Awards & Recognitions
District 62 Volunteers Honored For Service to Students
 DES PLAINES, IL (January 31, 2008 ) – Nine School District 62 volunteers were recently awarded Distinguished Volunteer Awards (DVA) by the Board of Education. The DVA program recognizes volunteers for their dedication and commitment to the students and staff of the district. “The volunteers that were nominated by our staff have ‘gone the extra mile’ on behalf of the schools where they volunteer and our school district,” announced Mindy Ward, Director of Community Relations. “They represent almost 350 volunteers that give their time and talents in our classrooms, offices, and schools helping our students achieve. Each honoree is involved in our students’ academic progress. Through their actions they actively support public education in Des Plaines. This year’s honorees model our slogan, “Working Together for our Children,” in everything they do.”
Lillian Mason and JoAnn Carlson, Forest Elementary School volunteers, were also awarded Community Relations Ambassador of the Year Awards.
On behalf of the students, staff, and the Board of Education, the following were honored:
Parent Category
Eileen and Lorenzo Valles
Nominated by Stephanie Hajdu
Orchard Place Elementary School
“Only a life lived for others, is a life worthwhile.” – Albert Einstein
If Albert Einstein were here today to witness the Valles family volunteering at Orchard Place Elementary School he would undoubtedly agree that their lives are worthwhile. Mr. and Mrs. Valles were nominated for their continuous dedication and self-less service the Orchard Place community. They are leaders of the parent resource and support base for Orchard Place’s community and are shining examples of what it means to be volunteers.
Team Category
Lillian Mason
JoAnn Carlson
Nominated by Peggy Klein
Forest Elementary School
Peggy Klein, Forest Volunteer Coordinator, wrote the following: “I simply can’t talk about one of these wonderful volunteers without the other. Both lost a family memeber and thought that volunteering was a positive way to give back to the community.”
Both ladies were the main reason that Klein volunteered to be a District 62 Volunteer Coordinator. Her relationship with the winners has enriched Klein’s life and she searched for a way to express her appreciation for the positive impact they have made on their school and students. Nominating Lillian Mason and JoAnn Carlson was a way to honor these valuable volunteers.
Oasis Tutors
Nick Chiropolos
Eleanor Haddad
Jane Jefferson
Beverly Morath
Yvonne Sloan
Nominated by Leigh Radnitzer
Central Elementary School
When you visit the Central Elementary School Library Media Center on any given afternoon, you might notice a unique pairing of individuals among the variety of students and teachers using the LMC. In another library, you might assume that the older person and young child were a grandparent/grandchild duo, but at Central you are witnessing Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring in progress. Oasis tutors provide invaluable one-to-one educational support to students and their teachers, along with an intergenerational social support system that some students may not have. The special attention to reading improvement is only overshadowed by the relationships that are strengthened between elder and child.
Community Relations Ambassador of the Year
Lillian Mason and JoAnn Carlson
Walking down the halls, one might observe one or both of the winners sitting on the park bench listening to a child read, or might see them helping with classroom centers, or even accompanying a student to “Santa’s Workshop.” They view no task as being off limits. Sometimes they are teachers, other times they serve as grandmas. They are never rushed and make the children feel as though they are the most important children in the world.
They also take their volunteer duties seriously. They are seldom absent and are always on time with their schedules in hand. Our ambassadors appreciate the honesty of the children they work with and find room in their hearts for every child they assist.
Both have said that they receive far more from the children, than they give. Watching the faces of their charges indicates that the satisfaction level of both parties is even.
Both volunteers were awarded Community Relations Ambassador of the Year Awards for their dedication to the students and staff of Forest Elementary School and their service to District 62.
If you would like to volunteer in School District 62, please visit www.d62.org/news/volunteering or contact Mindy Ward, Director of Community Relations, at 847-824-8070.
D62 Electronic Publications Win State Awards
DES PLAINES, IL (September 17, 2007) - In recognition of excellence in communications, the Illinois Chapter of the National School Public Relations Association (INSPRA) presented School District 62 several awards in the statewide INSPRA Communications Contest. The following awards were presented to District 62 staff:
- Award of Excellence to Matt J. Fuller, Director of Information and Instructional Technology, and Judy Pecucci, Technology Facilitator, for the “Tech Update for District 62”
- Award of Excellence to Mindy Ward, Director of Community Relations, and Matt. J. Fuller, for the District 62 web site
- An Award of Merit to Mindy Ward and Matt J. Fuller for the “Inside 62” staff newsletter
The awards were presented at a ceremony and luncheon in Oak Brook Friday, September 14 that featured a workshop presented by Dr. Marsha Chappelow, the National School Public Relations Association president-elect.
