PARIS—Students from Carolyn Wenz Elementary enjoyed a sweet afternoon on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday as part of the school’s quarterly good behavior celebration.
Beginning at …
CHRISMAN — Students from Chrisman Elementary School’s Kids’ Kindness Club shared smiles and encouragement during a recent visit to Pleasant Meadows Senior Living.
On Tuesday, …
Each fall, the Illinois State Board of Education releases its annual Illinois School Report Cards, offering a detailed examination of how schools across the state are performing. The 2025 report …
October is “Principal Appreciation Month.” To celebrate, each week this month the Press will feature a local school administrator.
For Chrisman Elementary School Principal Samantha …
For Shiloh Principal Amy Jones, education isn’t just a career—it’s a calling rooted in care, perseverance, and a desire to make a difference. Now in her fifth year as principal and …
CHRISMAN—Students at Chrisman Elementary School are discovering the joy of reading together through a lunchtime book club that brings stories — and community leaders — to life.
…
Using the club’s four core values: integrity, servitude, teamwork and excellence, the recently reintroduced Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at Paris Cooperative High School (PCHS) is …
The Edgar County 4-H hosted a Fall Festival from 5 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 8. The event served as an opportunity to show local kiddos, in kindergarten to sixth grade, “what 4-H is all about.”
…
October is “Principal Appreciation Month.” To celebrate, each week this month, the Press will feature a local school administrator.
For Lucy Tarr, principal of Memorial Elementary …
October is “Principal Appreciation Month.” To celebrate, each week this month the Press will feature a local school administrator.
For principal Nicole Cox, education has always been …
HUME—On Sunday, Oct. 20, Shiloh School will transform into a magical “Halloween Town,” welcoming students from the PIP program through fifth grade and their families for an evening …
Casey Pinnell’s people-first approach to education
October is “Principal Appreciation Month.” To celebrate, each week this month the Press will feature a local school administrator.
For Casey Pinnell, education is more than a career …
PFD brings fire prevention lessons to local students
October marks Fire Prevention Safety Month nationwide, and the Paris Fire Department (PFD) is emphasizing the importance of education and community engagement—starting with the city’s …
October is “Principal Appreciation Month.” To celebrate, each week this month the Press will feature a local school administrator.
For nearly two decades, Meghan Damler has dedicated …
CHRISMAN—Chrisman High School is gearing up for one of its most anticipated traditions of the year: the Junior Carnival. Set for Nov. 14-15, the two-day event promises spirited competition and …
The search for a new principal is beginning at Paris Cooperative High School. During a PCHS school board meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 17, members of the board were presented with a specialized plan to …
Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) recently selected three students for the Illinois Veterinary Student Loan Program (IVET), which aims to support the next generation of veterinarians focusing on caring for …
The Chrisman FFA chapter has proven that even a small community can make a big impact. By collecting more than 3,000 non-perishable food items and transforming them into a creative agriculture-themed …
The Prairie Press reached out to all class officers at Paris Cooperative High School. The responses below are all that were received before the press deadline.
Ainsley Johnson
What position …
CHRISMAN — Seniors at Chrisman High School traded textbooks for paintbrushes last week as part of a graduation requirement designed to strengthen ties between students and their community.
…
Paris Cooperative High School is preparing to welcome students, staff and community volunteers for the return of Challenge Day, a nationally recognized program designed to foster connection, empathy …
Monday, Aug. 18, was a monumental day for a handful of students in Paris. It was the first day of school, and the first official school year, for students at Evermore Academy.
