🍎 It’s Teacher Appreciation Week at PBL!
Our teachers are the heart of PBL School District. From sparking "lightbulb moments" in the classroom to being mentors, cheerleaders, and innovators, they go above and beyond every single day to support our students.
Now, it’s your turn to share gratitude and thanks for our teachers!
We’ve set up a Teacher Shoutout Form where you can leave a note of gratitude for a teacher who has made a difference in your child's life or our community. We will be sharing these messages with our staff throughout the week to show them just how much they mean to us.
📝 How to Participate:
Click the link below to access our Google Form.
Write a quick note highlighting a teacher’s hard work, a kind gesture, or a great classroom memory.
Hit submit and help us make their week unforgettable!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7ojjKpocywXQLoJrEl8zETneLVQKNi95JOb33EeHQTtDLxg/viewform?usp=header
Why we appreciate our PBL Teachers:
They Inspire: Turning everyday lessons into lifelong passions.
They Care: Building a safe, supportive environment for every student.
They Lead: Dedicating countless hours to extracurriculars, coaching, and growth.
about 6 hours ago, Taylor Flynn
Today, Friday, May 1st, we celebrate School Lunch Hero Day, an annual observance dedicated to honoring the professionals who provide essential meals to students across the country. We want to extend a massive thank you to our incredible kitchen staff at Clara Peterson Elementary, PBL Junior High School, and PBL High School for their tireless hard work and dedication. These heroes do more than just cook; they provide the nutritious breakfasts and lunches that serve as the vital fuel our students need to perform at their absolute best. We are so grateful for the care and effort they pour into our schools every single day!
3 days ago, Josh Didier
Thank You, Mr. Wright, Mr. Didier & Mrs. Eshleman!
3 days ago, Tara Chandler
Yesterday, we celebrated Bus Driver Appreciation Day at PBL! 🚌🍩
Our bus garage crew truly does it all—from daily morning and afternoon routes to ensuring our students get to after-school sports and clubs safely. As a small token of our gratitude, the administration team dropped off fresh donuts yesterday morning to thank them for their dedication and service to our families.
To all of our drivers: Thank you for navigating our Panthers through every mile. Your hard work behind the wheel does not go unnoticed!
5 days ago, Melinda Busby
Join us for the End of the Year Choir Performance next week, Tuesday, May 5th at 7:00pm in the High School Gymnasium. Both Jr High and High School Choirs will perform and awards will be presented. Bring your cameras as we celebrate the wonderful work students have accomplished this year!
6 days ago, Taylor Flynn
Yesterday at 2:00pm on Sunday, April 26th, the community gathered at the Cadillac for a fantastic "Jazz at the Cadillac" showcase, marking an exciting move to this professional venue from its previous home at Pells Park. We had a wonderful turnout, and the PBL High School and Junior High Jazz Bands wish to thank the Cadillac in Paxton, Illinois, for hosting our performers on such a premier stage. Mr. and Mrs. Breen shared their immense pride in the High School and Junior High Gold and Blue bands, noting that these polished performances are only possible through the students' dedication to early morning and late-night practices. They also extended heartfelt thanks to the parents for their vital support and encouragement at home. With an energetic guest appearance by the Resurrection Brass Band (Alumni), it was a memorable afternoon that truly celebrated the hard work and talent of our entire music program.: Be sure to check out the following link for pictures from the event:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/oVxfFJCJVTNen9fd97 days ago, Josh Didier
We are so proud of our Math Team, who competed at the state competition last weekend. The team placed 6th overall!
Team results were as follows:
Orals team - 1st place State Champions: Johnny Rodeen and Kayden Vance!
Pre-Calc. Team - 3rd place, with Dylan Otto placing 5th individually
Junior/Senior 8-Person Team - 4th place.
Geometry Team - 5th place
Algebra 1 Team - 6th place
Algebra 2 Team - 6th place, with Ava Reinhart placing 6th individually
Junior/Senior 2-Person Team - 6th place
Freshman/Sophomore 2-Person Team - 7th place
It's a GREAT day to be a Panther! Special thanks to our coaches, Mrs. Pickens and Mrs. Duley, for their investment into this program and these students. We are so thankful for both of you!
10 days ago, Hannah Eshleman
While FCCLA members Danny Boston, Caleb White, and Corbin White toured the ISU campus today, they stopped for a photo with Reggie Redbird! On their tour, they were able to walk through the Family and Consumer Science classrooms with ISU ambassadors.
10 days ago, Hannah Eshleman
Mrs. Eshleman and Mr. Wachowski were thrilled to honor two outstanding seniors, Mason Vaughan and Olivia Rehg, at yesterday's Illini Prairie Conference Luncheon. These students were selected based on their athletic accomplishments, academic achievements, and overall positive contribution to our school community.
Mason Vaughan has been involved in football, basketball, track, NHS, FFA, and FBLA over the course of his high school career. He earned the Norm Henderson Award in football and was 2nd team all-conference running back in 2025. In track, he is also a three-time all-conference hurdler. Additionally, he is a 5-time all-state hurdler and 3-time all area honorable mention recipient.
Around school, Mason is an excellent student. He is kind, compassionate, and truly makes our entire school a better place.
When asked who has inspired his success, he said his coach, Tyler Rubarts. He has always been a trusted adult. Mr. Rubarts was a teacher to him, but also so much more. He is a great person and he is so thankful for his mentorship and leadership.
