught Rueling when he was a student at CHS. and now, Rueling teaches Histrory at CHS and Blechle is his principal. Blechle took, pride in introducing Rueling who is now a Captain in the Illinois Air National Guard. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 14
Dr. Kristen Petrowske, Assistant Principal at Chester Grade School, provides Closing Remarks to end the 2025 Veterans Day Assembly. Jim Beers Photo
Approximately 40 veterans and family members enjoy a morning of recognition, music and tribute
BY JIM BEERS
Chester Grade School Principal Tim Blair gave a warm welcome to the crowd and the entire audience was led in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the singing of the National Anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner”.
Mrs. Colonel then directed the Kindergarteners, 1st Graders, 2nd Graders, 3rd Graders, and 4th Graders in singing, “God Bless America”, by Irving Berlin. CGS student, Kolin Martinez had the honor of introducing the first song. The 6th Grade Band then performed, “American Pride”, by Andrew Balent. Mabrie Cushman introduced the band number. Both performances were executed with talent, class and perfection.
It was now time for the guest speaker of the day. Chester High School Principal, Jeremy Blechle, took center stage to introduce the speaker, who was a much respected teacher at CHS. Wyatt Rueling, a history teacher and well-liked Quarterback Coach for the undefeated, Conference Champion JV YellowJackets, was the 2025 Veteran’s Day Guest Speaker.
Blechle asked to introduce Rueling due to the fact that Blechle had taught Rueling when he was in high school. Blechle then followed his career after college, into the United States Air Force, then back to CHS as a teacher. Blechle was quite honored to have the opportunity to introduce Rueling as a veteran and former student at CHS.
Wyatt welcomed all of the veterans in attendance and stated that he was honored to have been asked to speak at the assembly. Rueling noted that he was a teacher at CHS and a veteran, currently serving in the Air National Guard as a Captain in the United States Air Force.
Rueling then proceeded to tell everyone about his journey as a veteran and the reason he had chosen his career. Rueling graduated from Chester High School in 2015. Upon graduation he was conflicted between his desire to serve his country and to go to college and earn a college degree. He resolved that conflict by going to college and joining the ROTC Program.
Rueling said, “I saw that this was a perfect way to knock out two birds with one stone. It allowed me to go to college to get my Bachelor’s Degree as well as getting military training at the same time during my four years at college.”
Part of the deal was that he had to go into the Air Force in “active duty” for four years after graduating college. He was signed into the service as a Second Lieutenant the day after graduation. This began his journey in the US Military.
Rueling’s first job in the Air Force was to be a Nuclear and Missile Operations Officer. He moved to Vandenberg AFB in California for eight months to do his training, after which he sent 3 years and 4 months in Minot North Dakota. His job was to command Nuclear Missiles if necessary.
Rueling said, “There are three ways to launch a nuclear weapon, from a submarine, from a bomber air plane or from the land. I was assigned to a land bunker. If the President ever decided to launch a strike and do it from the land, I and several of my Missileers would have had to launch them.”
PHOTO 8
Sue Colonel, CGS General Music Tacher and Band Director leads the kindergarten through 4th Grade chorus in singing, "God Bless America", by Irving Berlin, at the annual Veterans Day Assembly at CGS. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 9
The Chester Grade School 6th Grade Band poses for a picture prior to the start of the Veteran's Day Assembly at CGS. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 10
The CGS Junior High Band plays, "Invincible" by Robert W. Smith, to usher the Color Guard and Veterans into the CGS Gym for the start of the 2025 CGS Veterans Day Assembly. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 11
Local Accompanist Vicky Beers provided piano accompaniment for both of the Kindergarten through 4th Grade Chorus songs at the 2025 Chester Grade School Veterans Day Assembly. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 12
Local Veteran Ken Dillman is impressed with te Veterans Breakfast served prior to the 2025 Veteran's Day Assembly at CGS Monday November 10. Jim Beers Photo
Photo 13
Jeremy Blechle, Chester High School Principal. introduced Wyatt Rueling, the Guest Speaker at the 2025 Chester Grade School Veteran's Day Assembly. Blechle taught Rueling when he was a student at CHS. and now, Rueling teaches Histrory at CHS and Blechle is his principal. Blechle took, pride in introducing Rueling who is now a Captain in the Illinois Air National Guard. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 14
Dr. Kristen Petrowske, Assistant Principal at Chester Grade School, provides Closing Remarks to end the 2025 Veterans Day Assembly. Jim Beers Photo
Chester Grade School honors local veterans with school-wide assembly (1 of 3)
Approximately 40 veterans and family members enjoy a morning of recognition, music and tribute
BY JIM BEERS
Monday morning November 10, Chester Grade School faculty, students, and staff honored local veterans at their annual Veteran’s Day breakfast and school-wide assembly. The event began at 8:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast in the CGS cafeteria. Students who invited a guest veteran were allowed to go to the breakfast and join their guest for a delicious meal of fresh fruit, doughnuts, coffee, and orange juice.