Located on Shaw …
Edgar County Longbeards teach knowledge, ethics, sportsmanship on Aug. 16
The Edgar County Longbeards once again brought families together for a day of outdoor fun, learning and adventure at the annual Jake’s Outing, held Saturday, Aug. 16 at Wilson Family Farms in …
As the school year kicks off, evenings quickly fill with homework, sports practices, activities and looming deadlines. With so much on your plate, dinner shouldn’t be another source of stress. …
On Monday, Aug. 11, teachers, administrators, para-professionals and faculty members from all of Paris’ schools came together to kick-start the first week of school at Lake Ridge Christian …
After-school programs for District 95 students, including Beyond the Bell and the 21st Century Club programming, will relaunch on Oct. 20, following the federal government’s release of $1.3 …
The 11th annual “Back to School Bang” was held on Friday, Aug. 1, at Horizon Health. The high-energy gathering brought families, students and community partners together to kick off the …
The Paris-Union School District 95 Finance and Facilities Committee met Monday, Aug. 4, to discuss bringing a Limited Notice to Proceed (LNTP) to a vote during the upcoming board meeting—an …
As students go back to school this year, the Edgar County Farm Bureau is preparing its curriculum for Ag in the Classroom. Jenna Tally, the AITC Coordinator, is excited for her fourth year of the …
As another year of learning kicks off in Paris, Carolyn Wenz Elementary School has a new leader at the helm—and she’s bringing a powerful combination of experience, heart and community …
Paris Union School District 95 will begin providing daily and extracurricular transportation for students next year. The Board of Education is supporting a phased plan to provide transportation for …
Crestwood’s 2024-25 Student Awards Program showcased the outstanding achievements of students from Kindergarten through eighth grade in a joyful celebration of academic success, …
As the school year winds down, Carolyn Wenz Elementary found the perfect way to send students off into summer—with laughter, friendship and a hallway filled with sno-cones and sand art. What …
Paris High School AP Chemistry sets sail at the 25th Annual Boat Regatta
On a picture-perfect sunny day at Twin Lakes in Paris, laughter echoed across the water, cardboard dreams set sail and AP Chemistry students proved that science really can float, or at least sink, …
Near the end of each school year, the Fine Arts Center hosts the POPS concert, where the choirs from Paris High School, Mayo Middle School and Crestwood all come together to sing catchy tunes and …
PARIS—On Thursday, May 8, Mayo Middle School hosted its annual end-of-the-year student art show. Every student involved in art had pieces on display for people to come and enjoy.
…
Local schools present annual awards to students
Principals from several Edgar County schools, teachers, parents and a handful of students gathered at the Paris Family Restaurant early on the morning of Wednesday, May 8, to celebrate and …
PARIS—Every student from kindergarten through fifth grade in both Paris school districts received a free book on May 12, thanks to a dedicated partnership between the Paris Elks Lodge and the …
On Friday, April 25, the Paris Cooperative High School Jazz Band and Elite Harmony performed its annual Jazz Dinner Concert in the Den at the high school for the enjoyment of the Paris community.
…
The Lake Land College Business and Technology Division recently hosted 15 local high schools for the annual Business and Computer Contest.
During the event, students competed in a series of …
During spring break, the Paris Cooperative High School band loaded up into two charter buses and traveled to Florida for a week full of fun in the sun.
Led by band director Kevin Pruiett, it was …
On Friday, April 25, Paris Cooperative High School hosted its second annual student art show for the community. Every art student at PCHS featured artwork that the community could come and enjoy.
…
At a recent showcase event, Shiloh Elementary School transformed into a vibrant gallery of storytelling, history and music, all brought to life by the creative energy of third, fourth and fifth grade …
CHRISMAN—If you’re looking for a fun night out and a chance to support some truly inspiring students, mark your calendars for May 3rd at 6:30 p.m. Chrisman FBLA is bringing the community …
PARIS—The halls of Mayo Middle School are buzzing with excitement as students prepare for their much-anticipated Spring Band Concert, set for Sunday, May 5. With over 130 students …
The Paris High School ACES (Academic Challenge for Engineering and Science) team recently completed its season by competing in the Academic Challenge state competition at Eastern Illinois University …
CUSD #1 board of education prepares for multiple changes
During the monthly CUSD #1 Board of Education meeting on Monday, April 21, board members discussed several adjustments coming to the school’s campus, including the need to rearrange the …
CHRISMAN—When Chrisman High School student Gabriella Nolen took on the challenge of competing in the “Introduction to FBLA” event at the Illinois Future Business Leaders of America …
On Friday, April 11, Mayo Middle School decided to spend the last day before spring break blowing off steam.
