DISTRICT 62 BOARD OF EDUCATION PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
WELCOME—Mindy Ward, Director of Community Relations
RECOGNITIONS
MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS YOU SHOULD KNOW AWARDS
Illinois Association of School Business Officials
(IASBO) Presentation honoring
Nelson Gray, Assistant Superintendent
for Business Services,
to the District 62 Education Foundation
Assistants
Charles Ellsworth, National Merit Finalist
Haripriya Mehta, National Merit Finalist
Giada Morresi, Northwest Suburban Daily Herald Leadership Team
Honorable Mention
Olivia Pura, Miss Illinois Teen USA
IASBO
Executive Director
Dr. Michael Jacoby
District 62 Education Foundation
President
Julie Luck Jensen
Vice President
Susan Adams
Future Problem Solving Club
Plainfield Elementary School
State Competition Team
Dalilah Carrillo
Jonathan Douris
Cody Malmberg
Anna Tooley
Club
Sherwin Bathula
Benjamin Castro
Matilda Mendoza
Simi Patel
Avram Stanchev
Brandon Zarate-Soria (Alternate)
Sponsor
Erica Sypek
TECH 2016
Algonquin Middle School
State Presenters
Marissa Murillo
Carter Stephen
Sponsors
Howard Kanter
Catherine Wiemann
Duck Whisperer
Chippewa Middle School
Night Custodian
Steven Fratamico
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
PEER MENTOR
Ronald Burton, Board of Education
Beth Morley, Board of Education
Ashwini Modi, Algonquin Middle School
Skye Peyton, Iroquois Community School
Sarah Smail, Chippewa Middle School
Samantha Bahena, Iroquois Community School
Kinijah Perkins, Chippewa Middle School
Angelina Sanchez, Algonquin Middle School
ENTHUSIASTIC LEARNER
POSITIVE ATTITUDE, BEHAVIOR, AND
EFFORT
Raymond Imig, Board of Education
Kassandra Espinoza, Iroquois
Community School
Arsen Hreskiv, Chippewa Middle School
Vishal Modi, Algonquin Middle School
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO SCHOOL AND
COMMUNITY
Beth Morley
Kevin Dabrowski, Iroquois Community School
Julia Jaroslawski, Chippewa Middle School
Jesus Vallejo, Algonquin Middle School
POSITIVE ROLE MODEL
Dr. Terry Lindsay, Board of Education
James Poskozim,
Vice President, Board of Education
Jenna Daube, Algonquin Middle School
Airaf Karim, Chippewa Middle School
Lauren Staunton, Iroquois Community School
Zaida Diaz, Algonquin Middle School
Rachel Kim, Iroquois Community School
Michael Lucas, Chippewa Middle School
LEADERSHIP QUALITIES
POSITIVE SCHOOL SPIRIT AND GOOD
SPORTSMANSHIP
Sharon Lynch, Board of Education
Lawrence Escarez, Chippewa Middle School
Abigail Gawlinski, Algonquin Middle School
Lena Perry, Iroquois Community School
OUTSTANDING CHARACTER
Stephanie Duckmann,
President, Board of Education
Matthew Georgoulis, Algonquin Middle School
Andrew Schacke, Chippewa Middle School
Angelica Torres, Iroquois Community School
Sharon Lynch
Samuel Horcher, Chippewa Middle School
Marlene Tapia, Algonquin Middle School
Lilianna Vaughan, Iroquois Community School
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBER SERVICE
RECOGNITION OF DR. TERRY LINDSAY
Stephanie Duckmann
CLOSING REMARKS
Stephanie Duckmann
2016 Middle School Students You Should Know
Each year District 62 middle school teachers and principals select students who deserve to be honored as “Middle School Students You Should Know.” This program could not be offered without the nominations written by our middle school staff and administrators. Thank you to:
John Swanson and Dr. Jennifer Rosenzweig, Algonquin Middle School
Dr. Leah Kimmelman and Denise Fernandez, Chippewa Middle School
Dr. Michael Amadei, Iroquois Community School ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE: The Academic Excellence Award recognizes students who consistently achieve a high grade point average and challenge themselves to go above and beyond the requirements of an assignment in their desire to learn.
