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In this Care U episode, Don & Stephanie discuss connection.

Connection matters, but how connected are we really? In this episode, Don & Stephanie explore the Six Points of Connection and reflect on the relationships, communities, places, and activities that create belonging in our lives. We also consider what our connections model for the children in our care and how intentional connection can impact those around us. We hope you enjoy the episode.

Learn more about the Chamber of Connection: https://www.chamberofconnection.org/

We hope you enjoy this episode.

Questions? Want to hear more about something? Did something really hit home? We love FEEDBACK at Care U.

about 4 hours ago, Valerie Smith
Care U Crew

Did you know? If the County Schools Facility Tax is approved, nearly 60% of that additional revenue is estimated to come from visitors and travelers, not Tazewell County residents. This is according to a 2026 analysis from PGAV Planners.

Revenue from qualifying purchases would directly support our local schools—helping fund safety improvements and facility upgrades along with mental health supports and resources.

This means, if approved, non-residents would contribute to our schools when making qualifying purchases within Tazewell County. 

Learn more about how this request could benefit students, staff, and our school community by visiting tazewellonecent.info or contacting us directly.

You’re invited to a community meeting to discuss the One-Cent Tax referendum. Join us to learn more and ask questions about how this would impact you, your family, and our schools.

  • October 13, 2026 Morton Public Library 6-7 PM

  • October 22, 2026 Jefferson School 6-7 PM


1 day ago, Valerie Smith
Town Hall Meeting Graphic

The 10-9-26 issue of "The Potter Post" is packed full. Do not miss the Homecoming Video. It is a true celebration. "The Night Under the Lights" is a sweet reminder of the lasting impact educators and coaches have. Joal Stanfield was both.

Have a wonderful long weekend, and don't forget that Tuesday, October 13th is an early release day.

Go, Potters.

5 days ago, Valerie Smith
The Potter Post Banner
Due to an extended power outage, the Morton CUSD 709 Board of Education meeting will be across the street at Grundy School.
8 days ago, Valerie Smith
notice of location change
Quick reminder: we have an Early Release Day on Friday, October 9, 2026. It is the end of the 1st Quarter.

Monday (10/12), Columbus Day, there will be no school.

Tuesday (10/13) will be an early release day. See less
9 days ago, Valerie Smith
Early release dates 10/26

The Potter Post 10-2-26 is ready to read. We hope you enjoy this issue.

12 days ago, Valerie Smith
The Potter Post Banner

Happy School Custodian Day!

School custodians are special. Yes, they keep our buildings safe and looking fabulous year-round, but they are so much more. They touch students' lives every day with small things that often go unnoticed. Thank you for your smiles, your helping hands, and your heart for the students, staff, and community you serve.

They help create the culture and set the tone for every staff member, student, and caregiver who comes through our door.

13 days ago, Valerie Smith
School Custodian Day
The Homecoming Parade and Fireworks have been cancelled on Thursday, October 1, 2026. MHS Pep Assembly will occur in the MHS West Gym at 6:30pm this evening.
13 days ago, Valerie Smith

You Won't Know Unless You Go!

In this episode of Care U, Don & Stephanie discuss what to do when young people say, “I don’t want to go” or “I’m not going to miss anything,” and how caregivers should respond. They explore the value of encouraging children to show up even when they feel hesitant. They discuss the opportunities young people can discover when they step outside their comfort zone, from forming relationships and exploring future careers to learning that they can do hard things; sometimes, simply being in the room can make all the difference.


We hope you enjoy this episode.


Questions? Want to hear more about something? Did something really hit home? We love FEEDBACK at Care U. (Link in comments)

14 days ago, Valerie Smith
Care U

McLean County schools weigh in on the impact of the county school facilities tax 1.5 years later.

https://www.wglt.org/local-news/2026-09-22/mclean-county-superintendents-say-school-sales-tax-has-made-a-big-impact

15 days ago, Valerie Smith

Early voting has started in Tazewell County! You can vote early by mail or in person until Monday, November 2. For details on voter registration, mail-in voting, polling locations, and more, visit tazewell-il.gov/countyclerkrecorder/countyclerkelections.

16 days ago, Valerie Smith
Vote
This week's issue of "The Potter Post" is ready to read. We hope you enjoy it. https://app.smore.com/n/jdku4b
19 days ago, Valerie Smith
The Potter Post Banner

Did you know? If the County Schools Facility Tax is approved, nearly 60% of that additional revenue is estimated to come from visitors and travelers, not Tazewell County residents. This is according to a 2026 analysis from PGAV Planners.

Revenue from qualifying purchases would directly support our local schools—helping fund safety improvements and facility upgrades along with mental health supports and resources.

This means, if approved, non-residents would contribute to our schools when making qualifying purchases within Tazewell County.

Learn more about how this request could benefit students, staff, and our school community by visiting tazewellonecent.info or contacting us directly.

You’re invited to a community meeting to discuss the One-Cent Tax referendum. Join us to learn more and ask questions about how this would impact you, your family, and our schools.

Grundy School - September 29, 2026 (Tuesday) 6-7 pm
Morton Public Library - October 13, 2026 (Tuesday) 6-7 pm
Jefferson School - October 22, 2026 (Thursday) 6-7 pm


Learn more by visiting Redefine 709, TazewellOneCent.info, or contacting Dr. Sander directly through this convenient "Got Questions?" form.

23 days ago, Valerie Smith
vote
The 9-18-26 issue of "The Potter Post" is ready to read. Enjoy the many videos from our MPTV crew, including the ever-popular Kindergarten interviews. https://app.smore.com/n/kjr5b
26 days ago, Valerie Smith
The Potter Post Banner
There's nothing quite like Friday smiles! :)
26 days ago, Kate Wyman
principal and student
girl smiles
door holders
boy crew
all smiles

MHS senior Alexis Cook took first place in her class at the Morton Pumpkin Festival with a 359-pound pumpkin. We know the MHS Class of 2027 will do great things. It looks like they are off to a big start. Congratulations, Alexis!

28 days ago, Valerie Smith
Alexis Cook Pumpkin 359 pounds
Morton Food Services has a few openings at Morton High School, Grundy School, and Subs. Earn a little extra vacation/holiday money while helping feed students. The hours are family-friendly. Use the QR code to see all available Food Services positions. Apply online.
29 days ago, Valerie Smith
Food Services Jobs
Just a reminder that Friday, September 18, 2026, is an early release day for Morton CUSD 709 students. Enjoy the Pumpkin Festival!
about 1 month ago, Valerie Smith
Early Relase 9/18/26
Enjoy this national news story that captures our community and our people. You will see and hear from some familiar faces.

https://share.newsbreak.com/jkwu7sga?s=i16
about 1 month ago, Valerie Smith
CBS Sunday Today
It was a busy first day of the community build playground project. There is still an opportunity to help tomorrow. We would love for you to show up ready to work!
about 1 month ago, Kate Wyman
playground build
material prep
community build