At Willow Wood, we truly encourage and welcome parent participation and involvement. Our hope is that both you and your child will create lifelong friendships that last beyond your time at our school. There are many ways to get involved, from being present in the classroom to volunteering for special committees or accepting a position as a board member. We want you to be a part of your child's experience! 

Lean Into Willow Wood

Conferences: We value sharing ideas and feelings with families during parent-teacher conferences held in November and March. Our teachers are available throughout the year if you would like to schedule additional conferences. We also encourage grandparents and special friends to visit Willow Wood and observe our classes. Please contact your teacher to schedule a visit. Further, do not hesitate to contact our Director with questions or concerns throughout the year.

Room Parent: A liaison between the school and families, our room parents help teachers in so many ways. For example, room parents organize playdates, host social events, and coordinate teacher gifts. This one-year commitment is a fantastic opportunity to get to know Willow Wood, our teachers, and students.  

Board Member: Willow Wood is run entirely by a board of parent volunteers. This is a three-year commitment that is open to new members in January of each year. Please email the Board Relations Chair to seek additional information at any time.

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Annual Events

Our time-honored traditions make Willow Wood special.  We encourage families to become part of our community through playdates, sing-a-longs, and parent parties.  Check out our upcoming events.  If you’re interested in a more hands-on role in our community, please contact our volunteer coordinator.

Popsicle Playdates: Throughout the summer, Willow Wood students meet at a local playground for an afternoon playdate and popsicles. This is the perfect way to meet Willow Wood families and get excited for the upcoming school year. Besides, who doesn’t like a popsicle on a warm summer day!?

Fourth of July Parade:  Join us to take in Winnetka’s annual parade at a fellow WW family front yard.

Concert on the Green: Willow Wood families picnic together at Village Green with an evening of music, play and fun at the park.

Halloween Party:  Our annual Halloween Party will be held at Kohl’s Children’s Museum. Join us in costume and enjoy the fun the museum has to offer.

Parents’ Party: In the early spring we host a party to thank our parents for their hard work and dedication. Plus, it is a fun way for Willow Wood parents to enjoy grown-up time together.


2024-2025 Board Members

Executive

  • Katie Petric, President

  • Carolyn Lanctot, Vice President Operations

  • Alex Kurucz, Vice President Marketing

  • Marina Yarnoff, Treasurer

  • Caroline Molloy, Secretary

  • Emily LeVert, Registrar

  • Patrice Markoski, Assistant Registrar

  • Libby Splithoff, Board Relations

  • Jessica Donoghoe, Fundraising Chair

  • Austin Hickey, Facilities and Special Projects Chair

General

  • Gretchen Buske, Parent Communications

  • Maggie Holtgreive Searle, Controller

  • Catherine Cunning, Community Relations

  • Julie Findlay, Digital Communications

  • Steven Alessandro, Social Co-Chair

  • Kristy Alexander, Social Assistant - Family Events

  • Jessica Christie, Social Assistant - Parent Events

  • Annaliese Nicodemo, Supplemental Fundraising

Willow Wood 2024-2025 Board Members