Ashwini Modi, Eighth Grade, Algonquin Middle School
Ashwini has a large collection of High Honor Roll Ribbons that she has accumulated over the past three years at Algonquin Middle School ~ one for every quarter she has been here! She continually demonstrates her thirst for excellence and desire to go above and beyond. She is certainly a Middle School Student You Should Know as well as a young lady that will be making a mark on the world in her future!
Skye Peyton, Eighth Grade, Iroquois Community School
Skye Peyton is a middle school student you should know. She deserves to be recognized for her academic excellence; she is a 2016 inductee in National Junior Honor Society. It is clear by the choices that Skye makes, that she is motivated to do well and to achieve high standards. A strong work ethic, perseverance, dedication, and self‐discipline are qualities usually required to realize success. Skye demonstrates all of these characteristics that lead her to academic success. As an academic leader in the classroom, Skye always makes sure those around her understand the content and are challenged. Her love for learning and reading exudes from her as she shares and discusses her latest anecdote. She consistently strives to go above and beyond expectations, as is evident by her high grade point average. It is all of these characteristics that make Skye Peyton a middle school student you should know for academic excellence.
Sarah Smail, Eighth Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Sarah Smail is nominated for the Academic Excellence Award. Sarah goes above and beyond in her classes. She displays exceptional knowledge. Sarah completes her assignments on time and displays exceptional study habits. It is clear that Sarah is always looking to take her knowledge to another level, as shown in her candidacy for National Junior Honor Society. Her class participation is phenomenal. Perhaps, Sarah’s greatest assets are her ability to challenge herself and her willingness to help other students. Sarah works well with other students and shows them how they can achieve. She is a pleasure to have in class.
ENTHUSIASTIC LEARNER: The Enthusiastic Learner Award is given to students who improve and/or continue to try under difficult conditions. We recognize students who have put forth their best efforts over the course of the school year.
Kassandra Espinoza, Eighth Grade, Iroquois Community School
Kassy Espinoza is not only a middle school student that you should know, she is a person that you want to know. Kassy is the type of student who always finds a way to bring positivity to any situation. Even when she struggles, she maintains a positive outlook and continues to work hard to achieve. As a volleyball player, Kassy has brought a strong work ethic and an enthusiastic, supportive, and encouraging attitude to the team environment. Kassy has a can‐do attitude about everything she does. She works very well with her Oneder (Wonder) Buddy and models her uplifting attitude which emanates to the first grade student. Kassy truly deserves and has earned the honor of being named an “Enthusiastic Learner.” Arsen Hreskiv, Sixth Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Arsen Hreskiv is nominated in the Enthusiastic Learner category for putting forth his best effort and meeting rigorous academic demands. Arsen welcomes both his peers and teachers each day with a smile on his face. During instruction, Arsen raises his hand and actively participates by sharing out his ideas or personal experiences. Arsen continues to boost the classroom morale with his unconditional support of his peers and positive attitude. When presented with challenges and questions, Arsen perseveres by taking risks and seeking guidance. Arsen is willing to embrace challenges and is truly excited about learning in all of his classes.
Vishal Modi, Sixth Grade, Algonquin Middle School
Vishal Modi is a student who is always excited about learning. He is inquisitive, insightful, and eager to expand his mind. Vishal is always excited to share what he has learned, and he is a conscientious student. He always strives to do his best. He was one of only a few sixth graders who challenged himself by taking the qualifying test for the Chem Challenge, his artwork has been displayed as a part of Gallery 62, and he is an active member of the AMS Stem Club.
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY: The Exceptional Service to School and Community Award recognizes students for their efforts in improving school and community life. They demonstrate pride in their school and community.
Jenna Daube, Seventh Grade, Algonquin Middle School
Jenna should be recognized for the Exceptional Service to School and Community award because of her involvement with a variety of clubs and service groups. This year the drama, yoga, service, and photography clubs have all been enhanced by Jenna's willingness to give 100% to whatever she chooses. Most recently, the community has benefited from one of Jenna's service projects when she helped make blankets for terminally ill children in the hospital. Jenna continues to amaze her teachers with her willingness to stay involved while maintaining honors academic status. Congratulations Jenna!