Sixth, seventh and eighth grade students traveled to the Iron Pin bowling alley in …
On Sunday, April 6, the Paris Cooperative High School choir performed their annual spring concert at the Paris Fine Arts Center. The performance featured the PCHS choir, the boys’ choir and …
The Paris High School ACES (Academic Challenge for Engineering and Science) team continued their season by competing in the Academic Challenge sectional at Eastern Illinois University on March 13.
…
In the heart of Paris, where tradition and small-town charm weave a tight-knit community, Christina Farley Wilkie is striking a chord—literally and figuratively. At just 30 years old, Wilkie …
The Paris FFA chapter will hold its highly anticipated annual plant sale from April 21 to April 26, offering a variety of plants and goods while raising funds to support the organization’s …
The 50th district convention was held at the IHotel in Champaign on March 22, with the Shiloh Council as the host. This year’s theme was “Diving Into Leadership.” Amy Jones, the …
The Link Art Gallery is proud to present the annual Student Art Showcase, featuring an inspiring collection of artwork from students across Edgar County. This special exhibition highlights the …
The Interact Club of Paris High School recently donated stuffed animals to first responders.
“It may sound a bit odd at first blush, but in many communities around the country, …
In order to pass the eighth grade and enter high school, every Illinois eighth grader must pass a U.S. Constitution test. Seventh and eighth graders at Crestwood School had a first hand experience …
PCHS welcomes The Addams Family for 10 year anniversary of new PCOFA stage
Paris High School’s production of The Addams Family musical is more than just another theater performance—it’s a tribute to the program’s history and a celebration of how far …
Is there any better way to spend a Friday afternoon than pie-ing a teacher in the face? Students at Shiloh School in Hume say there is not, especially after spending the afternoon of Friday, March …
PCHS hosts annual career fair with more than 40 local participants
Students at Paris Cooperative High School got a glimpse into their futures on Friday, March 7, when the school hosted its annual career fair.
The half-day event brought together local …
The Paris High School ACES (Academic Challenge for Engineering and Science) team recently began their season by competing in the Academic Challenge regional at Lake Land College on Feb. 7.
…
Paris Cooperative High School recently received a generous donation of $20,000 from the Jean A. Wellman Trust, a gift highlighting the enduring impact of a former Paris resident and dedicated …
Homecoming, most commonly known at Shiloh as “Winterfest,” was in full swing Feb. 11-15.
Advisor of the student council, Dorene Boland, has become a veteran in leading the …
Sylia Lorenzen
Being selected for the ILMEA All-State Chorus was one of the most exciting moments of my life. When I found out I made it, I was so happy and proud of myself for reaching this …
On Saturday, Feb. 8 the Camargo United Methodist Church hosted the 69th annual Stephen A. Douglas Chapter National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Sons of the American …
Senior Band Members of the Paris Cooperative High School band were introduced along with their escorts during halftime of the Tiger/Charleston Trojan game on Tuesday evening.
The outgoing …
The Chrisman FFA Chapter has had an eventful and successful year, showcasing the dedication and hard work of its members. From excelling in competitions to engaging with the local community, the …
With a strong commitment to service and education, student members at Shiloh School’s FFA are going beyond the classroom to support local farmers, teach younger students about agriculture and …
The Kansas FFA Chapter is thriving in Kansas as it continues to foster leadership, community service and agricultural education. With a dedicated group of active members, the chapter is making an …
With 116 registered students and 34 active sectional members, the FFA chapter at Paris Cooperative High School is Edgar County’s largest branch of the National FFA Organization. The students …
PARIS—The Mayo Middle School Drama Club is gearing up for their highly anticipated production of the Cole Porter classic, “Anything Goes.” With only two performances scheduled, the …
PARIS—This year, students in Millie Arp Hamilton’s art class are once again providing decorations for the Paris Rec Center’s annual auction night on Feb. 22. To create the …
HUME–Members of the Shiloh Student Council went to the Prince of Peace Church in St. Joesph on Jan. 15 for an event allowing members to gather ideas and information to use for their own …
CHRISMAN—Ali Prisecaru is a relatively quiet and reserved senior at Chrisman High School. She participates in extracurricular activities like Scholastic Bowl, Mathletes and Envirothon.
