Welcome to Pepper Elementary

Dear Pepper Families,

Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year! A new year means new opportunities for learning, growth, and building on the strong community we’ve created together.

Last year was filled with growth opportunities, and I am incredibly proud of how our staff, students, and families came together with patience, positivity, and open communication. The strong relationships we built will continue to guide us and serve as the foundation for even greater success in the year ahead.

At Pepper, we firmly believe that family engagement is essential for student success. We encourage you to maintain communication with us through various channels, including email, Classroom Dojo, text messages, written notes, and school events. Additionally, we will continue to use the Blackboard app for important updates and reminders.

If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or your child’s teacher. Understanding your child's learning and communicating their needs for support helps us provide the best educational experience possible.

This year, we are continuing with the Capturing Kids’ Hearts program to promote a caring, relationship-driven culture. We will also implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to teach expectations, encourage good choices, and celebrate positive behavior. Additionally, we will focus on kindness and anti-bullying initiatives to ensure that every student feels safe and supported. 

To support our amazing initiatives, we are thrilled to welcome Mr. Janocus Sanders as our new Assistant Principal! With 25 years of experience in education, including 7 years as an Assistant Principal and numerous supporting roles in athletics, as well as throughout the district, he brings valuable experience and a passion for student success.

Mark Your Calendar:

• First Day of School: Monday, August 25th

• School Day Hours: 8:25 a.m. – 3:25 p.m.

• Latchkey available starting the first day (Applications from the Main Office) 

• No School on Friday, Aug. 29th, and Monday, September 1st
  
  

Thank you for being an important part of our learning community. Let’s make this a year of growth, connection, and success for every student!

Sincerely,

Mr. Haley
Pepper Elementary Principal

Pepper Elementary School is a traditional Pre-K-5 that includes the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) pre-school and full-day Kindergarten, school nestled in Oak Park. It is situated just steps from historic Shephard Park and Oak Park’s newly renovated Community Center, Public Library and City Hall. Pepper Elementary School consists of highly qualified teachers and a collaborative staff who provide a safe, nurturing and caring school community for all students.

Please contact Principal Emanuel Haley for a tour!