Airaf Karim, Eighth Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Airaf Karim is nominated in the Exceptional Service to School and Community category for providing outstanding support to his peers. Airaf is a National Junior Honor Society candidate, and he serves the school and community in a variety of ways. You can find Airaf after school at Homework Club every Tuesday providing support to Chippewa students of all grade levels. In the classroom, Airaf is always taking a leadership role, especially in science, when he loves to lead his peers through difficult lab experiments. Airaf is well respected by his peers and teachers for always supporting others.
Lauren Staunton, Eighth Grade, Iroquois Community School
Lauren Staunton is a leader at Iroquois Community School. Lauren is always willing to help her peers, teachers, and the school. Lauren has been a consistent middle school student government representative. She consistently volunteers her time at Intersession to help with the primary students and help the Intersession Directors set up activities. While helping, Lauren always serves with a smile. Her maturity allows her to evaluate situations and handle each situation with ease. Lauren Staunton’s service to Iroquois Community School has been an exceptional addition and will be missed when she graduates.
LEADERSHIP QUALITIES: The Leadership Qualities recognition is awarded to students who demonstrate academic accomplishment, leadership qualities, active participation in student affairs, and strive for excellence in a wide range of activities. Lawrence Escarez, Seventh Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Lawrence Escarez is nominated in the category of Leadership Qualities for demonstrating the qualities of an outstanding student. At times, Lawrence is quiet and shy, but don’t be fooled! When doing group work, his leadership qualities take over and students respect and follow his guidance. Lawrence takes his school work very seriously. He is constantly pushing himself to do the best he can both inside and outside of class. When given a challenge, Lawrence’s positive attitude is something to be both admired and followed. He is a very friendly, light‐hearted individual who will achieve many great things in the future.
Abigail Gawlinski, Seventh Grade, Algonquin Middle School
Algonquin Middle School would like to recognize Abigail Gawlinski as one of this year's Middle School Students You Should Know for her outstanding leadership skills. Abigail shows this in many ways. She is a positive role model for her peers, especially when working in groups. Students respect her ideas and contributions when working on a project. She is the glue that keeps the group together as they work toward a goal. Abigail has a strong work ethic which encourages others to work in the same way. She consistently volunteers and participates in class activities. Abigail's positive energy is motivational to others. Algonquin Middle School is a better place because of Abigail and we are lucky that she is part of our seventh grade. Lena Perry, Sixth Grade, Iroquois Community School
As a sixth grader, Lena Perry shows great leadership qualities both inside and outside of the classroom. Lena has participated in intersession since she was in kindergarten. She always models the best behavior for others, whether it be with her peers or younger students. She participates in cross country, and always motivates others to do their best. Lena is an excellent student who will willingly work with anyone. She demonstrates patience and kindness while helping others learn. She always goes above and beyond on assignments in the classroom, and other students seek her out for help.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTER: The Outstanding Character Award is given to students who demonstrate the determination, fortitude and strength of character to make the right, but not always the most popular choice. Samuel Horcher, Seventh Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Samuel Horcher is nominated in the category of Outstanding Character for exemplifying the qualities of a dedicated, positive, and humorous student. Sam faces his obstacles with grace and is one of the most self‐motivated individuals we have. Sam openly communicates with teachers and takes it upon himself to go above and beyond. Sam is a friendly student and is an asset to any classroom. His positive attitude is contagious, and he makes the best out of any situation. Chippewa is proud to have a student like Sam as a part of our family.
Marlene Tapia, Eighth Grade, Algonquin Middle School
Marlene Tapia deserves the Outstanding Character Award for many reasons. She has always demonstrated strong characteristics. Marlene makes good decisions on a daily basis, which have allowed her to be a successful, determined 8th grade student. In order for her to do this, she has a strong work ethic. She is a well‐mannered person who is always kind to her teachers and classmates. Marlene makes good choices in her academic and social life. She has a good head on her shoulders. She makes an excellent addition to any classroom, and because of this, Algonquin knows she will continue to be successful in her future. Congratulations, Marlene!