The INSPRA Communications Contest is an annual opportunity for school districts to submit publications, websites and campaigns for judging. A panel of judges, including journalists and public relations professionals, reviews entries and applies a matrix for judging.
"There were a phenomenal number of entries in the contest this year. All award recipients should be recognized for their work," said Terry Ryan, INSPRA president.
"The Illinois chapter was honored to host the national president-elect for our program and awards presentation. I hope this reaffirms to all of the contest winners the importance of their work."
This year’s contest included the following categories:
- Annual Report – published once a year to summarize activities.
- Calendar - publications containing school activity dates and/or general information on
- policies and regulations.
- Financial Information -publications providing financial information and accountability.
- Handbook -information for internal or external audiences regarding policies and procedures.
- Marketing Materials-items used to communicate the appealing qualities of a school or district.
- Newsletters - three issues of an external or internal publication.
- Special Purpose Publication-any publication, such as posters, pamphlets or booklets explaining educational issues.
- Website- web sites designed to provide information and promote the image of a school district.
- Writing -information written for newspapers, magazines, newsletters or speeches.
In addition, the Golden Achievement Award recognizes best practices in public relations. Entries in this category include activities, programs and projects and must be based on the four essential steps in all public relations program: analysis, planning, execution/communication, and evaluation.
For more information about INSPRA, visit the chapter’s website at www.inspra.org or call (815) 464-3275.
D62 Wins National School Public Relations Association Awards
Two Community Consolidated School District 62 publications received national awards in the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) 2007 Publications and Electronic Media Contest. The district received an Award of Merit (the second highest honor) for the "Cabinet Newsletter" (a monthly newsletter that is emailed to District 62 administrators). The district also received an Award of Honorable Mention for "Inside 62" (a monthly newsletter that is emailed to every District 62 staff member).
There were 1121 entries in this year's contest. There were a total of 877 entries in the publications portion of this year's national contest. Of those, 125 Awards of Excellence, 295 Awards of Merit, and 260 Awards of Honorable Mention were given to school districts from across the nation. The district received certificates in honor of the awards. A list of winners is posted to the NSPRA web site in the section titled Awards, Contests and Scholarships.
Matt J. Fuller, Director of Information and Instructional Technology, and Mindy Ward, Director of Community Relations, coordinated District 62's winning publications.
District 62 Teachers Win BP Grants
"Harness Your Horsepower: Hay Energia" will teach Plainfield Elementary School students to produce and measure wind energy, and predict and measure solar industry. The project is being funded by a $5,000 BP A+ for Energy grant from BP.
Teacher Virginia Haase applied for the grant after witnessing the positive effects on students who participated in Plainfield’s After School Academy, which was funded this past school year by a grant from BP. This grant will allow students to explore "wind, energy, and conservation concepts," Haase said.
"Our first grade Science curriculum dedicates one trimester to studying energy in air, water, and the sun. The grant money will be used for field trips and other special events in the classroom, as well as the purchase of an outdoor classroom center that will last for years,” she said.
The focus of the program will be to "increase student knowledge of energy through hands-on learning. We will introduce the unit by participating in an energy class at the DuPage Children’s Museum," she said.
Students will partner with an engineer to use the principles of mechanics to build machines to harness the wind of their breath. These machines will produce energy to move weights through space. Students will share their observations, machines, and learning with the rest of the Plainfield community through a school television program and at a Family Science Night.
Through the study of solar energy, Rochelle Carman’s students at Chippewa Middle School will learn first hand how ventilation and lighting impacts learning environments. More research is required, but the $5,000 grant will be used to develop solutions to some of the ventilation and lighting challenges that exist at the school.
Grant recipients were honored at a special ceremony at the Museum of Science and Industry on Thursday, June 21. More than 100 teachers and administrators from parochial and private schools in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will Counties attended the gala.
In support of its successful A+ for Energy program, BP awarded more than $1 million in grants and scholarships to Chicagoland teachers.
