La Grange families are getting a longer summer next year — from a typical 11 weeks to at least 12 — because construction crews need uninterrupted time inside four District 102 school buildings before students arrive in the fall.

RenewD102 Improves Facilities Across the District

The district posted its finalized 2026–2027 school calendar in December, built around the launch of major RenewD102 construction work at Forest Road School, Barnsdale Road School, Cossitt Avenue School, and Park Junior High School. Playground renovations are also planned at every District 102 building except Park Junior High.

The first day of school will be a full day on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. The last day will be a half day on Thursday, June 10, 2027.

RenewD102 — the voter-approved facilities improvement plan — passed on April 2, 2025, with 67.55% of voters in support. "This result reflects the values of a community that cares deeply about education," Superintendent Dr. Chris Covino said following that vote.

The calendar was developed by a committee of teachers, administrators, and two Board of Education members, with community input factored into the final decisions. The district said in its announcement that it "carefully reviewed your comments and concerns" in crafting the schedule.

What Families Need to Know

The extra weeks before school starts do create a childcare gap, and the district has a partial answer: extended day camp and childcare options — called "bonus weeks" — will be available through the Park District of La Grange and the Community Park District of La Grange Park. Dates and registration details will be published in the winter Park District catalogues.

Staff will take advantage of adjusted start dates ahead of September 2 to prep more for time in classrooms and curriculum.

The full calendar is available on the District 102 website at dist102.k12.il.us.