Lilianna Vaughan, Seventh Grade, Iroquois Community School
Actions speak louder than words. Lili’s actions inside and outside the classroom exemplify someone with outstanding character. Within the classroom she can be counted on to do the right thing. She is a hard‐
working and dedicated student who is able to be both a friend and a mentor to her peers. Additionally, she strives to surpass expectations. In school, as well as out, Lili dedicates her time to volunteering and helping others. Lili is an exemplary example of a middle school student.
PEER MENTOR: The Peer Mentor Award recognizes students who display a willingness to cooperate and share their knowledge. These young people often serve as a critical link for others in need, and foster positive peer relations and communications in their school. Samantha Bahena, Eighth Grade, Iroquois Community School
Samantha Bahena is a middle school student who consistently serves as a peer mentor at Iroquois Community School. Not only does she strive consistently for her own academic success, she willingly takes time out to assist, mentor, and teach students around her. Samantha takes pride in her work and that commitment for learning and success is evident in her mentoring sessions with her peers. For students who have questions or seem to be struggling, Samantha finds patience, positivity, and thinks of multiple ways to help her classmates understand a confusing topic. Whether it be volunteering as an Intersession Junior Camp Counselor or working with her Oneder Buddy, Samantha shows the ability to lead others while making it enjoyable for everyone. This care and willingness to help others is what makes Samantha Bahena a positive peer mentor at Iroquois Community School.
Kinijah Perkins, Seventh Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Kinijah Perkins is nominated for the Peer Mentor category for providing outstanding support to her peers. She takes the initiative to work with absent students, shares notes, and explains assignments. In CIA sessions, she listens to discussion points and gives appropriate and mature advice to encourage students to avoid “drama” and focus on the positive. On a daily basis, Kinijah starts her morning with a positive attitude to her peers and teachers. In Science class, she works diligently to understand concepts and takes a leadership role. Kinijah goes above and beyond to help Team H.O.P.E. Angelina Sanchez, Sixth Grade, Algonquin Middle School
Angelina is a remarkable girl. Not only is she very self‐motivated and driven, but she also regularly helps those around her. She is often spotted quietly helping a student near her to better understand directions, work out a math problem, or even refocus on a task. She does not hesitate to pause what she is doing to help others. Angelina clearly and effectively shares her thoughts and ideas with others, whether they are peers or adults. Her friends, classmates, teachers, and teammates know that she is someone they can count on.
POSITIVE ATTITUDE, BEHAVIOR, AND EFFORT: The Positive Attitude, Behavior and Effort Award is given to students who demonstrate positive attitude and behavior. Recipients of this award demonstrate respect for others, are trustworthy and cooperative. They are responsible and possess leadership qualities. Kevin Dabrowski, Sixth Grade, Iroquois Community School
Kevin Dabrowski begins every day with a smile and an enthusiastic greeting! He is always ready to learn, and works hard on assignments, even when they are challenging. Kevin continuously tries to grow as a student and strives to better himself. In the classroom, Kevin’s energy and sense of humor are infectious. He seems to make the best of every situation. Kevin Dabrowski is a student all teachers look forward to teaching because of his positive attitude, behavior, and effort.
Julia Jaroslawski, Sixth Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Julia Jaroslawski is nominated in the Positive Attitude, Behavior, and Effort category. Walking down the hall, you can always count on Julia to have a smile on her face. In class, Julia consistently uses time responsibly, helps other students, takes risks, and participates. When offered the opportunity to improve on an assignment, Julia will always make corrections until she has demonstrated mastery. As a member of student council, Julia is a leader in our school by encouraging a positive school climate. Julia can always be counted on to create a promotional video for an upcoming dance, fundraiser, or spirit week.
Jesus Vallejo, Seventh Grade, Algonquin Middle School
Jesus Vallejo is a remarkable student and an admirable person altogether. He sets academic goals, challenges himself to surpass them, and then accepts his achievements with humility and grace. What’s even more remarkable is that he’s been speaking English for less than three years! Although he rarely misses an answer in an assessment or does less than perfectly on a written assignment, on those occasions he hasn’t reached his goals, Jesus graciously accepts whatever result he receives and chooses to redo the assignment. He sometimes does this knowing that for that particular assignment, he will not receive extra points. He simply wants to learn! There is no doubt that Jesus Vallejo will find great success in whatever he chooses to do in the future. He has everything it takes to get there.