The A+ for Energy grant was developed to directly support teachers and allow them the opportunity to teach through innovation a very important subject in Illinois – energy. Any K-12 teacher currently teaching in an Illinois public or private school was eligible to submit an application. The grants were presented directly to teachers who submitted creative classroom, after-school, extra-curricular or summer activities focused on energy education and/or energy conservation.
BP encourages teachers to think outside of the box when creating their proposals. The 2007 A+ for Energy grants will allow Chippewa and Plainfield students to participate in hands-on activities that will expand their understanding of solar and wind energy.
District 62 Volunteers and Staff Honored by State PR Group
Last Friday, May 18, 2007, District 62 volunteers and staff were presented Distinguished Service Awards from the Illinois Chapter of the National School Public Relations Association (INSPRA) for spreading the good word about schools and enhancing the image of education and reputation of a school district through their actions.
Paul Piszkiewicz, retired Board of Education member, was honored with an Award of Excellence in the Board Member category. Mr. Piszkiewicz’s contributions to the community’s overall quality of life can’t be ignored when you consider his long-term commitment to the children of Des Plaines. His name has been a part of the district for more than a decade as a parent, a supporter, and an advocate for learning. His many layers of involvement have promoted the interests of D62 students and the district’s educational programs in the community. During his twelve years on the Board of Education, Piszkiewicz’s leadership has had a tremendous impact on the graduates of District 62. More than 7,000 students have gone on to Maine West High School, entered the workforce or continued their education upon graduation, married, bought real estate, and raised families.
Robert Sanks, North School parent, PTO Treasurer, and District 62 Community Relations Ambassador of the Year, was presented an Award of Merit in the Parent category. Robert Sanks has served as the North Elementary School Treasurer for the past seven years. A bank vice president, Mr. Sanks has been the only father to volunteer for a PTO executive position. He has kept a close watch on the PTO accounts. Mr. Sanks files the taxes on time and in order. He completes all necessary paperwork so the North PTO will maintain its tax-exempt status. Sanks issues all checks for the Cultural Arts Programs. He prepares the final reports and writes the check to cover North’s portion of the Book Fairs. He keeps the cash flowing between the school, the teachers, and the PTO Board. Sanks presents his reports prepared and balanced at every PTO meeting. North School counts on him to keep them in the black. Through his reports, parents are able to understand where their money is being used. This is his last year as Treasurer. Robert Sanks has no idea how much North is going to miss him!
Joan Abrams, South Elementary School Music/Drama teacher, was presented an Award of Merit in the Faculty/Certified Staff category. Ms. Abram’s excellence permeates far beyond the perimeter of her stimulating classroom. In District 62 her name is synonymous with outstanding teaching performance and dedication to the field of education. She genuinely cares about every student that enters her music room. She wants them to know themselves and value their differences. She recognizes that every student has a gift. Ms. Abrams works tirelessly to cultivate their talents. Meeting individual needs is paramount to her teaching style. Children enter the academic arena enthusiastic, imaginative, and curious. Ms. Abrams ensures that every student retains those positive attributes while being exposed to new concepts. Third grade is the first opportunity that many students have to play a musical instrument. Each one begins their musical training by learning to play the recorder. Ms. Abrams believes in creative lessons that include inquiry and activity.
An Award of Merit in the Support Staff category was presented to Marcia Schiavone, Cumberland Elementary School teacher assistant. Ms. Schiavone is friendly and outgoing. She always has a kind word to say. Many professionals at Cumberland respect and look up to Ms. Schiavone as a leader and a friend. She goes out of her way to help others. Her opinions are respected and taken seriously. Ms. Schiavone is an important part of the school community. She knows many of the students and teachers and has a good rapport with all of them. Schiavone is incredibly flexible in her duties. Her commitment to the students is unwavering. She is always thinking of new and better ways to teach. Ms. Schiavone is an integral part of her lead teacher’s Educational Life Skills class. She has helped Julie Wiatrowski develop every art project the students have made. Her creativity has been a source of many educational learning activities for the students.
Distinguished Service Award nominations are submitted from school districts across the state and judged on ways the nominee helps support or improve understanding and communication in a school and/or district. Special organizations, partnerships, programs, or activities the nominee coordinates or is involved in that strengthen support for education is another factor considered in judging. Community service or humanitarian activities are also taken into consideration by the judges. Nominations were sent in March.