Approximately 40 local veterans and their guests attended the event and enjoyed the royal treatment. The community was also invited to attend the celebration and several community members joined in on the fun and recognition.
A Veteran’s Day Assembly Committee worked hard to organize and implement the event including Katie Kelley, Sue Colonel, CGS Principal Tim Blair, Meg Smith, Casey Peters, Danielle Conway, and Assistant Principal Dr. Kristen Petrowske.
Sue Colonel, CGS Band Director and General Music Teacher did an amazing job organizing and directing a wide variety of music for the hour-long event. Mrs. Colonel taught the Kindergarten through 4th Grade students in learning two featured songs and directed the students in performing those songs to perfection. Local pianist, Vicky Beers, was the accompanist for the vocal performances.
Mrs. Colonel further worked with her 6th Grade Band and 7th & 8th Grade Junior High Band to learn instrumental music for the event. The 6th Grade Band was featured on one selection while the Junior High Band performed three songs. Both bands did a wonderful job of providing instrumental music for the assembly.
The assembly began with the entrance of a three-person Color Guard consisting of Suhaily Torres, Ethan Werner and Cameron McClaine. All three are Boy Scouts of America. The Color Guard led the group of Veteran Honorees into the gym as the Chester Grade School Junior High Band played, “Invincible”, by Robert W. Smith. Veterans and their family members were seated in reserved seats to the left of center stage on the floor.
PHOTO 1
This sin greeted local veterans at the 2025 Chester Grade School Veteran's Day Assembly and breakfast. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 2
Approximately 40 local veterans and their guests attended the 2025 Veterans Day Assembly Monday November 10, Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3
Students, local veterans, teachers, staff, and guests stand to take part in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and to sing the National Anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner", at the 2025 CGS Veteran's Day Assembly. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 4
CGS Principal, Tim Blair, led the assembly in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of the Star Spangled Banner. Jim Beers Photo
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Veterans and guests enjoy a delicious breakfast prior to the start6 of the Chester Grade School Veteran's Day celebration Monday November 10 at CGS. Jim Beers Photo
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A Boy Scout Color Guard led the veterans into the Chester Grade School Gym Monday November 10 at the 2025 CGS veteran's Day Assembly. The scouts led the Pledge of Allegiance and saluted the flag during the National Anthem. Color Guard members include Suhaily Torres, Ethan Werner and Cameron McClaine. Jim Beers Photo
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Guest Speaker at the 2025 Chester Grade School Veteran's Day Assembly was former Chester High School graduate Wyatt Rueling. He is now a Captain in the Illinois Air National Giard and he teaches full time at Chester High School in the Histrory Department. He also is a quarterback coach for the 2025 undefeated, Conference Champion YellowJacket Football JV Football Team. Jim Beers
Approximately 40 veterans and family members enjoy a morning of recognition, music and tribute
BY JIM BEERS
Monday morning November 10, Chester Grade School faculty, students, and staff honored local veterans at their annual Veteran’s Day breakfast and school-wide assembly. The event began at 8:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast in the CGS cafeteria. Students who invited a guest veteran were allowed to go to the breakfast and join their guest for a delicious meal of fresh fruit, doughnuts, coffee, and orange juice.
Approximately 40 local veterans and their guests attended the event and enjoyed the royal treatment. The community was also invited to attend the celebration and several community members joined in on the fun and recognition.
A Veteran’s Day Assembly Committee worked hard to organize and implement the event including Katie Kelley, Sue Colonel, CGS Principal Tim Blair, Meg Smith, Casey Peters, Danielle Conway, and Assistant Principal Dr. Kristen Petrowske.
Sue Colonel, CGS Band Director and General Music Teacher did an amazing job organizing and directing a wide variety of music for the hour-long event. Mrs. Colonel taught the Kindergarten through 4th Grade students in learning two featured songs and directed the students in performing those songs to perfection. Local pianist, Vicky Beers, was the accompanist for the vocal performances.
Mrs. Colonel further worked with her 6th Grade Band and 7th & 8th Grade Junior High Band to learn instrumental music for the event. The 6th Grade Band was featured on one selection while the Junior High Band performed three songs. Both bands did a wonderful job of providing instrumental music for the assembly.