…
PARIS—This year, Crestwood Jr. High’s theatre department will present Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella: Youth Edition on Feb. 14 and 15. According to Director Agnes Laughlin, …
For some educators, teaching is a lifelong calling; for others, it is a path discovered through experience. For one dedicated teacher, it was both. Growing up with parents who were both educators, …
The Lions Club is gearing up for its annual Recycling Challenge, an exciting initiative that has impacted the Paris community for the past five years. What started as an effort to recycle caps and …
The Paris Cooperative High School Varsity Scholastic Bowl season has reached its midway point, with the team holding a 22-8 record and recently being named the Little Illini Conference (LIC) regular …
PARIS—Fighting hunger can seem like a daunting task, but students at Mayo Middle School recently discovered that even a penny can make a difference.
Starting in late November, Mayo’s …
PARIS—Two groups at Crestwood School are reminding their fellow students and their community that there’s no age requirement for making a difference.
Both the Crestwood Kindness Club …
PARIS—Having an AED or a written plan in place is no longer enough when it comes to a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) emergency at school, according to the state of Illinois. On Jan. 1, 2025, a new …
PARIS—For nearly a decade, one local program has connected students with volunteers to build lasting relationships and boost student achievement. That program, called PERK (People Encouraging …
The Cardinal Cupboard, a grant-funded school market serving Chrisman Junior High and Chrisman High School students, has become a vital resource for the schools. The initiative, supported by a …
A passionate teacher can spark a lifelong love of learning, motivate students to pursue their dreams and encourage them to be the best they can be for themselves and others. Kelsey Magers discovered …
School districts operating inside of Paris, including District 95, Paris Cooperative High School and Crestwood (CUSD #4), will be returning to a regular class schedule Wednesday, Jan. 8, after a …
PARIS—This week, kids across Edgar County wrapped up their studies and returned home for Christmas break. According to data gathered in 2022, as many as 580 students won’t know when or …
PARIS—He wasn’t sporting a red stocking cap or a snow-white beard, and he (probably) didn’t arrive in a sleigh pulled by reindeer. Still, Don Cobb brought an early Christmas to …
CHRISMAN—On Dec. 18, the Chrisman Elementary School Kindness Club traveled to Pleasant Meadows Senior Living to sing Christmas carols in a selfless effort to bring holiday cheer to their …
In a cozy corner of Paris Cooperative High School, where rich aromas float through the hallways and students gather for an entertaining blend of laughter and learning, the Cooking Club has become a …
PARIS—The Mayo Redbirds are spreading their wings and sending messages across the ocean, directly to Germany. More specifically, seventh-grade students at Mayo Middle School are handwriting …
On Friday, Dec. 6, students and families of Paris District 95 enjoyed the brisk evening walking through Twin Lakes Park to see the extravagant Christmas light displays.
The event was sponsored …
PARIS— The innermost thoughts, feelings and emotions of students at Mayo Middle School are on display, thanks to a yearly assignment in the art classroom. Last month, sixth, seventh and …
PARIS—At Crestwood School, technology is an important part of education, so much so that the school has an entire class dedicated to it. According to its teacher, Shayleigh Bradshaw, the class …
KANSAS—One of the biggest questions children are asked throughout their childhood is “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
The answer to the question changes quite …
Third graders across Edgar County have received a special gift —the gift of words.
Last week, members of the Paris Rotary Club delivered dictionaries to each third-grade student at …
PARIS—Science, technology, engineering and mathematics, more commonly known as STEM, are a group of distinct but related essential classes, so much so that Nov. 8 is recognized around the …
PARIS—According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in five adolescents has prediabetes. Horizon Health and Paris Cooperative High School have teamed up for the last 10 years to …
PARIS—On Nov. 21, students gathered in the Mayo Middle School gymnasium to compete in the annual Paris 95 Spelling Bee. Out of all the participants, one champion came out on top. Seventh …
