When Cynthia Brito's daughter was a student at Percy Julian Middle School, it was standard practice for winners of academic awards in Spanish class to be awarded with the opportunity to wear a sombrero. The third-generation Mexican-American student railed against the culturally-insensitive practice.

The school board and administration at Oak Park's District 97 elementary school district are working to craft a sexual harassment policy, an effort that community members and parents say is sorely needed.

Middle school can be a tough experience. From hormones to homework, from changing friend groups to changing bodies, the years can be challenging to navigate.

In spite of innovations like Naviance and the Common Application, meant to make the college application process more stream-lined and accessible, the entire process of applying to college has a challenging learning curve for parents raised in different times.