The assembly began with the entrance of a three-person Color Guard consisting of Suhaily Torres, Ethan Werner and Cameron McClaine. All three are Boy Scouts of America. The Color Guard led the group of Veteran Honorees into the gym as the Chester Grade School Junior High Band played, “Invincible”, by Robert W. Smith. Veterans and their family members were seated in reserved seats to the left of center stage on the floor.
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This sin greeted local veterans at the 2025 Chester Grade School Veteran's Day Assembly and breakfast. Jim Beers Photo
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Approximately 40 local veterans and their guests attended the 2025 Veterans Day Assembly Monday November 10, Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 3
Students, local veterans, teachers, staff, and guests stand to take part in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and to sing the National Anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner", at the 2025 CGS Veteran's Day Assembly. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 4
CGS Principal, Tim Blair, led the assembly in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of the Star Spangled Banner. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 5
Veterans and guests enjoy a delicious breakfast prior to the start6 of the Chester Grade School Veteran's Day celebration Monday November 10 at CGS. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 6
A Boy Scout Color Guard led the veterans into the Chester Grade School Gym Monday November 10 at the 2025 CGS veteran's Day Assembly. The scouts led the Pledge of Allegiance and saluted the flag during the National Anthem. Color Guard members include Suhaily Torres, Ethan Werner and Cameron McClaine. Jim Beers Photo
PHOTO 7
Guest Speaker at the 2025 Chester Grade School Veteran's Day Assembly was former Chester High School graduate Wyatt Rueling. He is now a Captain in the Illinois Air National Giard and he teaches full time at Chester High School in the Histrory Department. He also is a quarterback coach for the 2025 undefeated, Conference Champion YellowJacket Football JV Football Team. Jim Beers
CECC, CGS & CHS KINDNESS WEEK, FOOD & HYGIENE DRIVE, AND COIN DRIVE
Next week November 10th-14th will be a district-wide Kindness Week in honor of World Kindness Day on November 13th. Join us in Coloring the World in Kindness by participating in different colorful dress up days throughout the week.
To spread kindness a little further, there will be a week-long coin drive and on Thursday a food/hygiene product drive to support the Just for Jackets program in the school district. Donations will earn students kindness points for their grade and the chance to win a party.
SEMANA DE LA AMABILIDAD, RECOGIDA DE ALIMENTOS E HIGIENE Y MONEDAS EN CECC, CGS Y CHS
La próxima semana, del 10 al 14 de noviembre, se celebrará la Semana de la Amabilidad en todo el distrito en honor al Día Mundial de la Amabilidad, el 13 de noviembre. Únete a nosotros para llenar el mundo de amabilidad participando en los diferentes días de disfraces coloridos durante la semana.
Para difundir aún más la amabilidad, habrá una recogida de monedas durante toda la semana y, el jueves, una recogida de alimentos y productos de higiene para apoyar el programa Just for Jackets del distrito escolar. Las donaciones otorgarán a los estudiantes puntos de amabilidad para su curso y la oportunidad de ganar una fiesta.
Next week November 10th-14th will be a district-wide Kindness Week in honor of World Kindness Day on November 13th. Join us in Coloring the World in Kindness by participating in different colorful dress up days throughout the week.
To spread kindness a little further, there will be a week-long coin drive and on Thursday a food/hygiene product drive to support the Just for Jackets program in the school district. Donations will earn students kindness points for their grade and the chance to win a party.
SEMANA DE LA AMABILIDAD, RECOGIDA DE ALIMENTOS E HIGIENE Y MONEDAS EN CECC, CGS Y CHS
La próxima semana, del 10 al 14 de noviembre, se celebrará la Semana de la Amabilidad en todo el distrito en honor al Día Mundial de la Amabilidad, el 13 de noviembre. Únete a nosotros para llenar el mundo de amabilidad participando en los diferentes días de disfraces coloridos durante la semana.
Para difundir aún más la amabilidad, habrá una recogida de monedas durante toda la semana y, el jueves, una recogida de alimentos y productos de higiene para apoyar el programa Just for Jackets del distrito escolar. Las donaciones otorgarán a los estudiantes puntos de amabilidad para su curso y la oportunidad de ganar una fiesta.
CHS: PBIS JACKET SHOUT-OUTS WEEKS 8-9
Chester High School is pleased to acknowledge the recipients of our weeks 8-9 of PBIS Jacket Shout-Outs. Jacket Shout-Outs provide a platform for teachers to commend students who have made positive contributions to our learning community. We extend our gratitude to these students for their exemplary efforts and for serving as role models for their peers. Thank you, and Go Jackets!
