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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 9,300 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

School Board Members Take Oath of Office

Newly elected Board of School Inspectors take Oath of Office.

Picture of Superintendent with the Business Office employees and four retired staff

The Business Department receives an outstanding Financial Reporting Award for the 40th consecutive year.

Forest Park staff photo

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

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.

2026 Joliet Chamber Great Teachers

Congratulations to our 2026 Joliet Chamber of Commerce Great Teachers!

Junior High student with instrument

Congratulations to our Washington student who was selected to perform in the Illinois All-State Band!

Programs

student holding a pencil

Joliet District 86 Magnet Programs

Joliet Public Schools District 86 is home to two magnet programs -the Academy Program at Eisenhower Academy and Washington Junior High School and the Individual Education (I.E.) program at Forest Park and Hufford Junior High School.
Please call the schools directly for more information.
Summer Scholars Cover 2025

Summer Scholars Program

Each summer, Joliet District 86 offers a summer school program for at-risk students. Call the Curriculum or Student Services Departments for more information.
Click for Summer Program Information