District 62 Lighthouse Awards
Nine District 62 staff members and one Board member were selected to receive Lighthouse Awards from the School District 62 Board of Education for excellence in the performance of their jobs. This is the first year that the Board of Education has sponsored the awards program, which recognizes people who have made outstanding contributions to education in their schools and the District 62 community.
Download Awards Program here. (1.1 MB PDF)
School Administrator
Mary Ellen Bleeden
South Elementary School Principal
Mary Ellen Bleeden wears many hats. On any given day, she may be seen as a counselor, a mentor, an advisor, a friend, and a coach. Her message is simple. Without intrinsic motivation, talent is only a potential. She focuses on the entire being – mind, body, and spirit. Bleeden recognizes that a child's emotional, social, and physical fabric is a necessary component to understand if one is to enhance a student's intellectual component.
Teacher
Joan Abrams
South Elementary School
Joan Abrams' excellence permeates far beyond the perimeter of her stimulating classroom. In District 62, the name Joan Abrams is synonymous with outstanding teaching performance and dedication to the field of education. She genuinely cares about every student who enters her music room. She wants them to know themselves and value their differences. She recognizes every student has a gift, and she cultivates his or her talents.
Donna Hennessey
South Elementary School
Donna Hennessey is a great role model for her students. She is dedicated to them and is always willing to provide assistance to students needing help. Hennessey expects her students to take pride in their work and to do their very best in everything they do. At the end of every school year, she presents a trophy to each student. She has made a lasting impression on every student who has spent time in her classroom. She provides them with everything they need to be successful in class.
Yvonne Morrison
Plainfield Elementary School
Yvonne Morrison is an outstanding educator. She is very dedicated and committed to the career of teaching. In the community, she helps others by giving her time to fulfill their needs. Morrison prepares students for every project and assessment, ensuring their success at the next grade level. She motivates her students to always do their best.
Karen Nystrom
Forest Elementary School
Karen Nystrom works equally well with teachers, specialists, and administrators. She is outgoing, a good listener, willing to help, and always has relevant information to add to meetings and discussions. Nystrom incorporates her curriculum in music and drama with other teachers in such a way that students gain full comprehension of the specific topics studied.
Educational Support Personnel
Kathryn Hanrahan
Administrative Assistant
Plainfield Elementary School
Kathryn Hanrahan is an outstanding Administrative Assistant, and she does her job very well. Hanrahan is the liaison to all parents of different origins, cultures, and nationalities. She is very helpful to parents, community members, and to the Plainfield staff. Hanrahan makes everyone feel welcome to the school. She goes above and beyond the call of duty.
Tim Henson
Custodian
South Elementary School
Tim Henson has greatly contributed to excellence at South Elementary School. He is an extraordinary custodian who always has the time for any request, whether it is from a student, parent, or teacher. He performs beyond his job description with a smile and positive attitude. Henson sees something that needs attention, and it is completed without anyone asking.
Marcia Schiavone
Teacher Assistant
Cumberland Elementary School
Marcia Schiavone is friendly and outgoing. She always has a kind word to share. Many professionals at Cumberland School respect and look up to her as a leader and a friend. She goes out of her way to help people. Schiavone's opinions are respected and taken seriously. She is an important part of the school community. Marcia knows many of the students and teachers, and has a good rapport with them. She is incredibly flexible in her duties. Her commitment to students is unwavering. She is always thinking of new and better ways of teaching.
Sandra Schipp
Teacher Assistant
Cumberland Elementary School
Sandy Schipp has been an employee of School District 62 for 30 years. During that time, she has been an integral part of the special education staff at Cumberland School by serving as a partner to the classroom teachers. Her love for the students is evident to everyone. Schipp has wonderful ideas that blend with the teacher's daily lesson plan.
School Board Member
Paul Piszkiewicz
Paul Piszkiewicz's dedication and commitment to District 62 and the community is apparent to everyone who has had the pleasure of knowing him. He genuinely cares for the district. For decades he has given his time unselfishly. He has been a Board member who is a strong advocate for excellence in our schools. He is a friend to students, parents, teachers, and the community because of the respect and trust he has earned.