CHS: RECONOCIMIENTOS A LOS ESTUDIANTES DESTACADOS DE PBIS (SEMANAS 8-9)
La Escuela Secundaria Chester se complace en reconocer a los estudiantes que recibieron el Reconocimiento a los Estudiantes Destacados de las semanas 8 y 9 por su contribución positiva a nuestra comunidad educativa. Este reconocimiento permite a los docentes felicitar a los estudiantes que han realizado valiosas aportaciones a nuestra comunidad de aprendizaje. Agradecemos a estos estudiantes su ejemplar dedicación y por ser un ejemplo para sus compañeros. ¡Gracias y vamos, estudiantes destacados!
Chester High School is pleased to acknowledge the recipients of our weeks 8-9 of PBIS Jacket Shout-Outs. Jacket Shout-Outs provide a platform for teachers to commend students who have made positive contributions to our learning community. We extend our gratitude to these students for their exemplary efforts and for serving as role models for their peers. Thank you, and Go Jackets!
CHS: RECONOCIMIENTOS A LOS ESTUDIANTES DESTACADOS DE PBIS (SEMANAS 8-9)
La Escuela Secundaria Chester se complace en reconocer a los estudiantes que recibieron el Reconocimiento a los Estudiantes Destacados de las semanas 8 y 9 por su contribución positiva a nuestra comunidad educativa. Este reconocimiento permite a los docentes felicitar a los estudiantes que han realizado valiosas aportaciones a nuestra comunidad de aprendizaje. Agradecemos a estos estudiantes su ejemplar dedicación y por ser un ejemplo para sus compañeros. ¡Gracias y vamos, estudiantes destacados!
The Chester Grade School October Students of the Month for 2025 were announced Tuesday October 28. Each grade level, Kindergarten through 8th Grade, nominated one student who has demonstrated all four of the "HIVE" good character traits. Those traits include Respect, Responsibility, Safety, and Empathy. Each recipient received a certificate and his or her name was announced over the school public address system. All recipients for the year will also be invited to a "Jacket of the Month" party later in the year. October honorees included Reyna Martin, Kindergarten; Paisley Davis, 1st Grade; Jeremiah Ferrell, 2nd Grade; Ellanore Forsting, 3rd Grade; Breanna Schatte, 4th Grade; Miguel Hernandez, 5th Grade; Riley Rains, 6th Grade; Ella Bert, 7th Grade; and Miles Bert, 8th Grade. At CGS, students thrive as a HIVE every day! Jim Beers Report. Photo by Kasey Crook, School Social Worker
El martes 28 de octubre se anunciaron los Estudiantes del Mes de octubre de 2025 de la Escuela Primaria Chester. Cada grado, desde kínder hasta octavo, nominó a un estudiante que demostró las cuatro cualidades de buen carácter de la "HIVE": Respeto, Responsabilidad, Seguridad y Empatía. Cada estudiante recibió un certificado y su nombre se anunció por el sistema de megafonía de la escuela. Todos los estudiantes premiados del año también serán invitados a una fiesta de "Chaqueta del Mes" más adelante en el año. Los estudiantes homenajeados de octubre fueron Reyna Martin, de kínder; Paisley Davis, de primero; Jeremiah Ferrell, de segundo; Ellanore Forsting, de tercero; Breanna Schatte, de cuarto; Miguel Hernández, de quinto; Riley Rains, de sexto; Ella Bert, de séptimo; y Miles Bert, de octavo. ¡En la Escuela Primaria Chester, los estudiantes prosperan como una HIVE todos los días! Informe de Jim Beers. Fotografía de Kasey Crook, trabajadora social escolar.
El martes 28 de octubre se anunciaron los Estudiantes del Mes de octubre de 2025 de la Escuela Primaria Chester. Cada grado, desde kínder hasta octavo, nominó a un estudiante que demostró las cuatro cualidades de buen carácter de la "HIVE": Respeto, Responsabilidad, Seguridad y Empatía. Cada estudiante recibió un certificado y su nombre se anunció por el sistema de megafonía de la escuela. Todos los estudiantes premiados del año también serán invitados a una fiesta de "Chaqueta del Mes" más adelante en el año. Los estudiantes homenajeados de octubre fueron Reyna Martin, de kínder; Paisley Davis, de primero; Jeremiah Ferrell, de segundo; Ellanore Forsting, de tercero; Breanna Schatte, de cuarto; Miguel Hernández, de quinto; Riley Rains, de sexto; Ella Bert, de séptimo; y Miles Bert, de octavo. ¡En la Escuela Primaria Chester, los estudiantes prosperan como una HIVE todos los días! Informe de Jim Beers. Fotografía de Kasey Crook, trabajadora social escolar.