POSITIVE ROLE MODEL: The Positive Role Model Award is designed to recognize students who consistently exhibit the kinds of behaviors we want displayed in our schools and in our communities. Zaida Diaz, Eighth Grade, Algonquin Middle School
You should know Zaida because, if you have a child, you'd like your child to do what Zaida did when another student needed help. Zaida came to a student’s aid when that person needed someone to step up, take charge of the situation, and provide basic first aid. Zaida acted selflessly, immediately, and courageously. Sometimes, a few moments can pass while thinking about how one should react in a particular circumstance. Sometimes, a person has a great deal of time to make a good decision or can go back and forth about how best to address a problem. Other times, conditions dictate that a person react, almost like a reflex, to a series of events that present a single option: act decisively now. Zaida did just that. She saw that someone needed help and she wasted no time in doing what she could to make things better. Zaida’s family should be proud of her. Algonquin is proud of her. As a positive role model, Zaida should be proud of herself.
Rachel Kim, Eighth Grade, Iroquois Community School
Rachel is a prime candidate for a positive role model award because she consistently shows others the best way to be a member of the community at Iroquois Community School (ICS). She is polite and well mannered among her peers and the staff. In addition, Rachel shies away from trouble and encourages others to do so as well. Rachel is a hardworking student who gets involved in school activities including orchestra. She is also a very good friend who is willing to lend a hand to others. Because of these qualities, Rachel Kim is a positive role model for her peers at ICS.
Michael Lucas, Sixth Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Michael Lucas is nominated in the Positive Role Model category for consistently following the Chippewa 3B’s to be safe, respectful, and responsible. Michael is always respectful to teachers and peers and willing to help those around him. He works well with students in class and regularly helps his science group by making sure the group is following directions and providing thoughtful responses. Michael puts forth his best effort and is never discouraged by having to revise an assignment. He often completes interest articles for science class, attends homework club and reading group, all showing his dedication to learning.
POSITIVE SCHOOL SPIRIT AND GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP: The Positive School Spirit and Good Sportsmanship Award recognizes students for demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship, athletic ability, personal development, and integrity during practice and/or competition, in the classroom and/or on the playing field.
Matthew Georgoulis, Sixth Grade, Algonquin Middle School
During the course of this school year, Matt has clearly demonstrated why he has been awarded Algonquin’s Positive School Spirit and Good Sportsmanship Award. On top of his outstanding athletic ability, Matt has routinely exhibited fair play and excellent sportsmanship among his teammates and opponents. No matter what has transpired during game play or practice, Matt always remains un‐waivered in his attempts to help improve his team. He frequently assists teammates in any area in which they need help. In the classroom, he almost acts as a second teacher; constantly stepping up when support is needed. Among these reasons, as well as many more, Matt Georgoulis is the clear‐cut favorite for Algonquin Middle School’s Positive School Spirit and Good Sportsmanship Award. Andrew Schacke, Eighth Grade, Chippewa Middle School
Andrew has and continues to display a positive attitude in all that he does. His attitude toward his work is infectious, and he brings a positive enthusiasm everywhere he goes. Andrew is one of the first people to offer a helping hand to his teammates and peers. Every day, Andrew can be seen demonstrating what we strive to teach all of our students: maintaining a positive outlook on life in school and in the community. Andrew shows us what we want all of our students to become: a person displaying confidence in himself and instilling the same principles in others.
Angelica Torres, Eighth Grade, Iroquois Community School
Both on and off the court, Angie exemplifies what it means to be a great athlete. Angie is a member of the Basketball Team and Volleyball Team. She earned the nickname “Rico Suave” for her smooth serving style. She is consistently a leader, whether it be rallying the team when they are behind or encouraging the team while they are ahead. She is not only respectful of members on her own team, but opposing teams as well. She continually works hard to put her best self forward for all games, and takes feedback to heart. She works hard to bring her positive attitude from the court into the classroom. She is a great role model for other students because she works hard to be the best she can be at all times.