We wish Mason the best of luck as he pursues a degree in Sports Management and Recreation from ISU.
Olivia Rehg participated in basketball, volleyball, track, NHS, and FFA over the course of her high school career. She qualified for state four times in hurdles. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA and is an Illinois State Scholar.
In our school, Olivia is a highly respected student by her teachers and peers. She is an excellent teammate, always encouraging others and maintaining a positive attitude.
When asked who inspires her, she said Coach Porter. She has helped her improve her self-confidence and showed her how to shift her into a growth mindset.
Olivia will be greatly missed as she pursues a degree in Kinesiology and Physical Therapy from ISU.
10 days ago, Hannah Eshleman
The PBL Junior High School Scholastic Bowl Team reached a triumphant milestone yesterday, April 22nd, by capturing the Twin County Conference Tournament title held at Prairie Central Junior High School. This impressive victory serves as a testament to the students' sharp intellect and quick thinking under pressure, showcasing the program's high level of academic excellence. Coach Sawyer expressed immense pride in the team, emphasizing that this championship is the direct result of the players' unwavering effort and tireless dedication throughout the season. Their collective hard work has truly paid off, marking a memorable high point for the Panthers' season. They now look forward to competing in the IESA Regional, which our junior high will host on Wednesday, April 29th starting at 4:00pm.
11 days ago, Taylor Flynn
Behind every successful student, organized classroom, and smooth-running school day at PBL School District, is an incredible Administrative Professional making it all happen.
Today, we are taking a moment to recognize the secretaries who keep our district moving forward. They are the first friendly faces you see in the morning, the calm voices on the phone, and the logistical masters who handle everything from enrollment to "where did I leave my lunch?" Thank you for all you do!
12 days ago, Taylor Flynn
The PBL Jazz Bands are proud to present Jazz at the Cadillac on Sunday, April 26th, at 2:00pm for an afternoon of live music and community spirit. This special performance features the High School Jazz Band alongside the Junior High Gold and Blue Jazz Bands, showcasing the incredible hard work and talent of our student musicians across all levels. We are also thrilled to announce a special guest performance by the Resurrection Brass Band (Alumni), bringing a unique energy to this year's lineup. Admission to the concert is completely free, making it a perfect opportunity for families and friends to gather and enjoy a local cultural event in Paxton. Concessions will be available for purchase throughout the afternoon, so come out and support our musicians for this true highlight of the jazz season!
13 days ago, Josh Didier
Yesterday was the Illini Prairie Conference annual art show. We want to take a moment to recognize three of our seniors that were in attendance. All of which placed in selected categories:
Lauren Krumwiede- 1st place Sculpture
Curtis Ostendorf- 2nd place Scratchboard
Nicole York- 3rd place Sculpture
We are so proud of their hard work and are grateful for our outstanding art teachers--Mr. Fairchild and Mrs. Wood--for their investment in these students over the years.
13 days ago, Hannah Eshleman
On Friday, April 17th, the PBL High School and Junior High School jazz bands showcased their talents at the 57th Annual Central Jazz Festival held at Central High School in Champaign, IL. This premier showcase successfully transformed the venue into a vibrant, family-friendly jazz club, featuring an impressive evening of both big band and combo music performances.
14 days ago, Josh Didier
The Illinois Army National Guard Community Relations Event is happening today, Friday, April 17th, offering students a unique, firsthand opportunity to interact with military personnel and explore a variety of vehicles. Organized in collaboration with First Lieutenant Mr. Michael Callahan, an 8th grade social studies teacher, junior high track coach, and proud member of Bravo Company, 634th BSB. The day kicks off at Clara Peterson Elementary School at 9:00am before moving to PBL High School and Junior High at 1:00pm. We are excited to facilitate this hands-on learning experience and look forward to a great day.
17 days ago, Josh Didier
Pre School Screening is coming up! See the attached flyer for details.
19 days ago, Melinda Busby
PBL girls basketball camp info!!
20 days ago, Tara Chandler
On Saturday, April 11th, the PBL High School and Junior High School Jazz Bands showcased their talents at the 2026 Illinois State University Jazz Festival, the premier jazz event on the ISU campus. Performing in the 800-seat Center for the Performing Arts Concert Hall, the students received professional digital recordings and invaluable critiques from a panel of expert jazz educators.
21 days ago, Josh Didier
This week, April 6–10, we celebrate National Assistant Principals Week to recognize the incredible leaders who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our schools thrive. These dedicated professionals play a vital role in our district’s success by supporting students, empowering teachers, and managing daily operations with both precision and heart. Whether they are fostering a safe learning environment or collaborating with staff to improve student outcomes, our APs lead with unwavering commitment to the families they serve. We invite the entire Paxton-Buckley-Loda community to take a moment this week to thank these essential leaders for everything they do.
26 days ago, Josh Didier
Come join us April 10-12 for our Into The Woods Musical. This will be hosted in the PBL High School Gymnasium. Tickets are $8 for Adults and $5 for students. Cash only. We are excited to share the hard work of our theater students with you! As you plan your family’s visit, we want to provide a quick content "heads-up." While Act 1 is a whimsical journey through classic fairy tales, Act 2 explores more mature themes, including grief and the loss of major characters. Because of these heavier elements, parents may find the second half of the show less suitable for very young children. We encourage you to use your discretion to ensure the best experience for your family.
27 days ago, Hannah Eshleman
