Thirty-three new District 58 teachers sat down with community leaders during the week of Aug. 18 at two welcome luncheons that have become a back-to-school tradition in Downers Grove.

The Downers Grove Lions Club hosted its 95th annual new-teacher luncheon on Tuesday, Aug. 18, a milestone for one of the village's longest-running civic gatherings. The same week, the Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58 held a separate event that brought the new hires face-to-face with representatives from Downers Grove Police and Fire, the Downers Grove Park District and the Downers Grove Public Library.

Both events are part of New Teacher Week, the district's orientation program that introduces incoming staff to the schools and the broader community they'll serve, according to District 58.

The district said on X on Aug. 18 that it was grateful to the Lions Club for hosting the luncheon and valued the chance to connect new teachers with community partners who support its schools.

This year's class of 33 new certified staff is more than double the 15 teachers District 58 welcomed in 2025. The district's 11 elementary schools and two middle schools serve roughly 4,770 students.

The Education Foundation, a nonprofit established in 2002, has donated more than $2 million to District 58 programs over its history, according to the district's most recent annual report. The new-teacher luncheon is one of four staff initiatives the foundation supports, alongside teacher grants, Green Apple Awards and Distinguished Service Awards.

At the foundation's luncheon, new staff learned about services and resources available through the partner organizations. The Lions Club event focused on the club's longstanding commitment to Downers Grove. A photo gallery from both luncheons is available on the District 58 website.

What's next for District 58

Teachers' Institute Days are scheduled for Monday, Aug. 24 and Tuesday, Aug. 25. Kindergarten and elementary school meet-and-greet sessions take place Aug. 25, with middle school locker setup at 5 p.m. that evening.