The D62 Board of Education presented the awards during their regular Board meeting on April 16, 2007. Award recipients were nominated by their peers. The nomination included a brief biography of the nominee and his or her philosophy of education.
District 62 Volunteers Honored For Service
DES PLAINES, IL (February 26, 2007) - Twenty-four School District 62 volunteers were recently awarded Distinguished Volunteer Awards by the Board of Education. The awards, which were introduced this year, recognize the nominees for their dedication and commitment to the students and staff of the district. "The volunteers that were nominated by our staff have 'gone the extra mile' on behalf of the schools where they volunteer and our school district," announced Mindy Ward, Director of Community Relations. "They represent the hundreds of volunteers that give their time and talents in classrooms, offices, and schools to help our students achieve." Each honoree is involved our students' academic progress, and by their actions they actively support public education in Des Plaines. This year's honorees model our slogan, "Working Together for our Children," in everything they do. On behalf of our students, staff, and the Board of Education, the following were honored:
Business Partner
 Bob Broach – UOP Engineer - The partnership that exists between School District 62 and UOP of Des Plaines is a strong one and has been in existence long before the inking of a Math and Science Grant two years ago. During a meeting between District 62 teachers and engineers from UOP and Abbott, Marty Pearl, Plainfield Elementary School LMC director, approached Stan Frey from UOP about the possibility of Plainfield organizing a Lego League and inquired if UOP might have an engineer who could mentor students who were interested in joining. When the District 62 Education Foundation awarded Mrs. Pearl and Plainfield School a mini-grant to start the Lego League, the partnership between Mr. Broach and the Lego League began.
Since it Mr. Broach had prepared Boy Scout troops for Lego League competition, it was determined that he would be a super match for Plainfield. After his volunteer schedule was determined, Bob began working with the students. That work involved meeting with the students and running many trial runs, adjustments, and experiments involving the Lego robot – RLX. When Mr. Broach was not only coaching and mentoring his charges, he helped Mrs. Pearl as well. He was very careful to leave Pearl detailed instructions that would help the students prepare for his next visit.
After the students took third place at the regional, it was on to state. Even though the student Lego team, the Nano Nacres, was working against an impossible task, Bob Broach never lost faith. He was always assisting the students with their robot, since precise movements of the robots were necessary to do well in the competition. Mr. Broach worked with the students up to end, helping them make the necessary adjustments with the robot to complete the required missions. The state competition was extremely stressful, but Bob's charm, his ability to work with students who were frustrated, and dealing with the unknown, showed the Nano Nacres what it is like to work as a team, learning what the real world of work is like, and how being quick on your feet (at the last minute 2 missions were written with Broach's help) is important to making important strides and achievement in one's career.
David Mooney – President & CEO, Alliant Credit Union and Project HOPE volunteer
Alliant Credit Union has worked closely with the Family and Consumer Science classes at Chippewa Middle School. It should be noted that this partnership began with Algonquin Middle School, and Chippewa joined the Project HOPE family this school year. Various Alliant volunteers visit the school multiple times each quarter to present lessons about financial information. Topics have included banking, checking and savings, investing, interest, credit, and credit cards. Alliant encourages their employees to connect with local school districts and have partnered with Operation HOPE to deliver this wonderful community outreach and service. The President of Alliant, David Mooney, has donned his teacher hat, along with his employees who share their knowledge of the financial world.
The Alliant volunteers are wonderful! Their community service to our local schools is strictly voluntary. Approximately eight volunteers each quarter participate in the program at Chippewa. Many of them are repeats, and have become an extended arm of the Chippewa family.
Community Member
 Marge Fairhead – Before the school year begins, Mrs. Fairhead is off and running. Cumberland can always count on her to make sure each school year get off to a smooth start. Her welcoming personality makes everyone feel like a part of the Cumberland community. Whether she's decorating bulletin boards, stuffing folders, or delivering office supplies, she always makes time in her busy schedule to greet the new staff members.
Mrs. Fairhead taught at Cumberland for 19 years. When Project Prevent was introduced,
Fairhead got involved. She has been a Project Prevent tutor at Cumberland for 11 years. You will see her instructing first grade students and helping them with their reading skills any morning of the week. Several afternoons a week, you will also find Mrs. Fairhead tutoring second grade students.
If any staff member needs to have a science concept reinforced they call on Mrs. Fairhead to utilize her baking skills to teach students about solids, liquids and gases with her famous angel food cake project.
