District 202, in partnership with its Bilingual Parents Advisory Committee, hosted its inaugural Celebration of Cultures on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Plainfield High School–Central Campus.
The free event featured nearly 50 booths led by parents and staff celebrating cultures from around the world through food, art, music, clothing, performances, and interactive displays.
Students were at the center of the celebration, taking the stage to proudly share their cultural identities.
From drumming to traditional Ukrainian dance, each performance highlighted the diverse perspectives and talents that enrich District 202 schools every day.
The event brought together students, families, and staff in a shared celebration of community and connection.
“At the end of the day, our students are the heart of our district,” said Cindy Castanon, Director of Multilingual Education at District 202.
“Seeing them share their cultures and traditions so authentically reminds us why we do this work. They are the heartbeat of everything we strive to achieve in District 202.”
The free event featured nearly 50 booths led by parents and staff celebrating cultures from around the world through food, art, music, clothing, performances, and interactive displays.
Students were at the center of the celebration, taking the stage to proudly share their cultural identities.
From drumming to traditional Ukrainian dance, each performance highlighted the diverse perspectives and talents that enrich District 202 schools every day.
The event brought together students, families, and staff in a shared celebration of community and connection.
“At the end of the day, our students are the heart of our district,” said Cindy Castanon, Director of Multilingual Education at District 202.
“Seeing them share their cultures and traditions so authentically reminds us why we do this work. They are the heartbeat of everything we strive to achieve in District 202.”
Families, teachers, and students are invited to host booths to share their traditions through music, art, clothing, food samples, performances, or interactive displays that help others learn about your culture.
Whether you've lived here for generations or recently joined our community, your story is an important part of who you are.
Come explore, learn, and celebrate as we highlight the diversity that strengthens our schools and unites us as one district
Congratulations to Karyn Fuller and Rob Duncan for winning the Award of Excellence. Thanks for all you do at Lincoln Elementary.
4th Grade students and their families recently volunteered at a local nursing home. Thank you for your service.
Lincoln 5th Grade students sang their way through the decades tonight at their final concert at Lincoln Elementary.
4th Grade students volunteered at Feed My Starving Children and packaged over 15,000 meals that will help feed people in Haiti.
No student attendance tomorrow. District 202 has a District Institute Day, and it is primary election day.
All district and individual school afterschool activities, including the YMCA afterschool program, are CANCELED today due to predicted severe weather later today.
Our Job Fair scheduled for March 19 has been cancelled and will not be rescheduled.
First grade students are learning about how they can participate in our Multicultural Festival and share their story.
We are #202proud to recognize and thank our 93 social workers for the incredible support they provide to our school community. As National School Social Work Week closes, we appreciate the vital role they play in our schools with our students, parents, and staff.
Second grader Graham Riva served as “Principal for the Day” at Lincoln Elementary School on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Graham earned the opportunity by winning a persuasive essay contest in his class titled, “Why I Think I Would Make a Great Principal.”
During his day, Graham shadowed Dr. Deb Coberley, helped ensure the building was secure, greeted staff and students, discussed playground safety, and reviewed classroom needs, including how they align with the school budget.
Graham is truly a future leader in the making!
During his day, Graham shadowed Dr. Deb Coberley, helped ensure the building was secure, greeted staff and students, discussed playground safety, and reviewed classroom needs, including how they align with the school budget.
Graham is truly a future leader in the making!
Public schools are the heart of our communities. Join us in celebrating Public Schools Week 2026, Feb. 23-27, and help showcase the amazing work happening in public schools across the country. #PSW26 #PublicSchoolProud #202proud
Lunar New Year is a special holiday celebrated in many Asian countries to welcome the start of a new year on the lunar calendar. Ms. Rotstein's 2nd grade class had a student's parents share traditional Chinese customs, decorations, and stories about how families celebrate this joyful time. They learned about red decorations, which are believed to bring good luck and happiness. After the presentation, students rotated through four fun stations: practicing calligraphy, making colorful paper lanterns, creating wax seals, and playing the traditional game Touhu. It was an exciting day filled with learning, creativity, and new cultural experiences.
Enjoy your holiday! See you Tuesday!
Our place Spaghetti Western and the musical Finding Nemo were both a huge success this weekend. Amazing performances, great music, and so much talent on display. So proud of our students, directors, and everyone who made it such a memorable weekend.
Congratulations to Mrs. Cumming, Mrs. Kudia, Mrs. McBride, Mr. Rossi and Mrs. Wernger who were celebrated last night for their years of service with D202! Thank you all for your dedication to Lincoln.
Due to predicted frigid temperatures tomorrow, we will have an E-Learning day, Monday, January 26, 2026. Students should NOT report to school.
We will have an E-Learning Day tomorrow, Friday, January 23, 2026, due to predicted frigid temperatures, particularly during school arrival times. Students will need their laptops to log into Google Classroom from home tomorrow. All other activities at our schools on Friday are also canceled.
Bingo 2026! We are enjoying a cold Friday evening playing Bingo with 300 of our closest friends.
