Teachers, audience impressed with scope of 'D59's Got Talent'
Johnny Carson once said, "Talent alone won't make you a success. Neither will being in the right place at the right time, unless you are ready. The most important question is: 'Are you ready?'"
On the evening of April 18, CCSD59 students showed they had the talent, the right location, and the readiness to succeed at the first ever "D59's Got Talent" event, sponsored by the D59 Education Foundation. The students, representing all CCSD59 schools, performed live in front of a full house at the Harper College J Theater.
Acts included instrumental performances, singing and dancing, roller skating, tae kwon do, a hula hoop routine and a magic show.
Kristin Hahn, a CCSD59 graduate and current eighth grade teacher at Friendship Junior High, served as one of the announcers for the event.
Hahn shared, "The acts of D59's Got Talent were so entertaining and varied. There was a true sense of community in that auditorium on Saturday--we are all so proud of the students and staff of District 59."
Jayne Wilkins-Scott of the D59 Education Foundation, agreed, "It was so fantastic to have the former District 59 students who are now District 59 teachers act as announcers. Watching them as adults get so excited to be part of the event, and seeing them be so supportive of their students was absolutely heart warming."
The performances were reviewed by a panel of seven judges that consisted of board members, current and former CCSD59 employees, and parents of CCSD59 alumni.
Participants were judged on stage presence, evidence of practice, costume and appearance, audience appeal, and overall performance.
Ella Bondar, an eighth-grader from Friendship, performed an amazing rendition of "Rondo Opus 65" on cello that won first place. Second place was awarded to Allyson Moldovan, a third-grader from Forest View, who played "Beach Buggy Boogie" on piano. Natasha Mackenzie Marie Sevilla, a sixth-grader at Friendship, performed "Fast Fingers" on piano and took home the third-place trophy.
Art Fessler, superintendent of schools for CCSD59, commented on the student performances. "I was really quite amazed by the courage of the students' performances. We had students ranging from second grade to eighth grade exhibit exceptional skill, ability, and talent when they had their turn on stage."
In addition to the showcase of student specialties, those who attended the talent show were also given the opportunity to participate in raffles for some massive prize baskets from generous donors and a 50/50 cash raffle.
A gallery displayed original artwork created by CCSD59 students and staff. Each piece was then sold in a silent auction.
Not only did the event showcase the many talents and hard work of the students, it also illustrated the strengths of the many people who brought the event to life. It fostered a real fellowship of community coming together, including current and retired staff, the D59 Education Foundation, board members, local businesses, community partners, proud parents and attendees in the crowd, and students cheering for their competition in the show.
In all, $3,000 was raised at the talent show. "That success will benefit the students and staff as the D59 Education Foundation will now be able to fulfill many grant requests from teachers that will enhance the students' educational experiences," Wilkins-Scott said.
Fessler summed up the event by stating, "I thought the evening was completely incredible and exceeded all expectations. I'm already looking forward to next year's event."
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