Grand Prairie Elementary School -

This week, we celebrate Administrative Professionals Week — and in District 202, we have so much to celebrate.
Our administrative professionals are the backbone of this district. They are the first voices families hear when they call, the steady hands that keep our schools running, and the quiet problem-solvers who make everything work behind the scenes. Their dedication, professionalism, and care for our students and staff do not go unnoticed. You are valued, you are appreciated, and this community is better because of you. Thank you for everything you do — every single day.

This week, we celebrate school libraries during National Library Week. Our media centers are staffed with Media Center Specialists and clerks who not only work with books but also help students in many different ways. These centers are beacons of technology that allow students to explore ways to learn beyond the pages of books. And thanks to our library staff members, whom we celebrated on April 21, National Library Workers Day. We appreciate all you do.

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.”

Nine Grand Prairie Elementary School students in first through fifth grades showcased their science projects for their peers and guests on March 20.
The students created the projects for the Green House Schools Science Fair earlier in March, which was canceled.
Fifth-grade teacher Melissa Cosenza hosted the school's mini-science fair so the students could explain their projects to an audience.
Fifth-graders Vinny Cosenza and Natalia Hurtado won first place for their History of Animatronics exhibit, fifth-grader Skylar Sontag won second place for her Animal Skeletal Systems exhibit, and second-grader Quinn Daniel won third place for her Static Electricity exhibit

At its meeting on Wednesday, the Board of Education honored Andrea Paplaski-Grygiel, a physical education teacher at Grand Prairie Elementary School, for being named the 2026 Will County Educator of Excellence by the Will County Regional Office of Education 56. The board also recognized Central Elementary School and its staff for earning the designation of Model Learning Professional at Work. They also welcomed members of the National Honor Society from Plainfield High School-Central Campus. #202proud

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.

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

Students at Grand Prairie Elementary are gearing up and building confidence as they learn about the upcoming ACCESS assessment. This state assessment is administered to students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade who are identified as English Learners, providing valuable insight into their growth in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English. The testing window is from January 14 to March 3.

We are proud of our students for their hard work and preparation, and wish them the very best as they showcase all that they know and can do.

Grand Prairie Elementary School students welcomed the Board of Education to their school for the November 5 meeting. Students greeted everyone at the door, helped with the Pledge of Allegiance, sang a song, and told the board what they love about Grand Prairie. #202proud

Today we recognize all our educational support staff on Educational Support Staff Recognition Day! We appreciate our staff including paraprofessionals, nurses, secretaries, lunch supervisors, and custodians. We appreciate the dedication you bring to your job daily and the positive impact you have on students and staff. #202proud

Students and staff came together for a heartfelt Veterans Day assembly to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. ❤️💙

Thank you to all the veterans who joined us today and to those who continue to serve. Your courage and sacrifice inspire us all.

Students and staff came together for a heartfelt Veterans Day assembly to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. ❤️💙

Thank you to all the veterans who joined us today and to those who continue to serve. Your courage and sacrifice inspire us all.

Students and staff came together for a heartfelt Veterans Day assembly to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. ❤️💙

Thank you to all the veterans who joined us today and to those who continue to serve. Your courage and sacrifice inspire us all.