CHS: CCSI STUDENTS
Chester High School CCSI students may drive to CCSI at the discretion of their parents on Friday, November 7th, 2025.
CUSD 139 Families: Due to no an electrical outage at the grade school Chester CUSD 139 will have an E-Learning on Friday, November 7 . Sorry for any inconvenience.
CGS: EMERGENCY CGS SCHOOL CLOSURE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
There is no imminent danger to students in the building. Please do not rush, travel safe as you come to pick up students. As noted previously, the buses will run starting at 12:30pm.
Additionally there will be no Jacket Care this evening.
Again, apologies for the inconvenience.
CGS: EMERGENCY CGS SCHOOL CLOSURE
There is a power line down in the community and as a result CGS will be closing for the rest of the day. Parents that normally pick up children will need to make their way to CGS and do so now. Busses will start running at 12:30pm. Apologies for the inconvenience.
🎃👻 Hey everyone! It’s time for the CGS Staff Halloween Costume Contest! Vote for ONE individual and ONE group! (Multiple same email entries will not count!) Voting will end Thursday, November 6th at 3pm! Click the link to place your votes! >>> https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf-BqIDaqpGbK0xfsGQTlItuCYdsqVw5x2gpvlJqY6HHS77yg/viewform?usp=header
CHS: FRIDAY 11/07/25 EARLY RELEASE SCHEDULE INFORMATION
Friday 11/07/25 will be an 11:30 dismissal following the schedule noted in the attached graphic. Additionally, CCSI students will attend CCSI instead of CHS. CCSI students will return at their regular Friday scheduled time and be provided lunch. As usual, Opt-out, Start-up, and Work Force students should do their best to follow the adapted schedule. If staying on campus, they should be in the media center due to the unusual rescheduling of the 6th period to the end of the day. Thank you
CHS: INFORMACIÓN SOBRE EL HORARIO DE SALIDA ANTICIPADA DEL VIERNES 11/07/25
El viernes 11/07/25 la salida será a las 11:30, según el horario indicado en la imagen adjunta. Además, los estudiantes de CCSI asistirán a CCSI en lugar de CHS. Los estudiantes de CCSI regresarán a su hora habitual de los viernes y se les proporcionará el almuerzo. Como siempre, los estudiantes de los programas Opt-out, Start-up y Work Force deben hacer todo lo posible por seguir el horario adaptado. Si permanecen en el campus, deben estar en el centro de medios debido al cambio de horario de la sexta hora al final del día. Gracias.
Friday 11/07/25 will be an 11:30 dismissal following the schedule noted in the attached graphic. Additionally, CCSI students will attend CCSI instead of CHS. CCSI students will return at their regular Friday scheduled time and be provided lunch. As usual, Opt-out, Start-up, and Work Force students should do their best to follow the adapted schedule. If staying on campus, they should be in the media center due to the unusual rescheduling of the 6th period to the end of the day. Thank you
CHS: INFORMACIÓN SOBRE EL HORARIO DE SALIDA ANTICIPADA DEL VIERNES 11/07/25
El viernes 11/07/25 la salida será a las 11:30, según el horario indicado en la imagen adjunta. Además, los estudiantes de CCSI asistirán a CCSI en lugar de CHS. Los estudiantes de CCSI regresarán a su hora habitual de los viernes y se les proporcionará el almuerzo. Como siempre, los estudiantes de los programas Opt-out, Start-up y Work Force deben hacer todo lo posible por seguir el horario adaptado. Si permanecen en el campus, deben estar en el centro de medios debido al cambio de horario de la sexta hora al final del día. Gracias.
CHS: ICONIK SENIOR TUX/DRAPE PICTURE DAY & PICTURE RETAKE
Chester High School Senior Tux/Drape Picture Day & Picture Retakes, Friday, October 7th, 2025
CHS: FOTOS DE GRADUACIÓN CON ESMOQUIN Y TOGA Y REPETICIÓN DE FOTOS
Día de fotos de graduación con esmoquin y toga y repetición de fotos de la Escuela Secundaria Chester, viernes 7 de octubre de 2025
Chester High School Senior Tux/Drape Picture Day & Picture Retakes, Friday, October 7th, 2025
CHS: FOTOS DE GRADUACIÓN CON ESMOQUIN Y TOGA Y REPETICIÓN DE FOTOS
Día de fotos de graduación con esmoquin y toga y repetición de fotos de la Escuela Secundaria Chester, viernes 7 de octubre de 2025
🏀 5th and 6th grade Boys Head Basketball Coach Vacancy 🏀
