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Superintendent's welcome

Picture of School Superintendent Dr. Theresa Rouse

Welcome to Joliet Public Schools District 86. We provide many opportunities for children to learn and develop to their greatest potential. In addition to language arts, mathematics, science, social science, fine arts, and physical development and health instruction, the District provides early childhood instruction, academic enrichment, bilingual education, before and after school programs, comprehensive special services programs, and full-day kindergarten. Nearly 10,000 students (early childhood through eighth grade) attend one of our 21 schools. We are currently the third largest elementary school district in Illinois.

District 86 has a long history of educating the children of Joliet. We are proud of our accomplishments, continuously seek ways to improve, and work together with our parents to provide the best education possible for all our students. As you explore our website, please feel free to contact us if you need additional information.

BY THE NUMBERS

15 Elementary Schools
4 Junior High Schools
1 Early Childhood Center
1 Alternative School

Spotlight

Two students with double gold trophies

Congratulations to our STEM Double Gold Winners!

Forest Park staff photo

Congratulations to Forest Park for being named a 2025 Illinois School of Character.

Superintendent, Thigpen Principal and District Spelling Bee Winner

Lynne Thigpen Elementary School Fifth Grade Student wins the District Elementary School Spelling Bee.

Gold Circle of Quality Award

Marycrest Early Childhood Center receives Gold Circle of Quality award. This is the fourth time in a row the school has received this top distinction.

Chicago Bears mascot with Marshall teacher

Staley Da Bear presented Marshall teacher Maida Cornelio-Sauseda with a $1,000 classroom grant for being named a Chicago Bears Classroom Legend.

Programs

student holding a pencil

Magnet Schools Accepting Applications

Eisenhower Academy, Forest Park Individual Education (I.E.), Hufford I.E., and Washington Academy are now accepting student applications for the 2025-2026 school year.
Please call the schools directly for more information.