Every incoming Hinsdale Central High School freshman needs a Chromebook on the first day of school. The district is giving families four chances to pick one up this summer, no appointment needed, but online registration must be complete before a student can leave with a device.
District 86 announced in its weekly email newsletter to Hinsdale Central families on Wednesday, July 9, that Chromebook distribution and student ID photo sessions will run on four dates: Wednesday, July 29; Thursday, July 30; Wednesday, August 5; and Thursday, August 6. All sessions run from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Grant Street Entrance.
The sessions are open to all incoming freshmen and any student new to District 86 for the 2026–27 school year.
What families need to do first
The district said families who have not completed the online registration process will not be eligible to receive a Chromebook at the summer sessions. That means parents who haven't finished the paperwork should log in and complete it before the first pickup date. Students who miss all four sessions can still get their device on the first day of school, Wednesday, August 12.
Spirit Wear on sale
The Hinsdale Central Boosters will sell Spirit Wear at all four sessions, giving freshmen families a chance to stock up on Red Devil gear before the year begins.
The district approved a three-year Google Workspace renewal for $70,272.90 at its April 30 board meeting, ensuring the digital infrastructure behind those Chromebooks stays in place through at least 2029.
Hinsdale Education Week Ahead
- Wednesday, July 29 – Thursday, July 30 | 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. | Hinsdale Central High School, Grant Street Entrance | District 86 | Freshman and new student Chromebook pickup and ID photos. No appointment necessary. Online registration must be complete. Boosters Spirit Wear on sale.
- Wednesday, August 5 – Thursday, August 6 | 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. | Hinsdale Central High School, Grant Street Entrance | District 86 | Final two Chromebook pickup and ID photo sessions before the first day of school.
- Wednesday, August 12 | First day of school, Hinsdale Central High School | District 86 | Fallback Chromebook distribution for students who did not attend a summer session.
- Friday, October 9 | 8 a.m.–noon | Hinsdale Central High School | District 86 | Fall Seal of Biliteracy testing for students in grades 9–11. Seniors may participate but otherwise have a non-attendance day. A second testing date will be offered in February 2027.
District 86 and District 181 have not posted confirmed July or August board meeting dates as of Wednesday, July 9. Check hinsdale86.org and d181.org for updates.