Whenever there is a PTO event Mrs. Fairhead is there to lend a hand. She provides delicious baked goods, as well as dresses in costume. At Cumberland's Fund Fairs and Silent Auctions, she is known as the "Pocket Lady" and she presents treats from her pockets to unsuspecting girls and boys.
Betty Crocker could take a few lessons from Mrs. Fairhead, and she would certainly be willing to teach her, if she was interested. She offers free baking lessons and many neighbors and staff members have attended her lessons.
Mrs. Fairhead is the mother of four sons and a grandmother to many grandchildren. She is a perfect mother –totally unselfish and concerned about everyone's needs.
Cumberland is very fortunate to have Marge Fairhead as one of their volunteers. As you can see, she does it all!
Helen Mallery – Helen Mallery is a perfect candidate for this award, based upon her long-term volunteering in the Educational Life Skills classes at Chippewa Middle School. She has volunteered at Chippewa for the past three years. Ms. Mallery comes in on Mondays and Wednesdays and works with the staff and students. She is always willing to assist in any way to help the students. She has a kind and calming way with the students, and they look forward to working with her.
Michael Schwass- Michael Schwass is a community member who has made outstanding contributions to the students of Chippewa Middle School over the past 30 years. After being seriously injured in a high school hockey accident, Mr. Schwass accepted an invitation to speak to his niece, Jenny's classes at Chippewa about his accident and the resulting quadriplegia. Mr. Schwass' presentation was riveting and his message about accepting diversity and overcoming challenges that life presents had a major impact on the students who heard him speak. Although he went on to become a psychotherapist and motivational speaker who makes presentations to major corporations, Mr. Schwass returns to Chippewa every year to anchor Team Diversity's interdisciplinary unit on disabilities. The heart of the unit can be summed up by Michael's message that "it's not the challenges we face in life that are important, but rather it's how we face those challenges." The Des Plaines Times even named Michael Schwass' May 25th visit to Chippewa one of the "Top Ten News Stories of 2006." The newspaper wrote about how Mike surprised the students during his visit by being one of the quadriplegics to walk unassisted when he rose from his chair and took a few steps.
After witnessing the Chippewa library resounding with the students' thunderous applause when they saw Mike walk for the first time since his accident, the Times reporter titled the article, "Mike's Standing Ovation." Mr. Schwass is an absolute inspiration to every child and adult who has the good fortune to hear his story and meet him. Thousand of District 62 students have been fortunate to hear his story and be touched by his powerful message.
Parent
 Donna Tworek – Mrs. Tworek is well known across District 62. She has worked as a support personnel substitute, and currently works as a one-on-one aide at South Elementary School. She also is known as the hostess with the mostest. Tonight she is being honored for her role as President of the Iroquois Community School Council. Mrs. Tworek assumed the leadership role of the Council in a very difficult situation. First of all, she had not one, but originally three, then two Interim Principals to get to know. Then, she had to define the role of what the parent leader would be. But, in true Donna Tworek fashion, she took to her role as president and link to the parents, like a duck takes to water. With her constant energy and enthusiasm she keeps parents and staff informed with a constant stream of communications. She has shown her support of number of programs at Iroquois Community School. Under her guidance, the Council has provided Intercession Classes scholarships to students who might not be able to attend. Her leadership style, which is collaborative and open, has increased parent involvement at Iroquois.
Bob Sanks-Bob Sanks has been the North Elementary School Treasurer for the past 7 years. A bank vice president, Sanks has been the only father to take on a PTO executive position, and he has kept a close watch on the PTO account. Mr. Sanks files the taxes on time and in order. He keeps all the paperwork so the PTO will maintain its tax exempt status. Mr. Sanks issues all checks for the Cultural Arts Programs, and he prepares the final reports and writes the check to cover North's portion of the Book Fairs. He keeps the cash flowing between the school, the teachers, and the PTO board. Mr. Sanks attends every PTO meeting, presenting his reports prepared and balanced. North knows that they can count on him to keep them in the black. Through his reports, parents are able to understand where their money is being used.
This is his last year as Treasurer, and he has no idea how much North is going to miss him!
