Aspire’s Summer Highlights

Date

August 7, 2026

Time

6 minutes

Category

Life at Aspire

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Summer is in full swing, bringing plenty of sunshine, new adventures, and meaningful moments across the Aspire community. Over the past two months, we’ve celebrated milestones, explored new opportunities, strengthened connections, and embraced all the joy this season has to offer.

As part of our bi-monthly updates, we’re excited to continue sharing stories, updates, and highlights from across Aspire. Whether it’s celebrating achievements, recognizing the people who make our community so special, or looking back on memorable moments, we’re grateful to have you along for the journey.

Here’s a look back at everything that made June and July so memorable at Aspire:

Alice in Wonderland Ballet

Congratulations to all of the Aspire Dancers who performed in the Alice in Wonderland ballet on June 11–12 at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts in Schaumburg. Their hard work and talent created a magical experience for everyone!


Academy Art Shows

Aspire hosted an Outta This World art show, featuring creative artwork on display, along with fun games, chances to win prizes, and a face painting station. The event celebrated imagination, creativity, and artistic achievement!


College of Lake County Collaboration

We partnered with the College of Lake County to pilot a technology literacy program! Five people met twice a week for eight weeks to develop essential technology skills, increase digital confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience using tablets and online tools.


Susanna Farms Visit

We were excited to return to Susanna Farms, where we spent time with the animals, explored the farm, and enjoyed hands-on learning and outdoor adventures! 


Academy Galas

Both Academy North and South kicked off the summer with our annual Gala! This year’s theme was Tropic Like It’s Hot and we feasted on burgers, salad, cake, and refreshing drinks. Then we moved the fun and games outside to the parking lot, and everyone went home with a prize. We had fun celebrating and having fun together!


SOAR 2026 National Dance Competition

Our dance team competed in the SOAR 2026 National Dance Competition. There was moving, grooving, trophies, and smiles all around! Dancers competed in solos, trios, and group dances. All of the hard work and dedication certainly paid off as we took home first-place honors!


Special Olympics – Track and Field

For the first time, Aspire sent athletes to the track & field events at the Special Olympics Illinois State Competition in Bloomington at Illinois State University. Our athletes showed what possibility in action looked like by bringing home 1 gold medal, 1 silver medal, 4 bronze medals, 3 fourth-place finishes, and 2 fifth-place medals.

Athletes got a look at the statewide competitors, and they are ready to start working on getting in shape for next year! 

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