Lorenzo Valles – As an active member of the Orchard Place Elementary School PTO, Mr. Valles has served the Orchard Place community for seven years. He wears many hats at OP. He is committed to serving the students from counting flyers and room party supplies, chaperoning the Outdoor Education trip, to grilling burgers for the staff and students. Orchard Place can always count on Mr. Valles to lend a helping hand. As a male role model, he has encouraged other fathers to get involved with the PTO, and has used his bilingual and bicultural background to reach out to Hispanic parents.
Student
Kevin Murphy-Kevin Murphy is a student who is determined to be the best he can be, and have a great time doing it. Kevin is a great role model for the students in his classes. He always finds the silver lining in any situation. If he doesn't do well on an assignment, he is the first to ask for help to improve his work. Kevin is always willing to help others who may not understand and encourages them while assisting them. When Kevin tried out for a sports team at school, he did his best to make it. Unlike many kids his age, when Kevin didn't make it, he asked if he could help coach. Kevin wanted to learn from those who had made it so he would have a better opportunity the next time. Anyone who teaches him knows he brings a smile to the faces of those who have had the wonderful experience of knowing Kevin Murphy.
Team
Lynne Cook and Julie Stepanovich, Chippewa Organization of Parents and Educators (COPE) Co-Presidents
Lynne Cook and Julie Stepanovich are constantly finding ways to inform teachers, parents and students about all of the exciting events that take place at Chippewa Middle School. They have overseen the compilation of a school calendar which was sent home with each student the first week of school. They attend most of Chippewa's events and take a plethora of pictures, which they share with the yearbook club, and display on a bulletin board on the main hallway of the school.
Both of these ladies have worked tirelessly on behalf of Chippewa. They have taken time out their schedules to seek out each parent's support of an array of important events. Examples of these include volunteering their time to help teachers in the classroom, providing baked goods to help raise money to buy additional materials for students, hosting or sponsoring community events like the blood drive and tree decorating events, and organizing the eighth grade dance. Lynne and Julie are very approachable people. They are pleasant and positive at all times and they are always looking at what is best for students.
Maxine Hubbard, Betty Murphy, Sherrill Snyder, Debbie Post, David Bills, Kristin Dahlstrom, Stephanie Duckmann, Sally Garcia-Fernandez, Nick Mitchell, Elaine Orstead, Jessica Orstead, Roy Vana, & Marcy Vedral, District 62 Education Foundation.
The District 62 Education Foundation is a group of volunteers that represent the past and present. What does that mean? When you take a group of former and current administrators, teachers, board members, and mix them with members of the community, you hopefully will have a group of individuals, who are committed to creating opportunities for the students of District 62. The Foundation has honored retired teachers with mini-grants named in their honor. They have partnered with the Chicago Wolves to raise funds. This year, this group of volunteers took a leap of faith by trying something new – an improvisation group performance. Thanks to a "how-to" training session from Sharon Lynch, this group converged on businesses with a vengeance soliciting financial support for the Comedy Review. Because of their persistence, the end result was more large donations, added auction items and advertisements in the program book. The "Give a Wish a Home", which allowed donors to directly fund needed classroom materials, was introduced. It took a team to raise almost $15,000, but when you think of this group's contributions, more District 62 students will improve their reading skills, camp outdoors, visit farms, beautify buildings, appreciate art, create movies, compete in academic competitions, accept awards, be physically fit, and more importantly the Foundation will provide District 62 teachers and their students more opportunities to learn and to achieve.
2007 School District 62 Community Ambassador of the Year
 Bob Sanks, North Elementary School PTO Treasurer, was selected as the 2007 School District 62 Community Relations Ambassador of the Year. The selection was based on Sanks' level of involvement and years of service to North Elementary School, as well as his contributions to the community. Mr. Sanks talents extend well past debits and credits; he also edits the yearbook for the students. This is a huge undertaking and takes a lot of his time. He attends every function with his camera, snapping pictures every time something happens. He approaches businesses in the area, selling them advertisements in the yearbook, which lowers the yearbook cost to North students.
An active parent, Mr. Sanks manages to get Megan, his daughter, to early morning band and orchestra practices before heading to work at Harris Bank. Mr. Sanks served as a precinct coordinator during the referendum. He spent a great deal of time canvassing his precinct and sharing the news about District 62. Mr. Sanks is involved in the March of Dimes, and is an avid White Sox fan. Congratulations and thank you!
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